Lyla Inskeep

Ilwaco’s girls wrestling squad was inspired with some significant vocal help during their pre-Christmas travels.

Coach Frank Womack credited an injured freshman with boosting teammates at the Sandstone Throwdown Tournament Friday. Ilwaco placed sixth among the 11 teams competing at Tenino.

“Our enthusiasm and energy level was back up compared to the past few tournaments as inspirational teammate Lyla Inskeep was on the sidelines cheering the girls on,” the coach said.

“Inskeep suffered an injury a couple weeks ago during practice that has kept her away from competition. Even though she couldn’t compete, she brings the energy level up and helps the girls continue.”

With that support, two other freshmen led the way. Abigail Doan, wrestling at 110 pounds, and Bailey Womack at 125, both placed third.

Classmates Ophelia Wise (110) and Angel Salas (235) both placed fourth. Lone junior Keowah Iyall won one of her matches at 125 with a second-round pin.

Earlier in the week, the Ilwaco girls traveled to Hoquiam for the Grizzly Stocking-Stuffer Tournament.

Doan placed fourth at 110 pounds with three first-round pins, while Bailey Womack, at 125, placed fifth with a pin and another by major decision, 17-8.

Wise, Iyall and Salas also competed. “The girls gained lots of mat time,” said Coach Womack. “Wise won her second season match, while Iyall and Salas continue fighting hard and only missing the win by small techniques that will come with continued experience.”

The coach is eager for Inskeep’s knee to recover. “Hopefully she will be back to competition next weekend when we travel to Rogers High School in Puyallup.” he said. That meet is Dec. 30.

Ilwaco boys were also at Tenino, although their ranks were thinned to eight due to illnesses.

Sophomore Jace Linthakhan earned the only first-place win at 106 pounds. In their divisions, Blake Bell (113) and Zech Taylor (150) placed third. Gavin Estrada was fourth at 138 with teammate Gaudalupe Torres sixth. Logan Sansaver was sixth at 150 and Cris Diaz sixth at 165. Liam Taft (215) also wrestled.

“We had a great showing with the ones who were able to travel,” said Coach Larry Kemmer. “It was great to have the younger group bond and compete together. This is our future and they all wrestled well and represented Ilwaco well.”

Fishermen fans will have two opportunities in January to support IHS wrestlers in their home gym. Home meets are scheduled 4 p.m. Jan. 10 and 8 a.m. Jan. 27.