Hi everyone,
I wanted to bring up an incident yesterday involving Jimmy (Corona HS's Coach) at the CIF consolation rounds for the 135 lbs weight class between Corona and Tustin. During the match, the Tustin athlete suffered an injury. As the injury time was running out, she was getting up but the trainer wouldn't let her. Despite this, the Tustin athlete got up a second or two after the timer and was ready to continue wrestling. The referee, whistle in mouth with both girls at the center, was about to resume the match when Jimmy swooped in, arguing that the Tustin athlete had gotten up too late. The referee, easily influenced, sided with Jimmy and awarded the match to the Corona wrestler.
It's disheartening to see the Tustin athlete's hard work and determination dismissed because of Jimmy's interference. It seems clear that Jimmy recognized the Tustin athlete's superior skills and acted quickly to ensure she couldn't continue. This type of behavior is unacceptable and damages the integrity of the sport and trust in adults.
It's time for the wrestling authorities to step in and address individuals like Jimmy, who prioritize their own egos over the dreams and efforts of dedicated athletes.
Thanks to you both for the support and standing up for Samantha with us. We truly hope the culture changes for the next group of girls. We aren't done. If they think because she's a senior they can sweep it under the rug again, they are greatly mistaken. It's not even about Sammy anymore, it's about the future and doing what's right. The need to do better!