The Macon Centreplex will host the state’s 18th dual wrestling championships Jan. 17-19. This year’s lineup features a field that is packed with Georgia’s most decorated powerhouses, and the reclassification this offseason is adding an intriguing dimension in several classifications.
In Class AAAAAAA, Camden County is aiming for its fifth-straight dual championship—and third-straight in the state’s highest classification. Last year’s Wildcats cruised through the bracket, and clinched with a 47-13 win over Archer in the finals.
Richmond Hill became a first-time state champion a year ago, and then added a traditional championship in February to the trophy case. The Wildcats met reigning Class AAAAAA champion Alexander in the finals and secured the historic triumph with a 37-26 win.
Buford has kept a tight grip on Class AAAAA and completed its second-straight sweep of titles last year. The Wolves topped Ola 50-18 in the finals after defeating Miller Grove, Carrollton and Locust Grove. Cass grabbed third place with a 40-24 win over Locust Grove.
Last year, Jefferson moved through Luella, Marist and West Laurens before a 36-19 victory over Gilmer in the Class AAAA finals. West Laurens, after falling to eventual champion Jefferson, took third place following a 45-24 victory over Troup County in the losers bracket. Since 2001, Jefferson has won a title each year (17). From 2002-08 in Class A, from 2009-2014 in Class AA, 2015-16 in AAA and 2017 in AAAA. This year, the Dragons will be competing in Class AAA and the Class AAAA field will be opened up as a result.
Reigning champion North Hall will be amongst the teams battling with Jefferson in a loaded Class AAA field this weekend. North Hall’s 42-33 victory over Bremen a year ago resulted in the program’s first-ever duals state title and the Trojans advanced past Pierce County and Sonoraville to earn the championship berth. In the losers bracket, Sonoraville bounced back after falling to North Hall and defeated Jackson County 46-21 to take third place.
Social Circle’s 36-22 victory over Toombs County in Class AA marked the fourth title in a row for the program. Social Circle moved past Armuchee and Fitzgerald to make it to the championship bout, while Fitzgerald took third place following a 39-33 victory over Rockmart in the final match of the losers bracket.
Commerce wrapped up its Class A season with a 68-6 dominant victory over Wesleyan after moving past Strong Rock Christian and Irwin County in convincing fashion. In the losers bracket, Trion bested Mount de Sales 54-25 to take third place.
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