The Shenk Gym at Junction City High School served as the site for a Junction City Greco Freestyle Wrestling Club’s annual tournament on Saturday. Kids ages 7 to 18 participated in the competition.

Retired wrestling coach Ben Bennett explained this type of wrestling is a different approach and discipline than the type followed in high school and collegiate programs. He said Greco has the same basic concept. “Wrestling at the amateur level internationally in all divisions and all styles is you face your opponent, you try to take them down from their feet and put them on their back.”

Approximately 175 wrestlers competed in the tournament through multiple age groups.  Bennett said he always encouraged his wrestlers when he coached to participate in this type of competition to have fun. “But also I thought it improved their skills on their feet for take-downs, defending, any of that reason.” Bennett added it’s relaxed without a lot of pressure and can be used as a stepping stone to what can be achieved during the winter time and winter sports programs.”

This tournament helped prepare the wrestlers for a state tournament next Saturday in Hutchinson. Brett Deam and Mike Goodwin work to oversee the Junction City Greco Freestyle Wrestling Club and the local tournament at the Shenk Gym.