Fourteen wrestlers are heading to the Masters Tournament after fighting their way through a tough postseason. Six girls and eight boys qualified for the big event, which will take place in Stockton on Friday and Saturday, February 20–21. The top five finishers in each weight class will move on to the CIF State Championships, which has been the goal for many of these athletes all season.
For junior Michael Coelho, making it to Masters is something he has been working toward all year.
“I am very excited for Masters,” Coelho said. He credits his coaches and teammates for constantly pushing him to improve and helping him reach this point in the season. As he prepares for the tournament, he says he’s focusing on staying confident and trusting the training he has put in. His goal this year is to qualify for state, and next year he hopes to place.
Sophomore Luke Borelli shares that same excitement.
“I’ve been working all season to get here,” Borelli said. He said the support from his coaches and teammates has made a big difference in his growth. Borelli has been focusing on getting stronger and wrestling smarter, and this weekend he plans to stick to his routine and trust his preparation. Like Coelho, his goal is to make it to state.
On the girls side, sophomore Alysianna Salas said her support system has helped her stay motivated throughout the season.
“My teammates, coaches, and family have all helped me keep pushing,” Salas said.
She makes sure to attend every practice, eat healthy, and even watch film to improve. As Masters approaches, she plans to continue doing what has worked for her all season — working hard, getting good rest, and staying disciplined. Her main goal is to keep improving and do better than she did last year.
For senior Angelina Tovar, this tournament means even more because it is her final postseason in high school. She said the support from her teammates, coaches, and parents has meant everything to her, especially during tough moments.
Even though she wants to advance, Tovar said wrestling has already taught her lessons she will carry for life, like dedication and pushing past her limits. She is grateful for the memories and friendships she has made during her time on the team.
With 14 athletes competing and a chance to qualify for state on the line, Los Banos wrestling is ready to give it their all in Stockton. No matter what happens, the team has already shown how much hard work, confidence, and support for each other can pay off.
