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Bertalotto named Folkstyle All-American
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Ask any athlete who’s serious about their sport and they’ll tell you that one of the most important factors of success is to establish goals.

Turlock High’s Isaac Bertalotto did just that at the beginning of his sophomore wrestling season. Now, after completing his first goal of placing at the state level, the young Bulldog has scratched another task off his list by becoming an All-American.

“It’s a big deal,” Bertalotto said. “I definitely feel accomplished because that was my big goal after placing at state.”

Bertalotto earned his All-American title with a third place finish in the 138 pound Cadet division of this year’s USAW/Cliff Keen Folkstyle National Tournament. With his bronze finish Bertalotto became the first Bulldog wrestler to be named All-American since 2003.

“Just based on how long it’s been since Turlock provided one, and the total amount we have, it’s not easy at all,” Turlock head coach Mike Contreras said of Bertalotto’s All-American status. “It’s an honor and a big accomplishment for any wrestler.”

Bertalotto’s road to third place involved eight hard fought matches against the best competition the nation had to offer. As part of team California, Bertalotto finished with a tournament record of 6-2 with his only losses coming at the hands of Hunter Marko and Daton Fix.

“It was cool to see us all battle it out and compete,” Bertalotto said.

Though he’s already accomplished a lot this year, Bertalotto isn’t finished. He now has new goals which include an All-American performance in a national freestyle tournament and a state championship.

“State champion, that’s the main goal now,” Bertalotto said.