Strong showing for Comox Valley Wrestling at provincial championships
Twenty-three Comox Valley Schools’ wrestlers showcased their talent and determination over the weekend at the BCSS Provincial Championships, held at the PNE in Vancouver. Competing among over 750 athletes from secondary schools across the province, the wrestlers delivered impressive performances, with several earning top honours in their respective weight classes. In addition, coach Ben Stehura was also recently named BC Wrestling Coach of the Year for his work with the Comox Valley Wrestling Team.
The G.P. Vanier girls’ team led the charge for SD 71, securing four provincial placements and earning third place as a team for the second consecutive year. In an intensely close team race, G.P. Vanier finished with 31 points, just one point shy of first place, which was shared by Guildford Park and Semiahmoo at 32 points each.
Kylie Cameron-Pattison spearheaded the team’s success with a stellar silver medal performance. Jolina Healey built on last year’s sixth-place finish to claim a hard-fought bronze medal this year. Inga Hollmayer made a remarkable debut, earning a bronze medal in her first-ever provincial tournament as a Grade 8 competitor. Fellow Grade 8 athlete, Thea Spragg, also showcased her potential, finishing sixth in her weight class.
With all four medal winners returning next year and bolstered by six additional Vanier wrestlers who secured victories at the tournament, the future looks bright for the G.P. Vanier’s wresters.
Highland Secondary’s Ryan Nasadyk put on a commanding display, notching six victories to finish fifth in a highly competitive bracket, marking his second provincial placement.
Mark R. Isfeld Secondary sent its largest contingent in recent history, with five wrestlers ranging from Grades 8 to 12 competing at the championships. The team amassed ten victories, demonstrating the growing strength of the Isfeld wrestling program.
The Comox Valley Wrestlers are poised for continued success next season, with 16 of the 23 provincial qualifiers returning, including eight athletes from Grade 8 who collectively earned two medals and 16 wins at their first provincial outing.
The wrestling team community extends heartfelt thanks to the graduating seniors for their dedication and contributions to the program’s success. Best wishes are extended to them as they embark on their future endeavours.
Graduating Senior Wrestlers:
- Highland Secondary: Kadence Johnson, Ryan Nasadyk, Simon Roberge
- Mark R. Isfeld: Coady Frisch, Quinn Hoar
- P. Vanier: Lexi Acton, Jacob Price
Comox Valley Schools extends sincere gratitude to the dedicated coaches Ben Stehura, Daniel Mckee and Justin Sheppard who have invested countless hours into developing the wrestling program. Special recognition goes to Coach Ben Stehura, who was awarded Coach of the Year by the BC Wrestling Association. Ben is a world-class coach with extensive experience, having instructed wrestling at the highest collegiate level at Cleveland State University. His expertise and commitment have been instrumental in the growth and success of Comox Valley Wrestling. We are very grateful to have him guiding and inspiring our students.
Comox Valley Wrestling continue to inspire with their hard work, sportsmanship, and perseverance. Congratulations to all athletes and coaches on a successful season.
