by Jamie Harris
The Berkeley Springs Indians wrestling team showcased toughness and tenacity this past weekend at the annual Braxton County Invitational, one of West Virginia’s most demanding midseason tournaments. Widely known as a grinder due to its deep, high‑caliber Class A and Class AA competition, the two‑day event tested every team from top to bottom.
Berkeley Springs secured a strong eighth‑place team finish, totaling 176 points in the 20‑team field. Williamstown (337) took home the team championship, followed closely by Herbert Hoover (334.5), with Keyser (270.5), Braxton County (262), East Fairmont (207.5), Roane County (193) and Greenbrier West (184.5) rounding out the top seven.
The highlight of the weekend came from senior Jacob Morgan (150 lbs.), who delivered a stellar, undefeated performance. Morgan went 8-0 to secure his first Braxton Invitational Championship, an accomplishment that adds a significant milestone to his senior campaign.
His dominant run through a loaded bracket was a major boost for the Indians and served as one of the tournament’s standout individual achievements.
Berkeley Springs saw several wrestlers push deep into their brackets and secure top‑seven placements:
Second place: Eligah Parsell (113 lbs.) – 5–1 record and Kaiden Proctor (157 lbs.) – 7–1 record.
Third place: Kowen Proctor (144 lbs.) – 5–2 record.
Fourth place: Ashton Henry (106 lbs.) – 4–2 record.
Sixth place: Vaughn Taylor (126 lbs.) – 5–2 record.
Seventh place: Garrin Place (175 lbs.) – 2–3 record.
These strong individual efforts helped the Indians remain competitive throughout the tournament despite facing some of the toughest programs in the state.
Both the Indians and Lady Indians now turn their attention to the 2026 PVC Championships, set for Saturday, January 24 at Keyser High School. Wrestling begins at 10 a.m. as Berkeley Springs looks to build on the momentum gained at Braxton County.
photos by Betsy Hovermale
Lefever working to score against a Herbert Hoover High School wrestler Saturday at the Braxton County Invitational at Braxton County High School.
