By Shaun Scott, Puyallup Tribal News
The Puyallup Tribal community displayed its admiration and affinity for the Chief Leschi Warriors wrestling team on senior night on Jan. 29.
The sound of drums reverberated throughout a packed gymnasium, honoring Warriors grapplers for their efforts throughout the 2024-25 season. Before the dual match against Orting commenced, each senior wrestler was recognized as their family and friends made their way to the mat to support the senior class.
Warriors senior wrestlers during the 2024-25 season include Naiyeli Cruz-Garcia, Chase Notti, Tommey Bradley, David Nava-James, Maxamillion Budnek, Alex George and Lucky Bill. Chief Leschi second-year coach Tim Perales said he hopes to see two to four wrestlers advance to the Mat Classic state wrestling tournament in February at the Tacoma Dome. Before taking over the Warriors wrestling program, Perales coached for 16 years in the Highline School District.
Perales plans on staying at Chief Leschi for the long haul.
“My wife and I bought a house on the Puyallup Reservation eight years ago,” Perales said. “To be honest, the most American I feel is living on the reservation. That is the most freedom I have ever had. I’m very thankful. I live a mile across the road on the river and I’m here forever.”
Notti, who competes in the 165-pound weight division, also plays two other sports at Chief Leschi: cross country and track. Chief Leschi Athletic Director Scott Halasz believes being a rare three-sport athlete gives Notti an advantage against most of his opponents on the mat. He said Notti’s conditioning combined with the technical skills taught by Perales sets him apart from his foes.
“I have watched a couple of matches where he really drags his opponent into deep waters,” Halasz explained. “He doesn’t really overpower them but it is all technique and endurance. It gets to late in the match and they (opponent) are drowning, but he is going at the same pace as when he started.”
Notti said he gives everything he can in practice so he can have his arm hoisted in the air victorious after his matches.
“I just try to do the absolute best I can at practice so I can show it in the matches,” Notti said. “This year, I have been doing a lot of throwing moves and just go for it. My favorite part of the sport is winning.”
Cruz-Garcia competes in the 170-pound weight class and said her favorite move is the half-nelson.
“I have to keep it old school,” Cruz-Garcia said. “The sport of wrestling means a lot to me. It has influenced me as a person and gave me life skills, as well. I’m forever grateful for the team and everyone that influenced me to wrestle.”
Cruz-Garcia said Perales is an awesome coach to wrestle for.
“Coach Tim keeps me motivated and gets me ready to work hard every day,” she said. “I had him as a coach for the last two years and I’m glad I did.”