The East Jefferson boys and girls wrestling teams showcased their grappling prowess, with both teams winning big over Klahowya High School. 

The squads met last Wednesday at Klahowya with the EJ boys prevailing 42-30, and the girls finishing in front, 24-12.

“I was very proud to witness our toughness and determination,” said Steve Grimm, head coach of the Rivals boys team and wrestling program.

EJ grapplers Gabe Evans, Sam Lampert, Logan Massie, Gage Barry, Devon Bennett-Anderson, Elliott Pflueger, Lars Wakefield, and Beau Manual each won by pin to elevate the boys team to victory. 

The EJ boys only lost one match all night including exhibition matchups, and would’ve distanced themselves further on the scoreboard if not for forfeit points the boys team gave up, according to Grimm. 

The girls had an excellent showing as Melody Douglas, Summer Shoop, Mi Amada Lanphear-Ramirez, and Savannah Hoffmann each won their matches with pins. Lanphear-Ramirez beat her state-ranked opponent with a throw and a pin, displaying high potential as a sophomore wrestler.

“We had a lot of kids come from behind and win,” Grimm recalled. “It was inspirational to watch, especially the girls.”

Both teams were fortunate to avoid the recent outbreak of COVID cases among high school wrestling programs, as they did not compete in any of the Dec. 4 grappling tournaments that led to nearly 100 new cases of the virus in the state. 

As of Friday, both teams have tested all clear for COVID, and the program is now testing coaches and athletes three times per week and prior to any event.

The wrestling teams planned to attend the Gram Mortin tournament in Bellingham on Saturday, but the event was cancelled. 

The grapplers will get their fill after the holiday break as they return to the mats on Saturday, Jan. 8 for the Battle for the Axe tournament at Port Angeles High School.