On This Date: March 12, 1977

March 12, 1977 — Northwestern crowns four champions at the Southeastern Regional Wrestling Championships, while four other Times News area wrestlers qualify for states. The Tigers, coached by Dave Hawk, receive first-place finishes from Chris Wentz, Bryan Billig, Dwight Billig and Dan Blose. Wentz registers a pin in 3:50 to claim the 113-pound title, while Bryan Billig earns gold with a 5:45 fall at 122. Dwight Billig gains a default win in the finals at 129, with Blose taking an 8-0 decision for the crown at 188. Also earning state berths are Lehighton’s Rick Kirkendall (122) and Jeff Longacre (158), Palmerton’s Phil McGarry (148), and Slatington’s Mark Schaller (105).