10-year-old Elliott Pankonien from Gladstone excelling in wrestling | Local News, Sports, Employment

Gladstone Youth Wrestler Finds Success on the Mat

GLADSTONE — It all started with a spontaneous wrestling match between teammates Abel and Benson Ellison at a Gladstone youth baseball practice. Little did 6-year-old Elliott Pankonien know that this impromptu scuffle would ignite a passion for wrestling that would lead to a successful career on the mat.

After being offered the chance to try a wrestling practice by Abel and Benson’s father, Dave Ellison, Pankonien quickly proved to be a natural at the sport. Coach Dan Belanger describes him as competitive, long on the mat, with great leverage and agility.

Now 10 years old, Pankonien has found success in wrestling, boasting a record of 79-4 over his first four years in the sport. He has finished second in the state at the MYWAY championship in both 2023 and 2024, with impressive win streaks and pinfalls to his name.

Despite his achievements, Pankonien still maintains his love for baseball, describing both sports as his favorites. His mother, Nikki Martin, admits to feeling nervous when he competes but is happy that he has found a sport he enjoys.

Pankonien’s dedication and talent on the mat have not gone unnoticed, and he continues to impress with his skills and determination. As he navigates his way through the world of wrestling, one thing is certain – Elliott Pankonien is a force to be reckoned with in the sport he loves.