Brawley’s Adam Avila signs with Colorado Mesa University wrestling program

Wildcat's Avila turns attention to D-II Colorado Mesa where he will continue to wrestle and learn how to become an educator

BRAWLEY, Calif. (KYMA) - After helping establish himself as one of the top wrestlers in the Imperial Valley, Brawley senior Adam Avila is taking the next step in his athletic and academic career.

Avila recently signed his letter of intent to continue wrestling at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, Colorado, where he hopes to continue developing as a wrestler while pursuing his long-term goals beyond competition.

"I'm super excited," Avila said. "Not only that I'm taking my talent, but I'm excited to be built into an even better wrestler. Eventually, I can bring it back and teach people."

That desire to give back is a major part of Avila's future plans. Inspired by teachers and mentors throughout his education, he hopes to one day return to Brawley and work as an educator.

"I just fell in love with it," Avila said. "I had some wonderful teachers. They showed me what it is to be a great educator, and I'm excited to get my education and one day come back and pass it forward."

The prospect of Avila returning to serve the community is something that means a great deal to Brawley wrestling coach Sawyer Smith.

"It makes you feel like you probably did something right," Smith said. "If they're willing to come back and give their time and support their community like that, I love it."

Avila said he considered multiple opportunities before ultimately choosing Colorado Mesa. The program's culture and championship expectations helped separate the Mavericks from other schools.

"I think it's the hospitality they had and also the mentality they had as a program," Avila said. "They said you're coming in to be a national champion no matter what. By the way they said it, I think they meant it. That's what I want, a great wrestling culture, and they have that."

As Avila prepares to leave the Imperial Valley for Grand Junction, he does so with ambitions that extend beyond simply competing at the collegiate level. His goal is to continue developing into a national-caliber wrestler while laying the foundation for a future career in education.