The Pearl City Chargers Boys Varsity Wrestling team finished seventh in the HHSAA Boys State Wrestling Championships held on Saturday, March 2 at the Blaisdell Arena in Honolulu.
Blake Cooper defeated Andrew Kahalewai from Kamehameha-Maui (MD: 11-2) to capture the 152 Lbs. championship title.
Kristian Vaana Kikuyama finished in 6th place in the 160 lbs. weight class and Paul Joe placed 5th in the 189 lbs weight class.
The Chargers compiled a total of 61.5 points in the championship rounds. Kamehameha-Kapalama won the team championship state title with 178.00 points.
Pearl City Chargers Head Coach Mike Lee was proud of his boy's performances and how they placed in the championship rounds and is also optimistic about a making a stronger return in next year's championships tournament.
"The boys, they did good, they did well," said Coach Lee. "You know Blake, two time state champ, Kristian and Paul also came through. We wish we could have had more, but hopefully next year."
152 pound champion Blake Cooper won his second title up from the 145 weight class from a year ago. Cooper brought a high level of confidence into his championship bout against his opponent Andrew Kahalewai from Kamehameha-Maui and was also quick to give thanks to the man above for his success.
"This is really exciting, I can't explain it," said Cooper. "I felt confident. I knew I was going to win. It was just a matter of doing it. I would like to thank God for everything. Without him I wouldn't be where I'm at."
152 Lbs. Blake Cooper Champion
Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]
Blake Cooper defeated Andrew Kahalewai from Kamehameha-Maui (MD: 11-2) for the championship title in the 152 Lbs. weight class.
Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]
160 Lbs. Kristian Vaana Kikuyama 6th Place
Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]
Kristian Vaana Kikuyama was defeated by Brandon Saiki from St. Louis High School (D: 6-1). for a 6th place finish in the 160 Lbs. weight class.
Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]
189 Lbs. Paul Joe 5th Place
Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]
Paul Joe defeated Danny Welds Ebanks from Baldwin High School (D: 7-1) for 5th place in the 189 Lbs. weight class.
Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]