McNaughton claims 171-pound title

(Sentinel photo by Bethany Kroeze) K-P's Ross McNaughton escapes from Okoboji's Austin Millard's hold during the third period of the 171-pound championship on Saturday in Milford. McNaughton won a 5-3 decision in the overtime period to advance to districts. [Click to enlarge]

Kingsley-Pierson's Ross McNaughton didn't bring a fabulous record (18-10) into Saturday's sectional tournament at Okoboji High School in Milford, but what he brought home was far more impressive: a sectional title and a chance to win a trip to Des Moines later this month.

"He's actually been coming through this last part of the season," said K-P wrestling coach Jeremy Ascherl. "He's kind of impressing people."

The Panthers' senior 171-pounder went to overtime with Okoboji's Austin Millard in the championship match.

The Pioneers grappler took a 2-0 lead after the first period and led 3-2 after the second.

McNaughton tied the score a 3-3 with an escape point in the third period to force the overtime period, where he used a takedown with 30 seconds to go to take the 5-3 win.

"I was kind of scared," admitted Ascherl, speaking of the overtime period. "(But) he was taking good shots. As long as he kept making the shots, I knew he'd end up winning the match. I was never really too worried."

After a first-round bye, McNaughton won a 4-0 decision over Sibley-Ocheyedan's Marshall Eddy in the semifinal.

The senior will take a 20-10 season record into next week's district meet at Sioux Center, where he will see Woodbury Central's Jared McCoy, winner of the West Lyon sectional title who is also ranked ninth at 171 pounds; Sioux Center's Colton Van't Hof, who is ranked No. 4; and Millard.

McNaughton seems to be peaking at the perfect time, according to Ascherl.

"If he can continue (this effort) next week, he should make it to state," he said.