Jan. 28, varsity boys wrestling hosted the Kyle Thrasher two-day Invitational. With 35 teams from Missouri and Illinois along with many returning state champions and medalists. 

“It’s one of the biggest tournaments of the year and some of the best competition around. Having it at Howell is the best part. Having state champions compete at Thrasher is part of what makes it a great tournament,” senior Michael Roberts said. 

Seniors Judah Johnson (24-8) and Michael Roberts (25-8) placed eighth, Hayden Trezek (27-4), and junior Cooper Corley (29-9) placed fifth. Districts start Feb.11 at Ft. Zumwalt North.

“There were really good teams there. I’m not surprised some of us got our butts kicked. It was nice to have a challenge and to see that we can improve,” Johnson said. 

 The girls team competed on the second day of the event and four girls placed in the top six: freshman Bailey Burbes and Bailey Bridges, sophomore Caroline Farris, and senior Katt Mossinghoff.

“I think this season has been good. I have been able to improve with the help from my coaches and teammates,” Farris said. “Our team has been successful and we will continue to grow and improve.”

Mossinghoff scored her 50th win in her high school career.

“Getting to 50 wins for only wrestling my third season and having COVID actively affecting one of my three seasons is a huge deal,” Mossinghoff said. “I’m hoping that by hitting this milestone it will help encourage the rest of my teammates to hopefully get there and pass me by the time they are seniors.”