Sanford High School senior Ricky Callis celebrates after earning his 100th career win during the Sanford Wrestling Annual Tournament on Saturday afternoon.
Photo: Brett Williams.
By Brett Williams
Sanford High School was a hub of wrestling action last weekend, hosting two major tournaments over three days: the Sanford Wrestling Annual Tournament (SWAT) and the Spartan Youth Wrestling Tournament.
SWAT began on Friday and ran through Saturday, drawing thousands of wrestlers and their families from across Northern New England. The tournament has become an iconic event in the regional wrestling scene, delivering a significant economic boost to the City of Sanford while also serving as the single-largest fundraiser for the Red and White Foundation’s concession stand. Proceeds from the event are donated back to Sanford High School’s athletics programs.
Sanford wrestlers competed in what is widely considered one of the toughest tournaments in all of New England. Three Spartans placed at the event. Ryder Lachance was Sanford’s highest placer, finishing third overall and earning the Ken Hover Award. Connor Pickering placed sixth, as did senior Ricky Callis.
SHS Senior Connor Pickering following a hard-fought pin in his bracket.
Photo: Brett Williams
A highlight of the weekend came Saturday afternoon when Callis earned his 100th career win, a milestone that brought the crowd to its feet in applause.
The experience proved valuable for the team’s younger wrestlers, who faced elite competition and gained lessons expected to carry into the second half of the season.
The weekend concluded Sunday with the Spartan Youth Wrestling Tournament. The Spartan Youth Wrestling Club placed fifth overall in the Pre-K through Grade 4 division and sixth overall in the Grades 5–8 division. Hunter Flint earned a first-place finish and was named Outstanding Wrestler for the Pre-K–4 division.
High school wrestlers and recent alumni served as referees and volunteers throughout the day, supporting the young athletes and reinforcing the strong connection between Sanford’s varsity and youth wrestling programs. Head coaches Nate Smith and Chris Hill credited the success of the weekend to the dedication of wrestlers, families, and volunteers who continue to strengthen Sanford’s strong wrestling community.
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