Camp Verde High School sophomore Hayden Uhler had a pin and four victories to successfully defend his Freak Show championship Sunday, Oct. 26.
Uhler’s performance headlined a trio of top CVHS wrestling performances at the folkstyle wrestling tournament in Las Vegas. Senior Ryan Allred’s only loss was by one point, as the three-time state champion finished third in his weight class, while junior Matt Mejia’s third place was highlighted by a loss to the eventual champion.
“Hayden’s off-season hard work paid off,” said Mario Chagolla Sr., Cowboys assistant wrestling coach and head coach of New Breed Wrestling — Allred’s, Mejia’s and Uhler’s off-season club that sponsored their trip to Las Vegas. “He stayed in position, controlling all the matches. His defensive and offensive skills were superb.”
Uhler beat David Salazar, the Arizona-USA National Team champ from juggernaut program Sunnyside High School of Tucson, 10-2, for the tournament championship. He began the tournament by taking only three minutes and 38 seconds to pin another Sunnyside wrestler, Emilio Alcantara, the second-best freestyle wrestler in the West.
Uhler also beat an opponent from Washington and two from California on points — including world champ Carlos Ruff, 12-8.
For the full story, please see the Wednesday, Nov. 12, issue of the Camp Verde Journal.
