Arlington Wrestling program has a proud and storied tradition, beginning in 1963, just ten years after the inaugural Washington State Wrestling Tournament. Since then, Arlington Wrestling has grown into a respected and competitive program in the state of Washington.

 

In 1977, Brian Foster became Arlington’s first state placer, finishing 4th at 168 lbs. Just a few years later, history was made again in 1981 when Rich Senff became Arlington’s first state champion at 141 lbs, dominating his bracket with three pins and a major decision.

 

The following year, in 1982, Gary Niklason became Arlington’s first NCAA Division I Tournament qualifier while wrestling at Washington State University at 150 lbs.

 

The Mat Classic era began in 1989, bringing all Washington wrestling divisions under one roof. That same year, Jim Smoots took over as head coach, beginning a legacy that spanned over 30 years. Under his guidance, Arlington produced 18 state placers and 7 Mat Classic participants, including standout Jimmy Jayne, a four-time state placer (4th, 2nd, 2nd, 7th).

 

In 2000, a new tradition was born—the first ever Battle of the Bull against Stanwood. The iconic trophy, built in the Arlington High School woodshop by Assistant Coach Tom O’Hara with horns donated by the Parris family, symbolizes the fierce rivalry. In 2025, Arlington set a new record in the series with a 73-6 victory over cross-town rival, Stanwood.

 

A major turning point for the program came in 2003 with the construction of the new Arlington High School. Thanks to Coach Smoots’ behind-the-scenes advocacy, the new school included a dedicated wrestling room large enough for two full-size mats—a lasting gift to future generations.

 

In 2008, Doug Byers stepped in as head coach for a single season, guiding 2 state placers and 4 participants. The following year, Olympian Shaun Williams of South Africa took the reins, leading Arlington wrestlers to 4 placings and 6 state appearances over three seasons.

 

In 2012, Rick Iverson began a successful five-year tenure, during which Arlington experienced new heights. His leadership produced 17 placers and 15 participants at the Mat Classic. The program’s crowning achievement came in 2016, when Iverson led Arlington to its first and only team state title, featuring 8 placers and 2 additional participants. He also coached 3x state placer Jeremy Nygard and Arlington’s second state champion, Ruben Crew (170 lbs).

 

In 2017, Jonny Gilbertson became the head coach, ushering in a new era of excellence. In his first season, five wrestlers qualified for the Mat Classic, with three placing—including one finalist. Coach Gilbertson’s passion and mentorship have pushed Arlington Wrestling to new heights. In 2025, Arlington sent a record setting 14 participants the the Mat Classic state tournament. During his tenure so far, he has coached three individual state champions, and five individual championships—Dorian Tollenaar, Dustin Baxter, and Tre Haines (3x)—along with 18 other placers.

 

From humble beginnings to championship glory, Arlington Wrestling continues to build a legacy of toughness, dedication, and success—on the mat and beyond.

 

Stay tuned. The best is yet to come.