The Thanksgiving morning tradition at Pahrump Valley High School reached an exciting milestone this year as dozens of former wrestlers packed into the practice room for the 2025 Alumni Practice — the first held under new Head Coach Antonio Sandoval. What began more than three decades ago as a small holiday workout has grown into one of the community’s most cherished athletic traditions, and this year’s turnout was one of the largest in program history.
At 9am the PVHS wrestling room was buzzing with energy. Alumni ranging from recent graduates to former state champions who competed more than two decades ago reunited on the mats, greeting old teammates, meeting today’s wrestlers, and stepping back into the rhythm of a sport that shaped so much of their youth. By warmups, the room was completely full, with more returning athletes than any previous Thanksgiving practice.
Sandoval said the energy in the room spoke volumes about the pride alumni still hold for the program. “Practice went really well — everybody worked really hard so they could enjoy some food,” he said. “There were probably between 30 and 40 alumni and their families that were able to come out. These practices always show me the impact this sport can have on people, this program meant so much to these alumni and they all have great stories and accolades. There aren’t many other sports where people would be willing to give up a holiday morning to get a good hard workout.”
Throughout the practice, alumni jumped into drills with current wrestlers, offered tips, demonstrated technique, and shared stories from seasons past. Many reflected on how the Thanksgiving practice has always been more than a workout — it’s a reunion, a mentorship opportunity, and a way to stay rooted in a program that helped shape their lives.
Current wrestlers, some experiencing the tradition for the first time, trained alongside former captains, regional champions, and athletes whose names still hang on the program’s record boards. The experience stretched beyond physical training, giving younger athletes a look at the legacy they are now part of.
As the session wrapped up, alumni lingered to talk, laugh, exchange stories, and snap group photos, filling the room with a sense of continuity that has defined PVHS wrestling for more than 30 years.
With the new season underway, this year’s turnout stands as a strong symbol of support for both the program and its new leadership. This year’s turnout showed that the Thanksgiving alumni practice — and the community spirit surrounding it — is poised to grow even stronger in the years ahead.
