Christina Romero attends Rio Rico High School and is a member of the AIA's Student SID Program. 

 

Rio Rico’s wrestling program is ready for the postseason, as three Hawks will be competing for state championships in their weight class and divisions. The trio, led by sectional champion, Jessence Octavio-Callejo, will be competing from February 19-21 at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix.

Head coach Taylor Nordgren says that the sectional championship title came in part because of Octavio-Callejo’s hard work and dedication throughout high school.

“She’s completely committed to the sport and everything that comes with it, like having good grades, being a good person, and always showing up on time and communicating” says Coach Nordgren, “It’s no surprise to me that she’s having this success.”

It’s no secret that the physical and mental demands of the sport can be difficult to overcome. However, she has been able to embrace the challenges and take advantage of opportunities, allowing her to reach state for the third time in her career. 

“It’s one thing to be committed for four months, but she continues to practice as soon as the season ends,” says Coach Nordgren, “She goes to club practices, tournaments and she travels not only to Tucson but also to other states for these things.”

“I’m excited that I get to go to State again, this is a long time dream of mine,” says Octavio-Callejo, “I’ve worked inside and outside the room, going to practices, going to the gym, and doing it throughout the summer to give myself as much time as I could.”

Heading into the state championships, Octavio-Callejo won’t be representing Rio Rico alone. Josue Bonilla and Christian Torres also qualified to compete for a state championship, putting together a strong showing for the Hawks at this high level.

With a total of three Hawks advancing to the postseason, Rio Rico will be soaring towards the championship with confidence as they look to make a statement for the school and community. As they prepare to compete against the best in the state, Octavio-Callejo emphasized the strong-willed mindset the Hawks will be taking to be successful on the mat:

“Now it’s about grinding it out. This is where it all happens, right now.”