On Wednesday, Feb. 20, the Wellington High School wrestling team captured its sixth-straight district title in the Class 3A district tournament held at Royal Palm Beach High School.
The Wolverines tied last year’s statistic, crowning eight champions. Their most notable post-season accolade this year is qualifying all 14 wrestlers for the regional championship tournament.
According to longtime Wellington head coach Travis Gray, the Wolverines were aware they were a young team entering this season and became even younger after some kids quit the team, coupled with a number of injuries.
“This lineup we brought to the district tournament is the first time we have had this lineup all year,” Gray explained. “It has really been a challenging season, but the kids who stuck it out have been working hard and are starting to see the fruits of their labor.”
The Wolverines will continue to press the action with a young but solid group of grapplers, and Gray has indicated his staff has seen great growth during the season.
“We are looking forward to what is to come the next couple of weeks,” he added. “Our goal this year has been to win the regional tournament, and we made a nice first step qualifying all 14 wrestlers.”
There is no doubt the opportunity that has presented itself to the younger wrestlers this season will likely better prepare them for next year as they continue to be a local wrestling power in Palm Beach County.
Other area schools — Seminole Ridge, Royal Palm Beach and Palm Beach Central — combined for five individual district titles. The regional championship tournament is scheduled for Friday, March 1 and Saturday, March 2 at Seminole Ridge High School.
