Dec. 23, 2005: Deseret Morning News

West Jordan Gears Up for Region 3 Wrestling Tourney
by Landon Walters

West Jordan, one of the more consistently performing wrestling teams in the state, is again ranked in the top 10 in the state rankings.

At No. 9, the Jaguars again seem to be a contender for the Region 3 crown, even though they lost a number of varsity wrestlers from last year's squad.

With tough competition from nearby rival Riverton, ranked just ahead of West Jordan at No. 8, and talented teams at all of the other Region 3 schools, the Jaguars will need good performances on a regular basis.

As a tune-up before region matches get into full swing after the first of the year, the wrestling team traveled to Hunter High School last week in a battle that will eventually help sort out the region seedings.

The Jags jumped out to an early lead and held on to the for the win, even though they surrendered 18 points to the Wolverines via forfeiture.

One of the wrestlers that helped coach Larry Jaramillo's team stay on top was Collin Grant. The 119-pound sophomore jumped out to an early lead.

"I wanted to win (it) because we gave up 18 points by forfeit. Our team needed the help," Grant said. "So, I was hoping to get a pin, and I did."

Grant, class 5A's fourth-ranked wrestler in his weight class, seemingly does not feel the pressure of his status.

"I think that people try to beat the kids that are ranked, and I just try and stay ahead," Grant said.

"Our team isn't doing too bad this year. We lost a lot of our good kids last year, but we are doing all right."

The Jaguar wrestlers seem to be having fun this season. A lot of that is credited to winning matches.

"Our coaches have been giving us a lot of inspiration on region," Grant said. "They have been helping us get prepared. I think that we have a good shot at winning region this year."

With the Christmas break here, most high school sports will be taking the annual hiatus. Next up for the Jaguars is a match at home against Riverton on Jan. 5, followed by the annual Jaguar Classic at West Jordan on Jan. 6 and 7.