Mule wrestling opens with strong efforts

The Wahkiakum Mules wrestling team traveled to Longview to participate at the Three Rivers Classic Tournament. The tournament, hosted at Mark Morris High School, was the first meet of the season for the Mules.

"It felt great to get back on the mat" said senior Cayden Mendez. "We've been putting in a lot of work and sweating a lot at practice, so it was great to make such a strong showing."

And a strong showing it was for the returning senior as he took first place in the 285 division. Also making the podium for the Mules was junior McKenna Mendez, one of only two girls in the entire tournament to place after earning 4th in the 195 division.

"Our whole team came out very strong, with many of our wrestlers going up in weight class" said Coach Garrett Radcliffe. "Our girls in particular showed a lot of grit when matched up against stronger boys from schools in higher divisions."

The tournament included opponents from schools such as Mark Morris, RA Long, Kalama, Hockinson, and Kelso, most of which are Division 2A or higher.

"Now that some of the rust is kicked off from our returners, lessons learned for the less experienced wrestlers, and gaining a few back from injury, I am really looking forward to how well this season can be. This tournament shows we can go heads up with any opponent" added Radcliffe.

The Mules look to continue the strong start as they head to Warrenton, Ore., on Saturday for their next meet.

Submitted by Coach Garrett Radcliffe