Youth wrestling - Whidbey Wildcat Salute to the Veteran tournament

The Whidbey Wildcats wrestling club hosted the first youth tournament of the season. Pre-tournament activities in honor of Veteran's Day included introductions by Master Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Bob Zimmerman, remarks by Rear Admiral Robert Passmore (Ret.), OHHS Class of 1968, opening prayer by Navy Chaplain King, presentation of the flag by the OHHS NJROTC colorguard, and the National Anthem sung by PS2 Robert Evans. After the opening ceremonies, Chaplain King was pressed into duty as the announcer for the day.

Rick Fakkema was the tournament director, assisted by OHHS Wrestling Coach Crebbin. Many of Crebbins HS wrestlers turned out to help with refereeing and scorekeeping.

After weigh-ins from 7-8am, wrestling started shortly after 10am and showcased wrestlers ranging from 5 years old through 8th grade at skill levels from beginner to advanced. The kids were broken into age groups, then assigned bouts according to their weight that day.

When all was said and done, out of 40 wrestlers, the Whidbey Wildcats nabbed 5 first place medals, 8-2nd place medals and 5-3rd place medals.

Full results can be found at the Whidbey Wildcat Wrestling site by clicking HERE.
Over 120 photos of the opening ceremonies and wrestling action can be found HERE.