Zak Haynes with his family and coaches on Senior Night

Wrestlers ready for sectionals

By Michael Butler

The regular season for wrestling is complete. Tallassee is 31-12 with sectionals and state tournaments ahead.

The 2019-20 squad recognized its only senior on Thursday night, Zak Haynes. The captain has been the epitome of success at THS. He is 219-24 over six seasons.

This season has been limited for Haynes, who battled an injury along the way. Still, he has a 35-3 record and ranked No. 2 in the state. He has placed four times at the state level and was fourth last year.

"Zak Haynes has been a great leader," head coach John Mask said. " I am so proud of him and am excited to see what the future holds. Zak is a big reason why our team this year has continued to grow and improve.  He has helped lead this group with his work ethic and energy he brings every day."

Mask surpassed the 500-win mark for his career this season. His Tallassee teams have won more than 30 duals matches for the past seven seasons.

"I am very proud of each and every wrestler on the team this year. We were able to win 31 matches, and I feel like we really improved as the season went on."

Mask is 508-106 in 18 seasons as head coach. His 2014 team was a state champion.

Sectionals will be Friday and Saturday, Feb. 7 and 8 at Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery.

"We will have 12 of the 14 weight classes and are excited about the opportunity in front of us."

Haynes being interview by Phillip Nelson and Mark Bell on Tallassee Times TV