Republic wrestlers brought home three medals from the Harrisonville Christmas Tournament, including two golds. Senior Jonathan O’Connell captured first place at 145 pounds. Freshman Connor Sandridge won his first varsity medal, taking first place at 160. Wyatt George finished third at 106 pounds.
Sandridge, competing in his first bracketed varsity tournament, dominated his weight class, pinning six of his eight opponents and earning a major decision in another victory. He defeated Andre Ridenhour of Rolla by fall in the first round of the championship match.
For O’Connell, four of his eight victories this weekend resulted from pins. He defeated Ryder Heimbach of Willard 4-1 in the championship match to earn a spot on top of the podium.
George was cruising through his bracket at 106 until he ran into a buzzsaw against unbeaten Brady Roark of Seneca. Roark earned a major decision over George, who rebounded by defeating Kip Castor of Carthage by fall in the second round of the third-place match.
As a team, Republic finished 12th out of 38 entries with 253 points. Central Ozark Conference rival Willard finished first. Carthage was third, and Carl Junction was eighth.