ST. GEORGE — Thirty-two years ago, the wrestling coaches at Cedar and Dixie high schools got together and created a special trophy which travels between the two schools.
Thursday, the 32nd edition of the “Battle of the Bell” will highlight Region 9 action as the Redmen travel to Dixie to battle the Flyers. Cedar has a 16-15 edge after last season’s victory.
Other matches include Pine View at Desert Hills and Snow Canyon at Hurricane. All begin at 7 p.m.
On Friday and Saturday, the Region 9 teams will join others from around the area at the Pine View Invitational. Competition will begin at 3 p.m. On Friday and at 9 a.m. Saturday.
“Battle of the Bell is a great event,” said Dixie coach Jarad Carson. “It brings students and parents and the communities together that don’t normally attend wrestling matches. Everyone has an interest in it because of the history and tradition.
“You can always except the emotions to run and both teams get up for the match. No matter how each is doing during their season, winning bell will be the highlight of the season. Our keys will be wins by our seniors and captains along with the rest of the team.”
Among Flyer wrestlers to watch are James Porter at 126, Joe Pauley at 132, Hobbs Nyberg at 138, Gary Wright at 145, Tanner Emerson at 170 and Cutler Thomas at 185.
“All Region 9 duals are a fight and this one is the oldest rivalry in Southern Utah,” said Cedar coach Luke Payne. “Anything can happen when the Bell is on the line. My seniors will need to make sure the team is ready to go.
“Sandon Stokes is at 120 and at one of the toughest weights in the region. His hard work is an example to the team. McCrae Murray and Koalman Kimber are both upper weight workhorses and both went undefeated in the Iron Town Duals. It will be a fun night. Hopefully we come prepared to wrestle.”
The 3A wrestling Division tournament is Feb. 5-6 at Cedar High School. The state championships are Feb. 12-13 at Utah Valley University.
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