Veteran LC wrestlers return to state

Lewis and Clark returning state placers Trevor Powell and Anthony Varnell head a contingent of South Side and West Plains high school wrestlers who will compete in this weekend’s state Mat Classic XIX tournament in Tacoma.

Powell, who upset previously unbeaten Brian Owen of University for the regional championship at 125 pounds, finished third in that weight last year.

Varnell, the regional 140-pound winner, was fourth in state in the same weight a year ago.

The two, said coach Ty Lingo, have “fantastic” partners in the room, wrestling against each other and with assistant coaches.

“It’s the determination of both to go out as state champions,” Lingo said

Among other regional winners last weekend was Gonzaga Prep’s Kevin Healy, one of two Bullpups finalists and four state qualifiers. Ferris advances three to the State 4A tournament.

Cheney’s Mitch Eggett, one of four Blackhawk state qualifiers, was the regional 2A 171-pound champion. Medical Lake qualified two wrestlers to state.

Liberty’s Adam Thies, third in State 1A/B last year, captured the 145-pound championship of the new 1B/2B regional.