The Alberni District Secondary School boys wrestling team snagged third place at the BC School Wrestling Championships in Vancouver this past weekend.
The ADSS boys finished just behind WJ Mouat from Abbotsford and Tamanawis from Surrey. Alongside the impressive team performance, ADSS also had some standout individual efforts in both the boys’ and girls’ competitions.
In the male 41kg category, Grade 9 Nolan Cross dominated, winning every match to grab the gold medal and secure his first BC Championship title. Meanwhile, Grade 12 wrestler Grant Coulthart closed out his high school wrestling journey with an exceptional tournament. Coulthart powered his way to the championship finals in the 130 kg weight class.
“Grant sailed through his preliminary matches,” said coach Chris Bodnar. “We knew the final against Jagroop Dhinsa from WJ Mouat would be tough. Grant gave it his all, but came up short in the gold medal match. I’m just glad Grant could end his ADSS wrestling career on a high note.”
Grade 10 wrestler Andrei Makofka clinched third place in the 74 kg category.
“Andrei moved from Edmonton this year,” explained Bodnar. “He had a little bit of wrestling and grappling experience. He has been an absolute sponge at practices over the last five months and worked hard to refine his raw talent. It was great to see him finish with a medal and I am excited about what the next couple years will bring for him.”
Coach Maureen Miller was proud, acknowledging not only those who earned medals but also the promising newcomers who gained valuable experience at provincials.
“This year’s BC School Championships boasted the largest and toughest competition in years,” she said. “It takes a lot of dedication on the part of the athletes, but also the coaches and organizers. You can’t underestimate just what it takes to get here.”
Kelcie Sam (4th place, Female 47 kg), Alex McKenzie (5th place, Male 63 kg), Holly Coatta (6th place, Female 51 kg), Kellen Hiltz (6th place, Male 45 kg), and Sage Dziekan-Gwilt (6th place, Female 69 kg) rounded out the top six placings for ADSS.
Coach Richelle McKenzie summed it up, saying, “It’s been an amazing school season,” said coach Richelle McKenzie. “Several athletes have opted to represent our club at the National Championships in March. I’m eager to help them gear up for that tournament over the next few weeks.”