DOWNEY - The Warren High School wrestling team has started their pre-season wrestling schedule after winning the C.I.F. Division VI title last year and are the early favorites this season to repeat that feat.The Bears defeated very good Paramount and Downey squads twice each last year to win the title. After winning both league matches, the Bears defeated Paramount in the C.I.F. Division VI semifinal match by criteria decision, after a tie, and Downey 37-31 in the championship final. The Bears return several key wrestlers. Senior Andy Garcia (106), junior Darren Donate (120) and Andrew Fausto (160) all return with more experince and skill. Richard Medina (106), Adrian Duarte (113), Chris Angeles (138), Bernabe Perez (145), Andres Rojas (220) and heavyweight Ricky Juarez (285) are expected to contribute as well. Key losses to last year's championship squad are graduated seniors Jeremy Rocha (120) and Sean Thompson (195). Reigning Press Telegram Dream Team Coach of the Year Tim Brogden and his wrestlers are excited for this year's challenge and are looking forward to defending their title. Coach Brogden likes this year's group of student-athletes because they get along well and are willing to work hard. Brogden, as is the norm in league, is expecting tough competition from both Downey and Paramount and is stressing to his team that the title will be won or lost on the mat.

********** Published: November 29, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 33