The Cerritos College wrestling team fought against Santa Ana College and defeated the Dons by a score of 12-3.

The comeback started at the  157-pound class when sophomore Jesse Ponce defeated Santa Ana opponent Aaron Lopez 9-3.

This increased the Falcons’ points  to 6-2.

Falcon freshman Cody Bollinger jumped out to a 6-2 lead in the first period at 165 pounds.

It was a 13-12 team lead after 174-pound Falcon freshman Thomas Estrada scored a 14-3 win.

Ryan Collins pinned his Santa Ana opponent  in the first period at 184 pounds.

“I feel like I did well, but my legs were exhausted due to leg breakdowns, and I won by 11  points,” Collins stated.

The Falcons jumped out early, as Delgado took a 4-1 win.

The  two matches Cerritos lost  were by close scores, with freshman Steven Cabanas losing 9-7 at 133 pounds and sophomore Tilman Tran dropping a 9-7.

The 28th annual Clinch Gear, also known as the Halloween Open, was hosted by Cerritos College last Saturday at 9 a.m. at Valencia High School in Placentia.

“[We were able to get] more practice in and be more aware of things when we wrestle,” Ponce said.

The location was changed this season due to the current construction of the Cerritos College Aviary Gym.

“The only thing that changed about the event was the location,” head coach Don Garriot said.”It was a drag because we have to move mats and clocks over to the venue.”

The wrestlers hosted and organized the event themselves.

Sophomore Eric Sauvageau said the event helped boost the bond between him and his teammates.

“I felt it was good to spend time with my teammates, have fun and host a tournament,” he said.

The proceeds of the tournament will go toward team expenses.

“It’s  hard to tell  right now how  much money was raised,” Garriott said.

“We have bills to pay for  medals  and officials, but I would believe like a  couple  thousand dollars will be  necessary to pay this year for the  venue.” 

The team will have its next tournament against Rio Hondo College this Wednesday at North Torrance High School.

Though it is an off-campus tournament, the Falcons will be considered the home team.