With just over two weeks left before regionals, the Montezuma-Cortez High School wrestling team hit the road to face Norwood on Jan. 29 and came away with a 28-21 victory.
“We did well, and I’m looking forward to the Southwest League duals and regionals,” said M-CHS head coach Shad Bellmire. “We keep getting better and better.”
Leading the way for the Panthers was 138-pound sophomore Justice Ramos, who defeated Hayden Harris in what Bellmire described as an impressive match.
“(Josh) is getting it in his head that he can go out and beat these guys,” said Bellmire. “I’m really excited for him. If he wrestles like he did, he can get to state.”
Also winning for the Panthers was 106-pound junior Colton Reynolds, 132-pound senior Levi Gross, 170-pound senior Andrew Finch and 182-pound senior Seager Oliver.
M-CHS heavyweight Victor Perez lost in overtime, and 160-pound senior Justice Ramos lost to Norwood’s Danny Harris.
“Justice wasn’t feeling well, but he went out and gave it his all,” said Bellmire.
Next up for the Panthers will be the Southwest League Duals, which will take place in Durango on Feb. 7.
(The Duals) will be tough, but it’s going to be good to hit that competition to get ready for regionals,” said Bellmire. “We want to wrestle tough and see if we can get some kids to be all-conference.”