“One team, one heart” is the Panther Creek wrestling program’s motto and only a small glance into one of the most respected athletic programs at PC. Winning their conference for duals, the men’s and women’s wrestling programs had one of their most impressive seasons on record.
On the men’s team, Jesse Farnesworth, Jackson Young, and Sebastian Rivera were all state qualifiers. Sebastian Rivera proved worthy of being selected, as a few weeks prior to states, he celebrated his 100th win. When asked how he prepared, Sebastian stated, “I took my nutrition seriously, I took my training seriously, I just worked hard for what I wanted.” In the end, his methods worked as he took home the title of 2025 State Champion.
The North Carolina High School Athletic Association announced that female wrestling would become an officially recognized sport in the 2023-2024 school year, adding a new aspect to the sport that has quickly become just as impressive as the men’s side. Sofia Ortiz quickly became a star of the women’s program, joining the program for its inaugural season last school year and this year winning 3rd place at states.
This year’s Panther Creek Women’s Wrestler of the Year, Jiselle Riley, finished 7-0 with five pins and a tech fall. She placed 4th at states, an especially impressive feat considering her working through four injuries, including a torn LCL, while wrestling in the state tournament. Her performance showcased not only her steadfast talent but also her determination and dedication to wrestling.
The success of the wrestling team is known throughout the school, even among faculty. Irving Montgomery won male SWAC coach of the year, and Jacob Hewgley won SWAC female coach of the year. One wrestler, Gya Edwards was asked about her opinion on the coaches winning these awards. Her explanation describes the relationship between coaches and players beyond simply winning and losing. She says, “I’m excited, I’m happy for him. I feel it’s well deserved for both of my coaches for how much they’ve accomplished and pushed the team. I think they deserve every award they have gotten.” Ultimately, the team’s chemistry is a large contributing factor for their success. In the 2024-2025 school year, Panther Creek won 7-0 in Conference and an impressive 68-9 individual record.
In preparation for the years to come, Panther Creek wrestling is hoping to see only more success. As the program has expanded, so has the family that was fostered among teammates and coaches, making “One team, one heart” an accurate depiction of the behind the scenes of the Panther Creek wrestling program.
