Palo Alto High School's sports news magazine

Viking Magazine

Palo Alto High School's sports news magazine

Viking Magazine

Palo Alto High School's sports news magazine

Viking Magazine

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Paly wrestling triumphs over Saratoga 75-6

The Palo Alto wrestling team pounded the Saratoga high school team this Thursday night at home.
The Vikings had a strong start, with Jordan Smith (‘13) earning a 12 point lead by the second period. Wrestling in the 113 pound weight class, Smith pinned opponent Alex Hansen within the first minute of the second period.

Smith was followed by a narrow loss from teammate Dylan Hobbs (‘15). Hobbs still managed to score six points for his team, bringing the score to 18-6.

This was the only lost dual of the meet. Co-captain Nick Ortiz (‘12) praised his team.

“We won every single match… except for one, and that was one of our freshman. It’s what you’d expect. He’s a younger guy, he’s not as experienced there. I think we did well overall as a team,” Ortiz said.

With a strong lead underway, the Vikings began a winning streak. Joey Christopherson (‘12) pinned his opponent in the first period, earning six points for the team. Ortiz narrowly won against Falcon Zach Hanson, bringing the score to 27-6.

Ortiz’s match was disrupted three times due to a technicality.

“[Hanson] had a scab on his nose that opened up, and whenever there is blood we have to stop the match; you can’t wrestle with blood on the mat,” Ortiz said.

The Vikings maintained their streak with Trent Marshall (‘13), Ryan Oshima (‘12), Kalen Gans (‘12), and Alex Taussig (‘13) all winning their respective matches. The Falcons forfeited three matches, giving Gary Hobach (‘13), Christian Lonsky (‘12), and Tanner Marshall (‘12) six points each. These consecutive victories ended the dual and brought the final score to 75-6.

Coach David Duran was pleased with the overall success.

“We did what we were supposed to do, we didn’t want anyone getting hurt,” Duran said, “ We were a little disappointed because they have about five very good kids and a couple were out with injuries… they’re a pretty good team, they’re just decimated with injuries.”

The Vikings will compete next at the Mission San Jose Invite this Saturday, Jan. 14.

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About the Contributor
Nora Rosati, Editor-in-Chief
Nora is currently a senior at Paly, and is a captain of the varsity girl's cross-country.  She joined The Viking because of her love of sports.  Nora enjoys running and spending time with her friends and family in her free time.

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