By NATHAN WHALEN

Special to the News-Times

South Whidbey High School will send seven boys and one girl to compete in regional tournaments that take place Saturday.

“We had a really strong showing. Our seniors really showed up,” South Whidbey wrestling coach John Sommer said.

The boys subregional tournament took place at Granite Falls and consisted of four teams from the Emerald Sound Conference along with four 1A schools from the Northwest Conference.

Seniors Evan Welever at 150 pounds, Cole Thorson at 157 pounds and Gavin Baker at 165 pounds all placed second.

Nathan Welever placed third at 113 pounds, Lyric Bratrude placed fifth at 132 pounds, Dylan Walker placed third at 165 pounds and Liam Adadow placed fifth at 190 pounds, Sommer said.

Four South Whidbey wrestlers placed sixth and will serve as alternates at the regional tournament that takes place Feb. 10 at Vashon Island High School.

Kaylie Baker placed first at 145 pounds in the girls subregional that took place at Squalicum High School. She advances to the regional tournament at White River High School Feb. 10.

Seven South Whidbey girls competed in the subregional tournament and won matches.

“I’m really proud of that. Those ladies have come a long way this season,” Sommer said.

In addition to the wrestler’s accomplishments, Sommer was named Emerald Sound Conference Coach of the Year for wrestling.

He noted the numbers of wrestlers participating in a program that includes 30 middle school students.

“We’re really building a solid program at South Whidbey,” Sommer said.