Mat Cougars Qualify for State

All five members of the Piedmont Academy varsity wrestling team will compete at the GISA Class AA state tournament this weekend in Americus.

The wrestlers qualified as a result of their performance at last week’s region tournament in Perry at The Westfield School. Noah Faubli (120) and Logan Conner (195) both won region titles while Garrett Kirksey (heavyweight) and Trent Coots (132) were runner-up in their respective weight classes.

Tanner Coppock (182) was third at region and will also compete at state.

“It is a big accomplishment to have all of our wrestlers qualify for state,” said coach Kaden Miller.

Faubli continues to be undefeated this season and is a favorite to win a state championship. Conner also is expected to be one of the top wrestlers in his weight division.

“I have a good feeling about how Noah is going to do at state,” Miller said. “I believe he is going to be in contention for the championship. No opponent has been able to take him to a full match yet this season.”

The Mat Cougars coach said Conner also had a strong chance to do well this weekend. Miller said if Coots wrestles to his ability he will have a chance to earn a state medal as well.

The state wrestling tournament will be Friday and Saturday, Feb. 2-3 at Georgia Southwestern University. Wrestling begins Friday at 1 p.m.

“It will be a great experience for all of our wrestlers to be on the state’s big state,” Miller said.