Freedom’s wrestling team didn’t reach their goal at last weekend’s District 11 team tournament, but that doesn’t mean the Pates haven’t left their mark.

Freedom went 1-2 at District Duals, knocking off Pottsville in the consolation round, but falling to traditional powers Easton and Northampton.

Head coach Dante Terenzio was hoping that his team could make a push for a shot at a top-three finish, but their 35-27 defeat to Northampton in the consolation semifinals ended their season.

“We set our goals high this year as a team and had our sights set on cracking the top three or four at district duals,” said Terenzio. “We fell a little short of that goal, especially in that Northampton match, which was probably the most exciting dual we were in this season.”

Freedom (18-5) took a 27-24 lead over Northampton following Joey Bodnar’s (138) fall over Mason Basara in 5:39 with three matches to go. Unfortunately, the K-Kids would win the final three bouts to seal the win.

“We have asked a lot of the kids this season and we are often hard on them, but the post-match talk was very positive and upbeat,” said Terenzio. “The intensity and determination our team possessed in that match was at a season high. The kids know I’m very proud of them after putting together an 18-5 season and a top five finish in district duals.”

The focus now shifts to the individual postseason, which begins the weekend of February 25. With three weeks to prepare for the postseason, Terenzio hopes the down time can refocus the team and heal any nagging injuries.

“We will take the next couple weeks to get healthy and get better before individuals begin,” he said. “So many teams right now are struggling with ailments and sickness, and we are one of them. Regardless, our guys powered through all season long and showed a ton of toughness. We are proud of that.”

Liberty (10-10) was bounced out of the preliminary round of districts, but not without a fight, as the Hurricanes lost to Parkland 31-30.

The Hurricanes won seven of the 13 bouts, but gave up bonus points in five of their six losses, including two forfeits.

Sawyer Quayle (215) had one last chance at the upset, needing bonus points in the final match for the win. Unfortunately, Parkland’s Zayd Afif only lost by a 5-0 decision to allow Parkland to advance.

Despite the loss, it was a drastic difference from the initial meeting between both teams in December, where Parkland blew Liberty away 53-12.