In late February, North Carolina athletics held the 2024-2025 wrestling state championships for 14 weight classes. Panther Creek had a number of athletes make it to states and had various placers. Undoubtedly one of the most impressive athletes in PC wrestling history, Sebastian Rivera has been a formidable competitor.

Sebastian started to wrestle his freshman year as simply another name on the roster. However, as the years progressed, his talent rose, and recognition followed. He placed in states his junior year but was hungry for the champion title. Working almost every day a week, sometimes multiple times a day, Sebastian put in the work. He rose early and left late, fueled by his lack of a title. His senior year, Sebastian returned by qualifying for states. The PC captain explained how he prepared for states saying, “I took my nutrition seriously, I took my training seriously, I just worked hard for what I wanted.”

His hard work paid off in the end. Finishing the season with a perfect record of 40-0, Sebastian was named 285 weight class 2025 State Champion. He continued making his mark by being announced Most Outstanding Wrestler in the 4A Championship.

In doing so, Sebastian became Panther Creek’s first ever state wrestling champion. He leaves behind a legacy as the most accomplished wrestler in program history and plans to continue his career at Roanoke College.