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Photo: NJCAA

Vigil selected as NJCAA Men's Freshman of the Year

The Open Mat presents awards annually in three categories for each division of college wrestling at the conclusion of the season. Awards are presented for Freshman of the Year, Coach of the Year and Wrestler of the Year.

Ane'e Vigil of Clackamas is The Open Mat's 2024 NJCAA Men's Freshman of the Year.

The Henderson, Colorado native claimed the NJCAA national title at 125 pounds in his first season at Clackamas. Vigil, a three-time state champion, opened the 2024 NJCAA Men's Wrestling Championships with three technical falls. In the semifinals, Vigil showed some grit with a late takedown against North Idaho's Elijah Cater to win 4-1 and advance to the national finals. In the finals, Vigil took on Western Wyoming's Bridger Ricks, the highest returning All-American at 125 pounds from 2023. Vigil used a first-period takedown to pace him to a 4-2 victory. He finished the season with a 30-3 record and was undefeated against NJCAA competition.