East Boston, MA – On Sunday November 19th, over 160 wrestlers from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire participated in the 1st Annual November Takedown Tournament at Excel Academy Charter High School. BYW participants came from schools across the city including Excel Academy, Josiah Quincy Upper School, Boston Latin School, John D. O’Bryant, Latin Academy, Washington Irving Middle School, and Lilla G. Frederick Middle School. After a clinic from BYW President and Founder José Valenzuela, wrestlers were placed in 4, 5, 6, and 16 competitor brackets in both middle school and high school divisions. BYW also welcomed the following programs to join in the day’s competition: Beat the Streets Providence, Manchester (NH) Police Athletic League, and Cambridge Youth Wrestling.

BTS Providence Executive Director Steven Keith enjoyed how the tournament brought together the blossoming urban wrestling community around New England: “What a great day for the New England wrestling community, and in particular, our students. It was the first competition of the year, and for many

[them], their first competition ever. Thank you to the BYW staff, coaches, and community for the wonderful experience.”

The Program Director for BTS Providence Ed German agreed. “The Boston Youth Takedown Tournament was a huge success. Our Providence youth had a chance to get great mat time and learning opportunities that will increase their success throughout the regular season. Many walked away feeling successful and confident in their growth within the sport and some brought back some pretty cool hardware to show parents, friends, educators, and supporters.”