Serving the High Plains

Rattler wrestlers ready to improve

The Tucumcari Rattlers Wrestling team returns from the Christmas break focused and determined to improve their conditioning.

QCS photos: Thomas Garcia

Eddie Encinias, Rattlers head wrestling coach, watches as Dillon Wood and Timmy Skinner practice in preparation for the Saint Michael's tournament in Santa Fe.

"January is going to be grueling, and these guys can handle it," said Eddie Encinias, Rattlers head coach.

Encinias said the level of competition the team will face between now and district will only increase. He said team knows they have to increase the level of their conditioning and strength.

"There are only so many tournaments left and little time to improve so we must work harder," said Dillon Wood.

Wood said he and his fellow Rattlers are pushing themselves harder knowing the competition only gets tougher from here on out.

Encinias said this weekend the Rattlers will compete in a two day tournament at Saint Michael's in Santa Fe. He said this tournament will give his team the opportunity to see a lot of the 3A competition from across the state.

"Saint Michael's tournament is a great way to see where we stack up," Encinias said.

"We have to step it up, there is a long way for all of us to go with a short time to do what is needed," said Augstin Sandoval.

Encinias said the team is still working on setting their weight classes and making the necessary adjustments. He said following Saint Michael's tournament the team will know what adjustments to be made in preparation for district and state.