By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
The Marysville Pilchuck (MP) wrestling team continues to shine through an undefeated season. With seven tribal members on the team, they proudly represent their heritage and connection to the community. On Tuesday, January 14, they secured a commanding victory over the Monroe Bearcats 64-15 in front of an energized home crowd. Two days later, they crushed their northern neighbors, Lakewood, with a 66-9 win, further solidifying their dominance and improving to an impressive 13-0 in dual meets.
Head Coach Tony Hatch, a former MP wrestler from the 1980s, has led the team’s success this season. Under his guidance, the boys from Marysville and Tulalip have shown relentless drive and determination. Following the match against Monroe, Coach Hatch expressed pride in his wrestlers, saying, “They did what we expected—pretty good. We’re good friends with the Monroe coaches, and we know their program is still building. But we’re on a whole different level this year. We aim to go undefeated in dual meets; we’re currently 12-0. The kids are working hard, stepping up when needed, and you can’t ask for more than that.”
For senior Joseph Davis, a tribal member and a competitor in the 165-pound weight class, the match against Monroe was a highlight of his decade-long wrestling career. Davis achieved an impressive victory, pinning his opponent in just 43 seconds, demonstrating his skill and determination. Despite dealing with injuries from football, including a shoulder problem, Davis remains committed to making his final wrestling season successful.
“This is my tenth-year wrestling. Overall, the season has been going well, “said Davis. “I’ve had some injuries, but I’ve managed to push through. The keys to success begin in the offseason, and my main goal this year is to win the state championship. After that, I’d love to travel the world.”
Two more MP wrestlers achieved decisive victories in the match against Monroe. Their precision and strength in pinning opponents further showcased the team’s superiority.
Aiden Eagle, a junior in the 215-pound weight class and a tribal member, is in his third year of wrestling and is equally determined to make an impact this season. “The season’s going well. I’m focused on staying motivated and keeping my weight in check. Wrestling is a mentally tough sport—you must keep pushing. My goal this year is to make it to state and hopefully place,” Eagle explained.
Motivation is a driving force for the team, and tribal member Garrett Reeves is no exception. The support from Coach Hatch and the friendly rivalry with his twin brother, Dylan Reeves, who is also on the wrestling team, have pushed him to improve every day. Together, these elements, along with a team culture that emphasizes hard work and encouragement, inspire Reeves to become the best version of himself both on and off the mat.
As a junior competing in the 120-pound weight class, Reeves has achieved an impressive record of 26 wins and 5 losses this season. Reflecting on his performance, he stated, “This year has been pretty good for me. I’ve placed in a few significant tournaments, and I aim to break the all-time win record here at MP. My goal is to finish in the top five at state.”
As the season progresses, the Marysville Pilchuck wrestling team remains determined to maintain their undefeated streak and secure a historic year for the program. The team is laser-focused on finishing strong, with only four matches left in the season. They’d love it if the community came out to support them at their last match of the season—the Berry Brawl—on January 30 at Marysville Getchell High School. Bring your energy, cheer them on, and be part of this exciting end to their remarkable season.
To keep this momentum going and ensure future success, the Marysville Pilchuck Wrestling program is seeking donations to support its continued growth. Contributions are crucial in providing the team with essential resources and opportunities. If you would like to help these dedicated athletes, please contact Cassidy M. with the MP Booster Club at (425) 275-7488, and be sure to reference the wrestling team when reaching out. Your generosity can help sustain this exceptional program for seasons to come.