The Black and White

  by Will McColl

On Thursday, January 8, 2026, the Pilgrim wrestling team had its first home meet of the year against West Warwick, doing extremely well. Because of it being early in the season, the matches are not individual, but team based where each pin usually gets three points. In the team based system, Pilgrim earned 44 points against the other team’s 30. There were several varsity winners among the separate classes including: Allison Patten, Dessani Dias, Esqulin, Cheikh Faye, Liam Sisson, Saliou Faye, Kevin Tojsam, Carlos Riveira, Christian Snead, and Alejandro Marino. At later meets players proceeded to compete individually, each working hard on their own, earning separate victories that put together a great team. 

Coach Tom O’Connor reflected on his 29th season at Pilgrim saying, “The kids have been working in the room mostly. They have been working hard and I am happy with their progression. I’m still waiting for them to take what they have been doing in the room and wrestling in front of people”, also claiming, “They haven’t seen our best wrestling yet”. After this first meet, the team held high expectations for the rest of the season, working harder after every competition. The team is always looking for new members, especially in the higher weight classes, and would be glad to have them join next season. Congratulations to Pilgrim’s wrestling team for an incredible season, and best of luck for every year after.