HAWKS EARN DYNASTY WITH 3 PEAT

This past weekend at the New Mexico State Wrestling Tournament the Volcano Vista Hawks hammered out their third state title in a row. Making a statement with a 3 peat the Hawks accumulation of hard work and dedication was on display for everyone to watch. 

Head coach Ahen Griego has established a power house wrestling team that earned the right to be called the best team in the state this season possibly one of the best team of wrestlers in New Mexico wrestling history. 

What a three peat means to the program?

Achieving three state championships in high school wrestling is a remarkable and rare accomplishment, reflecting a program’s sustained excellence and dedication. For Coach Ahren Griego of Volcano Vista High School in Albuquerque, leading his team to such success would be a testament to his exceptional coaching abilities and the collective effort of his athletes and support staff. Establishing a feat that has never been done before in Albuquerque.

Historically, Volcano Vista’s wrestling program has demonstrated competitive prowess, securing a state championship in 2010. But under Coach Griego’s leadership, the team has continued to excel, with individual wrestlers achieving notable success. For instance, Junior wrestler Jon Romero won state championships in both 2024 and 2025, showcasing the program’s ongoing commitment to excellence. 

The rarity of winning multiple state championships, especially in succession, underscores the significance of such an achievement. It requires not only talented athletes but also a visionary coach who can cultivate a culture of hard work, resilience, and unity. For Coach Griego, guiding Volcano Vista to three state titles brings immense pride to the school and the broader Albuquerque community, solidifying the program’s legacy in New Mexico’s wrestling history.

Is VV the new dynasty? Lets take a closer look. 

Volcano Vista High School has recently established itself as a dominant force in New Mexico high school wrestling, achieving significant milestones that underscore its emerging dynasty status.

Boys’ Wrestling Achievements:

Consecutive State Championships: The Volcano Vista boys’ wrestling team has secured three consecutive state titles, culminating in their latest victory at the 2025 NMAA State Wrestling Championships. 

Individual Excellence: Standout wrestlers like Lorenzo Gallegos and Jon Romero having contributed to the team’s success, with both clinching multiple state championships during this run. 

Girls’ Wrestling Achievements:

State Championship Victory: The girls’ wrestling team at Volcano Vista has also made its mark by winning a state title in 2023, showcasing the program’s comprehensive strength across both boys’ and girls’ divisions. 

National Recognition:

High School All-Americans: The program’s excellence is further highlighted by the recognition of multiple wrestlers as High School All-Americans, reflecting their superior performance on a national level. Including Gabriel Serros, Jon Romero, and Lorenzo Gallegos. 

These accomplishments collectively position Volcano Vista High School as a burgeoning dynasty in high school wrestling, bringing immense pride to the Albuquerque community and setting a high standard for excellence in the sport.

Does VV have the best coaching staff?

The Volcano Vista High School wrestling coaching staff is stacked with exceptional talent, boasting a combination of high school state champions, high school All-Americans, and NCAA Division I experience. This wealth of expertise has been a major factor in the program’s recent dominance, including multiple state championships and national recognition for its wrestlers.

Breakdown of the Coaching Staff’s Talent:

Lawrence Otero 

3x State Champion

High School All-American

Brings a wealth of experience and technical mastery, particularly in the lower weight classes. His national-level success as a high schooler gives Volcano Vista wrestlers insight into elite competition.

Joseph Otero 

State Champion

High School All-American

Adds a championship mentality to the coaching staff, helping athletes refine their techniques and develop the mental toughness required to win at the highest levels.

Erik Crum 

State Champion

Multiple Assistant Coach of the Year Awards

One of the most decorated assistant coaches in New Mexico, Crum has consistently helped develop state champions and has played a key role in Volcano Vista’s dynasty run. His recognition as Assistant Coach of the Year multiple times is a testament to his ability to develop and motivate young athletes.

Eric Montoya 

4x State Champion

High School All-American

Division I All-American (University of Nebraska)

One of the most accomplished wrestlers in New Mexico history, Montoya’s experience at the NCAA D1 level is invaluable. His presence on the staff provides college-level techniques, strategies, and training regimens that elevate Volcano Vista’s wrestlers to national-level competitors.

Former Coach Richard (Rico) Montoya 

5x State Champion

High School All-American

Division I NCAA Qualifier

A legend in New Mexico wrestling, Montoya set the foundation for Volcano Vista’s championship culture. His experience as a five-time state champion and Division I qualifier gave the team an elite competitive mindset and training philosophy, which has continued even after his departure. 

Impact on Volcano Vista’s Wrestling Dynasty:

This coaching staff has transformed the program into one of the top wrestling powerhouses in New Mexico. The combination of state championship experience, high school All-American recognition, and NCAA Division I success provides athletes with an elite-level training environment. Three consecutive boys’ team state titles, a girls’ team state title, and multiple High School All-Americans show the direct impact of this coaching staff’s leadership. 

One can arguably say the Hawks have the most accomplished coaching staff in the state, if not the entire Southwest region. The blend of personal championship experience, national recognition, and collegiate-level expertise makes Volcano Vista a premier destination for young wrestlers looking to compete at the highest level. Their leadership has not only brought state titles but has also developed future collegiate wrestlers and national-level competitors. 

New Mexico Wrestling

2/25/2025