The Falcon wrestling squad took part in the Payson Invitational over the weekend, taking 10th place overall with senior Peter Carillo putting together a 7-0 performance to claim the championship in the 195-pound class.

The Falcons’ season continues today, Jan. 22, with a 4 p.m. outing at the Saint John’s multi. Local grapplers will be back on the mat next Wednesday, Jan. 29, for the final regular meet of the season. The team will take part in the San Tan Foothills multi beginning at 4 p.m.

Payson

Over the weekend, the Falcons took part in the two-day Payson Invitational, competing against 17 teams from around the state and going on to claim a 10th place standing overall.

According to head coach Luke Salzman, the Falcons always look forward to their trip to Payson, as the solid competition serves as a great way to prepare for the post season.

“Every year this tournament is a challenging one with tough schools from all four divisions,” Salzman said.

“Jack Reilly placed sixth at 138 while Kawika Reid placed fourth at 182 pounds, going 5-3 and pinning four of his opponents.

“Junior Josh Vaught ended the weekend in third place at 152 pounds, going 6-2 with six pins.”

The highest flying Falcon was once again Peter Carillo, going 7-0 through the two-day event at 195 pounds and earning six pins throughout, including a pin against Kevin Figueroa from Apache Junction in the finals in just over five minutes.

“This is Peter’s second first place finish in two weeks,” Salzman added.

“He is wrestling very well right now, with a lot of confidence.”

Now that the late-season tournaments are out of the way, Salzman said the remaining matches will be only against teams in their own division. Salzman said he expects the Falcons to finish strong.

“As a team, I really like how we are getting more physical on the mat and getting pins,” he added.

“We saw a lot of good things and improvements as a team.”