Jefferson wrestler Marissa Gallegos and Jefferson wrestling coach Oscar Fonseca
On May 14, 2018 Jefferson senior wrestler Marissa Gallegos was awarded the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Tricia Saunders High School Excellence Award for Colorado. The award is named after Tricia Saunders, a four-time World Champion and women’s wrestling pioneer. According to USA Wrestling, “The state winners are evaluated and selected on the basis of three criteria: success and standout performances and sportsmanship in wrestling; review of GPA and class rank, academic honors and distinctions; and participation in activities that demonstrate commitment to character and community.”
Here’s a look at Gallegos’ wrestling career from Jefferson Wrestling Coach Oscar Fonseca:
Marissa is a 4.0 student at Jefferson High School. She is an inspiring person, willing to help others in many ways. Whether it is with her schoolmates or her volunteer work at Denver’s North Star Rehabilitation Center. Marissa is always there to lend a hand.
However, what few people know about this outstanding person is that she is Pan American 2010 Bronze Medalist, a 2012 Gold medalist and a 2014 Gold Medalist in the sport of Judo.
In 2012, Marissa began the Sport of Wrestling. Being able to combine her judo skills with wrestling has allowed this student/athlete to an outstanding high school wrestling career.
Marissa’s first year of high school competition, she obtained a record of 25-11. She placed fifth at regionals.
Unfortunately, due to a shoulder injury, which required surgery, Marissa was unable to compete during her sophomore year.
During Marissa’s junior year, she was in and out of the Jefferson Boys Varsity Line up. However, this did not deter her from taking the Girl State Championship.
Marissa’s senior year, she obtained an 18-3 record; the three losses were to male competitors. However, she was able to claim a second Girls State Championship title at 127 pounds.
Included in Marissa’s wrestling resume is the title of two time Fargo All American.
Marissa will be attending Wayland Baptist College in Plainview Texas in the fall. There she will wrestle and concentrate on a Pre-Med major.
Marissa’s dedication to academics and wrestling is an inspiration to everyone.
You can support Jefferson athletes succeed like Marissa by signing up for the Jefferson Booster Club Golf Tournament on Monday, May 21 at the Lakewood Country Club.
Joel has been a resident of Edgewater, Colorado with his family since 2012. He is the Executive Director of local education nonprofit Edgewater Collective and Editor of the Edgewater Echo.
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