Season of Growth and Commitment
The West Covina High School Wrestling team took a major step forward this season, showcasing increased numbers, stronger performances, and a culture of commitment that promises a bright future. With standout leadership from returning athletes and an influx of determined young wrestlers, Co-Head Coach Michael Morales calls this season “better than previous years”—and for good reason.
Key Contributors Lead On and Off the Mat
Several athletes played pivotal roles in shaping the team's competitive edge and culture:
Melissa Acosta (Junior, 110 lbs) – The vocal team leader ensured her teammates were focused and disciplined, keeping practices on track and energy high.
Aaron Contreras (Junior, 106 lbs) – Known for his technical knowledge and willingness to help new teammates, he led by example in the wrestling room.
Julie Cimarusti (Sophomore, 140 lbs) – Her nonstop motor and infectious personality inspired others to push harder and stay motivated.
Season Highlights and Competitive Success
The girls’ program shone this year with a Master's CIF Finalist, a Master's Champion, and a state qualifier who placed in the top 16 in California—a massive accomplishment. On the boys’ side, a talented but youthful squad showed great promise, culminating in two CIF placers and growing momentum for the program.
“Our numbers were up and the commitment was evident throughout the season,” Coach Morales noted.
Turning Points: Preseason & Postseason Buy-In
The team’s transformation was evident well before competition started. Wrestlers showed up in high numbers for preseason workouts and continued training deep into the offseason, signaling a cultural shift toward year-round development.
Emerging Talent Stepping Up
This year saw several athletes rise to new challenges:
Joseph Castillo (Junior) – A first-year wrestler, Castillo rapidly developed skills and changed his weight class to help fill a key need at 138 lbs.
Josiah (Junior) – Despite a rough start, Josiah stayed committed and finished the season as a CIF placer, showing tremendous growth and resilience.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Losses and setbacks didn’t break this team—they fueled it. Even after tough defeats, the wrestlers returned the next day ready to improve, demonstrating mental toughness and a willingness to grow.
“We had some tough losses, but the kids were always there the next day,” Coach Morales said. “That speaks volumes.”
A Young Core with Big Potential
While the senior class wasn’t highlighted for leadership, the youth movement is what excites the coaching staff most. With many underclassmen returning—and already participating in offseason practices and tournaments—the groundwork is being laid for an even stronger season next year.
Offseason Goals and Future Focus
Heading into the offseason, the focus will be on increasing wrestling IQ, developing mental toughness, and improving strength and agility to prepare for higher levels of competition.
“We’re on the right track, and the offseason will be key to unlocking our full potential,” said Morales.
 – The vocal team leader ensured her teammates were focused and disciplined, keeping practices on track and energy high.
Aaron Contreras (Junior, 106 lbs) – Known for his technical knowledge and willingness to help new teammates, he led by example in the wrestling room.
Julie Cimarusti (Sophomore, 140 lbs) – Her nonstop motor and infectious personality inspired others to push harder and stay motivated.
Season Highlights and Competitive Success
The girls’ program shone this year with a Master's CIF Finalist, a Master's Champion, and a state qualifier who placed in the top 16 in California—a massive accomplishment. On the boys’ side, a talented but youthful squad showed great promise, culminating in two CIF placers and growing momentum for the program.
“Our numbers were up and the commitment was evident throughout the season,” Coach Morales noted.
Turning Points: Preseason & Postseason Buy-In
The team’s transformation was evident well before competition started. Wrestlers showed up in high numbers for preseason workouts and continued training deep into the offseason, signaling a cultural shift toward year-round development.
Emerging Talent Stepping Up
This year saw several athletes rise to new challenges:
Joseph Castillo (Junior) – A first-year wrestler, Castillo rapidly developed skills and changed his weight class to help fill a key need at 138 lbs.
Josiah (Junior) – Despite a rough start, Josiah stayed committed and finished the season as a CIF placer, showing tremendous growth and resilience.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Losses and setbacks didn’t break this team—they fueled it. Even after tough defeats, the wrestlers returned the next day ready to improve, demonstrating mental toughness and a willingness to grow.
“We had some tough losses, but the kids were always there the next day,” Coach Morales said. “That speaks volumes.”
A Young Core with Big Potential
While the senior class wasn’t highlighted for leadership, the youth movement is what excites the coaching staff most. With many underclassmen returning—and already participating in offseason practices and tournaments—the groundwork is being laid for an even stronger season next year.
Offseason Goals and Future Focus
Heading into the offseason, the focus will be on increasing wrestling IQ, developing mental toughness, and improving strength and agility to prepare for higher levels of competition.
“We’re on the right track, and the offseason will be key to unlocking our full potential,” said Morales.
)
Share With