Submitted
Team Eville wrestlers Ewok, Hunter and Bam Bam — representing Crank Gym in Eckville — were in top form for the first event of this year’s Submission Series. This long-running tournament showcases some of the top up-and-coming grapplers in Alberta.
After the eight regional events, four in Edmonton and four in Calgary, the top eight grapplers from each weight division face off at the MBS tournament in June.
With a championship belt up for grabs, Brett ‘Bam Bam’ Burak stepped on the mats last Saturday in the men's competitive division with a mission. Brett showed he can compete alongside opponents who are 10 to 15 years his senior. ‘Bam Bam’ finished his day 2-1, both wins coming by way of arm bar. His only loss was by arm bar as well. This performance was strong enough to secure the third place medal and earn him two out of a possible four points for that event.
Earlier that day Sophia ‘Ewok’ McAlpine and Hunter Smith also competed. Both gave dominant performances which earned them each a gold medal finish.
As is normal, ‘Ewok’ McAlpine competed first and definitely set the tone for the rest of the Team Eville wrestlers. Sophia's goal for this tournament was to beat her 14-second submission victory record. As always, she wasted no time, literally — Sophia's first match lasted all of 12 seconds. ‘Ewok's’ next opponent faired a little better, and survived to the 19-second mark. He to fell victim to Sophia's signature standing rear choke.
Next up was Hunter Smith. His matches weren't as quick as Sophia's, but he was just as dominant. Hunter pushed the pace so hard that he visibly wore out his opponent within the first minute of both matches. What surprised many in attendance was Hunter’s quickness and agility. His ability to move his 177lbs frame as if he was 155lbs, also having cardio comparable to that of the lighter weight classes, is a testament to Hunter's hard work in the off-season.
Congratulations to all the Eville wrestlers who competed on the weekend.