Paulding County Wrestlers Shine at Wild, Wild Midwest National Duals

Five Paulding County wrestlers represented the area on a national stage September 5 and 6, competing with the Empyre Wrestling Team at the Wild, Wild Midwest National Duals in Noblesville, Indiana. The event brought together high school wrestlers from across the region for a demanding weekend of dual-team competition.

The Paulding County group included three Wayne Trace wrestlers and two Paulding wrestlers. Four of the competitors are seniors, while one is a sophomore, giving the county a strong mix of veteran leadership and developing talent as offseason competition continues.

Paulding senior Stroker Etter led the way in the 215-pound weight class, finishing the weekend with a perfect 6-0 record. Etter’s dominant performance included three pins, a hard-fought 5-2 decision and two forfeit victories, making him one of the standout performers for the local contingent.

Fellow Paulding senior Landon Dasher also turned in a strong showing at 157 pounds. Dasher finished 4-2 over the two-day tournament, collecting three pins and one forfeit victory as he helped pace the Empyre Wrestling Team lineup.

Wayne Trace senior Colton Kimmel competed at 126 pounds and matched Dasher’s 4-2 record. Kimmel earned three of his victories by pin and added a 6-3 decision, showing consistency throughout the weekend against a challenging field.

Wayne Trace senior Ben Gurney wrestled in the 138-pound weight class and finished 2-4. Gurney’s wins came by an 11-3 decision and a forfeit, adding valuable points and experience for the team during the national duals format.

Wayne Trace sophomore Camden Kimmel rounded out the Paulding County group at the event. Kimmel competed to a 1-5 record, earning his victory by pin and gaining important mat time against strong offseason competition.

Overall, the five Paulding County wrestlers combined for several key wins, highlighted by multiple pinfall victories across the lineup. Congratulations to Stroker Etter, Landon Dasher, Colton Kimmel, Ben Gurney and Camden Kimmel on representing Paulding County, Paulding High School and Wayne Trace High School with strong efforts in Noblesville. Best of luck to all wrestlers as they continue their offseason schedules and prepare for the upcoming wrestling season.