Greenchain opens in Havre tourney

If nothing else can be said about Libby Greenchain Wrestling’s performance at the Havre Tournament this weekend, it certainly gave the grapplers an idea of what they needed to work on.

With some Central-A and AA powers in attendance, Libby was able to cling to seventh place of 14 teams, with several athletes notching impressive results.

“We were able to find out where we are at as a team,” said head coach Kelly Morford. “We found out we need to keep working on our technique.”

Morford said some of his athletes tried too hard and ended up sloppier than they had been in practice.

“We didn’t really go out there and execute,” he said. “We need to trust in our stuff.”

Despite kinks that will need to be worked out, Libby flexed some muscle over wrestlers from the central and eastern parts of the state.

Junior Zach Crace won his weight class, finishing first among the 130-pounders. Zach Dolezal finished second at 215. Dylan Roby came in third in 112, and Mitch Haugen finished third at 135.

Haugen lost twice to a AA Great Falls wrestler and to a A wrestler who had been slated to make state.

“He’s just finding out how to go through a season as state champion,” Morford said. “It’s a lot of pressure on a kid.”

Four Greenchain wrestlers finished fifth in their weight class. Josh Bowers at 160, Ricky Roach at 145, Austin Bailey at 171 and Garret Chapel at 152.

Morford said the long travel time to Havre was worth it.

“I knew we were going to see tough competition,” he said. 

Havre, home of the Blue Ponies, is one of the best Class-A programs in the state. 

Along with the Ponies, the other 12 programs gave Greenchain a solid challenge and exposed some flaws.

“We have to drill and work on being more consistent,” Morford said.

Libby faces Bonners Ferry at home 6 p.m. on Thursday.