California college wrestler dies after fall in Yosemite National Park

A standout California college wrestler plunged to his death while hiking with friends in Yosemite National Park over the weekend.

Ryan George, 19, slipped and fell near Illilouette Falls, KRON4 reported.

George was a wrestler at Santa Rosa Junior College and had competed in the Dave Pacheco Invitational in Sacramento just two days earlier.

As a freshman last season, he earned All-American honors and placed third in the California Community College Athletic Association tournament, The Press Democrat reported.

“If you knew Ryan, you know he was one of the most genuine, positive people you could ever meet,” wrestling coach Fred Duerr said in a statement.

“He had this way of lighting up a room, making you feel welcome, and bringing out the best in everyone around him.”

People who knew George often described his energy as generous and fun, according to the Press Democrat.

“He never complained, never grumbled. He was always smiling, always helping. He was a stellar teammate,” said Montgomery High School wrestling coach, Ian Hesz.

That spirit helped him build an impressive wrestling career at Montgomery. He won the North Bay League title at 217 pounds and, as a senior, finished second in the North Coast Section tournament.

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