Tiger Classic wrestling meet to feature strong field

The Tiger Classic has established itself as one of the state's premier high school wrestling tournaments since its inception nearly 40 years ago.

Central coach James Brake expects that trend to continue when the Tigers host the 38th Tiger Classic at the junior high school this weekend.

Action begins at 5 p.m. Friday and resumes at 9:30 a.m. Saturday. The finals are expected to start around 5:30 p.m. Saturday.

"We feel like this is one of the best tournaments in the state," Brake said. "We look for another great tournament."

The Tiger Classic, which will include 15 squads this year, has featured some thrilling team finishes. Last season was one of the most exciting.

Jackson and Christian Brothers from Memphis, Tenn., waged a battle that went down to the wire.

Jackson claimed what is believed to be a tournament-record seven individual titles, but CBC captured the team crown with 342.5 points. The Indians had 330 points.

CBC saw all 14 of its wrestlers finish in the top six. Jackson had 12 top-six finishers.

Northwest was third with 259 points, while Ste. Genevieve (218) and Francis Howell North (191.5) rounded out the top five.

Central had a solid showing, finishing eighth with 104 points.

Memphis CBC will not return to defend its championship, but Brake wouldn't be surprised if another extremely tight race ensues as the other top-five finishers are back.

Jackson, the area's dominant program that also has been among the best in the state, will try to continue an impressive streak.

The Indians, who have placed second the past two seasons, have finished in the top four all but one year since 1990. They won the title in 2008.

"We're proud of what we've been able to do there," Jackson coach Steve Wachter said. "It's a great tournament, one of the best around. There's always super competition."

Jackson has its work cut out this year because the Indians were hit hard by graduation, but they are off to another strong start during dual and tournament action.

The Indians' lone non-senior champion last year was 103-pound winner Kodi Byrd, now a junior.

Notre Dame is in the tournament for the first time after starting its program three years ago.

"It's great that Notre Dame will be competing," Brake said.

Rounding out the field are Christian County (Ky.), De Soto, Dexter, Mehlville, Rockwood Summit, Rolla, Sikeston, University City and Union.

Joining Notre Dame as first-time entries are Christian County, Union and Summit.

Brake said he expects Jackson, Northwest, Francis Howell North, Ste. Genevieve and Christian County to be among the top contenders.

"It is going to be a real battle between all of these teams," Brake said.