Only two North Dakotans remain after day one of Cadet Freestyle, and both are Bismarck Demons.  2X state champion Ryan Ripplinger and state finalist Chase Dockter both finished their sophomore season at Bismarck High this spring, and both now find themselves in the quarterfinals at Cadet nationals in Fargo needing only one more victory to attain All American status.

Ripplinger, who was an All American in the Cadet Greco Roman division last year, won four matches to make the round if eight. None crazier than his come from behind victory over Pennsylvania’s Colton Comacho.  Down five points with only :30 left on the clock, Ripplinger scored a four point feet to back move and turn from top to take a 12-11 victory.  In the next round, Ripplinger scored a quick fall over Dregen Smith of Arkansas.

Chase Dockter scored two workmanlike wins over strong opponents to make the quarterfinals in the 285 pound bracket.  Dockter defeated Iowa’s Josh Vis 8-8 on criteria before grinding out a 3-2 win over Missouri’s Landon Porter De Soto.