St. Clair Catholic wrestlers showcased their skill and determination at the SWOSSAA Wrestling Championships on February 20 at Lambton College. Student-athletes from St. Pat’s and UCC competed with intensity, demonstrating their hard work and dedication throughout the season.
St. Pat’s earned second place in the overall team standings at SWOSSAA with 96 points and secured the boys’ division title, reflecting the team’s hard work and commitment. Among the standout performances, St. Pat’s Griffin Wittliff (130 kg) and Leo Docherty-Stamos (64 kg) secured titles in their respective weight classes.
Several other St. Pat’s wrestlers also earned podium finishes. Owen Adams (57.5 kg), Vito Salamanca (61 kg), Mekhi Cuffie (77 kg), and Tyler Tasker (44 kg) each placed second in their divisions, demonstrating resilience and determination on the mat. On the girls’ side, Skya Roop (44 kg), Abigail Phelan (89 kg), and Kayla-Jean Malcolm (115 kg) also finished in second place, showcasing the depth of talent throughout the program.
From UCC, 13 athletes qualified for SWOSSAA after strong showings at LKSSAA, led by Coach Chris Parent. “Our wrestlers showed incredible grit and determination,” said Mr. Parent. “They have worked tirelessly all season, and their performances at SWOSSAA reflect their commitment and passion for the sport.”
Following their success at SWOSSAA, five UCC wrestlers—Ayden Brown, Hunter Hottot, Paige Srokosz, Aurora Williams, and Emmanuella Caleb—competed at the OFSAA Wrestling Championships in Kitchener from March 3-5. Emmanuella Caleb, a Grade 11 wrestler in her second year of competition, captured the bronze medal after an impressive run. She lost her first match but rebounded with five consecutive victories, including a dominant performance in the bronze medal match, securing a pin in just 47 seconds. Caleb ranked third among girls (fourth overall) for most pins in the least time, with five pins in 4:24, and first for most pins/tech falls in least time (five pins and one tech fall in 7:28).
Ayden Brown, a Grade 12 wrestler in his third year, also delivered a strong performance. After winning his first match and losing his second, he secured five consecutive victories—all by pin—to reach the bronze medal match. Despite a shoulder sprain, Brown finished in fourth place, earning an antique bronze medal. He ranked first among boys (third overall) for most pins in the least time, with five pins in 3:28, and seventh for most pins/tech falls in least time.
St. Pat’s also made an impact at OFSAA, ranking 28th in the boys’ division with 38 points, 51st in the girls’ division with 18 points, and 23rd overall in the province with a combined total of 56 points.
Coach Dave Mottram of St. Pat’s echoed the pride in his team’s performance. “This group of athletes has given everything to this season, and their results speak for themselves,” said Mr. Mottram. “Winning the boys’ division at SWOSSAA and competing at OFSAA is a huge accomplishment, and I couldn’t be prouder of their dedication and teamwork.”
Scott Johnson, Director of Education, attended the SWOSSAA event and was inspired by the athletes’ commitment. “The perseverance and sportsmanship displayed by our St. Clair Catholic wrestlers was truly remarkable,” said Johnson. “They represented their schools with pride and gave it their all in every match. It was an absolute privilege to cheer them on.”
The success at SWOSSAA and OFSAA reflects the dedication of both athletes and coaches, marking another proud moment for the UCC and St. Pat’s wrestling programs.
