Vashon wrestlers shine at league tournament

The postseason began with a powerful showing from the Vashon High School boys’ and girls’ wrestling teams as they traveled to Cascade Christian High School for the 2025-2026 League Tournament. The event brought together programs from around the 1B/2B/1A region, all competing for coveted berths to the XXXVII Mat Classic at the Tacoma Dome on February 20-21. Vashon wrestling’s mantra: “accountability and effort” continue to pay off in the postseason.

The Pirate girls’ squad entered seven wrestlers into competition against eight neighboring programs, continuing a season defined by steady growth, heart, and grit. Their progress was unmistakable as the team secured an impressive third-place finish. Freshman Cedar Henderson opened eyes with a dominant 17-2 technical fall in her semifinal match against Cascade Christian’s Mia Echeverria. Henderson went on to place second overall, earning her first chance to compete in the state tournament.

Vashon’s senior leadership continued with an equally strong tone, all punching their ticket to the Mat Classic for the second year in a row. Hazel Nielsen and Alara Demir strung together decisive pins over opponents from East Jefferson, South Whidbey, and Cascade Christian on their way to second-place finishes. Senior Lena Puz capped the girls’ effort with a commanding run to the league title, earning the top spot on the podium.

The Vashon boys’ team brought 15 competitors to the tournament, demonstrating both talent and depth. Four Pirates earned third-place finishes and state qualification: senior Taevon Gilbert, junior Jacob Lawrence, junior Eli McKnight, and junior Rafeal Escovedo. Each of the third-place finishers battled through adversity, rebounding from early losses with grit and determination. For Gilbert and Lawrence, this marks a return to the Mat Classic after competing last year.

Junior David Ryland powered his way into the finals and claimed second place, securing his first trip to state. Senior Oliver Pickney closed the tournament with an exciting match—a down-to-the-wire finals showdown with Life Christian’s Tangney Paddock. Returning from injury over past several weeks, Pickney fought for a late escape to tie the match before surrendering a last-second takedown. His second-place finish nonetheless sends him to the state tournament for the second time—and with renewed motivation.

Vashon’s presence extended beyond the mats. The program collected several character awards, including Most Outstanding Girl Wrestler (Lena Puz), Boys Coach of the Year (Per Lars Blomgren), and Most Outstanding Team Sportsmanship, highlighting the respect the Pirates have earned and maintained within the local wrestling community.

The team’s culture continues to be a defining strength. Wrestlers consistently lined the mats to support one another, regardless of gender or weight class. Injured teammates spent the entire day cheering from the sidelines, and parents and community members showed up in force.

These Vashon wrestlers are tough, they’re good humans, and they’re good sports, summarizing a program known for discipline, unity, and character.

The team’s eyes are set on next week’s competition at the Tacoma Dome. As they prepare for the Mat Classic, all qualified athletes—along with the rest of their teammates—will continue training together in the wrestling room, grinding through these final days. Every year, each Vashon wrestling team brings a unique style refined all season by the amazing coaching staff, dedicated partners, and rigorous schedule with a variety of opponents.

Excellence requires hard, smart work, guts, courage, constant focus—and the Vashon Wrestling Program never underestimates the power of doing hard things together. One thing stays the same year after year: Vashon wrestlers are ferocious.

Stephen Murphy is an assistant wrestling coach for Vashon High School.