BELLINGHAM — The Port Angeles wrestling team finished a strong second behind Class 4A power Snohomish at the tough Graham Morin Tournament at Squalicum High School on Saturday.
The Roughriders were led by eight semifinalists, six finalists and four champions.
Snohomish dominated the meet with 250 team points but the Riders also were way ahead of the rest of the 16-team field with 187.
Sedro-Woolley was back in third with 127 while Oak Harbor tookf ourth with 114.5.
Host Squalicum claimed seventh with 103.5.
Winning individual titles for the Riders were Josh Basden at 120 pounds, Ozzy Swagert at 126, Brian Cristion at 170 and Matt Robbins at 182.
Runner-up honors went to Brady Anderson at 113 and Roberto Coronel at 220.
Claiming third place were Tyler Gale at 106 and Michael Myers at 285.
Weekly honors
Roughrider wrestler of the week honors went to Robbins, a sophomore.
“Matt was dominating this past week with five pins, including in the finals against Snohomish at the tough Graham Morin Tournament,” Port Angeles coach Erik Gonzalez said.
“He has gotten better each week this season and now has a championship to go along with his two third-place tournament finishes.
“Matt has been working extremely hard in the classroom to bring his grades up as well.”
Gold, silver wrestlers
Gold wrestler of the week went to junior Ozzy Swagerty, while freshman Brandyn Fouts received silver wrestler of the week honors.
The Riders next host North Mason on Thursday for an Olympic League dual meet with JV matches starting at 6 p.m. followed by the varsity at 7 p.m.
“That night is also Bud Dire Memorial Alumni night in which we are honoring the founder of our program that is celebrating its 50th year this season,” Gonzalez said.
“We are cordially inviting all former Roughrider wrestlers to come and join us for the celebration.”
