Kodiaks Pin Down a Strong Season Despite Challenges

Tristan Sharpe (11) lifts his Omak opponent off the mat before defeating him with a pin, securing another win for his season. Photo credit: Avery Houghton (12). 

The wrestling season at Cascade High School began in late November with intense practices to build strength, skill, and determination. The Kodiak Varsity wrestling team includes seven players—four boys and three girls—led by one head coach and three assistants. 

Alongside varsity is the JV wrestling team, which has twelve players—seven girls and five boys. Despite having fewer meets than varsity, the JV team has seen many victories on the mat. “I started to wrestle because I was bored and wanted to try something new. My season is going alright, I’ve been off and on all season with injuries,” said JV player Lawson Poltz (11). 

we have had consistent growth and consistent wins. We have more wins than losses as a team. I’m happy with what we’re doing

So far, two wrestling meets have been held at Kodiak territory, featuring competitions against schools such as Omak and Chelan. The teams experienced a mix of wins and losses, but overall, progress has been steady throughout the season. “I think for what the team has, we have done very good. Obviously, we are not going to win any duals because of our limited numbers, but we have had consistent growth and consistent wins. We have more wins than losses as a team. I’m happy with what we’re doing, for what we have, it would be nice if we had more numbers though,” said Tristan Sharpe (11). 

Seniors Kathlyn Kotcher (12) and Jonah Peak (12) are the only seniors on the team, and both have had strong seasons. Senior night was celebrated during the second home meet, where they met in the middle of the mat with family members and coaches, receiving gift baskets and flowers. Kotcher has placed second at a tournament and won several matches this season. “I have had a pretty good season. I started wrestling with my sister Karlyn, then I got committed to it and just never stopped,” said Kotcher. 

Sharpe is having a personal-best season, with a record of 21–2. He is ranked third in the state and ninth in his weight class, taking first place in both home tournaments. He was also invited to the Gut Check tournament, an elite invitational featuring top wrestlers from across Washington. “Tristan’s success is a direct result of his relentless work ethic, discipline, and commitment to improvement. As the season progresses, he is positioning himself as a strong contender and has a real possibility of placing at the state tournament this year,” said CSD Athletic Director Tim Barnes. 

Despite challenges—including a scary bus crash on icy roads en route to the Chelan meet and multiple injuries on the mat—the Kodiak wrestlers have pulled through, achieving an impressive overall season. The season is not over, and CHS Athletics and the wrestling program are hopeful that some Kodiak wrestlers will advance to the state tournament. Fans are encouraged to follow their journey into postseason competition as they strive for success at the next level.