The Mat Rat youth wrestling program has been one of the great
local success stories since its inception seven years ago, giving
kids access to outstanding coaching and development.
Founded by El Molino assistant wrestling coach and former
Athletic Director Greg Dumas, the program continues to enjoy
tremendous success under Lions’ head wrestling coach Bill Borges
and assistant Aaron Fore.
In June, the Mat Rats sent six of its top wrestlers to the
California State Freestyle and Greco Roman Wrestling Championships
in Fresno. The team responded by turning in its best-ever
performance in a State competition, sending several grapplers home
with hardware.
Logan Fore led the local charge in the School Boy Division (7th
and 8th graders), going 5-1 for the tournament to grab second
place. Also turning in an outstanding second-place effort in
making a first State appearance was Taryn Christiansen, posting a
4-1 mark. Daniel Frazze, another first-year State wrestler, took
12th place overall with two wins and two losses.
In the Cadet Division (9th and 10th graders), Blake Borges
captured a ninth-place finish with five wins and two losses. Rio
Nance, a Willits resident and also a first-time State competitor,
wrestled a pair of great matches but didn’t place.
Ryan Hall headed up the Junior Division (11th and 12th grades)
with a solid, ninth-place showing. Overall, it was the best age
group finish from the West County area in 15 years.
The Mat Rat Wrestling Club is open to all male and female
wrestlers between the ages of 7-18. The club welcomes athletes from
all areas and schools. Practices are held at El Molino High School
from April – June, typically on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays
from 6:30-8:30 p.m. In addition, open mat practices are held
throughout the summer.
