As Falcon wrestling head coach Robert Lovato rode on a bus to Grand Junction for a wrestling tournament this weekend, he reflected on his friendship with Central High School coach Clint Trujillo. 

“I remember when he was just a puppy,” Lovato, who has known Trujillo for about 15 years, said. “He was an assistant coach there looking to move up. I was really excited for Clint because he’s that kind of guy. A good coach who will do good things with that team and already has. He’s done a really good job there. He’s a young coach with many years ahead of him.”

On Dec. 6, Central High School was involved in a deadly bus crash in Lakewood that injured members of the wrestling team and took the life of one 18-year-old passenger. The accident hit close to home for Lovato because of his friendship with Trujillo and the fact that it could have been his team. 

Lovato immediately wanted to help his friend’s wrestling team and dedicated a match Wednesday to raise money for Central High School wrestling. One hundred percent of the funds went towards the wrestlers, and $2,400 has been raised as of Thursday. 

“When I heard about the accident, it was gut-wrenching because we often travel like we are today. And to have a personal friend involved in that crash … it bothered me,” Lovato said.  “I thought, what can we do on this side of the Front Range to help our friends on the Western Slope? I know, as a high school wrestling coach, one of the biggest burdens is raising money. I thought it would be a good gesture to show him how we care and help them in any way we could.” 

The match Wednesday was a dual with Palmer Ridge, but also included a college dual between Fort Hays and New Mexico Highlands that had already been in the works. The idea was that the combined fan bases would help generate as many funds as possible. 

Several members of the Falcon wrestling and cheer communities contributed, including JV parents and wrestlers heading the concessions and cheerleaders in the stands during “miracle minutes” to encourage donations. Lovato said the stands were full with several students, alumni, and parent alumni coming out to support. 

“We travel so much, and you don’t expect it to happen to anyone, it’s heartbreaking,” Falcon wrestling manager Anaya Harris said. “Lovato wants to support the wrestling community any way he can. I’m happy we were able to support in some way.” 

Lovato looks forward to seeing Trujillo this weekend at Central High School’s home tournament and says Trujillo is very appreciative of the Falcons’ support. 

“He made a comment that the wrestling community family is so close and feels deep down all the help they’ve received is helping the kids recover emotionally, mentally, and physically,” Lovato said. “It helps them a lot knowing there are people out there who have their back.”

The Falcon wrestling team travels often during the season, with trips to Utah, New Mexico, Kansas, and Arizona already planned. Since the crash, the team has taken extra precautions to ensure it’s traveling as safely as possible, such as clearing the aisle, wearing seat belts, and staying in seats. 

Lovato thanks the community for its support Wednesday and encourages people to continue contributing through Falcon wrestling or Central High School’s GoFundMe. 

“Last night was not just about raising money but raising awareness to keep other wrestlers safe,” Harris said. “It gave everyone a new perspective and awareness that it could happen to anyone, and we all need to be grateful to get to where we need to be safely.”