Aztec wrestling dominates Region 1-4A at Tucumcari, earns state berth

Aztec High School poured in 291 team points to win the Region 1-4A Championship at Tucumcari High School on Feb. 14, securing a berth at the New Mexico Activities Association state tournament at the Rio Rancho Events Center. "The Aztec High School wrestling team turned the mats into a showcase this weekend, crowning seven individual champions across 14 weight classes at the Region 1-4A Championship meet held at Tucumcari High School."

Junior Nathan Hare set the tone at 106 pounds, improving his season record to 38-8 with an 8-3 decision over West Las Vegas' Antonio Martinez in the title match. At 120 pounds, senior Ethan Vigil closed out a 10-4 victory over Taos' Max Maes to claim a regional crown. James Moore, a junior at Aztec, won a tight 126-pound final, edging Miyamura's Austin Lopez 7-6.

Aztec's middle weights were decisive. "The middle-weight classes became an Aztec stronghold as the Tigers reeled off four titles between 120 and 144 pounds," and Ian Vigil at 138 pounds pushed that run forward with a 6-3 win over Miyamura's Gage Sellers. "Ian Vigil is looking to earn his second consecutive state title," a line from event coverage that underlines Aztec's momentum heading into state.

The final team standings showed Aztec well clear of the field: Aztec 291, West Las Vegas 208, Miyamura 192, Moriarty 153.5, and Taos 132.0. Aztec wrestlers filled podium and place positions across divisions with CJ Saiz taking fourth at 113 pounds, Brody Segotta fourth at 175, Harvey Blackwater fourth at 190, Kegan Keller eighth at 150, and Jacob Diaz eighth at 285.

Bloomfield saw podium success as well. Saul Rodriguez earned third at 106 pounds via a quick first-period pin, and Bryce Lance reached the 113-pound final to finish second. Kirtland Central sent multiple finalists into the late sessions, including senior Todd Robinson, who entered the 165-pound final with 42 wins on the season. "At 165 pounds, Robinson, a senior, entered the finals with a staggering 42 wins on the season. He faced off against Douglas, who ultimately took the title with a 22-5 technical fall. Robinson’s second-place finish solidified his status as one of the region’s elite competitors." Teammate Chance Aspaas also battled into a division final.

With seven individual champions across 14 weight classes, Aztec departs Tucumcari with both depth and experience as it travels to the state meet. "The impressive performance by the Aztec team sets them up well for a big weekend when the best high school wrestlers in the state will converge on the Rio Rancho Events Center for the New Mexico Activities Association’s state championship meet, which opens Friday.