Cornerstone Christian School Wrestling 2025 Winter Season Recap: Building a Strong Foundation for the Future
The 2025 winter wrestling season at Cornerstone Christian School was a testament to growth, grit, and determination. Head Coach Wesley Moore led a young but talented squad through a competitive season marked by strong individual performances, hard-fought battles, and a clear vision for the future of the program.
In this detailed recap, Coach Moore shares insights into the team’s key contributors, season highlights, challenges faced, and the promising outlook for the coming years as Cornerstone wrestling continues to establish itself as a formidable presence.
Key Contributors: Leaders Anchoring the Team’s Success
Cornerstone’s success this season was driven by several standout wrestlers who not only delivered excellent performances but also set the tone for the team’s competitive spirit.
At 157 pounds, Senior Joshua Cervantes was a dominant force. With an impressive 43-8 record for the season, Joshua earned 2nd place at the 2025 Prep State Championships and qualified for the Prep Nationals for the third time in his high school career. His leadership and consistent high-level wrestling were pivotal for the team.
Also making waves was Senior Dustin Duran-Villarreal at 138 pounds. Dustin finished 2nd at the Prep State Championships and secured his spot at Nationals, compiling a solid 37-15 season record. His determination and technique were critical assets throughout the season.
The third senior stalwart was Eric Ritchie at 175 pounds. Eric placed 3rd at Prep State and was a Prep National Qualifier with a strong 32-9 record. His leadership in the upper weight classes helped solidify the team’s overall standing.
The younger wrestlers stepped up as well, with Freshman Dylan Duran-Villarreal at 126 pounds achieving an outstanding 2nd place at state and qualifying for nationals—a rare feat for a freshman, signaling great potential for years to come.
At 215 pounds, Junior Jay Brogden earned a 3rd place finish at state and a national qualifier berth, demonstrating a strong presence in the heavyweight division.
Sophomore Shaun Hernandez at 165 pounds made an impressive mark, earning the distinction of a 2025 Adidas Nationals All-American, underscoring his rising talent on the national stage.
Season Performance and Highlights
Cornerstone’s 2025 campaign culminated in a 6th-place team finish at the highly competitive Prep State Championships. This strong showing was a testament to the hard work and collective effort of the entire roster.
Five wrestlers qualified for the prestigious 2025 Prep Nationals—a significant achievement that underscores the program’s upward trajectory.
Despite the hurdles of injuries and tough competition, the team maintained focus and demonstrated remarkable resolve throughout the season.
Emerging Leaders and Player Development
Coach Moore noted significant growth among several wrestlers who took on bigger roles as the season progressed.
Luke Burgio, a junior wrestling at 144 pounds, developed into a key contributor, showing improved technique and confidence on the mat.
Sophomore Shaun Hernandez not only excelled but also expanded his role as a reliable scorer and competitor.
Freshmen Dylan Duran-Villarreal (126 lbs), Antonio Domas (150 lbs), and John-Karl Centeno (113 lbs) all made significant impacts, wrestling like seasoned veterans and showing maturity beyond their years.
The emergence of these young athletes bodes well for the future, as they gain valuable experience and confidence competing at high levels.
Overcoming Challenges: Injuries and Adversity
No season is without its challenges, and Cornerstone’s team faced notable injuries, particularly to two key wrestlers:
Sophomore Shaun Hernandez (165 lbs) battled through injuries yet managed to earn All-American honors, showcasing his toughness and commitment.
Junior Luke Burgio (144 lbs) also faced injury setbacks but continued to grow and contribute to the team’s efforts.
Coach Moore praised the resilience of his wrestlers, noting that despite setbacks, the team stayed focused, pushed through adversity, and continued to support each other on and off the mat.
Senior Leadership: A Foundation for Success
The senior class played a crucial role in guiding the young team throughout the season. Joshua Cervantes, Dustin Duran-Villarreal, and Eric Ritchie were more than just top competitors—they were mentors, role models, and motivators who helped maintain team unity and competitive spirit.
Their impressive records and state placements reflect not only their individual talent but also their dedication to the program and younger teammates.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Cornerstone Wrestling
With the program entering its fifth season, Coach Moore is energized by the growth and hunger evident among his young wrestlers.
“We are young and hungry,” Moore said, emphasizing the promising outlook as many underclassmen who contributed significantly this past season return with more experience and determination.
The development of freshmen and sophomores like Dylan Duran-Villarreal, Shaun Hernandez, Antonio Domas, and John-Karl Centeno is especially encouraging. Their progress signals a new wave of talent ready to take the reins and build on the foundation laid by the senior class.
Coach Moore’s vision for the future is clear: continue cultivating wrestling skills, strengthen the mental toughness of his athletes, and foster a culture of hard work and commitment.
Accessing Stats and Contact Information
For those interested in following Cornerstone Christian School Wrestling more closely, detailed stats and match results are available on Trackwrestling, the primary platform for wrestling competitions and rankings.
Coach Wesley Moore welcomes inquiries and can be reached directly via email at wesley.moore@sa-ccs.org for further information about the program or individual athlete progress.
Conclusion: Building a Legacy Through Hard Work and Teamwork
The 2025 wrestling season at Cornerstone Christian School showcased the emergence of a promising program grounded in solid leadership, individual excellence, and a supportive team culture.
While injuries and tough competition posed challenges, the team’s collective resilience and the steady rise of young wrestlers signal a strong foundation for the coming seasons.
As Cornerstone looks toward the future, the blend of experienced seniors passing the torch and hungry underclassmen ready to step up creates an exciting landscape. With continued dedication to skill development, mental toughness, and team unity, Cornerstone Christian School Wrestling is poised to climb even higher in the state and national wrestling ranks.
This season’s story is one of perseverance, growth, and the promise of greatness—a journey just beginning for these young athletes and their passionate coaching staff. The Cornerstone wrestling community and fans have plenty to look forward to as this talented group continues to strive for excellence on and off the mat.
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