Newton Citizen

CONYERS - The Rockdale wrestling squad ended its final home match of the season with a 47-31 trouncing of Jackson on Friday.

Furthermore, it was Senior Night, proving to be a fitting sendoff for Luis Ponce, Jimmy Brown, Muhamad Bois, Kafuba Donzon, Jay Williams, Marcus Offitt and Ashley Tate (manager).

"They're just real supportive of each other. They're great leaders, and they enjoy competing," Rockdale coach Craig Hargrove said. "When you get that type of chemistry together you can do good things.

"We're going to miss them; they've done a heck of a job this year."

Ranked No. 3 in the Georgia Coaches Wrestling Poll, the Bulldogs (31-6) recorded seven pins and eight victories. Meanwhile, the Red Devils had just three pins.

Against the Red Devils, the Bulldogs won their opening four matches. Donzon began the evening with an overpowering 19-4 victory, which set the tone early.

Rockdale then ripped off three straight pins by Brown (160 pounds), Lloyd Martell (171) and Williams (189).

Jackson countered with three straight wins (two pins) before Rockdale speedster Jake Morris (112) pinned his opponent.

After a Rockdale forfeit, Ponce (125) took a commanding 15-1 lead before registering a pin. Freshman Jose Robledo (130) followed with a pin of his own in scrappy fashion.

Rockdale's James Toole (215) added a pin in the final bout.

In honor of Senior Night, Rockdale recognized the 1978 and 1981 state champion squads.

Among attendees for the 1978 team were Scott Dennis (112), Danny Campbell (119), Jimmy O'Kelley (132) and Gene O'Kelley (185).

Representing the 1981 squad included Michael Watts (105), Al Crisco (126), Norbert Williams (147), Todd Marlow (155), Jimmy O'Kelley (167), Campbell (185) and Lee Powell (heavyweight).

Jason Murdock can be reached at jason.murdock@rockdalecitizen.com.