Get to know Rio Rico HS junior wrestler Sophia Renteria
RIO RICO, Ariz. — Rio Rico High School wrestler Sophia Renteria secured her spot on the Arizona National Wrestling Team after competing in the AZ-USAW National Qualifier, held at Red Mountain High School on March 11th, 2023. The team will represent Arizona in the Fargo Cadet and Junior Nationals in July in Fargo, North Dakota.
Sophia is a girl’s junior division competitor in the 117 lb. weight class for Rio Rico High School, as well as competing in independent tournaments. She ended her senior year with a record of 42-13, thanks to her dedication and an intense training schedule.
Renteria says she trains at the gym every morning before school and attends wrestling practice 3-4 times per week after school. 鈥淔or the most part, I train with Coach Manny, the assistant wrestling coach at RRHS, he runs a few practices during the week here (RRHS). Outside of that, I travel up to Sahuarita to get on the mat at SHS,鈥� said Renteria.
The team鈥檚 season begins in March and competes until the end of July. She will face off against both men and women on the freestyle team. 鈥淒uring the high school season, I competed with only girls but going into the freestyle season, I look to challenge myself and get more competition by competing in both the men’s and women鈥檚 divisions,鈥� said Renteria.
She attributes her success to her coaches and parents, 鈥淢y coaches and parents have been my biggest supporters. They have been with me every step of the way and have helped guide me to where I am today. I would not be the person I am today without them. The coaches are always in my corner and provide me with opportunities to improve. My parents go out of their way to make sure they are always at my tournaments to support me.鈥�
Renteria has used every opportunity to gain as much knowledge about wrestling as possible. In 2022, she refereed at local tournaments and plans to continue this year as well. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a great experience to expand my wrestling knowledge and gives me the chance to give back to the community that has provided so much for me.”
Once the freestyle season is over, Renteria says she will continue to wrestle at the collegiate level. 鈥淚 have received multiple offers from NAIA, NCAA D2, and D3 schools. Currently, I am uncommitted but am looking to make a decision by the end of April. I plan to major in environmental science and hope to work in the National Park Services.鈥�
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