Middle school wrestlers compete

The Sisters Middle School Wrestling Team placed ninth out of 13 teams at this year's Central Oregon Middle School District Wrestling Tournament held Friday and Saturday, February 17-18 in La Pine. The team placed two places higher than last year.

There were 17 wrestlers on the team; 16 wrestlers represented the Outlaws at the tournament. Nine reached the medal rounds.

"This was the most successful district tournament for the team in the three years I have been coaching the team," said Coach John Downs. "It is very difficult to place high at the district meet when the other teams have 40 to 60 wrestlers on their team. We did very well! I am pleased to see the middle school wrestling program growing and improving."

Since the season started on January 3, the boys have worked hard weeks to compete against larger teams.

"All 16 boys wrestled very hard," Downs said.

The coach said he was proud of every wrestler, regardless of where they placed, because it takes good training partners to prepare to perform well in competition.

"I tell my wrestlers, 'The most important person at practice besides the coach is your partner!'" he said.

Saturday, March 3 is the Central Oregon Middle School State Qualifiers at Mountain View High School. These next two weeks the team will concentrate on healing injuries and honing skills.

Downs encourages the Sisters community to attend the qualifiers and cheer on the wrestlers as they try to qualify for a chance to compete at the State of Oregon Middle School Championships at Woodburn High School on March 10.