South Oak Cliff Wrestling Dominates 2025: A Season of Grit, Growth, and Greatness
In her ninth year at the helm, Coach Crystal Delley led the South Oak Cliff High School Wrestling Team through what she confidently calls the best season of her coaching career. With 64 wrestlers on the roster and a team culture built on hard work, individuality, and unity, the 2025 winter season was a thrilling ride from the opening match to the final whistle.
From three All-Americans to an impressive group of state and regional qualifiers, South Oak Cliff didn’t just compete this year—they made a statement.
A Team Like No Other
Coach Delley makes it clear: every wrestler on this squad brought something special to the mat.
“This year we had plenty of student-athletes that made this year special,” she shared. “Each of them comes to the mat with their own style, which allows them to be successful.”
That personal style translated into serious results. The team produced three All-Americans—Jeremiah Mendez, Maximus Ramirez, and Saniyia Masterson—an incredible feat that speaks to both the talent and depth of the program. And while Delley admits that breaking down each of the 64 wrestlers individually would be impossible, it’s obvious she holds deep pride in each one’s contribution.
Best Season Yet
Nine years into her coaching career, Coach Delley has seen her share of highs and lows. But this year stands out.
“This is probably our best season,” she said. “Yes, of course, we had some rough times, but greatness came from those experiences.”
From bouncing back after tough losses to adjusting strategies on the fly, the team never let setbacks define them. Instead, they used them as fuel.
Key Wrestlers Who Rose to the Occasion
Several wrestlers emerged as key leaders and high-performers throughout the season, showcasing massive growth and maturity:
Jeremiah Mendez, wrestling in the 285-pound weight class (despite weighing in at 240), underwent a major mindset shift this season. A two-time state qualifier, Mendez has shown his commitment to greatness, and he's returning for his senior year more focused than ever.
Iyonna Bonner, a junior and first-year wrestler, made a stunning impact by qualifying for regionals in her debut season. Her rapid progress shows just how high her ceiling is.
Gerrick Valentine had a stellar junior campaign, becoming a state qualifier with momentum going into his final year.
Rodolfo Moreno earned his own state qualification through sheer determination. Coach Delley notes that while he faced his share of challenges, he overcame them by giving everything he had on the mat.
Each of these athletes not only contributed to the team’s overall success but also laid the groundwork for what promises to be a powerful season ahead.
Bouncing Back From Losses
Like any sport, wrestling is about more than winning—it's about learning. And this team embraced that fully.
“Every loss became a learning opportunity,” Delley said. “We studied film, discussed mistakes, and worked on different strategies.”
The approach paid off. While the team did face some bumps along the road, injuries were minimal and recoveries were quick, thanks in part to smart training and close attention to wrestler wellness.
Senior Legacy
This year’s senior class left an indelible mark on the program, not just with wins, but with who they were as people.
“My senior class was amazing,” Delley said. Seeing those kids grow into great students, athletes, and overall people was amazing. They left a legacy we’ll continue to grow and instill into the upcoming wrestlers.”
That kind of leadership will have a lasting impact, especially on the younger athletes who are already showing promise.
Looking to the Future
Coach Delley has every reason to be excited about next year.
“We’ve got 4 state qualifiers, 14 regional qualifiers, and plenty of upcoming freshmen returning,” she said.
That’s a strong foundation, and when paired with the offseason activities the team is engaging in—like USA Wrestling events, training camps, and summer workouts—it’s clear South Oak Cliff is building toward an even brighter future.
Weight training and tactical development will continue to be key focuses. But Coach Delley also believes in the power of mental reset: “Honestly, summer break is also important. Sometimes a mental break is the improvement.”
Where to Find the Numbers
For those who want to follow the team’s stats and performance data, each wrestler’s records can be found on Track Wrestling—a go-to resource for high school wrestling fans and coaches alike.
More Than Just a Team
With 64 wrestlers, countless victories, three All-Americans, and a coach who leads with heart and strategy, South Oak Cliff Wrestling is more than just a team—they're a force.
This season was about discovering what each athlete brings to the table, growing through adversity, and building a legacy that future wrestlers will be proud to inherit. The mat has become a place where individuality meets unity, where grit turns into greatness, and where Coach Crystal Delley continues to lead one of the most dynamic wrestling programs in the state.
As the countdown to next season begins, one thing is certain: South Oak Cliff Wrestling isn’t done making history—they’re just getting started.
, underwent a major mindset shift this season. A two-time state qualifier, Mendez has shown his commitment to greatness, and he's returning for his senior year more focused than ever.
Iyonna Bonner, a junior and first-year wrestler, made a stunning impact by qualifying for regionals in her debut season. Her rapid progress shows just how high her ceiling is.
Gerrick Valentine had a stellar junior campaign, becoming a state qualifier with momentum going into his final year.
Rodolfo Moreno earned his own state qualification through sheer determination. Coach Delley notes that while he faced his share of challenges, he overcame them by giving everything he had on the mat.
Each of these athletes not only contributed to the team’s overall success but also laid the groundwork for what promises to be a powerful season ahead.
Bouncing Back From Losses
Like any sport, wrestling is about more than winning—it's about learning. And this team embraced that fully.
“Every loss became a learning opportunity,” Delley said. “We studied film, discussed mistakes, and worked on different strategies.”
The approach paid off. While the team did face some bumps along the road, injuries were minimal and recoveries were quick, thanks in part to smart training and close attention to wrestler wellness.
Senior Legacy
This year’s senior class left an indelible mark on the program, not just with wins, but with who they were as people.
“My senior class was amazing,” Delley said. Seeing those kids grow into great students, athletes, and overall people was amazing. They left a legacy we’ll continue to grow and instill into the upcoming wrestlers.”
That kind of leadership will have a lasting impact, especially on the younger athletes who are already showing promise.
Looking to the Future
Coach Delley has every reason to be excited about next year.
“We’ve got 4 state qualifiers, 14 regional qualifiers, and plenty of upcoming freshmen returning,” she said.
That’s a strong foundation, and when paired with the offseason activities the team is engaging in—like USA Wrestling events, training camps, and summer workouts—it’s clear South Oak Cliff is building toward an even brighter future.
Weight training and tactical development will continue to be key focuses. But Coach Delley also believes in the power of mental reset: “Honestly, summer break is also important. Sometimes a mental break is the improvement.”
Where to Find the Numbers
For those who want to follow the team’s stats and performance data, each wrestler’s records can be found on Track Wrestling—a go-to resource for high school wrestling fans and coaches alike.
More Than Just a Team
With 64 wrestlers, countless victories, three All-Americans, and a coach who leads with heart and strategy, South Oak Cliff Wrestling is more than just a team—they're a force.
This season was about discovering what each athlete brings to the table, growing through adversity, and building a legacy that future wrestlers will be proud to inherit. The mat has become a place where individuality meets unity, where grit turns into greatness, and where Coach Crystal Delley continues to lead one of the most dynamic wrestling programs in the state.
As the countdown to next season begins, one thing is certain: South Oak Cliff Wrestling isn’t done making history—they’re just getting started.)
Share With