Mercer Island senior attains his dream on the mat

Jonah Andrews placed eighth at Mat Classic Class 3A state tournament.

By Shaun Scott • February 21, 2018 5:58 pm
Photo courtesy of Billy Pruchno Mercer Island Islanders senior 152-pound wrestler Jonah Andrews captured eighth place in his weight class at the Mat Classic Class 3A state tournament on Feb. 17 at the Tacoma Dome.
Photo courtesy of Billy Pruchno Mercer Island Islanders senior 152-pound wrestler Jonah Andrews captured eighth place in his weight class at the Mat Classic Class 3A state tournament on Feb. 17 at the Tacoma Dome.

Mercer Island senior Jonah Andrews wasn’t going to let the flu bug derail him from a goal he has worked tirelessly toward throughout his high school wrestling career.

Andrews, who advanced to regionals the past three years, competed at the Mat Classic Class 3A state tournament in the formidable 152-pound weight division at the Tacoma Dome on Feb. 16-17. A few days before the tournament, Andrews wasn’t feeling well but he pushed through it en route to an eighth-place finish under the bright lights of the Mat Classic. Andrews had an overall record of 2-3 at the tournament.

Mercer Island head coach Lee Jahncke marveled at Andrews’ resolve and toughness.

“Jonah has been battling the flu the last couple of days. It is amazing that he made it to the (state) tournament and it’s amazing he made it to the second day,” Jahncke said. “We’re just really proud of him for all of the work he has put in.”

Andrews was thankful to have the opportunity to compete at the Mat Classic after falling short his first three years of high school.

“It is amazing. It was my dream,” Andrews said. “Wrestling has been one of the biggest things in my life by far. I’m going to miss it. There is going to be a hole in my life now but I’m sure I will find something that replaces it. I have been doing this sport for eight or nine years and it comes to an end in just seconds. That can be tough but that is the way it goes.”