At the annual Top of the Rock Invitational Wrestling Competition, held in Rock springs, Wyoming April 9 through 10, Jordan Freestyle Wrestling discovered a wrestling star in the making.

At 40 lbs., Riley Tatum, of West Jordan, won his championship match in the flyweight division (ages six and under0 by technical superiority with a score of 12-1.  He also went home with the coveted 'most pins in the quickest time' plaque.

"They only award one plaque for the whole competition," said Riley's mother, Shari.  "It's the same as being named most valuable player."

Riley won the award by pinning three opponents with a combined time of one minute and 48 seconds.  This is also an achievement for the 6 year old, because it is his first year competing.

"He's a tough little wrestler," said Coach Bill Kilpack.  "He's very aggressive, which is a big advantage at his age."

Riley began competing in February, and since then has won two gold medals, four silver, one bronze and the plaque.  "I expect him to do very well this year," said Kilpack.  "At the next few competitions, he'll most likely take home a few medals, if not the gold ones."

Riley has the added benefit of receiving coaching at home, as well as from Jordan Freestyle.  His father, Lonnie, wrestled at Green Rivery High School, where he placed third in state.

"Since he started wrestling, he's become more disciplined, stronger and more focused," said Shari.  "He rarely watches television.  He's very active now."  Along with wrestling, Riley also participates in swimming and baseball.

"We're hoping he keeps with wrestling and gets a scholarship for college," said Shari.  "I know that's a long way from now, but that's his mother's goal."

Riley's goals are similar.  "I want to be the best wrestler ever," he said.

To find out more about Jordan Freestyle Wrestling, call Bill Kilpack at 641-9832, or visit http://members.aol.com/jordanfreestyle/.