In Region 2 girls wrestling, the Mountain Ridge Sentinels have stood tall above the competition. 

This season is shaping up to be another stellar campaign from the squad. 

Mountain Ridge entered this season as the two-time defending Region 2 champs, beating out some talented teams to win the crown. Even more importantly, the Sentinels captured the Class 6A state title a year ago, scoring 221 points to second-place Westlake’s 187 points. The Sentinels had skilled, experienced wrestlers across the board—and this season has been more of the same. 

Head coach Brandon Birch said this season’s team is once again loaded with capable performers at every weight class. He loves the team camaraderie and family-like atmosphere in the program. Seniors and non-seniors alike have been excellent examples of hard work and dedication. He also said his wrestlers are humble and eager to learn and improve. 

“We have a lot of depth this year, as well as leadership, not only from our seniors, but with some of our underclassmen as well,” Birch said. “We also have a lot of drive this year to learn and grow. We have a very teachable team, and it's showing so far on the mat.”

Birch said continuing to build team chemistry and improving technique are points of emphasis for the Sentinels. Birch and his assistants are working hard to develop younger, less experienced wrestlers. 

There is no shortage of talented, experienced wrestlers on the Mountain Ridge squad. 

Arguably the top performer is 145-pounder Olivia Merino, a senior. She won a state title a year ago and was runner-up as a sophomore. Merino was sixth at state as a young freshman. Back for her junior year after a successful sophomore campaign is 125-pounder Faith Bowen, who was second in 6A last season. Senior Naidelyn Lucio Coronado has been a big part of the program, and she has been a standout wrestler this season. She was third in the state tournament each of the past two seasons and should be a top contender in February’s state tournament. 

Another senior, 105-pounder Brooklyn Eagar, could be one to watch at state this season. She was third overall last season after placing fifth as a sophomore. Two of her junior teammates, Amelia Jekins (135 pounds) and Bella Birch (235) have plenty of matches under their belts. Jenkins was third in 6A a season ago and was sixth at state as a freshman. Birch was a fourth-place finisher as a freshman in 2024. Meanwhile, sophomore 170-pounder Abbi Tasini has high hopes after taking fifth a year ago. An intriguing addition to this year’s team has been 140-pound wrestler Evalyn Lenahan, who moved to Herriman from Arizona last year. 

A big reason why Mountain Ridge is so difficult to beat is the sheer numbers the team boasts. As if the main group of state contenders isn’t enough, the Sentinels have other wrestlers who can add to the team’s point total. Sophomore Kayda Rowberrry (125), senior Kiara Tanaka (115), senior Sophia Gwynn (120), senior Jazmyn Simmons (155), sophomore Maya Strong (140) and senior Dylynn Wayman (140) all qualified for state in 2025 and, as Birch puts it, “are ready to make waves this year.” 

Birch has preached preparation, hard work and positive attitudes as his squad goes up against stellar opponents. 

“There are a lot of great teams and competition this year,” Birch said. “It's going to be fun but challenging. Our biggest challenges will be to make sure we are physically and mentally ready as we take the mat against the great competition we have in the state.”

With all the success the Sentinels have had, Birch said the team objectives are simple: be the best. 

“Our goal is to repeat as Region 2 champs, division champs and state champs,” he said. 

Mountain Ridge is a favorite to claim the top prize in 6A when the state tournament is held Feb. 11 and 12. But competing for another title is no simple task. Birch said not only do the Sentinels need to be focused and committed, but they need to stay healthy during the stretch run of the regular season heading into the postseason. The demanding season, which includes daily practices, can take a toll on the body and mind. 

“As always, we need to be diligent in practice and work hard, putting the effort in to achieve our goals,” Birch said. “Avoiding injuries and wrestling together as a team are critical as well.”

Birch also praised his staff, noting that the team’s success wouldn’t be possible without the support he gets from the assistant coaches— Zan Elder, Jon Eagar, Jim Birch, Paul Hulet, Ryan Lenahan, Logan Eagar and Miyo Strong—and the teaching they provide to the wrestlers. 

“They are very talented coaches who do a great job with our team,” Birch said. “This team is a fun group with lots of personality. They combine that with grit and the desire to get better, and this is a fun group to coach.”