The state's longest-lasting dynasty continued over the weekend as Jefferson defeated Gilmer 35-28 to capture its 16th straight state title at the GHSA Dual State Wrestling tournament in Macon. Gilmer's streak of seven straight state titles was snapped in the Dragons' first year in Class 4A.
Jefferson head coach Doug Thurmond’s squad ran through the field of teams and dominated their four opponents en route to the crown. The Dragons’ included a 79-0 victory over Northside-Columbus, a 57-18 victory over Marist on Thursday, and 50-16 win over Woodward Academy in the semifinals.
Jared Blackburn (120 pounds), Ian Statia (126 pounds), Dawson Bates (132 pounds), Cole Potts (138 pounds), Corey Strong (145 pounds), Mason Corbett (160 pounds), Caleb Little (182 pounds) and Hunter Allen (170 pounds) scored victories in Saturday’s finals and Blackburn, Statia, Bates, Potts, Corbett, Little and Allen all went undefeated in the three-days of competition.
Jefferson’s 16 dual titles include seven in Class A (2002-08), six in Class AA (2009-2014) and the two in Class 3A (2015-16).
The wrestling season is far from over, as the traditional tournament opens Thursday, February 9. The Dragons will have a chance to qualify wrestlers in each of the 14 weight classes again this season as they aim for the program's 17th consecutive traditional title and 16th straight season sweep in the dual and traditional championships.
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Final Team Results
Class 7A
- Camden County
- Archer
- North Forsyth
- Mountain View
Class 6A
- Alexander
- South Paulding
- Richmond Hill
- Valdosta
Class 5A
- Buford
- Woodland-Cartersville
- Union Grove
- Cass
Class 4A
- Jefferson
- Gilmer
- Luella
- Troup
Class 3A
- Bremen
- Lumpkin County
- Sonoraville
- Jackson County
Class 2A
- Social Circle
- Toombs County
- Fitzgerald
- Pepperell
Class A
- Commerce
- Wesleyan
- Trion
- Turner County
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