Dowagiac’s middle school wrestlers opened up their season Thursday by hosting Niles Ring Lardner and Coloma.

The Chieftains won 12 of their 22 matches.

“That was a good start to the season with having limited time to practice due to weather,” Dowagiac coach Andy Crawley said. “We feel we have a good squad and they will improve as we get more practice and mat time.

Winning two matches for the Chieftains were Patrick Sirk, Steven Pounders, Lamberto Paredes and Nick Turnbow. Also picking up a victory were Nate Affriseo, Xander Keller Jared Peters and Ally Marquart.

“We can have a good season if we can continue too show improvement each week,” Crawley said.

Dowagiac will host a quad meet Thursday.