Hollister High Athletes Continue Postseason Runs
The Hollister High School community is buzzing with postseason action, as several teams and individual athletes continue their pursuit of championships. The girls soccer team advanced to the Central Coast Section Division 4 semifinals, while wrestler Cole Seymour is headed to the state championships. Meanwhile, the boys and girls basketball teams saw their seasons come to an end in the first and second rounds of the playoffs, respectively.
Girls Soccer: Rivera Sisters Lead the Charge
The Hollister High girls soccer team secured a 2-1 victory over Gunn High School, propelled by goals from Zamaya and Manaya Rivera. This win propels them into the Division 4 semifinals, where they will host Crystal High on February 25th.
Zamaya Rivera’s 25-yard goal in the second half proved to be the game-winner. She described focusing on creating space for a strong shot, emphasizing the team’s need to maintain possession. Freshman Manaya Rivera opened the scoring with a skillful dribble around the goalkeeper and a precise finish.
Head coach Amber Painter highlighted the team’s practiced strategy, noting that the successful through-ball play leading to Manaya’s goal was a focus in training. Despite a brief equalizer from Gunn off a set piece, the Balers demonstrated resilience and control.
Wrestling: Seymour Returns to State Championships
Cole Seymour will represent Hollister High at the state wrestling championships, marking his second appearance. He secured second place in the 165 lbs class at the Central Coast Section Masters Tournament. He previously competed at the state level in 2025, finishing with a 1-2 record.
Although 18 Hollister wrestlers competed at the Masters Tournament, Seymour was the sole qualifier for the state championships. Coach Steven Salcedo acknowledged the tough competition, noting that the section features older and more experienced wrestlers. Senior Gisselle Ruiz (5th place at 145 lbs) and freshman Eliana Salcedo (6th place at 115 lbs) as well achieved strong finishes for the Balers.
Basketball: Season Ends for Balers
The Hollister High girls basketball team fell to Fremont High 23-22 in the second round of the playoffs, despite a strong showing in the previous round where they defeated Santa Teresa High 75-40, led by 22 points from Jadah Gonzalez and 13 from Madelyn Davis.
The boys basketball team was eliminated in the first round by Alisal High with a score of 55-44, unable to overcome a 20-point first-half deficit.
Did you know?
Hollister High’s success across multiple sports highlights the school’s commitment to athletic excellence and the dedication of its student-athletes.
FAQ
Q: When is the girls soccer semifinal game?
A: February 25th at 5 p.m. Against Crystal High.
Q: Where will Cole Seymour be competing in the state championships?
A: Bakersfield.
Q: What was the final score of the girls basketball team’s playoff game?
A: 23-22 in favor of Fremont High.
Q: What division is the girls soccer team competing in?
A: Division 4.
Pro Tip: Stay updated on Hollister High sports by checking the school’s athletic website and local news sources like BenitoLink.
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