PA Junior Wrestling Ready for Second Year

The PA Junior Wrestling Championships will head to the Erie Insurance Arena Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2, marking the second of a two-year commitment for the event to be held in Erie.  An anticipated 980 youth wrestlers from across Pennsylvania are once again expected to compete in the tournament, bringing with them more than 5,000 spectators.

Three age groups will compete in the tournament – 8 and under, 9-10, and 11-12. Wrestlers will arrive in Erie on Thursday, March 31 for weigh-ins, which will take place at the Millcreek Mall.

Erie won the bid to host the event in 2014. The 2015 contest was the first time the event had been held in Erie since 2009.

Doors will open at 8 a.m. Friday for the first session, which will begin at 9 a.m. and consist of Pigtails round of 32, Preliminary round of 16, consolation rounds, and Champion Quarter Finals, which will begin at 3 p.m. The second session of consolation and champion rounds will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday before the tournament adjourns for a break.  Doors open for the Finals at 3 p.m., and competition gets underway at 5 p.m.

“The PA Junior Wrestling Championships is regarded as one of the top junior wrestling tournaments in the country, so to host it in Erie is an honor,” said Don Pollard, Tournament Director. “The 2015 tournament was exciting for everyone, and we hope to make the 2016 tournament even more successful.”

“The 2015 event brought wrestlers and their families to Erie in droves,” said Ron Sertz, Executive Director of the Erie Sports Commission. “Wrestlers had a great experience at a top-notch facility, and the event provided a huge boost for tourism. We’re looking forward to working with Don to once again provide wrestlers from across the state with a great experience in Erie.”

Admission is $15 for an adult day pass, or $25 for an adult two-day pass. Student passes are $10 for a day or $15 for two days. Tickets and programs may be purchased during weigh-ins at the Millcreek Mall or at the Erie Insurance Arena box offices on Friday and Saturday.

For more information, please visit http://pjwarea8.webs.com/states-in-erie.

The Erie Sports Commission is committed to promoting the Erie region as a prime destination for sports and recreation. The major goals of the ESC are to attract, create, support, and host sporting and recreational events that have a positive economic impact on the region, and assist in maximizing the potential of all regional sports facilities and venues. The ESC strives to enhance the image of Erie by showcasing the community, promote wellness through healthy lifestyles, and improve the quality of life for community members of all ages.