BY ALBERT VILLEGAS
Special to the NEWS
EDINBURG, TX—Both San Benito High School wrestling teams remained impressive on the mat into the New Year, competing at the annual Cat Classic Tournament, which drew a multitude of teams from across the Rio Grande Valley.
More than 30 teams competed at the Edinburg ISD tourney, and the Lady ’Hounds finished as champions in the girls’ category, while the ’Hounds took fourth place.
It was the first competition both squads participated in since they hosted a quad at SBHS in late December.
At the Cat Classic, the Lady ’Hounds claimed the title, with one wrestler earning first place and five other teammates placing no lower than fourth. It was a team effort all the way through, as they competed against 34 teams.
“We performed exceptionally well and represented our school with pride,” Lady ’Hound Head Wrestling Coach Kristen Longoria said.
The 120-pound tournament championship was earned by Evelyn Balderas.
Among the second-place finishers were Savannah Ramirez (105 lbs.), Ruby Lucio (130 lbs.), and Madison Castillo (155 lbs.).
Third-place finishers were Briana Castillo (110 lbs.) and Deyanira Garcia (145 lbs.).
Natalie Cisneros placed fourth in the 100-pound category.
On the boys’ side, the ’Hounds placed fourth, with three competitors finishing in the top three. They included Brandon Salinas, who placed first in the 215-pound division.
Teammates Damien Hernandez (126 lbs.) and Roel Garcia (144 lbs.) each placed third.
Greyhound Head Wrestling Coach Juan Caballero said he is proud of his wrestlers, noting they showed effort, toughness, and discipline on the mat.
Now, both coaches are focusing their wrestlers’ efforts through Saturday, with district duals at PSJA and Weslaco High Schools.
Longoria said the district duals are scheduled to prepare SBHS for postseason competition at the end of the month.
The regional tournament is Friday and Saturday, February 6-7, 2026. The state tournament is Friday and Saturday, February 13-14, 2026.
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