ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - The Pleasant Grove High School wrestling team hosted its Screaming Eagles Wrestling Tournament on Saturday Dec. 27 in the main and auxiliary gyms.

The round robin-style tournament for each division had wrestlers from elementary and both middle school junior varsity and varsity.  

There were wrestlers that were competing for both school teams as well as club teams. Most of the elementary school kids had wrestled for club teams, while most of the middle schoolers had wrestled for their schools.                               

Middle schools like Katherine L. Albiani, Rio Linda, Harriet Eddy and Folsom all competed in the tournament. Club teams that were competing included the Junior Cougars Wrestling Club, Elk Grove Wrestling Academy and Fremont Warrior Wrestling Club.  

 

Two wrestlers wait for the right moment to engage. 

Head coach of the Pleasant Grove High School wrestling team Jay Viodes stated, “It's an opportunity for them to come showcase their skills and sharpen up basically getting ready for the post-season.”

Viodes understands that these tournaments for elementary and middle school wrestlers are big opportunities for them to continue to develop their skills in a live situation, where it is against someone that is not on the same team.      

Some kids who are brand new to wrestling go up against someone that is already experienced. No matter the outcome, win or lose, it is important for each wrestler to go through those moments as the experience will better them in the future.          

Although the tournament was an opportunity for young wrestlers to display their skills and what they have learned, it was named in tribute to Viodes’ father and the veterans of the U.S. Military. Viodes’ father was part of the 101st Airborne Division, where he had served two tours in Vietnam.         

 

Head Coach Jay Viodes After Tournament had Finished

The 101st Airborne Division is a U.S. Army light infantry division that specialized in air assault operations, with the nickname of “Screaming Eagles.” Its motto: “Rendezvous with Destiny.”    

They were represented by an insignia that was a black shield that had a bald eagle with a fierce look, representing the American spirit. The bald eagle even linked back to “Old Abe,” who was a famed mascot of the 8th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Regiment during the Civil War.