Competing in the Class 3A quarterfinals in Denver on Feb. 20, Montezuma-Cortez High School senior Seager Oliver (36-3) didn’t break a sweat in route to a pin victory over Eaton High School’s Colton Engram (24-15).
After coming out of the tunnel with a look of determination on his face, Oliver scored a double leg takedown of Engram 10 seconds into the match. The Panthers senior then controlled his over matched opponent for the next 30 seconds before pinning him with 1:07 left in the first period.
“I went out there and did what my coaches said to do and put him away,” said Oliver. I’m going out there with the mentality that I’m going to put a beat down on these kids. If I get a chance to put them away, I’m going to.”
Readily apparent throughout Oliver’s victory over Eaton was the senior’s superior size and strength. The defending Class 4A 170-pound state champion said that his strength is no accident.
“Muscle doesn’t grow overnight and I work out all year long,” said Oliver. “You have to do it if you want to beat these guys.”
Next up for Oliver will be a semifinals matchup against Salida High School’s Nate Lowe (29-8). The Class 3A semifinals begin at 7:15 p.m. on the evening of Feb. 20.