Bison wrestling coach reflects on first meet

COZAD, Neb. — McCook’s varsity wrestling trio and strong JV talent teamed to win eight places at the always tough Cozad Invitational on Saturday.

Junior Alex Anthony returned from his Class B state medalist season to reach his 170-pound title match.

He placed second overall with a 2-1 record, while sophomore Canyon Hosick went 2-2 to claim sixth place at 160.

Senior 2019 state qualifier Julian Stiver completed the Bison wrestlers who competed against varsity foes on Saturday.

Otherwise, the Bison wrestled JV and saw six earn invite medals.

Wyatt Felzien won the 120-pound division while Keagan Reece was a 195-pound finalist.

Layton Carpenter captured the consolation championship in this same 195-pound weight division.

McCook coach Nick Umscheid offered these remarks about the season-opening meet:

“Alex Anthony wrestled well, beating a wrestler from Chadron who was a returning state qualifier.

Alex ran into a very tough wrestler from Cozad in the finals. If a couple situations go differently he is in that match. He should get another crack at that wrestler on Thursday when we dual Cozad.

Most of our team wrestled in the JV tournament on Saturday.

Keagan Reece finished in 2nd place at 195 pounds , Layton Carpenter placed 3rd at 195 pounds . Layten Bortner placed 4th at 160 pounds

Weston Walgren placed 4th at 138lbs., his first wrestling tournament of his career. Wyatt Felzien placed first at 120 pounds.” Watch for more all season.