Junior Aidan McAlexander had yet another historic weekend by earning a 3rd place finish in the 106-pound weight class at the State Wrestling Championships on March 8-10 in the Jerome Schottenstein Center on the campus of The Ohio State University. McAlexander finished the weekend with 4 wins to only 1 loss and 2 major decisions, including 2 victories over projected state champion Wyatt Riddle of Lees Creek East Clinton. With his 3rd place state finish, McAlexander has etched his name in the history books of Antwerp by becoming the school’s first ever state placer. He has also etched his name in Paulding County history by earning the 3rd highest finish by any Paulding County wrestler at the state tournament, trailing only George Clemens of Wayne Trace (1st – 2016) and Paulding’s Ryan Collins (2nd – 1993 & 1994). McAlexander’s 34-4 season record has also tied him with Jarett Bute for the best winning percentage (89%) in a season by an Archer wrestler. His 24 pins also ties Logan Shaner for most pins in a season as well. McAlexander also set a new takedown record this season with 129 takedowns, with the previous record being at 82 takedowns. Congratulations to Aidan for his historic record breaking season and we all look forward to what his senior year will bring. The Antwerp wrestling coaching staff along with Aidan would like to thank the Antwerp Police Department, the Paulding County Sheriff’s Department, the Antwerp Fire & EMS, and the entire Antwerp community for their spectacular welcome back when Aidan returned from the State tournament Saturday night. It was an awesome and unbelievable turnout that makes you proud to be an Archer. Thanks so much for all your support throughout this entire season. We truly appreciate it!!
Here is a breakdown of all the matches Aidan wrestled at the state tournament:
Round 1 – McAlexander defeated Mike Prikrly (Rootstown) – Major Decision 12-3
Quarterfinals – McAlexander defeated Wyatt Riddle (Lees Creek East Clinton) – Major Decision 16-6
Semifinals – McAlexander lost to Lucian Brink (Coshocton) – Decision 10-3
Consolation Semifinals – McAlexander defeated Collin Yinger (Nelsonville York) Decision 8-1
3rd Place Match – McAlexander defeated Wyatt Riddle (Lees Creek East Clinton) Decision 8-1
