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The winning Mt. Vista Cougar Wrestlers!
The Oracle Cougar wrestling team continues to do well in competition around the state. On Nov. 19, the Cougars competed at the San Manuel tournament. Sophia Smith took 1st Place in her division winning her first match 9 to 1 and defeating her second opponent by fall in 2:25. Gilbert Rodriguez took 1st Place in the 93-pound division defeating all his opponents by fall. He pinned his first opponent in 1:10. His next two opponents were dispatched in 35 and 45 seconds. The championship match lasted 1:15. Sophia and Gilbert were named Outstanding Wrestlers of the tournament.
Charles Croci took home 2nd Place at 83 pounds. Miles Smith took 4th Place also in the 83 pound division. Tony Smith, Jacob Tafoya, and Ben Webber gave a great effort, missing out on medals by one match.
On Nov. 26, the Cougars sent four wrestlers to Phoenix for the prestigious Grand Canyon Nationals. Wrestling teams from 16 states competed in the tournament. The four Cougar wrestlers were Sophia Smith, Gilbert Rodriguez, Charles Croci and Jacob Tafoya. Sophia Smith took 3rd Place in her division. Gilbert Rodriguez brought home the 1st Place Championship belt.
Cougar Coach Gilbert Rodriguez Sr. said “These four kids practiced during Thanksgiving week, watching their weight. It takes a lot of dedication and the love for their sport to give up Thanksgiving dinner. They did a great job at one of the toughest tournaments.”
Congratulations to the Oracle Cougar wrestlers!
John Hernandez lives in Oracle. He is retired and enjoys writing and traveling. He is active in the Oracle Historical Society. He covers numerous public events, researches historical features and writes business/artist profiles.
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