Episode 60: Aaden Valdez - Adams State Men's Wrestling

As the 2026 RMAC wrestling season continues to develop, The Sidelines' 60th episode highlights Aaden Valdez, senior wrestler for Adams State. Collegiate athletics naturally pose challenges for any student-athlete, however, Aaden has endured unique adversity after a firework accident in high school caused him to lose his left eye and four fingers on his left hand. Wrestling soon turned from a sport he casually competed in throughout high school to an avenue for Aaden to prove his tenacity and positivity to everyone around him. As a Division II All-American and this week's RMAC Men's Wrestler of the Week, Aaden continues to showcase his determination on the mat, as well as his commitment to his teammates in life beyond wrestling. Tune in to help the RMAC celebrate Aaden's journey and his plans to continue his involvement at Adams State and improve the lives of future wrestlers well beyond his career as a Grizzly.