This past weekend, 15 wrestling teams from all over the state made their way to the island for the 29th annual Rock Tournament, hosted as always by Vashon High School.

Pirates wrestling coach Anders Blomgren described the tournament as successful, thanks to an “enormous” effort from volunteers, coaches, athletes and support from fans and referees.

“We do the tournament to get great competition, and we have a strong wrestling tradition … and ability to put on events such as these,” he said in an email to The Beachcomber. “But it is still an undertaking, even for an experienced crew such as ours.”

The annual event is also a fundraiser for the wrestling program, to help with uniforms, tournament entry fees, out-of-state competitions, gear, promotional material, awards and more.

The Pirates placed eighth out of 15.

Notable results included a second place from Luke Larson, who, according to Blomgren, wrestled in the toughest and deepest weight class at the event; third place from Ethan McIntyre, a freshman, who pinned all of his opponents except for his one loss; third place from Moses Kilpatrick, after pinning an opponent from Everett; and a fifth-place finish from Richard Rivas, who reportedly just missed out on the finals with a 4-3 loss in the semis.

Blomgren added that “a large percentage of the team won matches,” and many were just one match away from placing.

Blomgren said that while the team has work to do, he is optimistic about the rest of the season and the future: At this varsity tournament, the Pirates entered eight freshmen.