Pearl City Boys Win State Wrestling Team Championship, Cooper 3-Peats with Individual Title

Mar 2, 2014 | PC Sports

The Pearl City Chargers are the newly crowned team champions of the 2014 HHSAA State Wrestling Championships after finishing in the top spot last night at Neal Blaisdell Center. The Chargers outscored runner-up Lahainaluna from Maui 155.5 to 146.0. Pearl City took a slim 3.5 point lead heading into the championship round. The Chargers dominated the championship rounds with 3-first place wins, 1-second place, 2-third place, 1-fourth place, and 1-sxth place finish.

Saturday's team championship win was the first state championship for the Charger boys wrestling program. The Lady Chargers won their first state team championship in 2013. The defending Lady Chargers state team champions finished in fourth place in last night's championship tournament finals.

The Chargers wrestled their hearts out throughout the state championship tournament knowing that with a team of only nine wrestlers, everyone needed to step up, place, and score points for a chance at winning the team championship title. That's exactly what the team did with performances that legends are made and admired with Charger Pride.

"This is wonderful, it's great for these guys," said Chargers Head Coach Mike Lee. "They worked their butts off and they deserve it. I told them all they have to do is battle, and then we'll see. We only had nine, but it doesn't matter. As long as they battle and that's what they did."

Alex Ursua repeated as the 126 Lbs. state champion, Blake Cooper 3-peated at 160 lbs., and Jordan Fuamatu captured his first individual championship title at 285 Lbs. The three seniors made a huge impact for the Chargers this season.

When asked about sending off his entire 2014 Charger senior class, who finished their careers as decorated champions, coach commented, "I'm really going to miss them. I would also like to thank all these young men."

Blake Cooper was a fierce competitor, but also exemplified the definition of humbleness throughout his Charger career. He is also the first to give credit to those who supported him along the way.

"I'm just so happy right now and so proud of my team for everything they've done," said Copper, 3-time state champion. They worked hard for this. We came out to the same way as the OIA's. Just came out hard. I thank God for everything he has done and provided for me, and also my parents, my family, and teammates.