Seven WMP wrestlers finished in the top 3 at the NUWAY Nationals 2016. Photo by M. Egan.
By Barbra Chong
West Michigan Pursuit traveled to the Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek April 9-10 for the NUWAY Nationals 2016. All around, there were some tough wrestlers that came from all over the United States to compete at this event. WMP had nine grapplers enter the competition and seven finished in the top three, earning All-American status. Out of 33 battles, 23 victories were claimed. NUWAY Nationals had 458 teams registered and West Michigan Pursuit finished in 11th place.
Third place medalists include 58 lb Luke Egan in Division 2, 7/8 age group and 55 lb Drew Moro in Division 1, 6 & under age group.
Second place medalists include 55 lb Quinten Cassiday in Division 2, 7/8 age group; 61 lb Chayson Eberspeaker in Division 1, 6 & under age group; 72 lb Blake Peasley in Division 2, 7/8 age group and 55 lb Josh Vasquez in Division 3, 9/10 age group.
National Champion is 59 lb Michael Cannon in Division 3, 9/10 age group.
“From the beginning, my mission has always been the Pursuit of Champions,” said head coach Dave Andrus. “I am extremely proud of the success we are having this year. It’s not always about how these kids win; recovering after an emotional loss and continuing to succeed is equally important. These are valuable life lessons as they continue to grow and mature. I feel fortunate to have so many parents trust me as I try to instill these values into their kids.”
