The VHS wrestling team participated in The Everett Classic tournament last weekend, a mixed varsity and junior varsity event that saw the Pirates place 12th out of 32 teams.

“We really rocked the JV tournament, with many of our young guys getting competition against other wrestlers their ages,” coach Anders Blomgren said. “Finally!”

King of the varsity tournament was Vashon’s Luke Larson, placing first in his weight class for the fourth time at this particular tournament.

“Luke has won the Everett Tournament for the last four years,” Blomgren said “He is also a three-time State placer, an honor roll student and a true gentleman.”

Also on the varsity side, Lewis Kanagy and Moses Kilpatrick placed fifth, and Ethan McIntyre was just one match away from placing.

At the junior varsity level, Payton Bonaventura, Jake Bowden, Nico Nuxoll, Richard Rivas and Ryan Nelson all took firsts; Jordan Rutschow and Finn McClure grabbed seconds and Yury Coucoules fought for third.

“Many of the athletes entered in the JV tournament were really varsity wrestlers,” Blomgren said. “Our work ethic and attitude paid off as we won the last seven matches of the tournament — a tribute to their determination and mental toughness.”

The grappling Pirates are now looking ahead to the second half of their post-season run.

— Sarah Low