The Richmond Hill High School wrestling team took third place at the Region 3-AAA tournament at West Laurens High School over the weekend. In addition, three Wildcats won region titles for their respective weight classes.

Zach Sheffield (21-0) maintained his undefeated streak in the 125 pound category to win the Region 3-AAA title for the second straight year. Also crowned region champions were Michael Early (145 pound, 14-3 record) and Josh Bryant (285 pounds/heavyweight, 15-1 record).

"I’m really proud of the team – especially our three region champs," RHHS Coach Adam Moret said. "Early and Sheffield go at it in practice and are definitely the hardest working on this team. Josh uses his weight, speed and talent like few others can."

The team now advances to the state sectionals this weekend in Locust Grove, where Moret said RHHS will face some of the toughest teams in the state, like Gilmer, Lafayette and Eastside. The top eight teams from Locust Grove will go on to face the top eight teams from the western part of the state in the state finals Feb. 18-20 in Atlanta.

Seeing how there are only four wrestling teams in Region 3-AAA – RHHS, West Laurens, Baldwin and Burke – all competing RHHS wrestlers advance to the state sectionals this weekend. West Laurens took first place while Burke placed second at the region tourney.

"My goal is for three to four of my guys to make it through to the state finals," Moret said.