Streak Continues - 37 and Counting

In a typically competitive dual, the Cougars displayed their top-to-bottom strength in front of approximately 1,500 fans in handing the Buchanan Bears their worst lost this season (and potentially a long time) 55-7 on Wednesday night. The Cougars would start fast and not look back, winning almost every close match and recording 6 falls in winning 12 of 14 matches on the evening.

Key wins came from Tyler Ceremello and has last second heroics at 160lbs, upending one of the state's top wrestlers in Matt Negrete (Buchanan) on a last second takedown to claim a 6-5 decision. In the most highly ranked match-up of the night, Zach Nevills continued his winning ways over fellow state-ranked wrestler Martin Fabbian (Buchanan) and got the ride out in the 3rd period for a 1-0 victory. In other matches of note, Daniel Gaytan made quick work of an old foe in Adrian Rodriguez (Buchanan), a wrestler he faced 7 times a year ago with all matches being within 2 points. Gatyan got a quick takedown, backpoints, and a fall to extend the team margin of victory. Alec Dieter took on last year's 4th place state finisher in Damien Arredondo (Buchanan) and displayed impressive dominance, running up a 13-0 score before winning by fall in the final round.

Upon recount, the Cougars now have a 37-match win streak dating back to January 24, 2007 (not 36 as previously thought). Here's how the streak began and has evolved:

2006-2007: 2 wins over Central and Clovis West to close out the year after a loss to Buchanan on 1-24-07

2007-2008: 7 wins at Clovis West Shootout, 5 league dual wins

2008-2009: 7 wins at Clovis West Shootout, 5 league dual wins, 1 win in non-league over Temecula Valley

2009-2010: 6 wins at Clovis West Shootout, 3 league dual wins, 1 win in non-league over Temecula Valley

The Cougars have two league duals left this year to try and extend the streak to 39 matches. Up next is the first annual "Tirapelle vs. Tirapelle Dual" with Central High School on Tuesday at Central. The team will finish the dual season with Senior Night vs. Clovis West on Wednesday, February 10th.