The Ucluelet Secondary School Warriors made their home coast proud over the weekend as the local wrestlers competed at the Alberni Armada Invitational.
“Everybody put in a great effort and had some solid results,” the team’s coach Mike Rhodes told the Westerly News. “Everybody worked hard. The younger girls once again showed they’re going to be a strong force for years to come with another solid showing.”
Olivia Rhodes, Caitlyn Midlane and Evan Johansen each earned gold medals in their respective divisions.
“Evan wrestled very well this weekend and is developing his own style. He’s very strong and has good balance which serves him well,” coach Rhodes said.
Owen Rhodes, Marcus Nixon and Krista Wagner received hard earned bronze medals. Wagner’s twin sister Elsa competed her way into a sixth place finish.
“Marcus did really well in his first tournament. He really got a good understanding of how hard this sport is to actually compete in. tournament matches are a definite level up from practicing but he was up for the challenge. Krista and Elsa both competed with intensity and had some good strong matches as well,” Rhodes said. “Owen once again showed grit and determination through all of his matches, fighting from behind and coming out on top. He actually beat the kid who he lost to in his first match to take home the bronze medal so that was quite satisfying.”
The Warriors will next head to Nanaimo for the Island Championships on Feb. 8, leading into the Provincial Championships in Langley from Feb. 15-17.
“Overall it was a great tournament and a nice way to lead up to the Island Championships,” Rhodes said. “The team is looking good heading in to Islands as evidenced by last weekend’s results. They’re continuing to work hard so we can put in our best effort and show the rest of the Island and the province that West Coast kids are tough.”
andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca
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