Cleveland, TN-(WDEF-TV) The Bradley Central-Cleveland wrestling rivalry is in contrast to some other in Tennessee — probably even the nation. The 2 have traded state titles the final eight years.
Not even a world pandemic might change the importance of this yr’s annual grudge match. Right here’s Information 12’s Angela Moryan with the story.
Mentioned Cleveland wrestler Trae McDaniel: “We’ve got the perfect rivalry within the state of Tennessee.”
Added teammate Cody Chittum: “It’s virtually as massive as Michigan-Ohio State soccer sport.”
Mentioned Cleveland head coach Joey Knox: “We make our entire schedule round this match proper right here.”
Cleveland and Bradley are used to wrestling one another in entrance of hundreds of individuals after being amongst these hundreds rising up going to the match.
Mentioned Chittum: “Once I was little, it was like 3,000 individuals screaming, followers in all places. It was fairly cool.”
Mentioned Bradley Central’s Bryson Terrell: “It’s an incredible rivalry. Finest two groups in Tennessee going at it three miles away from one another. I believe it’s wonderful. I find it irresistible. Love the environment. It’s at all times a enjoyable match.”
Angie: “How do you evaluate this to something within the wrestling world?”
Mentioned Knox: “You possibly can’t evaluate it. We’re very lucky to have a wealthy custom as you’ll be able to see on the wall behind me of wrestling on this group.”
Mentioned Bradley Central head coach Ben Smith: “It’s sort of a fierce, bitter rivalry at occasions. Coach Knox and I and each side of our communities have tried to wash that up. Our youngsters get alongside effectively, and I believe our coaches get alongside effectively. Typically the group and the mother and father don’t.”
Bradley and Cleveland have mixed for over 40 state titles within the final three many years — making the cross-county twin really feel like a championship-deciding match.
Mentioned McDaniel: “Whenever you get up that morning, you’re able to go. Your adrenaline’s going. You’re able to get your weight off, get on the mat and wrestle.”
Mentioned Bradley Central’s Chase Stansberry: “State’s extra vital, but it surely’s a rivalry. You possibly can’t look previous it.”
The state match returns to Chattanooga after 12 years this yr — giving the 2 powerhouses much more of a bonus.
Mentioned McDaniel: “We’re going to be in our dwelling territory. We’re going to sleep in our personal beds, have our personal amenities to chop our weight in and every part.”
Mentioned Smith: “Yeah, we’re rivals, however on the finish of the day, we wish to hold the state titles on this city.”
