Red Raiders end duals season 14-11, ‘more intense’ training ahead

Madison County is two weeks out from the Region Tournament and the Red Raiders have one scheduled match between now and then.


Saturday, the Red Raiders head to Elbert County for the Blue Devil Open as the wrestlers turn all their attention to individual training and performances.


“Training this time of year has to be more intense,” coach Richie Houston said. “We wrestled above our seeds this past weekend.”


According to Houston, several wrestlers stepped up to the challenge.


“Isaac Ruiz and Kyle Gordon really stepped up their game,” he said. “Steven Resby was solid and consistent, while Kyle Bates knocked off some tough competition and placed above his seed.”


Last Tuesday, Jan. 18, Madison County defeated both Jackson County and Elbert County at home to finish out the season 14-11 in dual meets. The Red Raiders beat Jackson County 42-33 and defeated Elbert County 54-18.


Last weekend, Jan. 21-22, Madison County competed at Alcovy in the East Metro tournament.


Rockdale County, Commerce and Clarke Central were overall the top teams. Madison County finished 12th just behind Jackson County. Apalachee finished 16th and Winder-Barrow was 20th.


At 145 lbs., Isaac Ruiz earned top honors while Resby at 171 lbs. and Gordon at 189 lbs. brought home third-place victories. Bates placed fourth at 160 lbs.


The 8-AAAA Region Tournament at Habersham Central is next week, Feb. 4-5. Following region, the wrestlers will head to the east sectionals, Feb. 10-11, to determine who earns a trip to the Gwinnett Arena and the state championships. Sectional is hosted by Loganville.