[Photo credits: UWW]
Let’s take a moment to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of KJ Vazquez Jr., a gifted wrestler from Tampa Jesuit HS, who competed at the UWW 17U World Championships in Amman, Jordan.
As a FHSAA state finalist and representative of Puerto Rico, KJ displayed exceptional resilience and perseverance. Although he faced a tough opponent in Iran’s A. Shamsipour Hajivand, the eventual winner and gold medalist, KJ rebounded with impressive victories, securing a 7th place finish and a spot on the ‘All-World’ team.
His success is a shining example of the exceptional coaching of Sal Basile and David Mason, as well as the unconditional support of his family.
KJ’s father has provided him with every opportunity to succeed. His dedication to his son’s success is truly commendable. From sending him to a prestigious private school such as Tampa Jesuit to making sure his son has the best possible coaches available, KJ’s father has done everything in his power to provide all of that and more
for his son!
With his current #1 ranking in the 2A state rankings, KJ’s future looks incredibly promising, and I have no doubt he will continue to achieve remarkable things and make a lasting impact in the world of wrestling.
Tampa Jesuit has produced yet another fine example of a dedicated, self driven student athlete they can be extremely proud of in KJ Vazquez Jr.
KJ proudly represented his heritage and Team Puerto Rico but make no mistake, KJ Vazquez Jr. is 100% USA baby!!! The weight class in which he competed was arguably one of the toughest in the tournament.
The representative for the United States in this weight class was Melvin Miller of Bishop McCort HS in Pennsylvania. Miller ended up placing 5th, just ahead of KJ. I feel with KJ and Miller in that weight class, the United States showed everyone who was watching from all over that globe that we’ve got two of the best in the world.
