Sports

West Middle wrestler to represent school, state

TERRANCE THOMAS, LTN Sports Writer

March 29, 2002 - VALE — While his classmates will be at the beach or the mountains this weekend relaxing, West Lincoln Middle School student Jamey Goodman will be taking on perhaps the challenge of his life.

Goodman, who wrestled as a heavyweight for the school’s team, will compete in the Future Champions National Challenge Cup.

He was selected as a member of the North Carolina State Seventh and Eighth Grade All-State Team.

Members on that team will go against the top wrestlers of their age group in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Michigan, New Jersey and Pennsylvania

The event takes place right outside Chattanooga, Tenn.

Not bad for a kid that hasn’t been wrestling that long.

“I’m pretty proud of myself,” he said. “I’m excited. I’ve only been wrestling for two years so this is a big accomplishment. I’m expecting to do my best.”

Wayne Navey was Jamey’s wrestling coach.

“I think this is a great honor,” he said. “Any time you wrestle against competition like that, it’s a great experience.

“I’m real proud of Jamey,” Navey added. “He’s come a long way in two years. He’s worked hard in the weight room, and the wrestling mat. He’s made great strides.”

The event starts today and wrap up Saturday.

His coach and principal Jim Harkey says Jamey will give his all.

“There are several great things about Jamey: he’s very coachable, he works hard and he’s not intimidated by any opponent,” Harkey said. “He will wrestle an Olympic champion as he would an eighth-grader. He gives his best.”

Jamey will be making his trip with family.

“I’m very proud of him,” said his mother Karen Goodman. “I’m excited too. He’s a good kid, very responsible and very smart. I think that helps him on the mat.”

© 2001 Lincoln Times-News  

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