Seahawks place school-best second at district meet

Led by Dan Dunwald, Justin Dunwald and Grant Spencer, South Walton scored a landmark second-place finish Saturday at Arnold.

It was the best performance ever in the district tournament for the Seahawks, who will be sending nine wrestlers to regionals. South Walton finished with 158.5 points, as Arnold captured the title with 248. Bozeman placed third in the seven-team field with 128.5 points.

“I knew we were strong, but I didn’t know we’d be able to pull this feat off,” South Walton coach Carey Nick said.

Dan Dunwald (140), Justin Dunwald (145) and Spencer (160), who is just a freshman, captured first place in their respective weight classes.

Four other Seahawks came close to individual titles. Greg Felt (112), Jay Gatto (152), Zack Parker (171) and Sam Wiscomb (189) all finished as runners-up.

Jake Parker (third, 215) and Josh Klamer (fourth, 119) also secured berths to regionals.

South Walton had nine wrestlers advance and placed second despite only having 10 wrestlers at the meet.

“It just shows the kind of heart and character these kids have,” Nick said. “I couldn’t be prouder.”