By Anders Blomgren

For The Beachcomber

Yes, it’s crazy to say and even more insane to watch: the Vashon Pirate wrestling team hosted a Triple-Dual outside on the high school football field (on mats) last Wednesday, June 2.

It was a unique and positive event for all involved, and couldn’t have been accomplished without the help from the top down— Athletic Director Andy Sears, the coaches, the trainers, the table help, the announcers, Voice of Vashon, and all the wrestlers and fans, made the whole event possible.

Life Christian and Concrete High School were battling against the Pirates. Both teams brought excellent competition — some seasoned wrestlers and athletic individuals.

The 82-degree temperatures and sunshine brought their own heat, but it was the Pirate wrestlers’ intensity and focus that really raised the temperature of the event. 15 pins were registered to just nine losses. Pins were recorded by Jonah Hendon, Kaitlyn Bonaventura, Ben Godwin, Taj Holloway, George Murphy, Michael Ryland, Danny Baldinger, Alec Macomber-Straight, Colin McIntyre, Oli Nielsen, Chase Bradrick, Ethan McIntyre, Sean Ryland, Aidan Green and Jordon Rutschow.

In addition, there were plenty of McMurray Middle School Mustang wrestlers in action. Hazel Nielsen sparked the crowd with her scrappiness with a pin and valiant efforts were put forth by Kyla Scheff, Jason Wu and David Ryland.

Lastly, the week and the main portion of the season was celebrated when James Ryland won the WIAA State Athlete of the Week, due to his dominant performance the week before and all season long.

Next up, for the Pirates and the fans, the League Tournament will be hosted by Vashon on Wednesday, June 16. Wrestling starts at 3 p.m. and, weather pending, it will take place outside on the football field and all fans will be able to attend. Come and support the Pirates in their attempt to win the League title and finish the year in style!

Anders Blomgren is a Vashon Island High School wrestling coach.