Just over one year ago, Montezuma-Cortez High School senior Seager Oliver captured the Class 4A 170-pound championship.
Now, the tall, muscular wrestler will enter the tournament as Class 3A’s top ranked 182-pound wrestler.
Asked how he’ll approach his third and final state tournament, Oliver said that he plans to stay focused and stick with what works.
“I’m just going in with a positive mindset,” said Oliver, who looks to become the fourth two-time state wrestling champion in M-CHS history. “I’m confident.”
Oliver (34-3) begins his quest with a matchup against Colorado Spring Christian High School’s Matt Snow (19-17) on the Friday afternoon. If he wins, he’ll take on Eaton High School’s Colton Engram (22-13) or Jefferson High School’s Oscar Lopez (30-11) on Feb. 20.
Oliver’s stiffest challenge could come from Eagle Valley’s Devin Ward (33-6), who is ranked second in Class 3A’s 182-pound division. Oliver defeated Ward 12-5 in the Regional championship on Feb. 13.
“The whole state is tough,” Oliver said. “It’s unbelievable how tough Colorado is getting.”
Off the mat
Favorite band: Kid Rock
Favorite book: Vision Quest: A wrestling story
Dream job: Welder
Favorite place: McPhee Reservoir
Influential people: Dad and coaches