Senior leader on the mat for the Eagles

Issaquah senior Stevie Solusod captured first place at the Class 4A KingCo tournament on Feb. 6.

Sometimes experience is overrated.

In the mind of Issaquah senior grappler Stevie Solusod, the past is the past and the future is now. Last February, Solusod went 1-2 at the Class 4A Mat Classic state wrestling tournament at the Tacoma Dome. One of the Eagles most experienced wrestlers is just excited to have a clean slate this season.

“Last year doesn’t matter to me. I’m focused on this year and I’m going to just try to get there and do my thing,” Solusod said of his aspiration of reaching the state tournament.

The senior is thrilled with how the Eagles have performed as a team this season. Issaquah captured the Class 4A KingCo regular season championship. Solusod also nabbed first place at the Class 4A KingCo tournament in the 126-pound weight class on Feb. 6.

“So far we are doing pretty good. We have placed at every tournament we’ve been at as a team. We’ve had a couple of guys in the finals at every single tournament and have had multiple individual placers. A lot of our guys are improving and that is always nice,” Solusod said.

Recently, the Reporter had an opportunity to ask Solusod a few questions about his life away from the wrestling mat.

Issaquah Reporter: What is your favorite movie of all time?

Stevie Solusod: Lilo & Stich.

IR: What is your favorite eatery in Issaquah?

SS: Bai Tong Thai restaurant. I love Thai food.

IR: What is your biggest pet peeve?

SS: When I’m talking and someone interrupts me. It is kind of annoying.

IR: What is something unique about you that nobody would know?

SS: I was born and raised in Hawaii.

IR: What is the last book you’ve read?

SS: I read “To Kill a Mockingbird.” It was a good one.

IR: How many text messages do you send per day?

SS: I probably send 10 per day. Most of those are to my mom.

IR: What is your dream vacation spot?

SS: Hawaii. I visit there every other year. All of my family lives there.

IR: Who was your idol growing up?

SS: Jordan Burroughs (Olympic champion wrestler).