Catasauqua head wrestling coach Jon Reed knew his wrestlers would face a huge challenge entering the annual Coal Cracker Invitational, one of the more prestigious tournaments in the greater area.

Still, Reed figured the experience would help. The Rough Riders have been a participant since the tournament began 15 years ago.

“We knew going in that we were going to have a tough time of it,” said Reed. “We have been going to that tournament for as long as they have been running the tournament.

“It started out as a dual meet tournament then changed to an individual tournament and has become one of the more competitive tournaments in the area. Teams and powerhouses from all over the state in both AA and AAA and also prep schools attend. Even Faith Christian, the 2nd ranked team in the country, was there.”

Yet, Reed was pleased with his team’s performance.

“It gave our kids some matches against very, very good wrestlers,” added Reed. “We kind of knew what we were getting ourselves into, but we want our kids wrestling the best kids out here, so they understand what they need to do in order to get better individually.”

The Roughies placed 54th in the tournament, and 127-pound senior Gavin Hacker went 2-2 and advanced to the fourth round of consolations. Josiah Martinez also picked up a win in the tournament.

Reed also noted that the Roughies’ JV squad took fifth in the respective bracket and Martinez was fifth, going 3-1.

“We took a few kids to the JV tournament,” said Reed. “It gave them some extra mat time.”

Heading down the stretch, Hacker has an overall 15-12 record, senior Evan Reed is 9-11 at 145, sophomore Aydan Frisby is 10-14 at 133, and freshman Jaxson Beaton is 12-13 at 215.

Hacker has plenty of positive vibes about the postseason.

“I think I am feeling pretty good about it,” gushed Hacker. “There are some obvious areas that need some more work. I think I am definitely starting to wrestle better and smarter, coming closer towards districts.”

Over the final weeks, the younger Reed is hoping to regain his form for the postseason. His junior season ended early due to a left knee injury. He won 20 or more matches his first two seasons.

Reed has battled through a wrist and head injury this season.

“I feel like I could be wrestling a lot better, and I have had some injuries this season,” said Reed. “I’m hoping I’m healthy and ready when districts come around.”

The Roughies have one match remaining against Executive Education at home on their senior night Feb. 5 before the District 11 tournament Feb. 21-22.

“It is now time to turn our focus to our last match of the year,” said Reed. “It is also senior night so we will be honoring our three seniors at home.

“Then we look forward to a good two weeks of practice preparing for the end of the year District 11 tournament.”