The Vashon High School Pirate wrestlers took to the practice mat Monday, Nov. 16, in preparation for an exceptionally tough schedule.

This year’s group of grapplers is considered by many to be one of the greatest teams in school history. Expectations are high, and the team has a first-ever state title in its sights.

The tone was set on the first day of practice when one senior reported that it was the toughest first-day practice ever, and the intensity has not let up yet.

After finishing seventh and eighth at the state competition the last two years, the team is returning a tight-knit group of grapplers who have all wrestled together for years.

Coach Anders Blomgren said the team is “planning on transitioning from good, to great, to legendary during the course of this year.”

“We will do this by following our philosophy and especially focusing on accountability and R and R (resilience and relentlessness). And, we also hope to make it a gratifying and rewarding experience,” Blomgren said. “We have a very seasoned and experienced team. In many ways, we have been waiting 10 years for this year — so many of these guys were ’busters all their life, but we also have a number of great additions to that crew.”

Two-time state champion Chase Wickman is back for his final year along with fellow seniors Logan Nelson, Chester Pruett, Clyde Pruett, Franklin Easton, Shane Williams, Preston Petersen and Rodolfo Flores — all who have experience at the state tournament. Wickman, the Pruetts and Nelson have all been wrestling since first grade and are looking at ending their Vashon wrestling careers on a high note.

The Hoisington brothers are at it again, and Bryce looks to improve on last year’s third-place finish. Sophomores Luke Larson, who placed at state, and Hunter Burger will again be a force in the lighter weights. Cori Williams and Ellis Petersen both went deep in the post-season last year and look to do it again.

Freshman and Junior National Champion, Adrian St. Germain, will be high on everyone’s watch list.

The first tournament of the season will be Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Auburn Invitational. The first home match of the season will be Dec. 10 against perennial powerhouse Montesano.

— Cheryl Pruett is the mother of two VHS wrestlers.