Elementary Wrestling program grows

This fall approximately 70 fourth and fifth grade boys and girls are participating in the district’s Elementary Wrestling program coordinated by Walla Walla High School Head Wrestling coach Jacob Butenhoff. Now in its third season, all six elementary schools are participating and numbers continue to grow.

“I’m thankful our school district has allowed us to build an elementary wrestling program that is free to our students,” said Butenhoff. “This program provides more opportunities for students to be involved in a positive activity and directly supports Goal 4 of the Strategic Plan which calls for enhanced opportunities for school engagement.”

The season is three weeks and participants practice two days a week. There are two wrestling meets during the season. There is no cost to participate. All elementary school wrestlers travel to Walla Walla High School on the final day of the program to have a districtwide match.

“In the past we had sixth graders participate in the elementary program and this year we are offering it at the middle schools as a grades 6-8 program,” said Butenhoff. “We’re attempting to expose our students to wrestling at a younger age so they can experience the important life lessons wrestling has to offer.”

Non-profit wrestling camps and club wrestling programs are also available in Walla Walla under the leadership of Butenhoff.

PHOTO - COACH JAKE BUTENHOFF