Greg Strand

Greg Strand

Tough 'D' Strand brings football philosophy to wrestling
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As a linebacker and special teams player, Greg Strand was a top-flight defender for the Brainerd Warriors football team last fall, making 32 tackles.

Strand's defensive style of play carried over into his wrestling season, which will culminate in this week's individual state tournament at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul.

The 140-pound senior makes it difficult for his wrestling opponents to score.That was evident in last week's Section 8, Class 3A individual tournament where he wrestled his way to a runner-up finish and qualified for state.

"Greg wrestled a very smart tournament," Warriors coach Bob Brakke said.
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Strand (26-11) said he attempts to take opponents down.

"If there's an opening I usually try to take it, but basically I'm a defensive wrestler," he said.

Strand opened the section with a 5-2 win over Lonnie Gabrielson of Fergus Falls.
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Greg Strand

Greg Strand
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Three straight pins from seniors Greg Strand (145 pounds), Mike Wachsmuth (152) and Adam Hahnert (160) to seal the decision.
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"I knew he was a ninth-grader so I just wanted to go hard and get as many takedowns as I could," said Strand, who bumped up from 140 to 145.
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"Obviously, Sartell has a lot of holes, but you always want to beat somebody as much as you can," said Strand.
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145 -- Greg Strand (B) pinned Christopher Yasgar 3:43