The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Eight Hapnot grapplers attended the Provincial Wrestling Championships at the J.H. Bruns High School on March 13. Brittany Brown proved once again that she is the best in the province, winning her weight category to advance to the Nationals. Erik Skeavington and Erik Kendrick both placed fourth in their respective weight categories, while Ethan Kendrick, Adam Ricard, Tyler Ricard, Gordon French and Keri Krieger all wrestled well but did not place. Coach Craig McIntosh says that everyone did well, and more importantly, has a new found understanding of what it takes to be in the top three at provincials. "Everyone tried hard and I am proud of each one of these kids," said McIntosh, who runs the wrestling program along with Murray and Joanne Skeavington. Next year, McIntosh hopes to expand the wrestling program with more fundraising and more involvement. "I would like to see an increase in younger wrestlers joining the program," he said. "Next year, we will welcome junior high athletes to come out and practice with the high school wrestlers." Wrestling is an excellent sport for anyone wanting to get into shape and learn a new skill. "Kids can learn at their own pace and no one gets 'cut' from the team," said McIntosh. Some athletes will blossom and excel while others may be out to have fun, but all involved benefit in some way." McIntosh also said that the provincial tournament was well organized, with all matches on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Weigh-ins were held on Friday evening. "I would guess that there were 200 people in the gym at all times," said McIntosh. "This proves to be very exciting for the young athletes. Wrestling in front of a large crowd brings out the best in all athletes and ends up being a great life experience. I'm glad to be a part of this experience, win or lose."3/18/2004
