Waitsburg MatBirds gear up for 2022

WAITSBURG-After a couple seasons of rest, the Waitsburg MatBirds will return to the mat this spring. Wrestlers, both boys and girls, ages 5-14 are welcome.

The first practice was Tuesday, January 18, but program coordinator Kristy Taylor said that registrations will be accepted through February 15.

The MatBirds practice on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings, at the Waitsburg Elementary multipurpose room starting at 6:30 p.m. Athletes and parents must wear a mask while in the building.

The MatBirds Club will lend headgear and other gear to new athletes who would like to participate but do not have the proper equipment. Donations of new or gently used wrestling gear, including headgear and shoes, are happily accepted.

Ten practices are required before athletes are allowed to compete at the first tournament in March. A total of five tournaments are on the calendar for the team, most of which are in the Tri Cities area. One tournament will be held in Pomeroy, and one in Colfax.

"Our main goal is getting kids interested in wrestling so we can have a high school team again," Taylor said.

Volunteers are always welcome, whether you would like to help coach, do paperwork, or help move kids from gym to gym at tournaments. For donations or further questions, contact Kristy Taylor at (509) 240-6690.