Cruiser Wrestlers Demonstrate Resilience - Whitney Secures 3rd Place Triumph at Mat Classic XXXV

The Eatonville Cruiser wrestling team entered the Tacoma Dome with high hopes amidst the electrifying atmosphere of Mat Classic XXXV, the Washington Interscholastic Athletic Association's premier event. With a contingent of five wrestlers representing the Cruisers, anticipation ran high for their performances in their respective weight classes among the 1,893 wrestlers from 475 high schools statewide.

Mark Devera, ranked 12th in the state on the 1A classification, competing in the 113-pound division, faced a tough opening bout against 2nd ranked Royal’s Dennis Hernandez. Despite his tenacity, Devera fell to Hernandez's pin at 1:16 in the 1st period. A subsequent match against 4th ranked Colville's Bryce Davis ended similarly, concluding Devera's journey at the tournament.

Eatonville High School's Kasey Whitney stands on the podium following his 3rd place finish in the 132 pound weight division. Photo: Trinity Potter.

Kasey Whitney, ranked 2nd overall in the state at 132 pounds in the 1A classification, showcased his resilience. After a receiving a first round bye thanks to his 1st place finish at the regional tournament and his overall ranking, he would lose to Zillah High School's 5th ranked Ryan Vader in the quarterfinals. Whitney would then embark on a remarkable comeback journey through the consolation bracket. Victories over formidable opponents such as 9th ranked Ben Totten of Elma, 12th ranked Logan Ottack of Colville, and #4 ranked Landon Fulton of Castle Rock propelled Whitney to the consolation bracket championship, where he avenged his earlier loss to Vader in a thrilling 11-10 victory, clinching 3rd place, his best finish in three state tournament appearances.

Brooke Ostendorf, representing the girls' team at 135 pounds and ranked 6th in the state, displayed her skill with a victory over 5th ranked Dixie Williams of Tonasket in the opening round. However, a tough match against Othello's 9th ranked Diamond Van Cleve resulted in a quick defeat, relegating Ostendorf to the consolation bracket. Despite her resilience, she was ultimately defeated by 10th ranked Jayden Crouch from Orting, concluding her pursuit of a state title.

In the 150-pound division, 12th ranked Trey StaRosa faced adversity early with a second-period pin by 8th ranked Klahowya's Sean Price. Despite a valiant effort in the consolation bracket, StaRosa's journey ended with a defeat by #4 ranked Colville's Connor Goff.

10th ranked Jacob Ostendorf, competing at 157 pounds, encountered formidable opponents in South Whidbey's 7th ranked Cole Thorsen and Montesano's #4 ranked Gage Stutesman, resulting in losses that concluded his campaign at the tournament.

While the Eatonville Cruiser wrestling team faced challenges, their performances showcased resilience, determination, and a commendable pursuit of excellence on the grand stage of Mat Classic XXXV.