There are several things one could say about Vashon wrestlers: They wear green singlets, they’re scrappy, and you’ll never catch them breathing hard on the mat.

Why is that? Because the coaches know that wrestling is an endurance sport — usually the wrestler in top condition prevails. So why take chances? Eliminate that variable so that you can go hard, fast and furious the whole match.

There’s also a psychological factor involved — the aggressor usually wins.

Aside from the many moves involved in the dance, your opponent is intent on “countering” those moves. The uncertainty heightens the excitement, which makes “wrestling the oldest and greatest sport,” a statement the late wrestling announcer Ed Aliverti used to make at the beginning of each state tournament.

Not only did our Pirates receive the Sportsmanship Award, but the boys placed 12th in the 1A division at State, with only five guys competing.

Head coach Anders Blomgren said he was delighted with these results, and when he looks into the future, he becomes ecstatic. The onus is now on the coaches to develop these Rockbusters and McMur-ray dynamos.

Varsity individual honors went to Sam Chapman as the “outstanding wrestler,” Geran Webb as team captain, Graeme Britz as “inspirational wrestler,” with honorable mention to Dominik Stemer, and “most improved” went to Eliot Ellingsen, with honorable mention to Vince Jovanovich.

Robert Easton received the JV “outstanding wrestler” award; Aaron Bomber was JV “most improved.” Both Madeleine Wolczko and Iris Spring were the girls’ outstanding wrestlers.

Next up is the freestyle wrestling season — a sport open to all ages. Wrestlers practice Monday and Wednesday evenings now through June 16.

From 5 to 5:30 p.m. participants lift weights; from 5:30 to 7 p.m. they wrestle.

See ya there.

— Carl Blomgren is the father of Pirate wrestling coaches Anders and

Per-Lars Blomgren.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.