The Cochrane Cowboys hosted a successful wrestling tournament for the three youngest age groups of wrestlers last Saturday and it will be the first of several special events planned for the current season.

A total of 79 wrestlers, largely from the Cochrane Cowboys but also from five other clubs in the surrounding area, participated in the Gladiator Plumbing Winter Classic, Jan. 13.

The evening before, youth enjoyed a clinic lead by world-class wrestler Tianna Kennett, of the University of Calgary Dinos.

Event Coordinator Bree Adam says they were pleased with the response to the tournament  and it will be followed by a series of "Friday Friendlies." 

"It won't be quite as extravagant as this, but we want to invite all our friends to come in and hone their wrestling skills and get a little clinic in. They will be a little more exhibition-like."

At these Friday events, senior level wrestlers will be sharing their knowledge with the young chargers and she's excited Connor Pointen will be leading the first one.

"We're really excited about him attending. He's a great coach and great with kids and his technique is exceptional."

Giving back is a large part of the Cowboy organization and it was evident at the Winter Classic where many senior wrestlers volunteered in many different capacities, Well-known Cowboys alumni Connor Swedlo was on hand as were senior elite wrestlers Naomi Cook and Elijah and Isaiah Springer. 

They also have four elementary coaches plus Cowboy alumni, like Brendan McKeage, Grace Chambers and Callum and Connor McNeice who come back and offer their experience during the club's regular practices. Certainly not forgotten are the numerous dedicated volunteers who helped to make the club and their events a success. 

With almost 60 members, the Cowboys are a growing concern.

"What I love about the Cowboys is they're all about sportsmanship and all about mentorship," says Adam. "I think what makes it such an attractive club is that it's community over competition. We strive to do our best in competition, but at the end of the day, we're a family."