By Andy Loigu

K.C. Wanamaker, a member of the Warren Hills wrestling program’s coaching staff, called it a “privilege” to attend the United States Naval Academy’s summer wrestling camp recently, along with 17 Blue Streaks’ team members.

Navy coach Cory Kolat and his leadership team run a collegiate program in the prestigious Division I Patriot League which competes in epic battles with nationally ranked powers Lehigh and Army each season.

“It was a fantastic week of learning for both the student athletes and us coaches,” Wanamaker said. “Not only did we improve specific wrestling skills, but we also took away key insights about leadership, motivation and organization.” He added that they were days well spent, indeed.

Warren Hills has one of the state’s most respected wrestling traditions. Going back to founding coach John Goles, who has been enshrined in the Warren County Hall of Fame, the Blue Streaks display a long list of state champions in their home gym, for all to see and admire. The past two years the Streaks were in contention for the team state championship in Group Three. They are likely to make another run at it this year.

“The biggest thing for me is our slogan, It’s about the kids,” Wanamaker said. “We welcome both boys and girls (they have high quality programs for both genders) to join us and become part of a great tradition, with the chance to earn a sense of pride and accomplishment.”

It all starts with learning and practicing the fundamentals. Warren County has seen numerous summer wrestlers become winter winners, who have gone on to wrestle in America’s most high-profile conferences, at universities such as Princeton, Cornell, Rutgers and, of course, Army and Navy.

Ladies and gentlemen, Elvis has left the building.