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Gadsden ISD recognizes state‑qualifying wrestlers; one student wins state title
Summary
The board recognized wrestling teams from district high schools after state tournament success, including a state champion from Gadsden High School — the district's first in about 50 years — and several student achievements and campus activities were reported by the student representative.
Board members recognized student athletes and coaches from the district’s wrestling programs during the March 6 meeting. Superintendent Dempsey and athletic staff introduced coaches and medalists who returned from the state tournament.
Santa Teresa High School: Coach Bridal introduced two seniors — Jenny Rico Hernandez (three‑year letter winner; state medalist with third place this year) and Isaiah Sanchez (three‑year medalist; third place this year). Bridal thanked the district’s athletic director, Karen Nugis, and praised the program’s equipment and support, saying the team “look[s] super sharp out there.”
Gadsden High School: Coach Velez reported that Mathias Sotto became a state champion this year. Velez noted support from the student’s family and assistant coaches and said the title was the first for the district in about 50 years; Sotto qualified three times for state, was a regional champion, and had a season record cited by the coach. Velez said Sotto is preparing to compete at the national level next week.
Chaparral High School: Coaches Ederalde and Torres introduced Kimberly Perez Lopez, a sophomore who finished fifth at state; coaches noted she was invited to national summertime tournaments in recognition of her work ethic and progress.
Student representative report: Jessie Calera, junior representative for Chaparral High School, gave a student report that included pep rally outcomes, BPA competition results, FCCLA state officer announcements, early baseball season scores, prom date (April 5, 2025), and the start of Down Syndrome Awareness spirit week plans.
Why it matters: Athletic recognition highlights student achievement and program growth across district campuses; the district noted the value of middle‑school wrestling as a feeder into high‑school programs.
