April 23, 2012
1 min read

Wrestling: Olympics

Former Dons standout Jesse Ruiz qualified to compete for Mexico in the 120 kg/264.5 lbs weight class at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.

“He has proven that the athletic experience doesn’t stop at Santa Ana College,” said Avie Bridges, dean of exercise science and athletics. “It is great recognition for the college to have a former student-athlete participating in the Olympic experience.”

Ruiz joins other Dons Olympians, including jumper Ed Caruthers and water polo player Doug Kimbell. Caruthers competed in the high jump in the 1964 and ’68 games. Kimbell took part in the 1988 and ’92 games.

Ruiz made the Mexican team after an impressive performance at the Pan American Olympic Qualifiers in Florida on March 25.

“I think it is wonderful that he tried out for the Olympic team,” Bridges said. “It is even better that he has been successful. I look forward to watching him this summer.”

Ruiz wrestled for the Dons from 2003 through 2004, and was named an All-American in both years.

After his time at SAC, Ruiz transferred to Menlo College. In his first year as an Oak, he became a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics champion.


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Juan Lerma wearing a hooded dark-green sweater with a white breathing mask over his mouth with the word LIFE in red print.
Previous Story

Masked crusader

A photo with water-color like PhotoShop effect showing Marcos Hernandez playing his electrical guitar with two other band players.
Next Story

Bassist’s dreams shine through heavy metal

Latest from Blog

Baseball – 20110308 – Fullerton

Author Recent Posts el Don News Latest posts by el Don News (see all) The two-party system is failing us. - October 19, 2024 Read our Fall 2023 Print: Vol. 100 No.

SAC student thoughts post election

Donald Trump won the 2024 election and will be our 47th president. After asking over 35 SAC students how they felt about the election results, some responded that they were upset, some
Go toTop