Over 260 athletes compete at 42nd Annual BSSD Wrestling and Cheerleading Tournament

by Thurman Jack

The 42nd Annual BSSD Elementary/Junior High Wrestling and Cheerleading Tournament kicked off this past weekend, attracting over 260 athletes from various schools across the region.

The three-day event showcased young wrestlers and cheerleaders from Brevig Mission, Elim, Gambell, Golovin, Koyuk, Savoonga, Shaktoolik, Shishmaref, St. Michael, Stebbins, Teller, Unalakleet, Wales, and White Mountain.

Competing in a double-elimination tournament, wrestlers were divided into two divisions: Elementary (grades 4-6) and Junior High (grades 7-8). Wrestlers were then placed into weight classes: Gnat, Mosquito, Snipe, Coho, Goose, Otter, Fox, Wolverine, Wolf, Seal, Black Bear, Grizzly, and Moose. Championship matches were held Saturday night, drawing a sold-out crowd.

Unalakleet’s team, coached by Eric Leusch, has shown significant growth this year. Last year, the team had two wrestlers reach the finals. This year, an impressive nine advanced to the championship round.

Standout performers included Evan Ivanoff (6th), Brody Towarak (5th), Qavani Masters (6th), Jaden Henry (6th), Ezra Jack (8th), and Harold Antiniero (8th), each finishing the tournament undefeated and pinning everyone of their opponents.

Wrestlers Luna Jack (6th) and Avery Johnson (8th) not only participated in championship bouts but also cheered throughout the event, pulling double duty.

Unalakleet’s cheer team, coached by Melinda Ivanoff, which finished as runner-up in the team cheer routine last year, claimed this year’s championship, besting Gambell by 13 points.

Catherine Razzo (7th) was named to the All-Tournament Cheer Team and, along with Laura Ivanoff (6th), secured first place in partner stunts. Caelyn Attatayak (8th) and Avery Johnson (8th) secured first and second places, respectively, in the All-American cheer routine.

Summary of Unalakleet Wrestling Results:

Elementary Division:

● 1st Place: Evan Ivanoff (Mosquito), Brody Towarak (Coho), Qavani Masters (Fox), Jaden Henry (Seal)

● 2nd Place: Salyssa Raymond (Fox), Luna Jack (Grizzly)

● 3rd Place: Jace Toshavik (Gnat), Noah Eakon (Otter), Griffin Busk (Fox), Faith Ivanoff

(Black Bear)

Junior High Division:

● 1st Place: Ezra Jack (Fox), Harold Antiniero (Moose)

● 2nd Place: Avery Johnson (Coho)

Team Awards:

● Unalakleet Elementary Wrestling Team: 2nd Place (Large School Division)

● Unalakleet Junior High Wrestling Team: 3rd Place (Large School Division)