Hugoton Barbenders’ State qualifiers pictured in the front row left to right are Brandon Lopez, Diego Novelo, Genesis Landa, Emily Saucedo, Aleah Farnum, Valerie Valerio and Adriel Camacho. In back are Jorge Hernandez, Soe Lin Heger, Josephe Hernandez, Robert Williams, Xavier Santoyo, Kevin Mendez and Aquiles Aguilera. Not pictured are Josue Monroy and Bryan Loya. Picture courtesy of Nancy Hernandez.

The 2025 version of the Hugoton Barbenders that qualified for State are 16 strong. Bringing back a good core of lifters from last year’s showing at the 3A State meet gives great expectations for this year. Lifters headed to State are Brandon Lopez, Diego Novelo, Genesis Landa, Emily Saucedo, Aleah Farnum, Valerie Valerio, Adriel Camacho, Josue Monroy, Bryan Loya, Jorge Hernandez, Soe Lin Heger, Josephe Hernandez, Robert Williams, Xavier Santoyo, Kevin Mendez and Aquiles Aguilera.

Last year the girls placed third as a team and the boys placed fourth. With a larger boy’s group and from their performance at their meets this year, they have a good chance of being in the top two teams in the state. Josephe and Adriel are back to defend their first place finishes in their respective weight classes.

The State meet will be March 29 in Iola.

Good luck to all these competitors!!