Middle school wrestlers hit the mats Saturday in Cody

The Rocky Mountain and Lovell middle school wrestling teams will kick off their seasons Saturday at the Cody Invitational, an early test of skill  and composure for the young wrestlers. Both teams feature a mix of boys and girls competing across multiple weight classes.

The Rocky Mountain squad, led by head coach Tim Jones and assistant coach Aric Hanusa, brings a roster of about 20 wrestlers into the first meet.

“Our team is very young this year, but they have lots of enthusiasm,” Hanusa said. “For many of the boys, Saturday will be their first wrestling match ever.”

For the Bulldogs, head coach Quinton Hecker said his group is also eager to compete.

“We’ve got a little over 30 wrestlers,” Hecker said. “Their energy has been great so far this year, and I’m excited to see them get out and compete.”

The Cody Middle School Wrestling Tournament begins at 10 a.m. in the Cody High School Gymnasium and will feature teams from Powell, Cody, Lovell, Rocky Mountain, Riverton, Worland and Thermopolis.

Fans can follow brackets and results throughout the day at www.flowrestling.org.