Merced's Taijeron is Wrestler of Week

Mark Taijeron, Jr., 132, Merced

Taijeron (39-8) became Merced's first Sac-Joaquin Section Masters champion in four years by stringing together five wins at Stockton Arena last weekend. He saved his best for February, the season's most important month, by capturing the Central California Conference, Section D1A and Masters titles. His draw was favorable at Masters, but he earned that respect by beating Turlock's Isaac Bertalotto at the D1A finals and knotting the record against his rival at 2-2.

— RON AGOSTINI