by David Tesitor
WALSENBURG- The Huerfano Journal is pleased to sponsor A Night of Champions where the seven former John Mall State Wrestling Champions will be honored with an invitation-only banquet followed by the unveiling of a four-by-eight foot banner listing their accomplishments. The banner will be displayed for the first time at the John Mall versus Trinidad wrestling dual meet beginning at 7 pm tonight.
For this event only, there will be no admission charge. The Panthers will accept any non-perishable canned good item for donation to Dorcas Circle food bank. They will also accept cash donations at the door.
Whether or not you are a fan of wrestling, this is an opportunity to help the Panthers honor seven state champions who have given John Mall High School the reputation it deserves. Come show your support and help us fill the gymnasium to capacity.
In addition to the Journal, which spearheaded the concept and provided the banner, this night was made possible by the generous support of the following local businesses, proud supporters of John Mall athletics and the wrestling program: Sandi Dotter of Dotter Abstract and Title, Susan Noga of Susan’s Flowers, Tony Amedei of George’s Drive Inn, Tom Powell of Walsenburg Insurance Center and David Tesitor of Tesitor Financial Services.
The athletic department will also bestow an honor on Pete Gomez, longtime teacher, coach, athletic director and staunch supporter of wrestling. The announcement will be made at the meet tonight. These wrestlers are being honored: Brett Corsentino, Pete Gomez III, Shane Salazar, Geno Trujillo Jr., Ivan Pacheco, Jess Vialpando and Bryan Crespin.
