Returnees Reyes, Bowman lead Fernley wrestlers

Robert Perea, The Fernley Reporter

Returning state qualifiers A.C. Reyes and Cameron Bowman lead a strong group of returnees for the Fernley High School wrestling team, which opens the season this weekend at the 45th annual Chester Invitational at Lassen Community College in Susanville.

Reyes placed fourth in the Division I-A, now 3A, State Tournament last season, while Bowman qualified for State at 152 pounds.

Other wrestlers returning for Fernley are Jared Caulk, Gabe Richards, Harry McDonald, Lonnie Slapinski, Shawn Gleason, and Willy Pritchard.

“A few of these guys will be starting their second year and they are primed to make a big difference for us,” coach Scott Gillespie said.

The Vaqueros have 35 wrestlers to start the season.

The varsity wrestlers will complete at the Chester Invitational, while the JV wrestlers will be going to the Hug High School Takedown tourney.

“We are getting better every day,” Gillespie said. “Our goal is to compete at a high level, not only individually, but as a team. We have a solid group of returners along with a bunch of new kids who can surprise some people.”