For 31 years, Thanksgiving morning has been more than just turkey and stuffing for Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS) wrestling. It’s a time-honored tradition that began with Coach Craig Rieger, who brought the practice from his roots in North Dakota. Today, the event continues under the guidance of Head Coach Frank Lopez, drawing current wrestlers, alumni, and even parents to the PVHS wrestling room for a unique holiday workout.
Coach Lopez explained the significance of the event: “The best part of it is the young kids get to see the program breathe. Alumni come back, give their time, and the cycle continues. It’s a great way to kick off the holiday while celebrating the legacy of PVHS wrestling.”
This year’s practice welcomed around 30 alumni, including decorated wrestlers like Jaxon and Jace Clayton, Dylan Grossell, Kobe Tillery, and recent graduate Cory O’Neal. Alumni shared stories of their experiences and expressed how much the tradition means to them.
Alumni Reflect on the Tradition
Jaxon Clayton, who graduated in 2015 and is a two-time state champion, hasn’t missed a Thanksgiving practice except when stationed overseas. “It’s kind of eye-opening,” Clayton said. “It positions you to see where you are now versus where you once were. Watching these kids improve over the years and then seeing them come back—it’s a really cool, long, continual cycle.”
His twin brother, Jace Clayton, agreed, adding with a laugh, “When we wrestle, they’re normally scared of me. But it’s important for the current team to face challenges, just like we did when alumni used to come back and beat on us.”
Tristan Maughan, a 2019 graduate, returned for his fourth Thanksgiving practice this year. “Wrestling became a huge part of my life, especially after graduating. I missed it so much, and I plan to come back every year I can,” Maughan shared. “This year’s wrestlers are doing great—it might just be that I’m out of shape, but they’ve impressed me.”
For 2015 graduate Sam Brophy, the tradition is about connection. “It’s fun to see how many people are still involved. Wrestling shaped so much of who I am, and coming back keeps me connected to this family.”
Recent graduate Cory O’Neal, from the class of 2024, echoed the sentiment. “I love this little family. They’re non-blood relatives but closer than some of my own family. As soon as I walked through the door, three kids jumped on me—it’s awesome.”
Building Bonds Across Generations
Thanksgiving practice also offers a chance for alumni to pass on their experiences. “These alumni show the current wrestlers what’s possible,” Lopez said. “It’s a rare opportunity to bridge the past and present, showing these kids that they’re part of something bigger.”
Alumni introductions highlighted their achievements, inspiring younger wrestlers. From state champions to collegiate athletes, their accomplishments reinforced the strength and legacy of PVHS wrestling.
As the wrestlers and alumni wrapped up practice and headed off to their Thanksgiving celebrations, the sense of community and tradition lingered. For PVHS wrestling, this annual event is more than a workout—it’s a reminder of the bonds formed on the mat, the lessons learned through competition, and the enduring legacy of a program that values both individual growth and collective strength. It’s clear that the Thanksgiving morning tradition will continue to inspire and unite generations of PVHS wrestlers for years to come.
