| My name is Jahryzen Pagaragan. I’m 14 years old and an incoming Freshman at SLAM! Academy. It’s a true honor to be selected as NVSportsLocal’s High School Athlete of the Month. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and the recognition—thank you! |
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| I was born in Honolulu (Waipahu), Hawaii, and my family and I moved to Las Vegas in the summer of 2016. Wrestling wasn’t part of my family’s background, but my journey began at the end of 2018 on a small 4’x4′ mat in the Agcaoili’s household. Shortly after, I joined the former SLAM! Wrestling Club. Not even a month into training, I competed at King of the Mountain in Colorado and placed 4th. That moment made me realize this sport was meant for me. |
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| When the COVID Pandemic hit, I wasn’t able to train from 2020 to mid-2022. Despite that, I’ve been wrestling for about five years. In that time, I’ve become a 2x Middle School State Champion, 2x Freakshow Champion, Kids Nationals All-American, and Tulsa Nationals All-American. I also earned a King of The Mountain Runner-Up title. In the 2023–2024 season, I achieved a #5 National Ranking for World of Wrestling in the 15 & Under division. |
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| Joining Gold Rush Wrestling has truly helped me realize how blessed I am. I’m incredibly thankful to Coach Chase Pami for his outstanding leadership and for giving me the opportunity to experience greatness around the world. I’m also deeply grateful to Coach Ed Sorgani, Coach Jake Rollans, Coach Antonio Saldate, and Coach Magdi Amachov—not only for being in my corner, but for dedicating their time to private training sessions and always supporting my growth. To all the other coaches who have played a role in my journey, thank you for believing in me and helping me improve every step of the way. |
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| To my family, my teammates, the Agcaoili family—and most importantly, to God—thank you. I also want to take this opportunity to thank everyone, near and far, who has supported me throughout the years. I appreciate all of you for pushing me to be better and for helping make it possible for me to travel and compete in tournaments. Without your support, I wouldn’t be the wrestler—or the person—I am today. |
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