On Sunday, Feb. 27, Ben wrestled in the IHSA Regional Frosh/Soph meet in Geneseo, IL in the 150 lb. class. He won his first match (in the second round because of his seeding) against the kid from host Geneseo and advanced to the quarter-finals. He would have to win his quarter-final match in order to advance to Sectionals the following week (top four finishers in each class advance). After Sectionals comes the State meet.
His quarter-final match was against United Township East Moline. Ben was down 4-1 at the beginning of the second period when he pulled off a textbook single-leg. His opponent countered with a roll and Ben’s head jammed straight into the mat. I was taking video at the edge of the mat about 8’ away and saw him hit. My heart skipped a beat or two in panic. He went down right away grabbing at his head, which was a good thing actually because he was still moving. He lay there for quite awhile before the trainers let him up. Very, very scary moment for all of us.
In a display of great character and sportsmanship, Ben’s opponent hung around on the mat until we could get Ben up and escorted off. As we left, the kid put his arm around Ben, apologized and asked him if he was okay. I sent an email to the coach of Ben’s opponent today thanking him for his actions and concern.
We had to pull Ben out of the competition, which finally ended his four month long wrestling season. The injury turned out to be a severely sprained muscle in the back of his neck. Today (Monday) he is still pretty sore for which we are extremely thankful. It could have turned out much differently.
Bruce
(Ben is on the right in the photos)
