Imperial Valley College wrestling returns after nearly 40 years

IMPERIAL, Calif. (KYMA) - For the first time in nearly four decades, wrestling returned to the Imperial Valley College gym Tuesday night and while the scoreboard didn’t go their way, the Desert Warriors' homecoming was a victory in every other sense.

The night marked a historic milestone for the college and the community as IVC hosted Santa Ana College in its first home wrestling match since reviving the program.

Fans packed the gym for a pre-match pep rally complete with free tacos, giveaways, and cheers that echoed the pride of a community eager to see the sport make its long-awaited comeback.

"Honestly, it means a lot," said wrestler Brian Quezada. "It means a lot that we get to represent not just the school but this community. It's such an honor to wrestle in front of friends and family at our home duel."

The event symbolized more than competition. It was a celebration of opportunity. For athletes who once had to leave the Valley to pursue collegiate wrestling, the program's return represents a chance to continue their athletic journeys closer to home.

"I know a few friends who really wanted to continue wrestling after high school, but there wasn't anywhere to go," said Alexander Garcia, another IVC wrestler. "Now, it's the perfect timing. It's a great opportunity, and I'm glad I'm here to take advantage of it."

Head Coach Tony Leon, a former IVC wrestler and California Wrestling Hall of Famer, said the night was filled with both excitement and nerves as his team took the mat in front of a packed home crowd.

"I'll tell you, I was a little anxious," Leon said. "This is the first time we're having a program back at IVC, and we'll see what we get out here. These kids can wrestle...they just need to go out there and wrestle hard."

IVC Superintendent/President Dr. Lennor Johnson praised the program's revival, emphasizing its impact on student-athletes and the broader college community.

"This is about more than wrestling," Johnson said. "It's about character, leadership, and accountability. This program is going to be something special not just for our wrestlers, but for our entire campus."

Although the Desert Warriors fell to Santa Ana on the scoreboard, the energy in the gym told a different story one of pride, perseverance, and rebirth.

The return of wrestling at Imperial Valley College marks a new era for local athletics and a reminder of the Valley's deep-rooted passion for competition.