A few comments so not to allow further scrutiny of the quality match Kendric and CJ wrestled. To the Napiers, no disrespect intended. On the one point escape awarded to Napier, Kendric’s shoulders and upper back landed out of bounds, therefore no back points would have been awarded in any high school or college match (and there was not enough time to pull him back in bounds). Kendric did learn a lesson for miscalculating the time and putting him self in bad position thinking the time would run out. If you’ve seen Kendric wrestle you know his style is to score, not ride out an opponent. CJ’s bottom defense did not allow Kendric to turn him. There were a lot of other subtleties in the match that one could argue however that’s for the critics.
Coach Church has been in the same practice room and mat side with Kendric for 2 years. He knows Kendric’s abilities and mindset. None more telling than the last 3 weeks of training in preparation for Sr. Nationals. Never say never, but one has to have convictions. Keep it up Church.
This was only the second time I’ve seen CJ wrestle. I was impressed by his abilities. Kendric has been wrestling since the age of 6. This is the 2nd year he actually focused on competing at a higher competitive level. Only 2 full summers spent wrestling.
Good luck to both wrestlers and all KS wrestlers at nationals.
Jeff Maple
