Orange, Wing qualify for state open

Lyman/Windham Tech's Brandon Bentley (front) takes on Platt's Chris Oyola in the 106 weight class during the Class M tournament on Feb. 18. Photos by Melanie Savage.

Heading into the Division M tournament on Feb. 17 and 18 at Windham High School, the Lyman Memorial/Windham Tech wrestling team was short five wrestlers due to injuries. "We have a couple of guys who could make some noise here," said head coach Rob Czaplicki. The team is comprised of 12 wrestlers from Windham Tech and eight from Lyman Memorial. Czaplicki said that heavyweight Darick Orange and Kyle Wing, wrestling at 182 pounds, were his best prospects for the tournament. "I expect them to do well here," he said.

Overall, Lyman Memorial/Windham Tech placed 16th out of a field of 33. Wing finished third in his class, pinning Kayron Macon from SMSA/University. Orange was defeated in the final round by Windham's Wolfgang Fiasconar by decision, taking second place in the tournament.

Both Orange and Wing qualify to compete at the State Opens, taking place Feb. 25 and 26 in New Haven. Orange, a junior, has a qualifying record of 30-1. Wing, also a junior, qualifies with 18 wins and 4 losses.