CFNN Reporter Favour Murtala

Apart from a few setbacks, the Colts had a great performance at regionals this weekend.

This weekend the Colts traveled to Union Pines to compete in the regional tournament for a chance to go to states.

Samuel Aponte and Tye Johnson both placed first for their respective weight classes. Aponte won his first match with ease 16-0. Aponte continued dominating his side of the bracket up until the final. Facing adversity down early Aponte had some catching up to do down 3-0, but Aponte came back strong and won the final 6-4.

“I honestly felt like I wasn’t wrestling as relaxed as I usually do,” Aponte said. “I’m held to a higher standard than almost anyone in the state and the goal is to be a three time state champ so I have to bring my A game every week.”

Johnson had a dominant performance in which coach Heath claimed to be his “best” showing of the year. The freshman sensation pinned his way to the final where he faced another favored state finalist. Johnson wasn’t phased by it and won the match by major decision. Johnson will be one of the few freshmen competing for the title this Thursday at states.

“Being a freshman and going to states is a huge accomplishment, but I’m not satisfied with only that,” Johnson said, “I’m treating this like any other tournament and competing like I always do. I just wanna see my family proud of me.”

Landon Sargent had a great showing at regionals, placing second. Sargent Pinned his way to the finals in dominant fashion showing why he’s the huge favorite to win states at 215. In the final Sargent started off slow going down 4-1, but managed to get a couple takedowns to have a shot in the third period, but in the end he couldn’t pull it off and suffered his first loss of the season.

“I was wrestling to pin immediately, and that got me gassed quickly. I have to trust my technique and wrestle through the match,” Sargent said, “This is it, I’ve been to states twice and got second both years. My mindset is on a different level this year, and I’m just ready to finally be the highest on the podium.”

Overall the Colts finished 5th out of 16 teams and most of the wrestlers finished out on a strong note achieving new heights and learning valuable lessons.

Aponte, Sargent, and Johnson will travel to Greensboro to represent the Colts in the State tournament this Thursday for a chance to bring back 3 rings.