Castaic High School, one of the newest additions to the Santa Clarita Valley, is known for its innovative approach to academics and athletics, emphasizing career pathways, hands-on learning experiences, and modern athletic facilities designed to support a wide range of student interests. However, despite its growing list of extracurricular, one key sport is missing: wrestling. With increasing interest among students and parents alike, the push to introduce wrestling at Castaic is gaining momentum. Wrestling is more than just a sport—it’s a discipline that instills resilience, focus, and perseverance, qualities that are invaluable both on and off the mat.

Wrestling is one of the oldest and most respected sports in history starting during the mid-late 1960, offering a wealth of benefits to those who participate. Physically, it builds strength, agility, and endurance. Mentally, it fosters discipline, problem-solving, and self-confidence. Wrestlers must constantly strategize against their opponents, making quick decisions under pressure while maintaining control over their movements. 

The ability to push through fatigue, adapt to different styles, and recover from setbacks teaches resilience, reinforcing the mindset needed to overcome challenges both on and off the mat. The sport is unique in that it welcomes athletes of all body types and both genders, creating an inclusive environment where everyone has the chance to excel.

Beyond high school, wrestling can open doors to collegiate scholarships and professional opportunities. Many universities offer wrestling scholarships, making it a viable path to higher education for dedicated athletes. Coach Patty from the Valencia High School wrestling team commented about his personal connection to the sport, he shared:

“I started wrestling in 9th grade, and now my kids wrestle as well. Wrestling, for me, is the sport that most closely resembles life. It has challenges and struggles. It teaches you to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations, to trust a process, to keep on going, and to pursue your goals—all while others are trying to come at you and compete against you.”

Junior Alejandro, who has been wrestling for 13 years, also weighed in on the benefits of the sport and why it deserves more recognition:

“Yes, I think wrestling is very underrated in the state of California. For how big of a state we are, we have a tiny percent of people that wrestle. It builds a lot of grit long term, helps people get to college a lot easier, and instills values that people keep for life. Not enough people in California do it.”

The introduction of a wrestling program at Castaic wouldn’t just benefit the athletes—it would uplift the entire school. Wrestling tournaments are known to bring communities together, fostering school pride and excitement. The sport emphasizes personal responsibility and goal-setting, skills that can translate into academic success and increased motivation for students.

A successful wrestling program would also encourage family involvement, as parents and siblings rally behind their athletes. Traditions, such as senior night or regional competitions, could become a staple in Castaic’s athletic culture, further uniting students, staff, and families in a shared pursuit of excellence.

With community support and fundraising Castaic High School can raise the funds to acquire the equipment and coaches they need. Fundraising events, booster clubs, and sponsorship’s from local businesses could help offset costs.

Bringing wrestling to Castaic High School is about more than just adding another sport—it’s about creating opportunities, building character, and strengthening school spirit. As a wrestler myself, I’ve noticed a huge change in my character and how I’ve been managing things like self-discipline and school. Personally, I’d love to see wrestling here at Castaic.

With the community’s support, wrestling could become a defining part of Castaic’s legacy, giving students a chance to challenge themselves and represent their school with pride. Now is the time to turn this vision into reality and give Castaic students the opportunity to step onto the mat and into a future filled with possibility.