Wadena-Deer Creek's Tony Reurink decisioned RCW's James Mertens 4-1 for third place honors in the 275-pound weight class Saturday at the Ninth Grade State Wrestling Tournament in Champlin Park.
Competing in the state tournament for the second straight year, Reurink pinned first round opponent Cass Herzog of Willmar in just 50 seconds. Reurink then scored a 7-0 decision over Colton Hines of Fairmont to reach the semifinals.
Apple Valley's James Horton handed Reurink his only tournament loss by edging the WDC wrestler 3-2. Horton scored a late takedown in the first period. After Reurink scored a second period escape to close the gap to 2-1, Horton posted a third period escape for 3-1 bulge. Reurink earned a third period point for stalling.
