by Rachel Hunter
North Country families filled the Gouverneur High School gymnasium on Saturday, March 7, for the 2026 Gouverneur Skyler “Pee Wee” Way Memorial Youth Wrestling Tournament—an annual gathering that has become as much about community and remembrance as it is about competition. More than 115 young wrestlers took to the mats this year, including an impressive 50 athletes representing Gouverneur. The energy in the building was unmistakable: parents cheering from the bleachers, coaches offering steady encouragement, and young athletes stepping forward with the same determination that has long defined the North Country region’s wrestling tradition. For many families, this tournament is a highlight of the youth wrestling season, a day when the gym feels alive with both athletic spirit and heartfelt purpose.
At the heart of the tournament is the memory of Skyler Daniel Way, a Gouverneur native whose life and love for wrestling continue to inspire the next generation. Skyler passed away at age 19 on January 6, 2014, following a car accident while stationed at Camp LeJeune in North Carolina. His loss was felt deeply across the community, and each year this tournament stands as a testament to the impact he made in his short but meaningful life. His name, spoken often throughout the day, serves as a reminder of the young man whose passion for wrestling shaped not only his own journey but the spirit of countless young athletes who now follow in his footsteps.
Born on August 7, 1994, to Daniel and Shannon (Durham) Way, Skyler grew up in Gouverneur and graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 2012. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps as an Ammunition Technician with the 2nd Supply Battalion and Ammunition Company at Camp LeJeune. But long before he wore the Marine uniform, Skyler wore a singlet—beginning his wrestling journey at just five years old in the Pee Wee division. Wrestling quickly became more than a sport for him; it was a passion that shaped his character, his discipline, and his drive. Those who knew him recall a young man who trained hard, competed fiercely, and carried himself with humility and heart.
Throughout his varsity career, Skyler became one of Gouverneur’s standout athletes. He earned the title of Section 10 champion four times and qualified for the New York State High School Wrestling Championships each of those four years—an achievement that reflected both his talent and his relentless work ethic. His legacy continues to motivate young wrestlers who now compete in the very tournament that bears his name, many of whom look to his story as proof that dedication and belief can carry an athlete far.
The annual event opened with a moment of remembrance, giving families, athletes, and coaches a chance to honor Skyler’s memory and the qualities he was known for—perseverance, loyalty, and heart. The Way family shared reflections on Skyler’s deep love for the sport, recalling how he began wrestling at age five in the Pee Wee program and continued through his 2012 graduation, earning multiple appearances at the State tournament along the way. They also introduced a letter written by Skyler during his seventh‑grade year, when he was a modified wrestler at Gouverneur Middle School. The letter offered a glimpse into his early dedication and the mindset that shaped his wrestling career.
In that letter, dated January 12, 2007, Skyler wrote about admiring wrestler David Perrigo—how Perrigo’s success at the State level inspired him, made Skyler believe he too could become a State Champion, and how he dreamed of one day leading the team as captain. He described Perrigo as both an outstanding wrestler and football player and expressed his hope of becoming just as skilled. The reading of Skyler’s words—earnest, determined, and full of youthful ambition—brought the gym to a hush before thunderous applause rose from the crowd. A moment of silence followed, honoring Skyler Daniel Way and the legacy he left behind. Many attendees also took time throughout the day to view the photos and memories displayed from Skyler’s years as a wrestler at Gouverneur Central, each image capturing a moment of grit, joy, or triumph.
Throughout the day, youth wrestlers showed remarkable grit and perseverance, battling through tough matches, close scrambles, and long brackets with the kind of determination that defines the sport. Many athletes pushed past nerves, fatigue, and fierce competition, demonstrating the same heart and drive that Skyler Way was known for. Adding to the significance of the event, the awards for Least Time on the Mat and Quickest Pin were generously donated by the Way family in Skyler’s honor. Their contribution not only celebrated standout performances but also connected today’s young wrestlers to the legacy of a hometown athlete whose passion continues to inspire every competitor who steps onto the mat.
Throughout the tournament, gratitude flowed freely toward the businesses and community members who supported the Gouverneur Wrestling Club Inc. in making the event possible. Their contributions help ensure that young wrestlers have the opportunity to train, compete, and grow in a program that has shaped generations of athletes—including Skyler himself. The tournament, built on both competition and remembrance, once again demonstrated the strength of the Gouverneur community and its commitment to honoring one of its own.
For more information about or to learn how to donate to the Gouverneur Wrestling Club, Inc., call Randy Morrison (315-323-0988), Joel Baer (315-323-3324) or David Perrigo (315-286-0229).