After capturing first PCL crown, Beckman begins preparations to win another

Beckman wrestlers, coaches and supporters celebrate after winning their first PCL title. (Photo courtesy Beckman athletics)

Beckman High’s wrestling team captured its first Pacific Coast League title in February and the Patriots are already pointing toward next season as they try and defend their crown.

Beckman also became Irvine city champions for the first time.

“This year it was a combination of discipline, knowing that we have a job to do and people stepping up doing their jobs and understanding the sport and understanding what it takes to succeed and do your best and great leadership from seniors who have set an example who are always focused on giving their maximum effort,” said third-year head coach coach Ali Rawaf, a former Beckman wrestler who was in the school’s first graduating class in 2007.

To see additional pictures, please click on the first photo

Beckman seniors Mohammad Mohseni, Daniel Balderas and Jake Bisgard carry the PCL trophy while junior Diego Pineda admires the replica of famous wrestler Dan Gable's shoe on top.

From left Johnny Gonzalez (original coach), Antonio Moon (original coach), CJ Del Balso (original head coach), Ali Rawaf (current head coach), Jose Pedraza (original coach), Chris Tulio (current coach, former wrestler at Beckman)

Beckman was led by Mohammad Mohseni, a senior captain who had a 26-12 record and earned 61 team dual points in the 182-pound division with 22 pins. He was also the Pacific Coast League champion and finished sixth at the Ed Springs Tournament and fifth at the San Clemente Rotary Tournament.

Junior Carlos Dubon, who was 21-8 in the 138-pound division with 13 pins and 57 team dual points was another standout. He was second at the Laguna Hills Tournament and fifth at the Tom Bravo Tournament.

Junior Colin McGough, who was the Pacific Coast League champion in the 120-pound division, was another key wrestler for the Patriots. He was seventh at San Clemente Rotary Tournament.

Dylan Seeto, a junior, also shined, winning the PCL championship in the 126-pound division.

Rawaf said he is also excited about the future for his program.

“My hope for next year is that we continue to progress upon the accomplishments we earned this season, both as a team and as individuals,” he said. “We haven’t had a CIF individual placewinner in a few years, and I believe that will change next year. We may even see our first ever boys state-qualifier, or advance further in the CIF team duals tournament.

“There are plenty more firsts to look forward to. Most importantly, I hope we keep learning to be great teammates and citizens of our sport and our community.”

-Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone; timburt@ocsportszone.com