By Boots Gifford
by Boots Gifford
The Havre Daily News
Monday, May 17
Abel Valdez of Gervais, Ore., has signed a letter of intent to wrestle for the NAIA national champion Montana State-Northern Lights, announced coach David Ray.
Abel replaces a weight were empty at, Ray said of the 125-pound grappler. Abel is a tenacious competitor. Were really fortunate. Abel is going to make some great contributions this year.
Valdez is a transfer student from Clackamas Community College in Oregon City. Wrestling up a weight at 133 pounds, Valdez was the 1998 regional champion, the 1999 regional runner-up, and placed sixth in 99 at the NJCAA national finals.
He wrestled 133, but should have been 125, Ray said. Hes going to be tough.
A two-time state champion and three-time district champion in high school, Valdez held a 94-3 prep record.
Abel has a lot of talent, Ray said. Hes very quick, very physical for his weight class.
Valdez is pursuing a career in criminal justice. He is the son of Robert and Gloria Guajardo of Gervais.
