Mavericks Secure First WDA Victory Against Patriots, 39-26

The Dickinson Mavericks boys wrestling team achieved a significant milestone by defeating the Bismarck Century Patriots 39-26 on January 15, 2026, at Dickinson High School. This victory marked the Mavericks’ first win in the Western Dakota Association (WDA) dual competition this season, elevating their record to 3-1 in dual play.

Head coach Jeremiah Hayes emphasized the importance of mastering fundamentals in the lead-up to the match. “We’ve been hammering to wrestle with fundamentals this week and staying in positions throughout the whole dual,” he stated. The team’s focus on maintaining positions paid off, allowing them to secure key victories and accumulate points.

The Mavericks started strong, relying on their lower-weight wrestlers to gain an early advantage. Jacob Wolf and Max Glaser each recorded technical falls at 107 and 114 pounds, respectively, while Jake Glaser delivered the fastest pin of the evening in just 56 seconds at the 121-pound category. This impressive start propelled the Mavericks to a 16-0 lead.

Hayes praised his lower-weight wrestlers, noting their dedication and skill. “We got a lot of very talented wrestlers in our lower weights,” he said. “Jacob Wolf is a young kid that has been very fortunate to have phenomenal practice partners. Our two Glaser boys have put piles of time in and they are our hammers.”

The highlight of the match came at 133 pounds, where junior Wyatt Turner, currently ranked No. 2 in the state, faced off against No. 3 ranked Grady Iverson. Turner dominated the match, securing a 21-6 technical fall and extending the Mavericks’ lead significantly. He showcased his athleticism and tactical skills, taking Iverson down three times without trailing at any point.

“He’s very blessed with a lot of great athleticism,” Hayes remarked about Turner. “We’re driving home fundamentals with him and making sure we have solid setups to our shots.” Turner, who maintains a positive attitude regardless of the match situation, expressed confidence in his training, stating, “My classic fundamentals. They teach that all the time.”

The Mavericks’ performance not only demonstrated their skill but also highlighted the importance of teamwork and preparation in wrestling. The victory came after a series of non-conference matches and individual tournaments, making it a particularly rewarding achievement for the team.

Looking ahead, the Mavericks will compete again on January 20, 2026, at a Quad Meet in Watford City, where they will face off against teams from Mandan, Williston, and the host school Watford City. With their first WDA win under their belts, the Mavericks aim to build on this momentum as they progress through the season.