Sonia Conrod, president and head coach of the Williams Lake Wrestling Club, said competing at the recent 2013 BC Wrestling Championships was a remarkable experience for the club’s athletes.
Six members of the WLWC travelled to Duncan from Feb. 28 to March 1 for provincials, grappling to multiple solid finishes.
“The experience was awesome for the kids, and also a big eye opener for what’s to come in their wrestling careers,” Sonia said. “The level of skill and competition was incredible. These athletes are among the best of the best in B.C. in the sport of wrestling.
“I’m very proud of all the kids. They represented Williams Lake with great pride and are all very dedicated athletes. Watching them grow throughout the season has been amazing.”
All of the weight classes at provincials were a double knockout, bracket format.
On the girls’ side Makaela Lemon, in the 75kg class, picked up a fourth-place podium finish, in an 11-competitor division. Top six at provincials made the podium, and won medals. 100 Mile House’s Tianna Dykstra, in the 43kg class, fought to a silver medal.
“It was pretty intense competition as it was spotlighted in the centre of the arena,” Sonia said.
Haleigh Stubitch, in the 51kg weight class, fought amongst 17 other athletes.
“She fought hard, but despite her great efforts she did not make the top six podium finish,” Sonia said.
Sonia said the boys side of the tournament was extremely competitive.
Peter Fayowski, in the 110kg weight class, battled amongst 22 other athletes in his division.
Braden Conrod, grappling against 36 other athletes in the 54kg division, also missed a top-six podium finish.
“It was an intense division,” Sonia said. “The skill level was amazing to watch. Although he did not place top six he wrestled like a champion.”
Team members Danielle Schultz and Kerry Normand also attended but were sidelined with injuries.
“All the kids were incredible,” Sonia said.
“They pulled together as a team and cheered everyone on. In wrestling we cheer everyone on — even our competition. It’s an incredible sporting community, one of few sports where the competition can create lasting friendships.
“We’re exciting for the upcoming season and look forward to seeing some new faces on the mat.”