Charles Prince

The North Jefferson News



The Mortimer Jordan wrestling program was started just four years ago. For the first two seasons, the Blue Devil’s were a junior high program. Now in their third season of varsity competition, new head coach Terry Tingle has his squad aiming high.

“We’re shooting for at least a top seven finish at the state tournament,” Tingle said. “We’ve got some good wrestlers, including at least three I think that can compete for state weight class titles.”

Tingle, who was the wrestling coach at Oak Grove for 10 years before coming to Mortimer Jordan to take over the Blue Devil program earlier this year, said he expects senior Rob Glenn in the 189-pound weight class, junior James Stewart in the 160-pound class and eighth grader Brandon Brindley in the 103-pound class can compete for individual state titles next February.

“I think all three have a good chance to win state,” he added. “To me, Brindley should be the odds on favorite at 103. He went something like 54 and four last year, while he only weighed 87 pounds. He gained weight and now he’s a year older and stronger, so I think he’s definitely the wrestler to beat at 103 in the state tournament.”

Last winter, the Blue Devils finished 12th in the 5A state meet, with Brindley taking a fourth-place medal.

“I think we’ve got several kids who can qualify for state and then place when they get there,” Tingle said. “You need to get enough kids qualified to compete. We’re not a state championship-type program yet, but that’s ultimately what we’re working for.”

Tingle said the Blue Devils should improve by competing in the rugged 5A, Section 1 meet. He thinks his club can make some noise come the postseason, due in part to their work ethic.

“Our kids give great effort,” he said. “They’ve given me all the effort I’ve asked for. I can’t wait to see what they can do against top competition.”