The returning league champion Islander Middle School Gator wrestling team kicked off their season Monday evening by defeating the Pine Lake Wolverines by a narrow margin of 47-42.

Henry Eckert, Jake Pruchno, Luke Wilson and Trevor Gullstad started the Gators off strong with victories, leaving the team score at 17-0. Gabriel Andrews Taylan Yuasa and Benji Rothenberg suffered losses, balancing the score at 17-18.

The next 5 matches went back and forth with Evan Condon, Kenji Walker (13 second pin) and Eric Schulz handing defeats to the Wolverines; and Eitan Schorr and Eric Kim suffering losses. The Gators were up 35-30, and were looking at two forfeits in the 154 and 164 weight classes when Chris Richards pinned his opponent in the first round, leaving the score at 41-30. After the forfeits, the score stood at Gators 41, Wolverines 42. Will Kane took a forfeit at 175 pounds, and the final score was Gators 47, Wolverines 42.

The Gators are coached by Ryan Hoisington, John Frazier and Mike Bylsma.