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Article contributed by Wayne Catan
March 2004

Blair Postgrads Place Sixth at NCWA National Wrestling Championships

CHRIS BANKET WINS NATIONAL TITLE; HEAVYWEIGHT ZACK HAMMOND MAKES THE NATIONAL FINALS

With just five post-grad wrestlers entered in this prestigious national tournament, Blair Academy placed sixth at the 2004 NCWA (National Club Wrestling Association) National Wrestling Championships, which were held at the University of Texas at Dallas this past weekend — March 12 and 13. Leading the way for the Blair post-grads were Chris Banket, who won the 157-pound national title, and Zack Hammond (235 lbs.), who is now a national finalist. (Hammond fell to Tom Lawlor of Central Florida in the finals.)

Travis Featherstone (125 lbs.) defeated two tough opponents including an 18-0 dismantling of Frank Clark of the University of Maryland (Baltimore campus) to take fourth place. Tyler Flatt (184 lbs.) won two four on his way to a sixth place finish. Banket defeated Ron Vecchione of the Apprentice School in the finals to claim his gold medal. Matt Dwyer got some solid experience in Dallas and should do well in college.

“It was a great experience for our post-grads; everyone here just loves the sport of wrestling. This tournament showed the world how much people really love this sport,” said Jeff Buxton, head coach, Blair Academy. “Our guys fought hard the entire tournament... I can’t ask for more than that.”

The mission statement of the NCWA states the organization wants to fill a gap in today’s wrestling community. The NCWA is committed to a vision that has at its core increased athletic opportunity for all students. The NCWA was founded with the student-athlete in mind. The organization is comprised of non-paid volunteers who are committed to helping young people accomplish their goals and dreams. More than 60 college and prep teams competed in the 2004 NCWA National Championships.