Moorpark College men’s wrestling has faired well this year placing in the top six in 4 out of the 5 tournaments they have wrestled.

Led by state ranked wrestlers Octavio Lucatero and Shawn Riggs the Raiders have been very consistent this season. However, they have yet to take 1st or 2nd place in a tournament this season.

On Oct 22 the Raiders hosted the Southern California Duals Tournament. They performed well placing 3rd on their home court. The Raiders however did not fair well in their Western State Conference opener against powerhouse Bakersfield College, which they lost 18-23. Bakersfield has been the top ranked team in the state the last two seasons.

Next week the Raiders will travel to San Luis Obispo to compete in the Cuesta College Tournament.

Although the Raiders have been consistent this year, they have not lived up to expectations of the years passed. In 1999-2000 the Raiders were state champions. They have not been able to regain the glory of years passed.

In order for the Raiders to compete for state this season they need to place high in their remaining tournaments.

They have three remaining tournaments this season before the state championships that will be held in Fresno, Dec. 9.

They must perform in order to contend in the playoffs.

Bakersfield´s Keith Gibson, top, has a strong hold on Moorpark´s Eric Medina, botttom, aiding Bakerfield to the victory. (Brian Mount)