The Clare varsity wrestling team headed to Sanford Meridian High School on Thursday to kick off the Jack Pine Conference season and lost to Meridian 46-27. The Pioneers wrestled against Meridian in the first dual of the night. Clare had a tough time getting rolling, from 103 to 152, but Logan Emery won at 160 beating Jess Levier 10-5. Brandon Ayris at 171 and Hart Smalley at 189 pinned their opponents in the first period. Brenden Hensley won by disqualification at 215 pounds.

 “We had some outstanding matches that were wrestled, and I think the Jack Pine Conference championships are going to be very interesting,” said Kyle McKay, Clare coach.