Timber McKay won silver medals at provincials in 2019 and 2020. (submitted photo/Shane Bird)
accomplishment

McKay offered spot at U of S wrestling program after silver medal win

Mar 12, 2020 | 2:06 PM

Athlete Timber McKay believes he could have done better at the Saskatchewan High School Athletic Association’s (SHSAA) Provincial Wrestling Championships, but he’s happy with his silver medal.

The event was held March 7 and 8 in Saskatoon and included some of the best wrestlers from across the province including McKay, a Grade 12 student at La Ronge’s Churchill Community High School (CCHS). He made it to the final round against a Saskatoon competitor, but ultimately lost the match and took second place.

“It was good, but I let it get to my head and I wasn’t fighting how I would normally wrestle,” McKay said. “I know I could have done better. I wasn’t really full in my leg shooting abilities. That really kind of doubted me, so I stuck with the upper body, but he was way better at it.”

Coach Heidi Soares mentioned McKay had a rough start to the wrestling season, noting he recommitted himself in January. Despite having other responsibilities, he was always at practice with a smile on his face and willing to lead. She said McKay stepped into the role of team captain, alongside Owen Bird and Jayde DesRoches, effortlessly by leading warmups and ensuring new recruits didn’t get lost in the routine.

Soares also called McKay a hard worker who is very coachable. She said he takes direction well, listens attentively to what the coaches have to say and the proof is in the success McKay achieved this season.

“His season was undefeated until this past weekend at provincials and we are all very proud of his tremendous efforts,” Soares said. “Timber’s hard work was rewarded this weekend by an offer to join the Huskies wrestling program next year at the University of Saskatchewan.”

McKay, who won the first SHSAA provincial wrestling medal for CCHS last year, would like to continue on in the sport after high school. He said he sees himself wrestling for the U of S in the future.

“I like hanging out with all of my friends and my coaches,” McKay said about why he stays in wrestling. “They are all really supportive and it’s like another family. Even down at the tournaments, everyone makes everyone feel welcome. It’s a really good environment.”

derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno

View Comments