Ames’ 100th career victory helps Foxcroft sweep home opener

DOVER-FOXCROFT — On Dec. 21 Foxcroft Academy wrestling had its home opener, hosting Mattanawcook Academy of Lincoln and neighboring Piscataquis Community High School. Earlier in the season Mattanawcook beat Foxcroft at the Penobscot Valley High School Tournament, so the Ponies had something to prove.

The Foxcroft grapplers came out ready to wrestle with the big home crowd cheering them on. The team defeated Mattanawcook 52-21 and PCHS by a score of 66-10. “We wanted to set the tone early on and we did that today,” Pony head coach Luis Ayala said. “Our crowd was amazing tonight. It got our wrestlers pumped up for this big meet.”

The crowd was also anticipating the 182-pound match vs PCHS. Senior Elijah Ames was going for his 100th career win, and he did not disappoint the crowd. Ames came out aggressive and pinned the Pirate wrestler in the second period.

After the pin the crowd cheered loud and began to wave the 100 win signs. Ames’ teammates gathered to congratulate him on his accomplishment. “Elijah has been working hard for this moment,” Ayala said. “He was voted team captain by the team this year and he has really stepped into that role as a great leader. I am so proud of him!”

The Foxcroft team was scheduled to travel south to compete at the Noble High School tournament in Berwick to close out 2017.

Photo courtesy of Angela Ayala
100TH CAREER VICTORY — Foxcroft Academy senior Elijah Ames celebrates his 100th career win with his head coach Luis Ayla. Ames reached the milestone on his home match Dec. 21 while competing in a 182-pound match against PCHS.