MATHEWS—Franklin High School wrestlers Xavier Freeman and Emmanuel Ricks advanced to the Virginia State Wrestling Tournament in Salem on Friday, Feb. 18, and Saturday, Feb. 19.

Both placed third at the Region A Wrestling Tournament over the weekend at Mathews High School.

Freeman, a sophomore, defeated Charlie Demarino of Northampton in the 112-pound class, and Ricks, a junior, beat Kai Antonio of Lancaster with a fall in the 189-pound class, said Bronco Coach Daniel Johnson.

This will be Freeman’s second trip to the state tournament. He did not place as a freshman.

Johnson thinks both boys can place in the top eight, which would make them medal winners.

“They’ve been wrestling well all year,” Johnson said. “Some of the boys they’ve beat have been ranked in the state. Both were football players and have been working out since summer. They’re in shape and are strong.”

The Broncos placed 12th in the tournament out of 13 teams with 52 points. Northampton won the tourney with 238 points. Outstanding Wrestler went to C.W. Sorey of Mathews.