Mares, Saldivar Claim Titles at GCU Invitational
PHOENIX, Ariz. – November 18, 2023
The Fresno State Wrestling Club returned to the road on Saturday, competing at the GCU Invitational hosted in Phoenix, Arizona. The event featured programs from across the West Coast Conference, providing another demanding test for Fresno State as the team continued early-season competition.
Coming one week after a busy Veterans Day weekend, the Bulldogs once again faced a high-volume competition environment, with multiple athletes competing through full brackets against nationally recognized opponents.
WOMEN’S RECAP
The highlight of the tournament for Fresno State came at 136lbs, where Vanessa Mares delivered a statement performance on her way to a tournament championship. Mares advanced through the bracket with multiple bonus-point victories before defeating Anja Hansen of Ottawa University in the championship match. The title further strengthened Mares’ early-season resume and positioned her as a leading contender at 136lbs within the NCWA.
Also competing at 136lbs, Alexus Chavira gained additional mat time in a deep bracket, while Ebony Cardenas continued her development against experienced opposition.
At 109lbs, Darlene Ortiz competed through the bracket and recorded a fourth-place finish, gaining valuable experience against a competitive field.
MEN’S RECAP
On the men’s side, Fresno State saw contributions across multiple weight classes throughout the day.
At 133lbs, Nathen Diaz competed through a demanding bracket, while Jerry Coleman and Gabriel Martinez each logged matches that added to their early-season development.
141lbs – Benito Saldivar turned in a strong performance, capturing the tournament title after defeating Sheldon MacCallister of UNLV in the championship bout.
At 149lbs, Damian Galvan-Calderon competed through a pool-style bracket, gaining extended mat time against a mix of regional opponents.
174lbs – Dominic Williamson wrestled through a challenging bracket, earning multiple matches and continuing to build experience at the weight.
In the upper weights, 235lbs – Michael Brent battled through a deep bracket, adding valuable mat time against experienced competition.
