Franklin Pierce board honors Washington High wrestlers after state finishes

The Franklin Pierce School District Board of Directors opened its May meeting by recognizing Washington High School wrestlers who reached state tournament placings this season.

Deputy Superintendent (speaker 3) introduced Coach Renee Junior Alvarez, who presented student athletes Athena Trusander, Shane Spindell and Kyler and described their results and contributions to the program. "This year she ended up placing fourth at the state tournament," Alvarez said of Athena, noting she is involved in leadership programs and college-level coursework. Alvarez said Kyler's senior-year win in the state final was "the upset of the tournament" over a nationally ranked opponent and called Kyler "the best wrestler in our school history." He added that Shane has been voted a league wrestler of the year and will wrestle at Evergreen State.

Athena Trusander said wrestling "put me into what I am today" and praised teammates and coaches for their support. Kyler said wrestling taught resilience after setbacks and credited club and high school programs for her growth. The coach also noted other Washington High athletes who placed at state and said one student, Amorani Rodriguez, is committed to compete and study athletic training at Dickinson State University.

Board members and the superintendent took a photo with the athletes after the presentation. Coach Alvarez asked the board to "continue to support not just wrestling, but sports and not just high school sports, but all youth sports in the area," citing the importance of affordable, maintained facilities for student well-being.

The recognition was followed by routine agenda business.

The board then established a quorum, adopted the meeting agenda and proceeded to regular business.