Seven High Desert Wrestlers Qualify for State Championships NOW

BREAKING: Seven wrestlers from the High Desert region have officially qualified for the CIF State Championships in Bakersfield after an intense day at the CIF-Southern Section Masters. These elite competitors, including standout brothers Cael and Jackson Humphrey, are set to showcase their skills from February 26-28, 2023.

This year’s Masters competition was fiercely competitive, with the High Desert wrestlers delivering impressive performances. Sultana High School leads the charge with three qualifiers: Cael Humphrey, a junior, and his brother Jackson Humphrey, a sophomore, both returning for another shot at the title. Hesperia High School also boasts three contenders, featuring repeat qualifiers Emiliano Hernandez and Max Stevenson, alongside heavyweight Zander West, the lone representative from Victor Valley.

In a dramatic turn, Zander West improved from last year’s fourth-place finish to secure second place this time, demonstrating his determination. He dominated earlier matches with swift pinfalls before narrowly losing to Centennial’s Angel Rodriguez by decision (7-2).

Meanwhile, Cael Humphrey, ranked fifth in the state, also claimed second place in the 132-pound division. He powered through his matches, pinning formidable opponents before falling to Nathan Carrillo from St. John Bosco, who is ranked third in California.

“The competition was tough, but we are ready for the state championships,” said Cael Humphrey.

The High Desert’s representation at the CIF State Championships reflects a strong showing at the Masters, where 28 boys from the region competed across multiple weight classes, each vying for a coveted spot in Bakersfield.

Here’s how the other four High Desert wrestlers secured their qualifications:

• Emiliano Hernandez (Hesperia, 150 pounds): After a series of challenging matches, he fought back through the consolation bracket, ultimately securing third place.
• Jackson Humphrey (Sultana, 126 pounds): After winning early matches, he faced a tough loss in the third-place match, but his earlier victories secured his state spot.
• Jonathan Ugarte (Hesperia, 157 pounds): Ugarte showcased resilience, battling through the brackets to clinch a fifth-place finish.
• Maddox Hazard (Sultana, 120 pounds): He also fought hard through the tournament, ensuring his place in the upcoming state competition.
• Max Stevenson (Hesperia, 175 pounds): Stevenson’s strong performances led him to a solid finish, confirming his spot at the state championships.

The CIF State Wrestling Championships will be held at the Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield, where these talented wrestlers will face off against the best in California. As the excitement builds, fans and families are rallying behind their local heroes, hoping for a triumphant showing.

Stay tuned for more updates as the High Desert wrestlers prepare to compete on the state stage. With their dedication and skill, they are primed to make an impact in Bakersfield!