Standing 6-feet-4 and weighing 270 pounds, the junior is in the midst of his finest athletic season to date.
During the fall football season, Perez finished second on the M-CHS team with 107 tackles was named first-team all-conference and was named to the Class 4A all-state team.
“The team was more committed this season,” said Perez. “We came to the weight room every day. It’s going to be hard to fill in for this year’s seniors next season, but we’ll find away.”
Currently in the middle of the high school wrestling season, Perez has enjoyed mixed results, but is confident that he can pin down several wins in the near future. After finishing fifth at the Regional Tournament last season, Perez is hoping to finish in the top-four this year and qualify for state.
After the conclusion of the wrestling season, Perez will turn his attention to the track, where he throws the discus and shot put for the Panthers. Last season, Perez tossed the shot put 42 feet, three inches.
“Track gives me an opportunity to get into the weight room and work on my strength,” said Perez. “My goal this season is to go to state,” the junior said.
As for his goals after high school, Perez said that he would like to go attend college, play football and study mathematics. As for a future career, Perez remains undecided.
Between now and the conclusion of his high school career, Perez plans to enjoy the Cortez area, spend time with family and friends and continue working hard.
“My work in the weight room has paid off, and I plan to continue working hard,” said Perez. “I’m going to see if I can earn a scholarship for football.”