Invernon gunning for second state wrestling title

He won a state title as a freshman, a rare feat at any level of wrestling, before finishing second last year as a sophomore.

Suffice it to say, Bonners Ferry’s Blaine Invernon (125 pounds) will not lack motivation when the state wrestling tournament begins on Friday at Holt Arena in Pocatello.

Invernon, the No. 1 ranked 3A wrestler in the state at 132 pounds, is motivated by the prospect of joining former Badger and Boise State wrestler Adam Hall as a three time state champion.

“That’s what I’m going for,” said Invernon of the three titles, accomplished just 17 times in the history of the state at the 3A level. “Nothing on the mind but winning.”

The Badgers will send 14 wrestlers to state, including a handful who figure to challenge for a state medal.

Badgers coach Conrad Garner had high praise for Aaron Smith, who won the 98 pound district title to punch his ticket to state despite weighing only 82 pounds.

“He’s wrestled one hell of a tournament,” said Garner, noting Smith beat the No. 1 seed in the district. “He’s come a long ways.”

Senior Zach Heigel scored an impressive 11-7 win over Priest River’s Brian Fink in the 170 pound final to earn his berth at state. The win was extra special, as Heigel had lost four times previously to Fink in his career.

“For a senior to have his highlight tonight is fabulous,” said Garner of Heigel’s district championship. “He took it to him tonight.”

Joining Invernon, Heigel and Smith at state are Parker Davis (138), Carmen Krichbaum (195), Will Gaspar (220), John Gaspar (220), Josh Tucker (120), David Chapman (126), Zack Wilson (145), Devin Schalk (152), Quinn Cummings (160), Rankin Langley (285) and Morris McAllister (285).

The 3A state tournament takes place Friday and Saturday at Holt Arena in Pocatello.