As the 20 or so kids hit the mats of the Ilwaco High wrestling room last Monday, it was obvious that for many this was a new and foreign environment. But by the end of the first day of a three-day free clinic, every student was toppling their opponent like a pro. High school-age coaches rotated amongst three small groups of students, teaching proper stances, escape techniques and how to take someone down by pulling their knees forward. IHS senior Elliot Marcus organized and led the training exercises as part of his senior project. On the final day of the clinics the youth were treated to a special guest, former state champion wrestler Brad Padgett – who had taught clinics with high school wrestlers last week – lent a hand, and a few moves to the young grapplers.

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