BERLIN – For three years Dakota Roderick wrestled on Stephen Decatur’s junior varsity waiting for his chance to make an impact for the varsity squad. Last Wednesday he got his shot and created a seismic bang by securing the Seahawks second 4A/3A East Region duals title in four years.

Roderick’s 17-5 decision over Old Mill’s Mark Lee gave Decatur the decisive points to beat the Patriots 37-33 and secure a trip to the state duals tournament.

“It was really exciting but there was also a lot of pressure because if I didn’t win my team would lose,” Roderick said. “But I know I’m a good wrestler, my coach told me so, and I’m on a very good team, so I was confident in myself.”

Unfortunately, Decatur lost to Urbana, 41-31, in the state duals semi-finals on Saturday. But last week the Seahawks held off Old Mill and tight match. After Nick McLoota lost at 135 pounds, the Patriots were within striking distance at 33-27. But Roderick’s win in the next match ended the suspense.

“We trusted [Roderick],” said SDHS coach Kevin Gilligan. “He’s undefeated at the JV level this year. We know he’s good. He was pretty dominating during the match.”