By Joshua Price/Sports Editor
Southside wrestling celebrated “Senior Night” on Jan. Senior Panthers and their parents were recognized by the crowd prior to their match with Springville.
Dalton Vaughn is in his fourth year of wrestling. He has earned 14 pins thus far this season. He plans to attend Gadsden State in the fall.
Trey Whorton is in his first year of wrestling and plans to attend veterinarian school at Auburn University after graduation.
Wesley Butler is in his sixth year of wrestling and was a state qualifier in 2011. He has made eight pins this year and will join the United States Air Force after graduation.
Brannon Estes has wrestled for eight years and is a four-time state qualifier and was state runner-up twice. Estes has earned 31 pins this season thus far and currently holds a 48-5 record. He is ranked second in Class 5A, 138 pounds. Estes plans on working for Progress Rail after graduation.
Chase Matthews is the top-ranked 170 pound wrestler in Class 5A. He sports a 47-8 record with 27 pins this season. Matthews is a three-time state qualifier. He placed third in the state in 2010 and second in 2011. He plans to attend Gadsden State this fall.
Skylar Stephens is the top-ranked 195 pound wrestler in Class 5A. He is 41-9 on the season with 19 wins by way of pinfall. Stephens is a three-time state qualifier and placed fourth in the state in 2010. He plans to pursue a career in welding after graduation.
“I am proud of each and every one of these guys,” Southside head coach Shane Kelley said. “These young men represent Southside High School, the community, themselves and their family with pride.”