The big man had a plan for the Phoenix Pirates on December 15 and 16.

Ishmael De La Torre, aka Gato, earned the heavyweight title in the annual Grants Pass Tournament, turning in a 5-0 mark in the process. After receiving a bye through the first round, Gato recorded two pins and two decisions on his way to the championship. A 6-5 win over Tyler Post of Marshfield propelled him into the semifinals where he pinned Siuslaw's Matthew Horrillo. De La Torre wrapped up the title with a 7-3 wi over Phillip Hernandez of Marshfield.

Other top PHS finishers on the weekend included Ryan Brumble fourth at 220, Joey Wilson fifth at 170, Dane Johnson fifth at 182 and Mike Walker sixth at 138. In the JV event, Luis Tapia-Ramirez finished 5-1 to win the 170-pound divison, Elijah Galatioto was third at 170 and Bruce Doke was sixth at 126.

Emma Truex claimed honors in the girls' division.

As a team, Phoenix finished eighth in the varsity team standings. The Pirates return to action January 30 at the Rogue Valley Championships at North Medford.