GUILFORD, Maine — Seven of the eight Caribou Vikings’ wrestlers earned medals at Saturday’s wrestling tournament held at Piscataquis Community High School.
Ethan Edgecomb, competing in the 106-pound weight division, joined Angel Riopelle in 145 and Chloe Kirschmann in 220 as tourney runners-up. Kaden DeMerchant in 160, Matt McCormack in 138 and Jacob Smart in 220 all placed third, while Rylee Saucier in 113 took fourth.
Caribou coach James “Chico” Hernandez said Kirschmann and DeMerchant were his team’s standouts.
Kirschmann has wrestled in 285 all season but this time made the cut in 220. She defeated Mount Desert Island’s Chris Cobb on a second-period pin in the semifinals for her first victory in a contested match.
“She had been working hard all week and with the girls state tournament a month away, this victory will serve well by raising her level of confidence,” Hernandez said.
DeMerchant’s journey to a bronze finish was not an easy one as Hernandez said it was a test of determination and perseverance.
He opened with an 8-2 loss to County rival C.J. Rocheleau of Fort Kent, and then in the consolation semifinals he pinned Zac Grower of Calais before facing a rematch against Rocheleau in the consolation finals. After having lost in all five of the previous matchups this season, DeMerchant came back to score a victory by decision and in the process came close to pinning Rocheleau twice.
“Kaden showed mental toughness in the victory,” Hernandez said. “I know as a wrestler one of the hardest things to do is beat someone who has beaten you on the same day, but it is a great feeling to have your hand raised in victory after this kind of accomplishment.”
DeMerchant is now tied with Caleb Robbins for the team lead in wins this season with 14. Robbins did not make the trip due to illness.
“I think this may have been one of our best efforts and showings this season with the quality of wrestling I am seeing,” Hernandez said. “Even in our defeats, we are looking good too.
“There were many other very good performances. Much more work is needed, but I feel the team is starting to turn things around,” he said.
