With over 400 wrestlers packed into multiple brackets for all 14 weight classes, the 2012 Lloyd C. Engel Tournament in Escalon earlier this month proved to be one of the toughest local tournaments this season. Oakdale junior Hondo Arpoika made the most of his trip to Escalon with a first place title in the ‘A’ bracket at 195 pounds.
Arpoika won his way to the top bracket with consecutive victories in pool play on Jan. 13, then went unbeaten a day later to lock up the gold medal status. Arpoika earns Athlete of the Week honor from The Leader for his terrific effort.