VHS wrestlers start off strong

BEGIN. Wrestlers await the whistle before they start. This is a very tense moment for them. Photo courtesy of Tony Puz. 

VHS wrestling kicked off the season on November 17th, a week before Thanksgiving. The team has been a prominent part of the VHS community for over 20 years, and each year high schoolers assemble in late fall to begin another wrestling season. The team is coached by two extremely talented brothers, Per Lars and Anders Blomgren, who have been coaching together for 25 years. 

“The camaraderie our team has is the best part. Everyone works hard, helps each other, and laughs at our jokes. We really have a special team, and simply being around the wrestlers and coaches fills us up,” Per Lars Blomgren stated.

He also described the wrestlers this year, and is hopeful for what’s to come. The passionate team of both boys and girls have the potential to place at state. 

“Besides year-end results, our goals continue to be extenuating hard work, improvement, and being good people,” finished Per Lars Blomgren.

Students really appreciate the positive energy the team brings. Sophomore Bridget Simmons is on the wrestling team this year and enjoys the supportive community. 

“Everyone is super supportive of everyone else. Wrestling is seriously a sport where you really get out what you put in. Everyone on the team works super hard to make the wrestling team awesome,” said Simmons. 

Before she began wrestling this year, she attended events on Vashon such as home duals and open-mat drop-in sessions to learn more about the sport. She encouraged anyone who is interested in the sport to get involved. 

“There are open mats in the off-season that are drop in, beginner friendly spaces to explore the sport. I was won over because the team vibe is super fun,” Simmons said.

Lena Puz has been wrestling for years. Because this is her senior year, she is excited to experience the tournaments for her final wrestling season at VHS. Puz described the importance of quick learning and decision-making. 

“Most people wouldn't expect wrestling to require a certain level of intelligence. The ability to quickly learn is vital because we cover several new moves each day. Being good at analyzing your opponent and how the match is going can help you win a very technical match,” explained Puz.

She also explained the most difficult part of wrestling for her: getting injured.

“Having to watch my teammates when I got injured, knowing I don't get to wrestle with them was really challenging, but it gave me the drive when I came back to make up for lost time,” said Puz.

In wrestling there are also lots of opportunities to teach others. Another member of the team, Sophomore Jacob Henley loves being able to help other wrestlers. 

“For me, it is one of the most rewarding experiences to be able to see someone you taught technique to, or helped them drill a move, win a match. It's because you know you played a part in that, and just boosts your morale,” expressed Henley.

Wrestling at Vashon High School is an incredible program with passionate and talented people involved. Support the team this season by attending a match or learning more about the sport; you will be welcomed for doing so.

POSE. Last year’s wrestling team smiles for a team photo. Wrestling at VHS is a sport with a friendly and inclusive environment. Photo courtesy of Tony Puz.