The wrestling teams across the Front Range are preparing for an exciting 2025-26 season, with many schools returning experienced talent and aiming for significant improvements. The upcoming season promises fierce competition, especially as teams strive for better placements at the state tournament.
Broomfield Eagles Seek Redemption
The Broomfield Eagles, under the guidance of Coach Jimmy Zechmann, are looking to bounce back after a challenging previous season. With eight wrestlers qualifying for the 5A state tournament and a team finish of 16th, the Eagles have high hopes for improvement. Senior Nick Penfold, ranked No. 4 at 157 pounds, leads a strong contingent of returning wrestlers. Zechmann emphasized the importance of their previous experiences, stating, “After a disappointing 16th place finish, the Eagles are hoping to bounce back with a top 10 finish at Ball Arena this next February.” Alongside Penfold, fellow returning state qualifiers include juniors Asher Diamond (132, No. 6) and August Soto (144, No. 6).
Boulder Panthers Aim High
The Boulder Panthers, coached by William Leboeuf, are eager to enhance their program’s standing after last season’s results, which included two state tournament alternates. Captain Isaac Wing (Sr., 165, No. 13) and teammate Alex Smith (Sr., 190) have been training intensively over the summer to make a significant impact. Leboeuf highlighted the potential of Ollie Reynolds (Soph., 132), who narrowly missed state qualification as a freshman but has shown considerable improvement.
The Centaurus Warriors, under Coach Arturo Mata, qualified two wrestlers for the state tournament last year. Mata praised senior Aaron Aldama (190), a dedicated athlete who embodies leadership through his work ethic. Alongside Aldama, the Warriors are counting on senior Carson Thomas (150) and a team focused on hard work and teamwork.
Erie Tigers Eye Competitive Season
The Erie Tigers, coached by Joe Ferrera, are coming off a strong season where they qualified eight wrestlers for the state tournament and placed two. Having finished 10th in the team standings, Ferrera is optimistic about the returning talent, including senior Tyler Muir (157, ranked No. 6) and senior Wyatt Walston (285, No. 3). Ferrera stated, “After graduating six seniors, we will look to our four returning state qualifiers to be competitive in 5A.”
In the Fairview Knights’ camp, new head coach Marcus May is taking the helm after the retirement of Hall of Fame coach Jim Opperman. The Knights qualified one wrestler last season and are looking to improve significantly. Senior Peyton Pacheco returns to the 190-pound category after a year of experience at the state level.
Legacy Lightning and Monarch Coyotes Prepare
The Legacy Lightning, coached by Michael Thompson, are hopeful for a stronger performance this year after placing 28th at the state tournament last season. Senior Matthew Clifton (132) finished third at state last year and enters the season as a favourite. Thompson is optimistic about the returning talent and the potential for growth within the team.
Meanwhile, the Monarch Coyotes are adjusting to a new head coach as Cole Polluconi takes charge. Polluconi, a former standout wrestler at the school, hopes to leverage his experience to build a competitive team. Notable returners include junior Levi Carlucci (157), who was a strong performer at last year’s state tournament.
Class 4A Teams Look to Make Their Mark
In Class 4A, the Frederick Golden Eagles, coached by Benito Gutierrez, are looking to develop a younger roster this season. Despite not placing any wrestlers at the state tournament last year, Gutierrez expects junior heavyweight Nacoa Meisinger (No. 6) to make a leap in performance.
The Longmont Trojans, under Matt Engelking, qualified one wrestler last season but are poised for a brighter year ahead. Senior Hunter Soule, ranked 14th in 4A 132s, aims to build on his previous experience.
The Mead Mavericks, coached by Ty Tatham, are returning strong, with senior Carter Woods (ranked second in 190s) looking to lead the way. Woods had a standout football season and is expected to continue his upward trajectory in wrestling.
Class 3A and Class 2A Teams Prepare for Competition
In Class 3A, the Holy Family Tigers, coached by Ernie Derrera and Nestor Pino, are coming off a successful season, qualifying nine wrestlers and placing among the top teams. Senior Lorenzo Trujillo (No. 2) is a key returner who placed third in his weight class last year.
The Lyons Lions, under Gary Gantzer, are aiming for growth with a young team. Sophomore Rowan Gantzer is expected to be a standout after finishing fifth at regionals last year.
As the new wrestling season unfolds, teams across the Front Range are gearing up for a competitive year, with athletes hungry for success. The excitement surrounding these programs reflects the dedication and talent present in the region’s wrestling community.
