Yellow Jacket Wrestlers Off to Strong Start as New Season Gets Underway

Rayland Martinez gets the better of his Wildcat opponent, just before getting the win via pinfall.

Staff Report

The Hayesville High School wrestling program hit the mat last week and has already shown plenty of grit, determination, and promise for the season ahead. The Yellow Jackets opened the year on the road at Towns County, then returned home on Tuesday, November 18 to host Brevard and Andrews in a competitive early-season tri-match.

While both the men’s and women’s rosters are still relatively young, the early results show a hungry group willing to work — and win.

Unbeaten & Dominant

Hayesville has several wrestlers who are already establishing themselves as tough opponents:

• 190 – Raul Rivera-Prieto (3–0)

• 190 – Edwin Nava (3–0)

• 285 – Rayland Martinez (2–0)

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Each of these Jackets remains undefeated after the first week of competition, setting a strong tone for the rest of the team.

Strong Early Records & Standout Effort

A number of Yellow Jackets are right on their heels with only one loss so far:

• 144 – Evan Burks (3–1)

• 132 – Mason Ray (3–1)

• 150 – Hayden Hunt (3–1)

• 120 – Parker Hughes (3–1)

• 106 – Brandon Rivera-Prieto (3–1)

Additionally, 165 – Fara Ammons secured a win in her debut and sits at (1–0).

These early performances point to a lineup that is gaining confidence and sharpening their skills with every match — exactly what coaches want to see this time of year.

Promising Season Ahead

With dedication in the practice room and strong results on the mat, both the men's and women's teams are trending upward. Though young, they’re showing intensity and excitement that could translate into a breakout year.

And according to Coach White, the best is yet to come.

“When the Yellow Jackets return to our home gym on December 18, we will be tough to deal with.” - Coach Colby White

Next Up

Hayesville will be back in action on November 26 as they head to Andrews for the Wild West Shootout, another big test early in the season.

If the opening matches are any indication, the rest of the conference may soon find out that the Jackets are a team to take seriously.