San Juan girls earn second place, qualify 13 for state in divisionals

by Art Adair
Contributing Writer
The 1A/2A classifications held their first-ever divisional tournaments on January 31.
The San Juan Lady Bronco grapplers competed at the Divisional B Tournament in Enterprise, UT.
Host Enterprise claimed the team title, with San Juan finishing second, followed by Beaver, Millard, and South Sevier.
San Juan advanced five wrestlers to the finals, with two Lady Broncos earning divisional championships.
At 155 pounds, junior Saraeya Mills captured the title with a second-period fall. Mills was named the tournament’s Upper Weight Outstanding Wrestler. A state runner-up last season, Mills looks poised to take the final step atop the podium in two weeks.
At 170 pounds, Khatira Keith claimed the championship in dominant fashion, securing a quick fall in just 29 seconds. The returning state champion looks to cap off a stellar senior season by claiming another state title.
Several other Lady Broncos earned runner-up finishes. Lydia Hawks placed second at 105 pounds, battling hard in the finals against an opponent who had pinned her earlier this season.
Although Hawks fell by technical fall, coaches praised her growth, defensive improvements, and toughness in difficult positions.
At 130 pounds, Kheirra Keith earned runner-up honors after advancing to the finals with a fall and a major decision.
Saylor Dandy also reached the championship match at 190 pounds, facing a familiar opponent from Millard. Dandy will have another opportunity to avenge the loss at the state tournament.
San Juan qualified all 13 wrestlers for the upcoming state championships.
Additional placers include Breckyn Helquist (third), Kadie Palmer (fourth), Hannah Todachinnie (sixth), LaRyeus Benally (third), Jyel George (fourth), Cadence Joe (fourth), Sampson (fourth), and Morgan Kaytso (third).
“There were a lot of tough matchups,” coaches said. “We had some big wins and a few heartbreaking losses. We’re excited to see how the girls finish the season at the state tournament.”
The Lady Broncos have two weeks until the State Wrestling Tournament on February 14 at the Sevier Valley Center in Richfield. Wrestling begins at 9:30 a.m.