Visually Impaired Wrestler Inspires Albuquerque High School Team

South African exchange student overcomes challenges to compete on the mat

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Mugo Mbuthia, a foreign exchange student from South Africa with a visual impairment, has joined the wrestling team at Eldorado High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico, inspiring his teammates and the community with his determination and perseverance.

Why it matters

Mbuthia's story highlights the power of inclusion and the ability of individuals with disabilities to overcome obstacles and participate in sports, inspiring others in the process. His journey also underscores the importance of supportive teammates and coaches in helping athletes with unique challenges succeed.

The details

Mbuthia, who was born with optic nerve hypoplasia, a condition that severely limits his vision, had no prior experience in wrestling. However, he was inspired to try the sport after watching WWE and discovering that Eldorado High had a team. Despite the additional challenges he faces due to his visual impairment, Mbuthia has been embraced by his teammates and coaches, who have had to adapt their teaching methods to help him learn through feel rather than sight.

  • Mbuthia joined the Eldorado High School wrestling team at the start of the current school year.
  • He has been competing in matches throughout the season, including some dramatic, last-minute victories.

The players

Mugo Mbuthia

A foreign exchange student from South Africa who has joined the Eldorado High School wrestling team despite being born with a visual impairment.

Scott Dotson

The head coach of the Eldorado High School wrestling team, who has worked to support and accommodate Mbuthia's unique needs.

Eldorado High School

The high school in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where Mbuthia is a foreign exchange student and member of the wrestling team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He showed up one day, said, 'I'm interested in wrestling,' Had no wrestling background… and he just started showing up every day.”

— Scott Dotson, Head Coach, Eldorado High School Wrestling Team (kob.com)

“I decided to try because I remember liking wrestling before. I wanted to actually try and experience it.”

— Mugo Mbuthia (kob.com)

“We have to demonstrate on him one-on-one so he understands the feel of it instead of the visual of it.”

— Scott Dotson, Head Coach, Eldorado High School Wrestling Team (kob.com)

“Before matches, he would say, 'Coach, I'm sorry when I lose,' and there's a lot of nervousness.”

— Scott Dotson, Head Coach, Eldorado High School Wrestling Team (kob.com)

“Them being able to support me... letting me go out there and be myself and wrestle hard.”

— Mugo Mbuthia (kob.com)

What’s next

Mbuthia plans to return to South Africa this summer, but he says he'll miss his teammates and the friendships he's made in Albuquerque.

The takeaway

Mbuthia's story demonstrates the power of inclusion and the ability of individuals with disabilities to overcome challenges and participate in sports, inspiring their teammates and communities. His journey highlights the importance of supportive environments and the transformative impact they can have on young athletes.