Montague opened the season Saturday with a 2-3 showing at the Big Rapids Cardinal Invitational, bookending the day with wins.
The Wildcats opened the day with a 45-35 win over Reed City, lost to East Kentwood, Lakeview and Traverse City West, then beat Central Montcalm 36-33 in their final match.
"We got to get some good looks at our group," Montague coach Kris Maddox said. "I think it hurt
us slightly to not get that first meet in earlier in the week (that was snowed out), but
that’s beyond our control. We are focused on getting better each
opportunity. We had a lot of matches where we beat ourselves and didn’t
capitalize on situations. Overall, I’m proud of our kids."
Fletcher Thommen led Montague, winning all five of his matches. He scored a pin and two technical falls among his five wins.
"He’s on a mission and it’s showing," Maddox said.
The coach's son, Gavyn Maddox, delivered a surprise to the staff and had an impressive 4-1 mark in his debut, with his only loss coming to former state champion Cam Perez of Lakeview. Maddox responded with a 2-1 decision victory in his next match. He scored a pin and two technical falls.
"All our guys faced some very tough competition throughout
the tournament," Maddox said. "Now we have a base and measuring stick to move forward."
