Two Chilton County wrestlers qualified for the state meet with their performances over the weekend in the Class 5A, Section 1 tournament at Tallassee.

CCHS juniors Colby Bernier, in the 160-pound weight class, and Dylan Jackson, in the 189-pound class, have begun preparation for the state meet, which will be held Friday and Saturday at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville.

Bernier is the more experienced of the two, having competed in the state meet last season. Bernier said that experience has provided motivation to make a return trip.

“Last year I got my butt kicked a little,” Bernier said.

Bernier finished second in his weight class out of eight wrestlers, with a 2-1 record in the sectional.

Bernier was 26-6 this season, and Jackson compiled an 18-8 mark.

This year is only Jackson’s second of competitive wrestling, but Jackson said he is confident he can compete at the state meet.

“I faced the first seed guy [at the sectional] and he beat me by one point, so I think I can compete with anybody,” Jackson said.

Jackson went 3-1 at the sectional and finished third in his weight class.

Bernier and Jackson said this week will include rigorous training for the state meet.

“Coach [Kess Cottingham] has a couple of people up there helping us during the week, and we’re running a lot more, getting in better shape,” Jackson said.

“Me and Dylan have been training hard,” Bernier said.