MISSION — Sharyland High’s Alberto Mendoza IV, a standout wrestler who holds the record for the most wins in program history, signed to continue wrestling at the University of Southern Maine on Friday at Sharyland High School.
Mendoza finished with 119 career wins during his four years a varsity wrestler.
“I am just happy that it is not over for me and that I get to wrestle out there in college,” Mendoza said.
The senior qualified for the 2023 UIL Class 5A state meet in the 138-pound weight class. Mendoza qualified for state three times, won three district championships and qualified for the regional meet four times while at Sharyland High.
Mendoza finished in seventh place at the state meet in February.
Mendoza also played football for a season and is currently pole vaulting. Mendoza’s coaches — head football coach Craig Krell, assistant coach James Penbrook and head wrestling coach Sam Mangum — all praised Mendoza for his work ethic during his time with the Rattlers.
“I enjoyed my time here,” Mendoza said. “I really appreciated the people, my teammates and my coaches. I am just really appreciative.”
The University of Southern Maine competes at the NCAA Division III level. The Huskies’ wrestling team competes in the New England Wrestling Association.
“I am excited,” Mendoza said. “It is a whole different state, environment, so I am excited to see what it is all about.”
Mendoza plans on studying physical therapy while at the four-year school located in Portland, Maine. The senior plans on visiting the school for the first time in April.