Six Decades of Champions, Coaches, and Opportunities That Helped Shape American Wrestling
Introduction Through Fresno City: The Gold Standard
For more than six decades, the California Community College Athletic Association (3C2A) Wrestling Championships have served as one of the most influential yet underappreciated developmental systems in American wrestling. While NCAA Division I championships capture the national spotlight each March, generations of elite wrestlers first developed their skills on California’s community college mats before advancing to NCAA success, international competition, Olympic teams, and coaching careers.
The 3C2A wrestling tradition began in 1959, when Fresno City College and San Bernardino Valley College shared the inaugural state championship. Since then, the event has evolved into one of the nation’s most respected two-year college wrestling competitions, operating independently of the NJCAA while establishing its own identity, competitive standards, and championship traditions.
Today, the 3C2A includes 24 wrestling programs stretching from College of the Redwoods in Northern California to Imperial Valley College near the Southern border. Although the number of active programs is smaller than during the sport’s peak years, the quality of competition remains among the nation’s best. The association continues to produce NCAA qualifiers, All-Americans, national champions, coaches, educators, military officers, and community leaders whose wrestling foundations were built at California’s community colleges.
The addition of Mission College in 2026, along with the reinstatement of Imperial Valley College and College of the Redwoods, shows that the tradition continues to evolve while preserving one of collegiate wrestling’s richest legacies.
A Championship Built on Tradition
The history of the 3C2A reflects remarkable longevity and sustained excellence.
During the 1960s and early 1970s, San Bernardino Valley College and El Camino College emerged as early powers, each winning five state championships. As wrestling expanded across California, more than 80 community colleges sponsored programs, creating one of the deepest and most competitive junior college wrestling landscapes in America.
Winning a California community college state championship became one of the most challenging achievements in collegiate wrestling. The state’s depth of talent meant that even historically successful programs faced significant obstacles in reaching the top of the podium.
Since the inaugural championship in 1959, only 16 programs have captured a 3C2A team title, highlighting the difficulty of sustained success. More than 70 colleges have produced at least one individual state medalist, demonstrating the championship’s extraordinary reach and competitive depth.
Throughout its history, the championship has served as both a destination and proving ground. Wrestlers who began their careers in the 3C2A have gone on to become NCAA All-Americans, national champions, Olympians, international medalists, and influential coaches throughout the wrestling world.
Fresno City: The Gold Standard
No program has defined California community college wrestling more than Fresno City College.
The Rams remain the all-time leader in nearly every major statistical category, establishing a standard of excellence unmatched in 3C2A history. Fresno City has achieved:
- 18 team championships
- 375 individual state medals
- 265 All-Americans
- 94 individual state champions
The program’s sustained dominance has spanned multiple eras, particularly during the 2000s and 2010s, when Fresno City became California’s premier developmental powerhouse. The Rams produced:
- 73 state medals during the 2000s
- 104 state medals during the 2010s
That remarkable consistency made Fresno City the benchmark for California community college wrestling and one of the most successful junior college programs in American wrestling history.
Much of that success came under legendary head coach Paul Keysaw, one of the nation’s most accomplished community college wrestling coaches.
A former NCAA Division I national champion and two-time All-American at CSU Bakersfield, Keysaw first built Moorpark College into a state championship contender before taking over Fresno City in 2006. Since then, the Rams have captured 10 state championships while consistently producing nationally recognized student-athletes.
Keysaw’s influence extends beyond championships. Throughout his career, he has guided hundreds of wrestlers to four-year universities while helping student-athletes succeed academically, athletically, and personally.
His career totals include:
- 245 state medalists
- 161 All-Americans
- 59 individual state champions
Keysaw’s impact reflects the true mission of community college wrestling: developing athletes, creating opportunities, and helping young people achieve their goals.
He summarized the importance of coaching in the 3C2A:
“Coaching in the 3C2A has been a blessing for me and my family. I have had the greatest job in the world—a wrestling coach. I have been able to teach life through the sport of wrestling and help kids achieve dreams, reach goals, and break the cycle.”
His career represents the foundation of California community college wrestling—a commitment to championship excellence, mentorship, education, and transforming lives through wrestling.
Legendary Programs Through the Decades
Although Fresno City College has established itself as the all-time standard of excellence, the history of California community college wrestling has been shaped by a collection of legendary programs that have built championship traditions, produced generations of elite wrestlers, and helped establish the 3C2A as one of the nation’s strongest developmental systems.
Since its inception in 1959, California community college wrestling has produced a remarkable legacy of competitive excellence, with a select group of powerhouse programs separating themselves as the most successful in state history. These programs have not only accumulated championships and statistical milestones but have also served as launching points for NCAA All-Americans, Olympians, national champions, and some of the most respected coaches in wrestling.
Behind Fresno City’s historic dominance, several programs have created lasting legacies that define the championship history of the 3C2A.
Cerritos College: A Tradition of Excellence
Cerritos College ranks second all-time among California community college wrestling programs with:
- 357 individual state medals
- 224 All-Americans
- 69 individual state champions
The Falcons have consistently been one of the premier programs in the state, combining championship success with an extraordinary ability to develop elite wrestlers.
Cerritos also owns one of the most impressive individual distinctions in 3C2A history, producing a record eight Outstanding Wrestlers, the most in state championship history.
Throughout multiple decades, Cerritos has remained a national-level junior college program, producing wrestlers who have advanced to NCAA success, international competition, and coaching careers throughout the sport.
Palomar College: A Championship Dynasty
Few programs have matched the consistency and longevity of Palomar College.
The Comets rank third all-time with:
- 301 state medals
- 145 All-Americans
- Six team championships
Palomar established itself as one of California’s dominant programs during the 1980s and 1990s, leading the state in medal production during both decades.
The Comets produced:
- 66 state medals during the 1980s
- 68 state medals during the 1990s
Under the leadership of legendary coaches and generations of talented wrestlers, Palomar became synonymous with championship-level wrestling. The program’s ability to consistently develop state medalists, All-Americans, and four-year university contributors cemented its place among the greatest programs in 3C2A history.
Bakersfield College: A Historic Power
Bakersfield College remains one of the most respected programs in California community college wrestling history.
The Renegades have produced:
- 245 state medals
- 140 All-Americans
- 37 individual state champions
- Four team championships
Bakersfield’s tradition has been defined by generations of outstanding wrestlers and coaches, including legendary figures such as:
- Miguel Gutierrez — two-time 3C2A Outstanding Wrestler
- Bruce Burnett — Olympic coach and influential leader in American wrestling
The Renegades have consistently represented the highest level of California wrestling excellence, developing athletes who have continued their careers at NCAA programs and beyond.
Sacramento City College: Northern California Excellence
Sacramento City College has been one of Northern California’s most successful wrestling programs throughout 3C2A history.
The Panthers rank among the state’s all-time leaders with:
- 239 individual state medals
- 33 individual state champions
Sac City’s success reflects the strength of Northern California wrestling and its ability to consistently develop championship-caliber athletes.
Across multiple eras, Sacramento City has produced state medalists, All-Americans, and wrestlers who have continued their careers at four-year institutions.
Mt. San Antonio College: The Modern Dynasty
While many historic programs established the foundation of California community college wrestling, Mt. San Antonio College has emerged as the defining program of the modern era.
The Mounties have captured:
- Four team championships
- 237 individual state medals
- 100 All-Americans
Mt. SAC has led the state in the 2020s, producing:
- 54 state medals during the decade
The program’s recent championship success has positioned Mt. SAC as one of the state’s premier developmental programs and a continuation of the long tradition of Southern California wrestling excellence.
Chabot College: A National Junior College Powerhouse
Chabot College holds one of the most storied legacies in California community college wrestling.
The Gladiators have accumulated:
- 191 individual state medals
- 115 All-Americans
- Five team championships
During the 1970s, Chabot became one of the nation’s premier junior college programs. Under legendary coach Zack Papachristos, the Gladiators dominated the state, leading all programs with:
- 43 state medals during the 1970s
Chabot’s success extended beyond California, earning national recognition as one of the top-ranked junior college programs in the country during the 1981-’82 season.
The program’s influence continues today through the many wrestlers and coaches who carried the lessons learned at Chabot into collegiate, international, and coaching careers.
Sierra, Santa Ana, and Modesto: Consistent Championship Contributors
Several additional programs have played important roles in shaping the depth and quality of California community college wrestling.
Sierra College has earned:
- 177 individual state medals
The Wolverines have consistently developed elite wrestlers and maintained a reputation as one of Northern California’s strongest programs.
Santa Ana College has produced:
- 171 individual state medals
The Dons have built a proud tradition of developing highly competitive wrestlers while contributing significantly to the strength of Southern California wrestling.
Modesto Junior College has also been a consistent contributor, producing generations of successful wrestlers and helping strengthen the Northern California wrestling landscape.
Historic Programs That Helped Build the Foundation
The legacy of California community college wrestling extends beyond the programs currently competing. Several discontinued programs made lasting contributions during the growth and expansion of the sport.
El Camino College finished its historic run with:
- 122 state medals
- 33 individual state champions
- Five team championships
Before the program ended, El Camino was one of California’s most successful wrestling institutions and played a major role during the sport’s expansion years.
Other influential programs including Cypress College, Diablo Valley College, and West Valley College each produced more than 100 state medalists, helping establish the competitive depth that made California community college wrestling nationally respected.
These programs represent an important part of the 3C2A story—a reminder that the legacy of California wrestling was built not only by championship teams but by countless athletes, coaches, and institutions that contributed to the growth of the sport.
The Numbers Behind the Legacy
The statistical history of the 3C2A reflects both excellence and remarkable balance.
Only 16 programs have ever won a state team championship, while more than 70 colleges have earned at least one individual state medal.
The all-time statistical leaders demonstrate the depth of California community college wrestling:
- Fresno City College — All-time leader in team championships, state medals, All-Americans, and individual champions
- Cerritos College — Second in state medals and record-holder for Outstanding Wrestlers
- Palomar College — Third in state medals and six-time champion
- Bakersfield College — Historic powerhouse with four championships
- Sacramento City College — Northern California championship leader
- Mt. SAC — Modern-era dynasty
- Chabot College — Historic national junior college powerhouse
The regional balance of California wrestling is equally impressive. Southern California programs lead the all-time medal race with approximately 2,535 individual medals, while Northern California programs have accumulated more than 2,070 medals.
Both regions have produced championship teams, legendary coaches, NCAA All-Americans, Olympians, and leaders whose influence extends throughout the wrestling world.
From Fresno City’s unmatched championship standard to the enduring traditions of Cerritos, Palomar, Bakersfield, Chabot, Mt. SAC, Sacramento City, Sierra, Santa Ana, and countless others, California community college wrestling has created one of the deepest and most successful developmental systems in American wrestling history.
The Current 24 Programs
Today’s 24 3C2A wrestling programs represent the continuation of a tradition that began in 1959. Although the number of programs has declined from the more than 80 colleges that once competed throughout California, the quality of wrestling remains among the strongest in the nation.
The current membership reflects the full history of California community college wrestling—from legendary championship programs to institutions rebuilding and expanding opportunities for future generations of wrestlers.
Divided into Northern and Southern Regions, these programs continue to provide student-athletes with opportunities to compete, earn an education, and develop into leaders both on and off the mat.
Northern Region Programs
The Northern Region features:
- Fresno City College
- Chabot College
- Sacramento City College
- Sierra College
- Modesto Junior College
- Lassen College
- Skyline College
- Santa Rosa Junior College
- Shasta College
- San Joaquin Delta College
- College of the Redwoods
- Mission College
Collectively, these programs represent nearly every era of California community college wrestling history.
Fresno City College remains the benchmark for sustained excellence, with a championship tradition unmatched anywhere in the state. Chabot College continues to carry one of the proudest historical legacies in junior college wrestling, while Sacramento City College and Sierra College represent the strength and tradition of Northern California wrestling.
Lassen College holds a unique place in California wrestling history. In addition to its 3C2A success, Lassen competed nationally in the NJCAA and captured four NJCAA national championships, establishing itself as one of the most successful two-year college wrestling programs in the country during that era.
The return of College of the Redwoods and the addition of Mission College in 2026 demonstrate that Northern California wrestling continues to evolve while preserving the traditions established by generations of athletes and coaches.
Southern Region Programs
The Southern Region features:
- Bakersfield College
- Palomar College
- Moorpark College
- Cerritos College
- Mt. San Antonio College
- Santa Ana College
- Rio Hondo College
- Cuesta College
- East Los Angeles College
- Lemoore College
- Victor Valley College
- Imperial Valley College
Together, these programs represent one of the deepest wrestling regions in American collegiate history.
Southern California programs have produced thousands of state qualifiers, hundreds of All-Americans, Olympic athletes, NCAA champions, and nationally respected coaches.
Cerritos College, Palomar College, and Bakersfield College remain among the most successful programs in state history, while Mt. SAC has established itself as the dominant program of the current decade.
The Southern Region also represents the continued growth of community college wrestling. The reinstatement of Imperial Valley College restored another historic program to the championship landscape, while institutions such as Lemoore College and Victor Valley College represent the next generation of programs building their own traditions.
A Pipeline to Greatness
Perhaps no statistic better illustrates the significance of the 3C2A than the exceptional athletes it has produced.
For generations, California community college wrestling has served as a launching pad for wrestlers who went on to achieve success at the NCAA, international, and Olympic levels.
The 3C2A has produced numerous Olympians, including:
- Jonathan Smith — Cerritos / 2024 Olympic Freestyle representative for Puerto Rico
- Joe Gonzales — East Los Angeles / 1984 Olympic Freestyle wrestler [World Bronze]
- Greg Gibson — Shasta / 1984 Olympic Greco-Roman Silver Medalist [earned 5 world level medals]
- Heath Sims — Cerritos / 2000 Olympic Greco-Roman wrestler
- Jamil Kelly — Lassen / 2004 Olympic Freestyle Silver Medalist
- Charles Tribble — San Bernardino Valley / 1964 Olympic Freestyle wrestler
These athletes represent only a portion of the international impact created through California community college wrestling.
The 3C2A has also produced generations of NCAA Division I and Division II / III All-Americans who developed their skills at California community colleges before transferring to four-year institutions.
Among those standouts are [not all inclusive]:
- Chris Tribble — San Bernardino Valley College / Arizona State University
- Bob Anderson — El Camino College / Adams State University
- Mike Remer — Chabot College / Cal Poly, SLO
- Nick Carollo — El Camino College / Adams State University
- Jeff Fern — Chabot College / Humboldt State
- Cliff Hatch — Diablo Valley College / Cal Poly, SLO
- Sylvester Carver — Chabot College / Fresno State
- Steve Markey — Chabot College / CSU Bakersfield
- Kevin Dugan – Chabot College / CSU Bakersfield
- Paul Herrera — Golden West College / University of Nebraska
- Stan Greene — Fresno City College / Fresno State
- Garen McDonald – Chabot College / CSU Bakersfield
- Joe Gonzales — East LA College / CSU Bakersfield
- Mike Bull — Bakersfield College / CSU Bakersfield
- Tom Gongora – Fresno City / CSU Bakersfield
- Alex Gonzales — Solono College / San Francisco State
- Robert Watkins — Chabot College / Humboldt State
- Serge Mezheritsky — Moorpark College / Fresno State
- Brent Wissenbeck — Sierra College / Humboldt State
- Bill Van Worth — Bakersfield College / CSU Bakersfield
- Perry Shea — Cerritos College / CSU Bakersfield
- Ati Conner — Cerritos College / University of Nebraska
- Paul Gomez – Lassen College / University of Nebraska
These wrestlers represent only a fraction of the hundreds of athletes who used the 3C2A as a bridge to NCAA success.
A Legacy of Coaching Excellence
The influence of California community college wrestling extends far beyond athletes. The 3C2A has developed many of the most respected coaches in wrestling history [e.g., Bruce Burnett, 2x 3C2A Champion for Bakersfield College went on to coach at the prep, Division I and Olympic levels], with numerous high school, collegiate, and international coaches having competed or coached within the community college system.
Through their leadership, these coaches have continued a tradition built on:
• Technical excellence
• Athlete development
• Mentorship
• Education
• Opportunity
The impact of community college wrestling is measured not only by championships won but by the lives changed through the sport.
Thousands of former 3C2A wrestlers have become educators, engineers, military veterans, business leaders, coaches, and community servants. For many athletes, community college wrestling provided a second opportunity—a pathway to higher education, personal growth, and lifelong success.
The true legacy of the 3C2A extends beyond championships and statistics. For more than six decades, California community colleges have provided affordable education, athletic opportunity, and a pathway to success for generations of wrestlers.
The association has transformed lives by allowing athletes to continue competing, pursue academic goals, and develop the discipline and leadership skills that wrestling teaches.
Although California no longer fields the more than 80 programs that once competed during the sport’s peak, the 3C2A remains one of the nation’s most respected community college wrestling conferences.
Its influence extends beyond state championships, serving as a launching pad for:
- NCAA All-Americans
- NCAA champions
- Olympians
- International medalists
- Championship coaches
- Community leaders
Few organizations have contributed more to the growth and development of collegiate wrestling in the western United States than the California Community College Athletic Association.
Its story is not simply about championships won—it is about opportunities created, careers launched, and lives transformed through wrestling.
Nearly seven decades after the first state tournament in 1959, the legacy of California community college wrestling remains one of the greatest developmental success stories in American wrestling history.
The Legacy of 3C2A Wrestling
The following feature provides an in-depth look at the twenty-four active 3C2A wrestling programs, organized into the Northern and Southern Regions, while celebrating the rich tradition, history, and lasting impact of California community college wrestling.
Dating back to the inaugural 1959 3C2A Wrestling State Championship, this comprehensive retrospective highlights the remarkable journey of each program through more than six decades of competition.
Each profile will showcase:
- State championship participation
- Team accomplishments
- State medal totals
- All-American achievements
- Individual state champions
- Championship milestones
- Significant historical contributions
In addition to honoring past generations, the feature recognizes the current leaders of these programs by including biographies of each head coach, highlighting their backgrounds, accomplishments, and roles in carrying forward the tradition of excellence within 3C2A wrestling.
From historic championship programs to emerging teams building their identities, The Legacy of 3C2A Wrestling celebrates the athletes, coaches, and institutions whose dedication and commitment have sustained one of California’s most respected wrestling traditions since 1959.
The championships are only part of the story.
The true legacy is found in the thousands of wrestlers whose lives were changed because they stepped onto a California community college wrestling mat.
3C2A NORTHERN REGION
FRESNO CITY COLLEGE
Medal Count: 375 [first medal – 1959 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 265 [71% of placers]
Individual Champions: 94 [25% of placers]
State Team Titles: 18 [1959*, ’62, ’75, ’89, ’93, ’94, ’98, ’01, ’06, ’08, ’10, ’11, ’12, ’16, ’17, ’18, ’19, ‘22]
HEAD COACH – PAUL KEYSAW [National Wrestling HOF – CA Chapter ’21 / CA HOF ‘12]
Since taking over the Fresno City College wrestling program in 2006, Paul Keysaw has become one of the most accomplished coaches in California community college wrestling history. A former NCAA Division II National Champion and two-time NCAA All-American, Keysaw has built a career defined by sustained excellence, championship success, and the development of generations of student-athletes.
Keysaw starred at California State University, Bakersfield, where he captured the NCAA Division II National Championship and earned two NCAA All-American honors. His success as an athlete shaped a coaching philosophy centered on technical excellence, discipline, and championship preparation.
He began his coaching career at Moorpark College, serving as head coach from 1996–2005. During his tenure, he guided the Raiders to three 3C2A State Team Championships, establishing Moorpark as one of California’s premier programs.
Since arriving at Fresno City College, Keysaw has elevated the Rams to unprecedented success. From 2006–2022, his teams captured ten 3C2A State Team Championships, further cementing Fresno City as the most successful program in California community college wrestling history. Under his leadership, the Rams have produced numerous state champions, All-Americans, and nationally recognized student-athletes.
Keysaw’s contributions have earned statewide recognition, including induction into the California Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2012 and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame–California Chapter in 2021. Beyond his championship record, he is respected as one of the architects of modern California community college wrestling.
CHABOT COLLEGE [Hayward]
Medal Count: 191 [first medal – 1963 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 115 [60% of placers]
Individual Champions: 32 [17% of placers]
State Team Titles: 5 [1972, 1973, 1980, 1982 Spring, 1982 Fall]
HEAD COACH – MICHAEL GRIJALBA
Michael Grijalba has brought championship experience, coaching success, and a commitment to athlete development to Chabot College since becoming head coach in 2023. A longtime figure in California wrestling, Grijalba has built his career around technical excellence, mentorship, and helping wrestlers reach their potential.
A graduate of Atwater High School, Grijalba competed in one of California’s strongest wrestling regions before continuing his career at California Baptist University. His experiences as a student-athlete helped shape his coaching approach.
Before leading Chabot, Grijalba served as an assistant coach at Modesto Junior College, helping develop state-level wrestlers while building a culture of accountability and competitive excellence. His leadership earned Big 8 Conference Coach of the Year honors in 2024 and 2025.
Throughout his career, Grijalba has helped develop multiple California Community College State Champions and All-Americans. Known for emphasizing fundamentals, discipline, and mental toughness, he continues to build upon Chabot’s proud wrestling tradition.
Grijalba has also remained an accomplished competitor, capturing a Veterans National Championship while continuing to contribute to wrestling at every level.
SACRAMENTO CITY COLLEGE
Medal Count: 239 [first medal – 1966 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 130 [54% of placers]
Individual Champions: 33 [14% of placers]
State Team Titles: 3 [1996, ’13, ‘15]
HEAD COACH – MARQUES GALES
Marques Gales has established himself as one of California’s leading community college wrestling coaches, combining competitive success, championship-level coaching, and a commitment to expanding opportunities for both men and women student-athletes.
Named Head Wrestling Coach and Assistant Professor of Kinesiology at Sacramento City College in 2019, Gales has guided the Panthers’ men’s program while overseeing the growth of SCC women’s wrestling into a full intercollegiate program.
A Fairfield native, Gales developed at Armijo High School before wrestling at Santa Rosa Junior College, where he earned two 3C2A State Championship podium finishes. He later competed at San Francisco State University, becoming an NCAA Division II national qualifier and earning All-Conference honors. He also earned a master’s degree in Sport and Exercise Psychology from Springfield College.
Before SCC, Gales served as head coach at Trinity College from 2013–2019, earning 2014 NCAA Division III Rookie Head Coach of the Year honors while building a successful program.
Since 2019, Gales has elevated Sacramento City College into one of California’s premier programs. The Panthers have captured five BIG 8 Conference Championships, recorded five top-four state finishes, and earned four BIG 8 Coach of the Year honors. He has coached four 3C2A State Champions, 17 All-Americans, and 35 Academic All-Americans.
Gales has also played a major role in advancing women’s wrestling in Northern California. After operating as a club program, SCC women’s wrestling became fully intercollegiate in 2024–25. In only its second season, the Panthers earned third place at the 2026 3C2A State Women’s Wrestling Championship.
Through recruiting, mentorship, and athlete development, Gales continues strengthening Sacramento City College’s wrestling legacy.
SIERRA COLLEGE [Rocklin]
Medal Count: 177 [first medal – 1967 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 94 [53% of placers]
Individual Champions: 22 [12% of placers]
State Team Titles: 1 [2007]
HEAD COACH – DON MARTINEZ
Don Martinez is one of the most respected figures in California community college wrestling, combining more than two decades of championship-level coaching with extensive competitive experience. Since taking over Sierra College in 2002, Martinez has built the Wolverines into one of the state’s most consistent programs.
Under Martinez’s leadership, Sierra captured the 2007 3C2A State Team Championship and three state dual-meet titles. His wrestlers have earned 16 individual state championships, 31 state finalist appearances, 64 All-American honors, and 89 state medals.
Before Sierra, Martinez spent 23 years as head coach at Natomas High School and six seasons as an assistant at Cordova High School, helping develop generations of wrestlers in the Sacramento region.
As an athlete, Martinez recorded 152 career victories at Cordova High School, became a CIF State qualifier, and continued his career at Sacramento City College and Sacramento State.
Recognized for his contributions to wrestling, Martinez was inducted into the Rancho Cordova Sports Hall of Fame in 2019. His legacy extends beyond championships through mentorship, athlete development, and decades of service to California wrestling.
MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE
Medal Count: 187 [first medal – 1959 | Last – 2025]
All-Americans: 82 [44% of placers]
Individual Champions: 15 [8% of placers]
State Team Titles: N/A
HEAD COACH – JESSE VAZQUEZ
Jesse Vazquez has helped maintain Modesto Junior College as one of California’s most consistent wrestling programs. Now in his eighth season as head coach, Vazquez continues the tradition of excellence established by the Pirates.
A former MJC standout and state champion, Vazquez brings the perspective of both a championship athlete and coach. His program emphasizes technical excellence, preparation, discipline, and student-athlete growth.
Wrestling for legendary coach Lee Ehrler, Vazquez placed third at the 2001 California Community College State Championships before winning an individual state title in 2002. He later became an NAIA All-American at Menlo College and helped the Oaks finish as national runner-up in 2003.
After serving as an assistant coach at MJC, Vazquez assumed leadership of the Pirates program and continued developing state qualifiers, medalists, and finalists.
In 2025, Modesto Junior College announced the addition of women’s wrestling, naming Vazquez head coach of both programs. The expansion begins a new chapter in MJC wrestling history.
Vazquez holds degrees from Menlo College and the United States Sports Academy and remains committed to education, mentorship, and growing opportunities within wrestling.
LASSEN COLLEGE [Susanville]
Medal Count: 105 [first medal – 1969 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 46 [44% of placers]
Individual Champions: 15 [14% of placers]
State Team Titles: 1 [1986]
Note: Lassen competed in the NJCAA from 1991–2005, producing multiple national champions, All-Americans, and four national team titles [1995*, ’96, ’97, ‘98*]
*Tied Garden City CC in 1995 and North Idaho College in 1998.
HEAD COACH – LONNIE NALLS [NJCAA Wrestling Hall of Fame]
Lonnie Nalls is one of the most accomplished coaches in California community college wrestling. A member of the NJCAA Wrestling Hall of Fame, Nalls has combined competitive success, coaching excellence, and opportunity creation throughout his career.
Returning to Lassen College in 2021, Nalls leads both men’s and women’s wrestling while establishing the school’s first women’s program. His leadership has helped restore Lassen as a respected Northern California wrestling program.
In 2025–26, Nalls was named Big 8 North Coach of the Year after guiding the Cougars to strong regional finishes. His program emphasizes competitive success and academic achievement, highlighted by a 98 percent graduation rate among student-athletes completing the program. More than 50 wrestlers have continued to four-year colleges.
As an athlete, Nalls was an NJCAA National Champion at Lincoln College, a national runner-up at Triton College, and later competed at the University of Illinois.
His first tenure at Lassen began in 1994, helping lead the program through one of its most successful eras, including four NJCAA National Team Championships.
Through championship development and expanded opportunities, Nalls continues to strengthen the Lassen wrestling legacy.
SKYLINE COLLEGE [San Bruno]
Medal Count: 102 [first medal – 1971 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 43 [42% of placers]
Individual Champions: 5 [5% of placers]
State Team Titles: N/A
HEAD COACH – JAMES HADDON
James Haddon has established Skyline College as one of Northern California’s respected community college wrestling programs through more than two decades of leadership. As Head Men’s Wrestling Coach and Kinesiology Instructor, Haddon has built a program centered on competitive excellence, academic achievement, and student-athlete development.
Since taking over in 2001, with the exception of the 2004–05 season, Haddon has guided the Trojans through sustained growth and success. Under his leadership, Skyline has produced California Community College All-Americans, state finalists, and a state champion while developing athletes capable of competing at the highest levels of 3C2A wrestling.
Beyond competition, Haddon has emphasized academic achievement, earning CCCAA Scholar Team recognition while reinforcing the importance of success in both athletics and the classroom.
Before coaching, Haddon was one of Southern Oregon University’s most successful wrestlers. He recorded 100 career victories, earned two NAIA All-American honors, and competed as a Greco-Roman All-American.
With degrees in Physical Education and Teaching from Southern Oregon University, Haddon combines wrestling experience and education to develop technically sound athletes prepared for success beyond the mat.
SANTA ROSA JUNIOR COLLEGE
Medal Count: 118 [first medal – 1972 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 39 [33% of placers]
Individual Champions: 6 [5% of placers]
State Team Titles: N/A
HEAD COACH – FRED DUERR
Fred Duerr has continued one of California community college wrestling’s proudest traditions while guiding Santa Rosa Junior College into a new era of success. A former Bear Cub wrestler and longtime assistant under Hall of Fame coach Jake Fitzpatrick, Duerr represents both the history and future of SRJC wrestling.
Duerr became head coach in 2022 after six seasons as an assistant, gaining valuable experience while helping maintain the program’s competitive foundation. He later assumed leadership of both the men’s program and the newly established women’s wrestling program.
Under Duerr’s direction, Santa Rosa captured back-to-back Big 8 Conference Championships and posted a 12-2 dual record during the 2025 season. At the 2025 3C2A State Championships, SRJC placed seventh, producing five state medalists and the program’s first individual state champion since 2012.
Duerr also guided the inaugural women’s program to a seventh-place finish at the 2026 3C2A State Championships, where Luana Stathopoulos became the first women’s state champion in program history.
A former two-time state medalist and Coast Conference champion, Duerr brings firsthand competitive experience to his coaching. He also serves as an Associate Instructor in SRJC’s Kinesiology Department and holds degrees from San Francisco State University and Fresno Pacific University.
Through championship success and program expansion, Duerr continues strengthening Santa Rosa wrestling’s legacy.
SHASTA COLLEGE [Redding]
Medal Count: 54 [first medal – 1968 | Last – 2025]
All-Americans: 20 [37% of placers]
Individual Champions: 4 [7% of placers]
State Team Titles: N/A
HEAD COACH – ERIN RAZO
Erin Razo serves as Head Men’s Wrestling Coach at Shasta College while also leading women’s wrestling at Simpson University. His career reflects success as both an elite competitor and coach while contributing to the growth of wrestling opportunities in Northern California.
A standout at Trinity High School, Razo captured a CIF State Championship, earned NHSCA national recognition, and became one of California’s premier high school wrestlers. He also achieved national and international success in Greco-Roman wrestling, winning championships at the AAU Nationals and Junior Olympics and earning a silver medal at the South American Games.
Razo continued his career at Lassen College before transferring to the University of North Dakota, where he became a two-time NCAA Division II All-American.
As a coach, Razo emphasizes discipline, technical development, accountability, and perseverance. Drawing from his experiences as an elite competitor, he continues mentoring student-athletes while expanding opportunities for both men’s and women’s wrestling.
SAN JOAQUIN DELTA COLLEGE [Stockton]
Medal Count: 49 [first medal – 1965 | Last Medal – 2019]
All-Americans: 20 [41% of placers]
Individual Champions: 3 [6% of placers]
State Team Titles: N/A
HEAD COACH – MIKE SANDLER
Mike Sandler has served as Head Wrestling Coach and Associate Professor at San Joaquin Delta College since 2003, establishing the Mustangs as a respected 3C2A program built on competitive success, academics, and student-athlete development.
Under Sandler’s leadership, Delta has produced more than 60 state qualifiers, 25 state place-winners, four All-Americans, and the program’s 3C2A individual state champion in 2010.
A defining achievement came in 2014 when Delta produced three All-State wrestlers who continued their careers at four-year institutions, reflecting Sandler’s commitment to long-term athlete development.
Academic success has remained a cornerstone of his program, with 24 Academic All-Americans developed during his tenure.
Through more than two decades of leadership, Sandler has helped maintain Delta College as a competitive and respected member of California community college wrestling.
COLLEGE OF THE REDWOODS [Eureka]
Medal Count: 17 [first medal – 1968 | Last medal – 2024]
All-Americans: 9 [53% of placers]
Individual Champions: 2 [12% of placers]
State Team Titles: 1976 [Small School]
Note: Program reinstated in 2023 after a 40-year hiatus.
HEAD COACH – BRANDON BENVENUTI
Brandon Benvenuti was hired in 2023 to restore College of the Redwoods wrestling after more than four decades away from competition. Under his leadership, the Corsairs returned to the mat while launching the college’s first women’s wrestling program.
In its first season back, College of the Redwoods finished 12th at the 3C2A State Championships and produced three individual state medalists. Through recruiting, athlete development, and program building, Benvenuti has created a foundation for future success.
Before arriving at Redwoods, Benvenuti gained coaching experience at Lindsey Wilson College, University of Central Missouri, Grand View University, and Oakmont High School.
As a competitor, he was a four-time collegiate All-American, finishing sixth at the NAIA National Championships for Grand View after earning previous honors at Lindenwood University and Sierra College.
Combining championship experience with coaching ability, Benvenuti has positioned College of the Redwoods as an emerging program while expanding opportunities for both men and women wrestlers.
MISSION COLLEGE [Santa Clara]
New Program Added in 2026
HEAD COACH – DUSTIN KIRK
Dustin Kirk brings championship experience as both an athlete and coach to Mission College, where he will lead the inaugural men’s and women’s wrestling programs. His hiring represents a major addition to California community college wrestling.
Before Mission, Kirk established Cerritos College as one of the premier women’s wrestling programs in the state. As the Falcons’ inaugural women’s head coach, he created a championship culture that produced four consecutive 3C2A Women’s State Team Championships from 2023–2026.
Kirk’s own wrestling career began at Cerritos College, where he became a 3C2A State Champion and two-time All-American. He later competed at King University, earning two NCAA Division II All-American honors.
After returning to Cerritos as a coach, Kirk quickly transformed the women’s program into a state powerhouse, producing champions, All-Americans, and nationally competitive athletes while earning multiple 3C2A Coach of the Year honors.
At Mission College, Kirk faces the challenge of building a program from the ground up. His experience creating championship programs provides a proven blueprint for developing successful men’s and women’s wrestling teams.
From community college champion to NCAA All-American and championship coach, Kirk represents the next generation of leaders advancing California wrestling.
3C2A SOUTHERN REGION
BAKERSFIELD COLLEGE
Medal Count: 245 [first medal – 1961 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 140 [57% of placers]
Individual Champions: 37 [15% of placers]
State Team Titles: 4 [1968, 1969, 2003, 2004]
HEAD COACH – MARCOS AUSTIN
Marcos Austin leads the Bakersfield College wrestling program, continuing the tradition of one of California community college wrestling’s most successful programs. A former 3C2A state placer and three-time NAIA National Qualifier, Austin brings competitive experience and coaching knowledge to the Renegades.
His background as both an athlete and coach provides a foundation centered on technical development, discipline, and preparing student-athletes for success at the collegiate level.
PALOMAR COLLEGE [San Marcos]
Medal Count: 301 [first medal – 1963 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 145 [48% of placers]
Individual Champions: 38 [13% of placers]
State Team Titles: 6 [1978, ’83, ’85, ’88, ’92, ‘02*]
*Tied Cerritos College.
HEAD COACH – TIM BOX
Tim Box is an accomplished wrestler, coach, and international leader whose career reflects competitive excellence, innovation, and a commitment to expanding wrestling opportunities. Since becoming Head Men’s and Women’s Wrestling Coach at Palomar College in 2021, Box has transformed the Comets into one of California’s premier community college programs.
A Bakersfield native, Box developed at Bakersfield High School, where he became a two-time CIF State medalist and three-time NHSCA All-American. He continued at California State University, Bakersfield and the University of Northern Colorado, earning Pac-12 runner-up honors.
Box’s accomplishments extend across multiple disciplines. He is one of the few American wrestlers to earn All-American honors in four styles and has accumulated nine national medals. In 2019, he captured a silver medal at the United World Wrestling Beach Wrestling World Series in Ukraine, becoming the first American male wrestler to reach the championship final.
At Palomar, Box engineered one of the most significant program turnarounds in California community college wrestling. After inheriting a rebuilding program, he guided the Comets from ninth place at the 2022 state championships to a historic third-place finish in 2024—the highest team finish in program history. His success earned him National Wrestling Coaches Association and 3C2A Coach of the Year honors.
Beyond the men’s program, Box helped reestablish women’s wrestling at Palomar in 2023, creating additional opportunities for female student-athletes in San Diego County.
At the international level, Box continues to serve as Head Coach of USA Wrestling’s Senior Beach Wrestling program, leading American athletes in global competition.
Through championship development, innovation, and leadership, Tim Box represents the evolution of modern wrestling coaching.
MOORPARK COLLEGE
Medal Count: 170 [first medal – 1974 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 92 [54% of placers]
Individual Champions: 19 [11% of placers]
State Team Titles: 5 [1990, ’91, ’97, ’99, ‘00]
HEAD COACH – LINDLEY KISTLER
Lindley Kistler has played a key role in restoring Moorpark College wrestling after an eight-year suspension. Hired in 2017, Kistler brought championship experience, technical knowledge, and a commitment to student-athlete development while rebuilding the Raiders program.
A member of one of California wrestling’s most accomplished families, Kistler was a CIF State medalist at Notre Dame High School, a Junior World Champion, and a two-time U.S. Olympic Trials qualifier.
He continued his career at Arizona State University before transferring to the University of Iowa. As a Hawkeye, Kistler earned two NCAA All-American honors, won two Big Ten Championships, and was part of three NCAA Division I national championship teams.
Following competition, Kistler coached at multiple levels, including Temecula, North Penn, and Newbury Park High Schools. His approach emphasizes fundamentals, preparation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
At Moorpark, Kistler has embraced the mission of community college wrestling by developing student-athletes academically and athletically while restoring the Raiders’ competitive tradition.
CERRITOS COLLEGE [Norwalk]
Medal Count: 357 [first medal – 1960 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 224 [63% of placers]
Individual Champions: 69 [19% of placers]
State Team Titles: 4 [1971, ‘95, ‘02, ‘14]
HEAD COACH – JOSH BROWN [Interim]
Josh Brown serves as Interim Head Wrestling Coach at Cerritos College, returning to the Falcons program where he achieved success as both a wrestler and assistant coach. A former two-time 3C2A All-American, Brown brings championship experience and Division I competition experience to one of California’s most historic programs.
During his time at Cerritos, Brown became one of the state’s top competitors. In 2018, he captured the 3C2A State Championship at 141 pounds while completing a perfect 25-0 season. He also earned All-American honors as a freshman.
Brown continued his career at California State University, Bakersfield, competing for the Roadrunners for three seasons. He earned sixth place at the Pac-12 Championships and served as team captain during his final seasons.
A graduate of Esperanza High School, Brown was a CIF qualifier, Masters placer, league champion, and team captain.
His coaching career began while competing collegiately, including work at South Torrance and Esperanza High Schools. He earned his degree in Criminal Justice from CSU Bakersfield in 2022.
As a former state champion and developing coach, Brown represents the next generation of California community college wrestling leaders.
MT. SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE [Walnut]
Medal Count: 237 [first medal – 1959 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 100 [42% of placers]
Individual Champions: 43 [18% of placers]
State Team Titles: 4 [2021, ‘23, ‘24, ‘25]
HEAD COACH – DAVID RIVERA
David Rivera has guided Mt. San Antonio College into one of California’s most successful community college wrestling programs. As head coach and kinesiology professor, Rivera has built a championship culture based on technical excellence, academic success, and athlete development.
Since taking over in 2010, Rivera has transformed the Mounties into a perennial contender, leading the program to its first 3C2A State Championship in 2021.
His teams have consistently competed among the state’s elite, earning conference, regional, and state success. Rivera’s ability to recruit and develop wrestlers has established Mt. SAC as a championship-level program.
His accomplishments have earned national recognition, including National Wrestling Coaches Association Coach of the Year honors in 2023 and 2025. He has also received multiple conference and state coaching awards.
Beyond competition, Rivera’s work as a kinesiology professor reflects the educational mission of community college athletics—helping students succeed academically, professionally, and personally.
Through more than a decade of leadership, David Rivera has built Mt. SAC into one of California’s premier wrestling institutions.
SANTA ANA COLLEGE
Medal Count: 171 [first medal – 1959 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 94 [55% of placers]
Individual Champions: 30 [18% of placers]
State Team Titles: 3 [1974, ‘05, ‘09]
HEAD COACH – VINCE SILVA [California Wrestling HOF ‘22]
Vince Silva is one of California community college wrestling’s most accomplished coaches, leading Santa Ana College since 2000 and establishing the Dons as one of the state’s premier programs. His tenure has been defined by championships, athlete development, and a commitment to student-athlete success.
Under Silva’s leadership, Santa Ana captured two CCCAA State Championships (2005, 2009) and became a consistent contender among California’s elite programs. The 2009 Dons produced one of the greatest seasons in school history, completing an undefeated campaign while winning both the CCCAA State Championship and State Duals Championship.
A proven developer of wrestlers, Silva has coached 75 state placers and 60 CCCAA All-Americans while helping numerous athletes continue their careers at four-year institutions. With more than 136 career dual-meet victories, he ranks among the winningest active community college wrestling coaches in California.
Before coaching, Silva was an elite competitor. A CIF State medalist at Santa Maria High School, he continued at Oklahoma State University, where he became a two-time NCAA Division I All-American and the program’s first walk-on/redshirt wrestler to earn All-American honors.
After college, Silva gained coaching experience at the University of Minnesota and University of Nebraska before returning to Santa Ana as an assistant under Hall of Fame coach Frank Gonzales. He later assumed leadership of the program in 2000.
Silva’s contributions have earned numerous honors, including CCCAA and National Wrestling Coaches Association Coach of the Year recognition. He was inducted into the California Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2015 and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame–California Chapter in 2022.
Through more than two decades of championship success and mentorship, Vince Silva remains one of the defining figures in Santa Ana College wrestling history.
RIO HONDO COLLEGE [Whittier]
Medal Count: 134 [first medal – 1967 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 65 [49% of placers]
Individual Champions: 15 [11% of placers]
State Team Titles: 2 [1979, ‘87]
HEAD COACH – MIKE TELLEZ
Mike Tellez has been a respected leader in California community college wrestling, serving as Head Wrestling Coach at Rio Hondo College since 2007. A former Roadrunner wrestler who returned to lead his alma mater, Tellez has built a program focused on athlete development, academic success, and competitive achievement.
Tellez competed for Rio Hondo from 1985–1987, earning 3C2A All-American honors before continuing his education at the University of Southern California, where he earned a degree in Psychobiology.
After returning to Rio Hondo as an assistant coach in 2006, Tellez helped stabilize and rebuild the program before becoming head coach the following season. Under his leadership, the Roadrunners have produced conference championships, state champions, All-Americans, and multiple top-15 state team finishes.
A longtime educator at Rosemead High School, Tellez combines classroom experience with wrestling knowledge to mentor student-athletes both academically and athletically.
His greatest impact extends beyond championships through the guidance, opportunity, and mentorship he has provided to generations of wrestlers.
CUESTA COLLEGE [San Luis Obispo]
Medal Count: 136 [first medal – 1970 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 50 [37% of placers]
Individual Champions: 9 [7% of placers]
State Team Titles: N/A
HEAD COACH – JOEY DANSBY [California Wrestling HOF ‘21]
Joey “Joe” Dansby is one of California community college wrestling’s most accomplished coaches, educators, and ambassadors. Since taking over Cuesta College wrestling in 2001, Dansby has built the Cougars into one of the state’s strongest programs while expanding opportunities for both men and women wrestlers.
Under his leadership, Cuesta has captured multiple conference championships in addition producing multiple individual state champions and 62 All-Americans overall. His success has earned five Conference Coach of the Year honors.
Dansby has also played a major role in advancing women’s wrestling at Cuesta, helping transition the program from a club opportunity into a fully established varsity program within the 3C2A.
Before coaching, Dansby was one of California’s top wrestlers. At Palma High School, he was a three-time league champion and two-time CIF State medalist before continuing at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he became a three-time Pac-10 medalist and two-time NCAA Division I qualifier.
He also achieved national and international success in Greco-Roman wrestling, earning U.S. National Team honors, multiple All-American awards, three U.S. Open medals, and competing in three Olympic Trials.
A Cal Poly graduate with degrees in Physical Education and Kinesiology, Dansby has also dedicated his career to education.
His honors include induction into the California Wrestling Hall of Fame (2017) and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame–California Chapter Lifetime Service Award (2021).
Through more than two decades of coaching, Dansby has created a legacy built on championships, education, opportunity, and service.
EAST LA COLLEGE [Monterey Park]
Medal Count: 66 [first medal – 1974 | Last medal – 2023]
All-Americans: 26
Individual Champions: 7
State Team Titles: N/A
HEAD COACH – MIGUEL SOTO
Miguel Soto leads East Los Angeles College wrestling, continuing the tradition established by one of California community college wrestling’s respected programs. Named head coach in 2021, Soto became only the third head coach in ELAC history.
Soto joined the Huskies staff in 2018 as an assistant under Hall of Fame coach Ralph Valle before assuming leadership of the program. He brought more than two decades of coaching experience and a philosophy centered on competition, academics, and personal growth.
Before ELAC, Soto built Downey High School into a Southern California powerhouse during a 14-year tenure. His Vikings won four CIF Southern Section Dual Meet Championships and earned multiple runner-up finishes while producing numerous championship-level wrestlers.
Previously, Soto led Canyon High School and developed his own wrestling foundation at John Glenn High School, where he became a CIF champion in 1995.
Under Soto’s leadership, ELAC has expanded opportunities by establishing an official women’s wrestling program, continuing the growth of wrestling throughout Southern California.
His focus remains developing complete student-athletes prepared for success in competition, academics, and life beyond wrestling.
LEMOORE COLLEGE [Formerly West Hills CC]
Medal Count: 58 [first medal – 2006 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 28 [48% of placers]
Individual Champions: 5 [9% of placers]
State Team Titles: N/A
HEAD COACH – MARCIO BOTELHO
Marcio Botelho is one of California’s most accomplished wrestling coaches and a leader in Central Valley wrestling. As Head Wrestling Coach at Lemoore College, he combines championship experience as an athlete with a commitment to developing student-athletes.
A graduate of Lemoore High School, Botelho became a CIF State Champion, Fargo All-American, and NCAA Division I All-American at Fresno State, where he competed at heavyweight.
After his competitive career, Botelho built one of the region’s strongest high school programs at Lemoore High School from 2009–2022, developing state-level wrestlers and championship teams.
In 2017, he took over Lemoore College wrestling and transformed the Golden Eagles into an emerging 3C2A program. His teams have produced conference success, state competitors, and All-Americans, earning Conference Coach of the Year honors in 2019 and 2021.
In 2026, Botelho became the inaugural head coach of Lemoore College women’s wrestling, adding another milestone to his coaching career.
Beyond competition, Botelho emphasizes academics. Under his leadership, Lemoore earned NWCA Scholar All-American Team recognition with one of the highest team GPAs among California community college wrestling programs.
As a CIF champion, NCAA All-American, and championship coach, Botelho continues carrying forward the wrestling tradition of California’s Central Valley.
VICTOR VALLEY COLLEGE [Victorville]
Medal Count: 37 [first medal – 1994 | Last medal – 2025]
All-Americans: 23 [62% of placers]
Individual Champions: 4 [11% of placers]
State Team Titles: N/A
HEAD COACH – ADAM VALDEZ
Adam Valdez leads Victor Valley College wrestling, bringing championship experience and a commitment to developing athletes in California’s High Desert region. Named head coach in 2025, Valdez continues the program’s rapid growth.
Before becoming head coach, Valdez served three seasons as an assistant, helping guide the Rams to conference championships and an eighth-place finish at the 2024 3C2A State Championships. He was also named Conference Assistant Coach of the Year in 2023.
Under his leadership, Victor Valley reached its highest statewide ranking in program history in 2025, climbing to No. 6 in the 3C2A rankings.
Valdez also remains active in high school wrestling, helping develop athletes at Hesperia High School and contributing to the growth of wrestling in the region.
A former standout at Barstow High School, Valdez was a two-time CIF State medalist before competing at Mt. San Antonio College, where he earned two 3C2A All-American honors. He later competed at Vanguard University.
With a background as both a competitor and coach, Valdez represents the next generation of leaders shaping California community college wrestling.
IMPERIAL VALLEY COLLEGE [Imperial]
Medal Count: 7 [first medal – 1964 | Last medal – 1979]
All-Americans: 7 [100% of placers]
Individual Champions: 1
State Team Titles: N/A
Note: Program returned in 2025 after a 40-plus year hiatus.
HEAD COACH – TONY LEON [National Wrestling HOF – CA Chapter ‘23]
Tony Leon is one of Southern California wrestling’s most respected coaches and program builders. In 2025, he returned to his roots at Imperial Valley College to restore men’s and women’s wrestling after a four-decade absence.
A former Imperial Valley College student-athlete, Leon’s return represents a full-circle moment in a career dedicated to expanding wrestling opportunities.
Before IVC, Leon built Brawley Union High School into one of California’s premier wrestling programs. During his tenure, the Wildcats won 24 consecutive league championships, 23 CIF-San Diego Section team championships, and four CIF dual-meet titles.
Leon developed numerous individual champions, state place-winners, and collegiate wrestlers while establishing a culture based on fundamentals, discipline, accountability, and character.
His service to wrestling has extended beyond coaching through roles as an athlete, official, mentor, and advocate. His accomplishments include induction into the California Wrestling Hall of Fame (2022), National Wrestling Hall of Fame recognition, and membership in multiple halls of fame.
At Imperial Valley College, Leon begins another chapter—building opportunities for student-athletes while continuing a career defined by developing champions and strengthening wrestling communities.
TOP 10 PROGRAMS EARNING 100 + INDIV. STATE MEDALS [Since 1959]
1 – Fresno City (N): 375
2 – Cerritos (S): 357
3 – Palomar (S): 301
4 – Bakersfield (S): 245
5 – Sac-City (N): 239
6 – Mt. SAC (S): 237
7 – Chabot (N): 191
8 – Modest JC (N): 187
9 – Sierra (N): 177
10 – Santa Ana (S): 171
TOP 10 MEDAL COUNTS [Discontinued Programs]
1 – El Camino (S): 122
2 – Cypress (S): 115
3T – Diablo Valley (N) / West Valley (N): 109
5 – San Bernardino (S): 75
6 – Golden West (S); 72
7 – College of the Sequoias (N): 50
8 – San Jose City (N): 39
9 – Orange Coast (S): 28
10 – Foothill (N): 23
TOP 10 PROGRAMS – ALL-AMERICANS [Top 4]
1 – Fresno City (N): 265
2 – Cerritos (S): 224
3 – Palomar (S): 145
4 – Bakersfield (S): 140
5 – Sac-City (N): 130
6 – Chabot (N): 115
7 – Mt. SAC (S): 100
8T – Sierra (N)/Santa Ana (S): 94
10 – Moorpark (S): 92
STATE MEDAL LEADERS BY DECADE
1960s: San Bernardino Valley (S): 61
1970s: Chabot (N): 43
1980s: Palomar (S): 66
1990s: Palomar (S): 68
2000s: Fresno City (N): 73
2010s: Fresno City (N): 104
2020s: Mt. SAC (S): 54
TOP 10 PROGRAMS – INDIV. STATE CHAMPS
1 – Fresno City (N): 94
2 – Cerritos (S): 69
3 – Mt. SAC (S): 43
4 – Palomar (S): 38
5 – Bakersfield (S): 37
6T – Sac-City (N) / El Camino (S): 33
8 – Chabot (N): 32
9 – Santa Ana (Rancho Santiago): 30
10 – Sierra (N): 22
TOTAL MEDALS PER REGION [Since 1959]
South: 2,535
North: 2,070
3C2A TEAM CHAMPIONS [1959-2025]
- Fresno City (N): 18
- Palomar (S): 6
- Chabot (N): 5
- Moorpark (S): 5
- El Camino (S): 5
- San Bernardino Valley (S): 5
- Mt. San Antonio College (S): 4
- Bakersfield (S): 4
- Cerritos (S): 4
- Sac-City (N): 3
- Santa Ana (S): 3
- Rio Hondo (S): 2
- College of the Sequoias (S): 2
- Sierra (N): 1
- Lassen (N): 1
- Diablo Valley (N): 1
Article Poster: California map depicting California’s 24 3C2A Programs as of 2026.
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