Big Valley Christian Wrestling 2025 Season Recap: A Grit-Fueled Journey to Glory
The 2025 winter season proved to be one of the most inspiring and hard-fought campaigns in the history of Big Valley Christian Wrestling. Despite facing early doubts, league realignment, and the loss of key wrestlers from the previous year, the Lions didn’t just survive—they thrived. Under the dedicated leadership of Coach Scott Stubbert, the team battled its way to a Division VI Section Championship and a second-place finish in a tough league, cementing its place as a rising force in the sport.
As part of our 2025 Winter Season Recap Series, we sat down with Coach Stubbert to reflect on the defining players, unforgettable moments, and the heart that powered this historic season.
Senior Leadership and Sibling Standouts
The foundation of this year’s success was built on the shoulders of standout athletes like Nehemiah Stubbert and Ezra Stubbert, two brothers who led by both action and attitude.
Nehemiah, a senior at 126 lbs, was the team’s anchor and emotional core. “He was a constant force on the mat and a tough competitor,” said Coach Stubbert. Nehemiah qualified for Masters for the second straight year, became the first wrestler in school history to surpass 100 matches, and now holds several school records across season and career categories. His leadership in the practice room helped sharpen every teammate.
Ezra, a junior at 150 lbs, led the team in most statistical categories and captured the Division V Championship, becoming only the second wrestler from the school to do so. Calm, composed, and humble, Ezra modeled what it meant to wrestle with excellence and grace. “His nonchalant and grounded approach served as a powerful example to his teammates,” Stubbert shared.
Together, the Stubbert brothers embodied the team’s core values: dedication, humility, and relentless pursuit of growth.
Defying Expectations
Coach Stubbert was candid about his initial expectations for the season. “At the start, I didn’t have high hopes,” he admitted. The team had been placed in a tougher league and faced the challenge of replacing key wrestlers. But adversity became motivation.
Week by week, match by match, the Lions clawed their way into contention. Their resolve culminated in a second-place league finish and ultimately the Division VI Section Title, a stunning achievement fueled by unity and heart. “Our young men rose to the challenge and truly competed,” said Stubbert.
What stood out wasn’t just the winning—it was how they won. “The biggest highlights weren’t just the victories,” Stubbert said. “It was the way our wrestlers stepped up—not for personal glory, but for the good of the team.”
Turning Points and Unforgettable Moments
Every great season is marked by defining moments, and Big Valley Christian’s path to the title was no exception.
One such spark came from senior Luke “Bobo” Hensley, who wrestled at 190 lbs. In key matchups, Hensley came from behind to pin favored opponents, swinging momentum and morale. “He never gave up—he flipped the script multiple times,” said Coach Stubbert.
But perhaps the biggest turning point came in a league dual against Linden High School. Underdogs on paper, the Lions defied expectations and secured a pivotal win. “Everything fell into place that night,” Stubbert recalled. That victory clinched their Team Sections berth.
The season’s crescendo came in the D6 Section Final against Waterford. With the entire championship on the line, the match came down to first-year wrestler Jonah Cheek, who bumped up from 215 to heavyweight. In a storybook finish, Jonah pinned his opponent in the second period, sealing the win and the championship. “It was the perfect example of heart, courage, and team-first mentality,” said Stubbert.
Growth in Every Weight Class
Several wrestlers blossomed into critical roles as the season progressed.
Luke “Bobo” Hensley transformed his senior year into a breakout campaign. After cutting weight and battling for his position, he earned his spot through grit and technique. His mastery of the lat drop became a game-changer in tight matches.
Luke Magelos, a sophomore at 165 lbs, started the year slow but showed remarkable tenacity. By the end of the season, he had become a dependable competitor. “His growth showed his potential and value,” noted Stubbert.
Then there was freshman Noah Pimentel, who stepped into the 144 lbs slot after a teammate’s injury. Thrown into the fire early, Noah used his natural strength and conditioning to deliver crucial early-season wins. “His willingness to step up set the tone for our younger group,” said Stubbert.
Resilience Through Adversity
Wrestling is a sport that teaches toughness, both physical and mental. For Big Valley Christian, the 2025 season tested their resilience repeatedly.
Injuries plagued several seniors—one went down on the very first day of practice. But instead of walking away, he remained a visible presence: coaching, encouraging, and supporting his teammates. “His willingness to serve from the sidelines was a powerful example,” Stubbert said.
Even those who eventually returned to competition took on mentor roles, helping to cultivate a team-first culture. This ethos of accountability and servant leadership became the glue that held the program together.
“When the moment was right, they fought to get out, reverse momentum, and take control,” Stubbert explained. “That mindset served us well—not just in matches, but throughout the season.”
Legacy of the Senior Class
This senior class left a legacy beyond wins and stats. “They took ownership of the program,” said Stubbert. “They set the tone in the practice room and laid a strong foundation that will continue to influence the team.”
Whether they were on the mat or supporting from the sidelines, their commitment, character, and leadership elevated the entire program. Their influence will be felt for years to come.
The Road Ahead
Looking to next season, Coach Stubbert is optimistic. The team will be younger, with just two seniors, but there’s no shortage of potential. “Many of our juniors are developing a deeper understanding of the sport,” he said. He’s particularly excited about their ability to mentor newcomers, passing on the lessons learned from this season’s battles.
Without a formal feeder program, the Lions often start from scratch with new wrestlers. But that hasn’t stopped them from growing—and growing stronger. With continued development, Coach Stubbert believes the team has a real shot at a historic milestone next year: sending its first wrestler to the state tournament.
Offseason and Tracking Progress
While Coach Stubbert didn’t specify offseason goals in detail, his focus remains clear: continued improvement, team unity, and building a culture of discipline and growth.
Fans and families can track the team’s progress and view full match records and rankings on Trackwrestling, where all stats for the 2025 season are archived.
Final Thoughts
This season was more than a collection of matches—it was a masterclass in perseverance, leadership, and transformation. Big Valley Christian Wrestling showed that it’s not the size of the school or the strength of tradition that wins championships—it’s heart, hard work, and brotherhood.
The Lions didn’t just wrestle—they inspired. And if 2025 was any indication, the best is yet to come.
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