Journal sports photographer/writer honored

BY PAM STEVENS | EDITOR Lake Stevens High School’s wrestling team is known for its guts and glory on the mat and the Journal’s own wrestling writer and photographer, Dave Jedlicka is the one who brings the facts and photos home to the community.

Now Jedlicka has been honored for his incredible photos as Wrestling USA’s Photographer of the Year.

Wrestling USA Magazine writes, “Dave, over

the last few years has become one of the most prolific wrestling photographers for the state of Washington, if not the nation.”

Jedlicka was more than a little surprised by the award but is excited to help Washington stay on the wrestling map.

“I figured that there were a lot of other photographers around the country that have been doing this longer than I have. I think it helped that much of what I do is on a voluntary basis,” he said. “I'm so happy to bring the national eye to our state for any reason. Washington has an immense amount of wrestling talent, but because we aren't in the traditional geographic areas that are recognized for the sport, we don't get the attention that we de serve.”

Wrestling has been a sport close to Jedlicka’s heart since he was in grade school and has continually taught him many lessons of life.

“I wrestled from the fifth grade on while I was in school all across the country. I always loved the sport because it forced personal accountability, but still carried a team environment. Some of my greatest mentors were my wrestling coaches who instilled in me more than just wrestling skills,” he said.

Wrestling is a major sport here in Lake Stevens and Jedlicka has made sure that the Journal always has up-to-date coverage of every wrestling event. He travels throughout the state to get the best photos and to talk to the coaches and wrestlers. Keeping Lake Stevens informed about their number one wrestling team is a top priority.

What’s even more amazing is that Jedlicka does all of this for free, because he loves the sport of wrestling and enjoys sharing his talents with others who love the sport.

“Dave is one of those people who works tirelessly in support of our great sport,” Wrestling USA Magazine says.

You can continue to look forward to Jedlicka’s amazing shots in the Journal for seasons to come – he’s not going anywhere soon.

“I feel fortunate to be part of the Lake Stevens wrestling community. The school and city have a long and distinguished record. It's fun to be around great athletes and coaches,” he said.

Getting the best shots he can is his main focus but the Journal appreciates his efforts in also keeping us informed through his writing.
“I definitely consider myself a photographer more than a reporter. It would be great to focus on getting good shots. That's what I love to do,” Jedlicka said.

If you would like to see Jedlicka’s photos you can go to his website at jedlicheetah.com where you will find a gallery of over 8,000 photos.

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