Donation results in new wrestling mat at MHS

The Monticello Buckaroos opened the 2007-08 home season with some new decor in the MHS gymnasium. For the first time in over 30 years, the Buckaroos had the opportunity to wrestle on a brand new wrestling mat, with a Buckaroo logo in the center.

The mat was purchased through a generous donation from Encana Oil and Gas through their Community Investment Program. Encana owns and operates a gas plant in Lisbon Valley and employs several people from the Monticello area. Through the program, Encana is able to contribute to the development of youth and their activities and enable them to realize their goals. Encana employee Todd Adair found out about the program and sponsored the Buckaroo request for a new mat. Encana then donated over $8,000 for the purchase.

The Buckaroo coaches and wrestlers thanked Encana for their support prior to their home opener, during which the mat was used for the first time. MHS Principal Scott Shakespeare presented longtime Encana Employee Steve Garcia with a plaque expressing the gratitude of the team and the school. Garcia himself comes from a wrestling family, and wrestled during his days at Monticello High School. Garcia was a state champion in 1976. His son, T.C. was also a successful Buckaroo wrestler.

The new mat is MHS orange, and bears the Buckaroo mascot in it’s center. It is also imprinted with a block M and the Encana logo. In addition, a banner will hang in the gymnasium, recognizing Encana for their support.

The Bucks broke in the mat in the best possible way, with a 47-27 win in the annual rivalry match against the San Juan Broncos. Fans can see the mat again when the Bucks wrestle at home on January 23 against Grand County.