Seniors from L-P, Falcon zero in on elusive wrestling titles

DENVER • There’s no shame in finishing third at the state wrestling tournament.

For the past year, that accomplishment has consumed the thoughts of Falcon’s Jose Cos and Lewis-Palmer’s Dan Barringer — although not in a nostalgic way.

Check out photos from Day 1 of the 4A state wrestling tournament

Cos and Barringer are back at state for the final time trying to earn the title that narrowly eluded them last year, when each took third.

On Thursday, Barringer began his quest with a quick pin in his 152-pound match. Cos, a 145-pounder, outlasted his first-round opponent for a 12-1 decision.

For senior wrestlers, this is the moment for which they have worked.

“To tell you the truth, it’s all I thought about since taking third place,” Barringer said. “I’ve worked my butt off.”

While this weekend represents the seniors’ last shot at a title, they must guard against pressure that can be paralyzing.

Barringer is 42-0 and Cos is 37-1, but one false move by either could close a career. They both try to avoid worrying about failure.

“If I don’t win, it’s not the end of life or anything,” Cos said. “That’s what I tell myself.”

Barringer and Cos said they felt good and are confident about their chances the next two days. If he continues to win, Cos could meet Windsor’s Nathaniel Garcia in the final. After losing to Garcia in last year’s semifinals, Cos said he has thought about his chance at a “little payback.”

Barringer noted that the 152-pound class is loaded but feels like if he wrestles up to his capability, he could take home the championship he’s thought so much about.

“It’s all or nothing,” Barringer said.

A victory in Saturday’s final would be a satisfying conclusion for both wrestlers.

“It’s senior year,” Cos said. “You want to go out on top.”