The Vashon High School Wrestling Team attended the Mat Classic XXXV at the Tacoma Dome this past weekend to compete in the largest high school wrestling tournament in the state.

More than 1,800 athletes participated on 24 mats starting on Friday morning, in a grueling elimination tournament of the state’s most formidable wrestlers. Dozens of former island wrestlers, family members and local fans flooded the Tacoma Dome to cheer on our wrestlers for the two-day tournament.

The Vashon team had four athletes qualify. Despite wrestling competitively, Senior Michael Ryland in the 138# weight class was eliminated after losing two matches by one point each to strong opponents.

Sophomore Lena Puz was positioned atop her 140# bracket. She won her quarterfinals match with a pin in the second period. After losing her semifinals match on Saturday morning, she wrestled-back to get 5th place and take her place on the podium.

Senior Colin McIntyre also placed fifth in the 144# weight class, with decisive pins in the quarterfinals and consolation finals. Colin finished his Vashon High School Wrestling career as a 3X Top 5 placer.

Senior Chase Bradrick won his quarterfinals match. Then in the semifinals match, Chase lost by points to Liam Bogle (Deer Park), who scored more points than any other opponent to become the eventual 165# 1A State Champion. Chase was able to beat Wyatt Freeman from Mount Baker in the consolation semifinals, and ultimately took home 4th place.

The team is proud of the performance of all of our state competitors, and appreciative of all the fans and community members who continually support Vashon Wrestlers.

Stephen Murphy is an assistant wrestling coach at VHS. Anders Blomgren is a head wrestling coach at VHS.

Stephen Murphy photo Chase Bradrick throws Ian Burton of Castle Rock for a takedown in the quarterfinals.