On Saturday, July 18, Fillmore High School hosted a Summer Wrestling Tournament with eight schools including FHS coming out to compete as they all prepare for the upcoming season. Pictured above is FHS wrestler Jasiah Cervantez after defeating his Buena High School opponent. Photo credit Michael Torres.

Above is Flashes Jackie Rivera taking her Santa Paula opponent to the mat during her match at the Summer Tournament this past Saturday. Photo credit Michael Torres.

Pictured is Flashes Eliva Palmarin vs. Santa Paula. Photo credit Michael Torres.

Pictured is Fillmore's James Alcantar vs. Santa Paula. Photo credit Michael Torres.

Pictured is Flashes Naomi Bonilla vs. Valencia. Photo credit Michael Torres.

By Michael Torres
Fillmore High School threw open the doors of its gymnasium on Saturday, July 18th, to host a Summer Wrestling Tournament that drew grapplers from across the region. Wrestlers representing Buena, Canyon, Channel Islands, Del Sol, Fillmore, Hueneme, Santa Paula, and Valencia high schools took to the mats for a day of hard-fought competition as local athletes prepare for the season ahead.
The Fillmore Flashes fielded a strong roster of eleven wrestlers, several of whom posted winning records on the day. Jasiah Cervantez, Elvia Palmerin, and Jackie Rivera each went undefeated, finishing 2-0. James Alcantar turned in a 2-1 showing, while Naomi Bonilla and Elijah Sandoval each split their matches at 1-1.
Rounding out the Flashes’ lineup were Kobe Avila, Abraham Castorena, Aubree Herrera, Isaac Ramirez, and Sophia Valdovinos, each of whom battled through tough competition in a 0-2 day on the mat.
Not every Flash was able to see the mat, however. Annabelle Olaguez was unable to compete after no wrestler in her weight class was available among the participating schools.
Summer tournaments like Saturday’s give coaches an early look at their squads and offer wrestlers valuable mat time against unfamiliar opponents before the season begins in earnest.
FHS boys coach Manuel Ponce praised the team’s effort following the tournament. “The kids did a great job today, & we are looking forward to seeing them grow before the season starts,” Ponce said.
The Flashes aren’t done yet — Fillmore High School will host a second summer tournament next Saturday, July 25th, from 9 a.m. to noon, once again in the FHS Gym. Fans and community members are encouraged to come out and support the team as it continues its summer slate ahead of the official season.
Students interested in joining the wrestling program are encouraged to see Coach Michael Torres in Room 34 once the school year begins.