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Sophia Aldous
TACOMA — Newport Grizzly wrestlers cracked the top 10 in their weight categories at last week’s XXXVII state tournament at the Tacoma Dome, earning them five medals.
“Our weekend in the Tacoma Dome was a great representation of life,” boys’ wrestling coach Daniel Swain says. “It had extremely high highs, and incredibly low lows for every member of our team and support. There were moments of greatness exhibited from every wrestler, and also moments of fatigue and fear. We caught some lucky breaks, and we drew the short stick a few times.”
Gavin Carter won second place at t157-pounds, Ares Swain won second at 215-pounds, Luke Swain, 132, placed fourth, Tyson Nunley, 132, placed seventh and Nate Shaw came in eighth at 150-pounds.
Newport left the Dome with five placers, an overall eighthplace finish for boys’ wrestling and 19 state participants.
“This is what makes wrestling the greatest preparation for life in sports,” Swain says. “It teaches these kids how to work hard. It also teaches that sometimes hard work doesn’t guarantee success. It forces them to self-criticize their performances, and adapt where they need to. When they experience a setback, they turn it into a bounce back.
“Our wrestlers know that we are never out of the fight. If there is time on the clock there is a chance, and we trust we can make it happen. If it doesn’t happen, then where do I need to improve? These young wrestlers laid it all on the line and I’m so proud of them and their perseverance through our long season.”
Of the six Grizzly girl wrestlers that went to state, none of them made it to the podium, but coach Scott Pillers says his team showed heart and determination throughout the competition.
“This season wasn’t just about wins and losses,” Pillers says. “It was about resilience, discipline, accountability and learning how to respond when things don’t go your way. These young women showed tremendous courage by stepping into one of the toughest environments in high school athletics and represented Newport with pride.
“The progress they made technically, mentally and as teammates speaks volumes about the direction of our program. More importantly, the character they continue to develop is what matters most. Building future leaders — whatever path my athletes choose in their adult lives — is why I do everything I do in this role,” Pillers says.
Swain and Pillers expressed thanks for all who support the Newport High School wrestling program, including the Maws and Paws Booster Club and the community at large.
“We are so grateful for each and every one of you, and couldn’t have done what we did without your support,” Swain says. “On to next year. Go Griz!”
SOPHIA MATTICE-ALDOUS IS A MURROW NEWS FELLOW WORKING DIRECTLY WITH NEWSROOMS AT THE NEWPORT MINER AND RANGE MEDIA THROUGH A PROGRAM ADMINISTERED BY WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY. HER REPORTING IS AVAILABLE FOR USE VIA CREATIVE COMMONS WITH CREDIT.
