Monthly Archives: February 2013

Great Experience + Experience Greatness = NYWAY's Future Stars and National Duals at Cornell on Sunday

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Two different ends of the wrestling spectrum will be represented on the campus of Cornell University on Sunday.

In the afternoon, the Big Red will host the quarterfinal round of the NWCA National Duals, including a trio of top 15 teams – the host school plus Nebraska and Virginia, as well as Hofstra, which had Cornell on the ropes after five weights in last week’s dual.

But before some of the top college wrestlers in the country take the mat, grapplers who are just getting their start in the sport will compete in a very different event.

NYWAY’s Future Stars State Championships tournament is open to first or second year wrestlers up through eighth grade who want an opportunity to get some competitive experience.

“There’s a gaping hole in New York for development,” said NYWAY President Clint Wattenberg. “There are a lot of places around the state where there aren’t modified programs anymore.  Even where there are modified programs, the kids don’t get much mat time or many matches to get hooked into the sport.”

Courtesy of NYWAY

“A lot of times, the modified season is only 10 weeks long and some kids only get six meets,” added Finger Lakes Wrestling Club Pee-Wee Coach Eric Toftegaard. “You can’t create good wrestlers when you’re only wrestling that many times, especially when you haven’t been wrestling for very long. We’re trying to bridge the gap.”

That’s the thought process behind the Future Stars, which pits novice wrestlers against others who are in the same boat.

“Wrestlers who are new to the sport often aren’t ready for tournaments,” Toftegaard said. “Who wants to go somewhere and get pinned twice against much more experienced opponents?  This will give newer wrestlers a chance to get accustomed to tournaments with kids across the state in the same position they’re in.  We think this will invigorate their love for the sport and encourage them to continue to their third and fourth years when they’ll be ready for other tournaments.”

The Future Stars event will begin at 8 a.m. and use Madison Style pairing.  The top four will receive custom made medals.

And after they compete, the grapplers will receive free admission to the National Duals.

“It was a really spectacular opportunity to do this event in conjunction with the National Duals,” Toftegaard said. “The kids will get a chance to wrestle and then stay and watch some amazing college athletes and some phenomenal wrestling.  They’ll see what could be if they remain in the sport.”

According to Wattenberg, uniting novice and top notch college wrestling fits perfectly with what NYWAY aims to accomplish.

“We’re trying to provide opportunities for wrestlers at all levels, to grow the sport in New York,” he said. “That includes youth, high school and college.  This event is another way to bring different levels of folkstyle together and have a great day of wrestling.”

For more information, see the flyer here: Future Stars Final-1

The registration deadline is February 15.  To register, see here.

Cornell Dominates Bucknell; Hofstra Tops Binghamton as Big Red and Bearcats Honor Seniors

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It was Senior Day in Section 4 on Sunday as both Cornell and Binghamton honored their graduating wrestlers.  While the Big Red crushed Bucknell, 37-3, the Bearcats dropped a CAA dual against a surging Hofstra team, 23-19.

Still, the nationally-ranked seniors who took the mat for Cornell (Kyle Dake and Steve Bosak) and Binghamton (Donnie Vinson and Nate Schiedel) finished in style with pins in front of their home crowds.

Cornell Breezes Past Bucknell; Dake Pins #10 Lear in First Period

Bosak, Photo by BV

The Big Red notched wins in nine of the 10 bouts against fellow EIWA squad Bucknell.  In their last appearances at the Friedman Center, defending NCAA champions Kyle Dake and Steve Bosak both earned first period falls.  Also collecting bonus points for the Ivy League team were Nahshon Garrett at 125 and Chris Villalonga at 149.

For more, see here.

Hofstra Wins All-New York CAA Battle

The Pride got off to a great start, with victories in six of the first seven bouts, and captured a 23-19 decision against Binghamton.  The win was the sixth in the past eight duals for Hofstra, which racked up four bonus points triumphs.  Luke Vaith registered a technical fall at 141 while Steve Bonanno (125), Tyler Banks (157) and Nick Terdick (165) all picked up major decisions.

For more on the dual, see here.

Army Tops American

The Black Knights captured eight of 10 matches, including pins by Jordan Thome at 133 and Ryan Tompkins at 184 to defeat American, 34-8 in an EIWA meeting on Sunday.  The results of Army’s dual with Boston will be posted when that event ends.

For more on Army’s victory over the Eagles, see here.

 

 

 

Who Has Earned Spots in Albany? Sectional Championship Results

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For the results of the Sectional Championships around the state (by Section), click here.

For the list of qualifiers by weight class, click here.

We will update these as information becomes available.
 
 

State Tournament Bound: The Division I and II State Qualifiers

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Two qualifiers remain, the Section 11 Division 2 tournament and the CHSAA championships.  Both will happen this weekend.  Wildcards have been added!

DIVISION I

99 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: James Kelly, Pearl River

Section 2 Champion: Josh LoGuidice, Guilderland

Section 3 Champion: Kelan McKenna, New Hartford

Section 4 Champion: Tyler Brazinski, Johnson City

Section 5 Champion: Yianni Diakomihalis, Hilton

Section 6 Champion: Donny McCoy, Niagara Falls

Section 8 Champion: Vito Arujau, Syosset

Section 9 Champion: Chris Cuccolo, Pine Bush

Section 10 Champion: Ryan Brown, Canton

Section 11 Champion: John Arceri, Huntington

CHSAA Champion: Garrett Baugher, St. Joe’s Collegiate

PSAL Champion: Malik Grant, Curtis

Wildcard: Vinny Vespa, Monroe Woodbury (9)

Wildcard: Anthony Sgorrano, South Glens Falls (2)

Wildcard: John Busiello, Eastport South Manor (11)

Wildcard: Jesse Dellevecchia, East Islip (11)

 

106 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Nick Barbaria, New Rochelle

Section 2 Champion: Golan Cohen, Colonie

Section 3 Champion: Mitchell Woodworth, Fulton

Section 4 Champion: Jimmy Overhiser, Corning

Section 5 Champion: Jonathan Haas, Spencerport

Section 6 Champion: Ryan Burns, Clarence

Section 8 Champion: Kyle Quinn, Wantagh

Section 9 Champion: Evan Barczak, Monroe Woodbury

Section 10 Champion: Mike Brown, Massena

Section 11 Champion: Alex Tanzman, Westhampton Beach

CHSAA Champion: John Twomey, St. Anthony’s

PSAL Champion: Adam Gomez, Cardozo

Wildcard: Bryan Ruggeri, Fairport (5)

Wildcard: Steven Lee, West Babylon (11)

Wildcard: Chris Donnelly, Island Trees (8)

Wildcard: Mike Lainhart, Guilderland (2)

 

113 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Mark Grant, Henry Hudson

Section 2 Champion: Corey Ali, Shenendehowa

Section 3 Champion: Thomas Hill, Fulton

Section 4 Champion: Kyle Kelly, Chenango Forks

Section 5 Champion: Bryan Lantry, Wayne

Section 6 Champion: Shane Helbig, Niagara Wheatfield

Section 8 Champion: Steven Sewkumar, Long Beach

Section 9 Champion: Dylan Booth, Port Jervis

Section 10 Champion: Skyler Cameron, Massena

Section 11 Champion: Nick Piccinnini, Ward Melville

CHSAA Champion: Ben Lamantia, St. Anthony’s

PSAL Champion: Matthew Moy, Stuyvesant

Wildcard: Joe Calderone, Walt Whitman (11)

Wildcard: John Stramiello, Pine Bush (9)

Wildcard: Barton Peters, Brockport (5)

Wildcard: Brandon Winchip, Queensbury (2)

 

120 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: John Muldoon, Pearl River

Section 2 Champion: Blake Retell, Shaker

Section 3 Champion: Kevin Paul, Baldwinsville

Section 4 Champion: Cole Ford, Newark Valley

Section 5 Champion: Lou DePrez, Hilton

Section 6 Champion: Steve Michel, Lancaster

Section 8 Champion: Robert Person, Bellmore JFK

Section 9 Champion: Paul Smoot, Monroe Woodbury

Section 10 Champion: Konner German, Massena

Section 11 Champion: Travis Passaro, Eastport South Manor

CHSAA Champion: Joe Russ, St. Anthony’s

PSAL Champion: Santo Curatolo, Tottenville

Wildcard: Anthony Orefice, Lockport (6)

Wildcard: Mike D’angelo, Commack (11)

Wildcard: Alex Delacruz, Ossining (1)

Wildcard: Blaise Benderoth, North Rockland (1)

 

126 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Dylan Realbuto, Somers

Section 2 Champion: John McHugh, Columbia

Section 3 Champion: Antonio DeLuco, Rome Free Academy

Section 4 Champion: Jacob Green, Chenango Forks

Section 5 Champion: Frankie Gissendanner, Penfield

Section 6 Champion: Rocco Russo, Frontier

Section 8 Champion: Owen Bachelder, Hewlett

Section 9 Champion: Mike Raccioppi, Minisink Valley

Section 10 Champion: Austin Learned, Malone

Section 11 Champion: Mark West, Hauppauge

CHSAA Champion: Freddie Dunau, St. Anthony’s

PSAL Champion: Keanu Thompson, Grand Street

Wildcard: TJ Fabian, Shoreham Wading River (11)

Wildcard: Chris Araoz, Wantagh (8)

Wildcard: Mike Fera, Manhasset (8)

Wildcard: Nick Toutant, Indian River (3)

 

132 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Liam Erickson, Brewster

Section 2 Champion: Brandon Lapi, Amsterdam

Section 3 Champion: Connor Grome, West Genesee

Section 4 Champion: Richie Burke, Ithaca

Section 5 Champion: Eric Harley, Penfield

Section 6 Champion: Marcus Popp, Niagara Wheatfield

Section 8 Champion: Vinny Turano, Wantagh

Section 9 Champion: Chris Truglio, Minisink Valley

Section 10 Champion: Landon Laughlin, Massena

Section 11 Champion: Matt Leshinger, Sayville

CHSAA Champion: Sam Melikian, Fordham Prep

PSAL Champion: Saidyokub Kahramonov, New Utrecht

Wildcard: Chris Mauriello, Hauppauge (11)

Wildcard: Connor O’Hara, Sachem East (11)

Wildcard: Jake DiMarsico, North Rockland (1)

Wildcard: Bryan Mongiello, Washingtonville (9)

 

138 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Matt Caputo, North Rockland

Section 2 Champion: Nick Kelley, Shenendehowa

Section 3 Champion: Derrick Gray, Indian River

Section 4 Champion: Nick Bidwell, Johnson City

Section 5 Champion: Vincent DePrez, Hilton

Section 6 Champion: Danny Graham, West Seneca East

Section 8 Champion: Matt Power, East Meadow

Section 9 Champion: Thomas Wightman, Warwick Valley

Section 10 Champion: Isaiah Perry, Massena

Section 11 Champion: Tommy Dutton, Rocky Point

CHSAA Champion: Travis Berube, St. Joe’s Collegiate

PSAL Champion: Julian Alsbrooks, New Utrecht

Wildcard: Joey Butler, Burnt Hills (2)

Wildcard: Chris Powers, Mt. Sinai (11)

Wildcard: Colby Kash, Clarkstown North (1)

Wildcard: Curtis Grant, Elmira (4)

 

145 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Tom Grippi, Fox Lane

Section 2 Champion: David Almaviva, Shenendehowa

Section 3 Champion: JT Romagnoli, CBA/Jamesville-DeWitt

Section 4 Champion: Trevor Hoffmier, Newark Valley

Section 5 Champion: Anthony DePrez, Hilton

Section 6 Champion: Eric Lewandowski, Lancaster

Section 8 Champion: Louis Hernandez, Mepham

Section 9 Champion: Mark Milisci, Washingtonville

Section 10 Champion: Jamiel Stapleton, Malone

Section 11 Champion: Brendan Dent, Connetquot

CHSAA Champion: Nick Alessandrini, St. Anthony’s

PSAL Champion: Nigel Williams, Eagle Academy

Wildcard: Jackson Mordente, Sachem East (11)

Wildcard: Jose Pagan, Lockport (6)

Wildcard: Brad Marvin, Ketcham (1)

Wildcard: Dennis Ferro, East Islip (11)

 

152 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Joe Mastro, Yorktown

Section 2 Champion: Angelo Kress, Columbia

Section 3 Champion: Josh Knapp, Rome Free Academy

Section 4 Champion: Zach Colgan, Johnson City

Section 5 Champion: Steve Azzano, Wayne

Section 6 Champion: Nate Schwab, Clarence

Section 8 Champion: Chris Koo, Great Neck South

Section 9 Champion: Dan DeCarlo, Port Jervis

Section 10 Champion: Hunter Perrine, Massena

Section 11 Champion: Corey Rasheed, Longwood

CHSAA Champion: Declan Gray, Chaminade

PSAL Champion: Konstantin Parfiryev, James Madison

Wildcard: Tommy Quinlan, Fayetteville-Manlius (3)

Wildcard: Zach Joseph, Shenendehowa (2)

Wildcard: Terrance Acker, Grand Island (6)

Wildcard: Jake Ashcraft, Burnt Hills (2)

 

160 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Dale White, John Jay East Fishkill

Section 2 Champion: James Marquez, Amsterdam

Section 3 Champion: Colin Ryan, Carthage

Section 4 Champion: Derek Holcomb, Newark Valley

Section 5 Champion: Josh Powell, Churchville-Chili

Section 6 Champion: Jake Weber, Clarence

Section 8 Champion: Steven Schneider, MacArthur

Section 9 Champion: Travis Edwards, Port Jervis

Section 10 Champion: Jared Cascanette, Canton

Section 11 Champion: Tyler Grimaldi, Hills West

CHSAA Champion: Andrew Psomas, Monsignor Farrell

PSAL Champion: Camilo Gaitan, Brooklyn Tech

Wildcard: Alex Francik, Vestal (4)

Wildcard: Jun Yoo, Jericho (8)

Wildcard: Kevin Rodriguez, Pat-Med (11)

Wildcard: JP Vandercliff, Monroe Woodbury (9)

 

170 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Brett Perry, John Jay East Fishkill

Section 2 Champion: Jack Hatton, Burnt Hills

Section 3 Champion: Sonny McPherson, Indian River

Section 4 Champion: Isaiah Zimmer, Chenango Forks

Section 5 Champion: Jared Mesiti, Brockport

Section 6 Champion: Andrew Paulsen, Iroquois

Section 8 Champion: Dan McDevitt, Wantagh

Section 9 Champion: AJ Voelker, Monroe Woodbury

Section 10 Champion: Nate Moose, Canton

Section 11 Champion: Carlos Toribio, Brentwood

CHSAA Champion: John Vrasidas, St. Anthony’s

PSAL Champion: Cedrick Stephens, Wingate

Wildcard: Joe Piccolo, Hills West (11)

Wildcard: Dan Grabher, North Shore (8)

Wildcard: Franky Nassivera, Queensbury (2)

Wildcard: Kyle McGuire, Newburgh (9)

 

182 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Thomas Murray, Yorktown

Section 2 Champion: Ali Hashimee, Shenendehowa

Section 3 Champion: Shayne Brady, Carthage

Section 4 Champion: James Benjamin, Vestal

Section 5 Champion: Trent Egenlauf, Spencerport

Section 6 Champion: Anthony Liberatore, Williamsville South

Section 8 Champion: James Corbett, Wantagh

Section 9 Champion: Connor Leavell, Warwick Valley

Section 10 Champion: Joe Ferrera, Massena

Section 11 Champion: Gio Santiago, Sachem North

CHSAA Champion: Matt Roberts, Monsignor Farrell

PSAL Champion: Nathanael Rose, Eagle Academy

Wildcard: Dan Fiorvanti, Commack (11)

Wildcard: Robert Ng, Plainedge (8)

Wildcard: Jager Rebozo, Hills West (11)

Wildcard: Dylan Schmidt, Plainview (8)

 

195 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Steven Sabella, Yorktown

Section 2 Champion: Levi Ashley, Shenendehowa

Section 3 Champion: Ben Honis, CBA/Jamesville-DeWitt

Section 4 Champion: Reggie Williams, Johnson City

Section 5 Champion: Colton Kells, Fairport

Section 6 Champion: James Empfield, Lancaster

Section 8 Champion: Dan Choi, Syosset

Section 9 Champion: Deon Edmond, Kingston

Section 10 Champion: Jeremy Malone, Massena

Section 11 Champion: Chris Chambers, East Islip

CHSAA Champion: Danny Fowler, Chaminade

PSAL Champion: Kevin Tynes, Brooklyn Tech

Wildcard: Nick Weber, Kings Park (11)

Wildcard: Cristian Nunez, Sachem East (11)

Wildcard: Scott Wymbs, Horace Greeley (1)

Wildcard: Collin Pittman, Spencerport (5)

 

220 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: John Hartnett, Tappan Zee

Section 2 Champion: Jason Johnson, Colonie

Section 3 Champion: Brian Honsinger, Baldwinsville

Section 4 Champion: Lucas DePofi, Union-Endicott

Section 5 Champion: Sam Eagan, Churchville-Chili

Section 6 Champion: Marshall Taylor, Lockport

Section 8 Champion: Tom Sinclair, Island Trees

Section 9 Champion: Josh Bonneau, Minisink Valley

Section 10 Champion: Joe Juarez, Malone

Section 11 Champion: Nick Lupi, Huntington

CHSAA Champion: Richard Sisti, Monsignor Farrell

PSAL Champion: Shawn Brown, Curtis

Wildcard: Steven Mills, Sachem North (11)

Wildcard: Jenard Rosemond, Calhoun (8)

Wildcard: Matt Mott, Lynbrook (8)

Wildcard: Trent Lofaro, Ossining (1)

 

285 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Mike Manni, Tappan Zee

Section 2 Champion: El Shaddai Van Hoesen, Columbia

Section 3 Champion: Trevor Gibbons, Carthage

Section 4 Champion: Andrew Brinser, Union-Endicott

Section 5 Champion: Ian James, Greece

Section 6 Champion: Nate Ward, Clarence

Section 8 Champion: James O’Hagan, Seaford

Section 9 Champion: Terrence Cheeks, NFA

Section 10 Champion: Nolan Terrance, Massena

Section 11 Champion: Mike Hughes, Smithtown West

CHSAA Champion: Chris Alianakian, Kellenberg

PSAL Champion: Shaquille Williams, Brooklyn Tech

Wildcard: Austin Coleman, Spencerport (5)

Wildcard: Anthony Puca, Huntington (11)

Wildcard: David Varian, Yorktown (1)

Wildcard: Bryan Tenny, Farmingdale (8)

 

DIVISION II

99 Pounds:
Section 1 Champion: James Bathon, Pleasantville

Section 2 Champion: Garon LeClair, Corinth

Section 3 Champion: Derek Spann, Adirondack

Section 4 Champion: Dean Raymond, Deposit

Section 5 Champion: Hunter Olena, East Rochester

Section 6 Champion: Ryan Hetrick, Southwestern

Section 7 Champion: Johnny Devins, Saranac

Section 8 Champion: Bryan Coll, Locust Valley

Section 9 Champion: Taylor Benson, Red Hook

Section 10 Champion: Tanner LaPiene, Ogdensburg Free Academy

Section 11 Champion: Matteo DeVincenzo, Port Jefferson

PSAL Champion: Dolan McColgan, Petrides

Wildcard: Andrew Flanagan, Holley (5)

Wildcard: Hammond Raes, Midlakes (5)

Wildcard: Theo Powers, Mexico (3)

Wildcard: Kyle Blake, Falconer (6)

 

106 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Noah Kelvas, Putnam Valley

Section 2 Champion: Luis Weirebach, Hoosick Falls

Section 3 Champion: Danny Fox, Dolgeville

Section 4 Champion: Chris Cirigliano, BGA

Section 5 Champion: Tyler Hamsher, Wayland Cohocton

Section 6 Champion: Brad Bihler, Maple Grove

Section 7 Champion: Austin Trombley, Northern Adirondack

Section 8 Champion: Hunter Dusold, Locust Valley

Section 9 Champion: Mike Felicano, Highland

Section 10 Champion: Brody Sheppard, Ogdensburg Free Academy

Section 11 Champion: Dominick Mazzella, Babylon

PSAL Champion: Alpha Diallo, Brooklyn International

Wildcard: Jason Charlette, Midlakes (5)

Wildcard: Ryan O’Rourke, Adirondack (3)

Wildcard: Joe Rorick, Odessa-Montour (4)

Wildcard: Nico Riccio, Galway (2)

 

113 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Stephen Samolsky, Ardsley

Section 2 Champion: Matt Morris, Albany Academy

Section 3 Champion: Hunter Richard, Holland Patent

Section 4 Champion: Dylan Wood, Walton

Section 5 Champion: Austin Keough, Warsaw

Section 6 Champion: Andrew Shomers, Lewiston Porter

Section 7 Champion: Kyler Agoney, Peru

Section 8 Champion: Nick Casella, Locust Valley

Section 9 Champion: Austin Ingraham, Highland

Section 10 Champion: Dillon Stowell, Gouverneur

Section 11 Champion: Michael Menzer, Center Moriches

PSAL Champion: Cheick Ndiaye, Brooklyn International

Wildcard: Corey Hollister, Perry (5)

Wildcard: Andrew Marra, Olean (6)

Wildcard: Ralph Mateo, Midlakes (5)

Wildcard: Kobe Garrehy, Maine-Endwell (4)

 

120 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Trey Aslanian, Edgemont

Section 2 Champion: Al Aubin, Whitehall

Section 3 Champion: Mike Boyle, Cooperstown

Section 4 Champion: Nate Hayes, Windsor

Section 5 Champion: Sean Peacock, Midlakes

Section 6 Champion: Kellen Devlin, Amherst

Section 7 Champion: Ethan Feazelle, Peru

Section 8 Champion: Tom Stobe, Clarke

Section 9 Champion: Avery Leighton, Onteora

Section 10 Champion: Aaron Bush, Gouverneur

Section 11 Champion: Peter Schneider, Smithtown Christian

PSAL Champion: Mohammed Guernah, Riverdale Kingsbridge

Wildcard: Anthony Calvano, Nanuet (1)

Wildcard: Carter Merecki, Salem (2)

Wildcard: Dylan Deuel, Addison (5)

Wildcard: Sean Ballard, Whitney Point (4)

 

126 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Stephen Paternostro, Pleasantville

Section 2 Champion: Dan VanDyk, Salem

Section 3 Champion: Laken Cook, Ilion

Section 4 Champion: William Koll, Lansing

Section 5 Champion: Jake Nicholson, Waterloo

Section 6 Champion: Branden Muntz, Falconer

Section 7 Champion: Nick Forget, Peru

Section 8 Champion: Matthew Jarvis, Carle Place

Section 9 Champion: Matt Rauch, Red Hook

Section 10 Champion: Josh Wangler, Ogdensburg Free Academy

Section 11 Champion: Hunter Hulse, Stony Brook

PSAL Champion: Daniel Padulo, Baruch

Wildcard: Ryan Snow, General Brown (3)

Wildcard: Majed Mohamed, Lackawanna (6)

Wildcard: Zach Alexander, Cortland (3)

Wildcard: Dakota Gardner, Fredonia (6)

 

132 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Chris Bruno, Putnam Valley

Section 2 Champion: Ryan Matuszak, Corinth

Section 3 Champion: Jon Crast, South Jefferson

Section 4 Champion: Tristan Rifanburg, Norwich

Section 5 Champion: Clyde Carey, Addison

Section 6 Champion: Renaldo Rodriguez-Spencer, Cheekotowoga

Section 7 Champion: Austin LaTulip, Saranac

Section 8 Champion: Sam Ward, Locust Valley

Section 9 Champion: Sean Cramsie, New Paltz

Section 10 Champion: Zach Ayen, Gouverneur

Section 11 Champion: Austin Hulse, Stony Brook

PSAL Champion: Steven Cook, Riverdale Kingsbridge

Wildcard: Alex Herringshaw, Holland Patent (3)

Wildcard: Ryan Kromer, Lewiston Porter (6)

Wildcard: Jake Sepor, Pavilion (5)

Wildcard: Tyler Cassidy, Fredonia (6)

 

138 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Drew Longo, Ardsley

Section 2 Champion: Sean Romanski, Albany Academy

Section 3 Champion: Nick Tighe, Phoenix

Section 4 Champion: Connor Lapresi, Lansing

Section 5 Champion: Taylor Jones, Palmyra Macedon

Section 6 Champion: Dan Reagan, Lewiston Porter

Section 7 Champion: Jordan Bushey, Peru

Section 8 Champion: Matt Long, Mineola

Section 9 Champion: Luis Garcia, Red Hook

Section 10 Champion: Joey Love, Gouverneur

Section 11 Champion: Bobby Becker, Mattituck

PSAL Champion: Daniel Dornbaum, Baruch

Wildcard: John Diekel, Whitehall (2)

Wildcard: Kasey Proper, Vernon Verona Sherrill (3)

Wildcard: Joel Rosko, Campbell Savona (5)

Wildcard: Todd Stevens, Holland Patent (3)

 

145 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Matt Dillon, Nanuet

Section 2 Champion: Kyle Mulcahy, Corinth

Section 3 Champion: Nick Koelmel, Immaculate Heart Central

Section 4 Champion: Frank Garcia, Norwich

Section 5 Champion: Austin Hedges, Letchworth

Section 6 Champion: Drew Hull, Royalton Hartland

Section 7 Champion: Codie Gillette, Saranac

Section 8 Champion: Michael Dusold, Locust Valley

Section 9 Champion: Sal Mazzella, Highland

Section 10 Champion: Robbie Bell, Gouverneur

Section 11 Champion: Ryan Hake, Bayport Blue Point

PSAL Champion: Paul Schoenberg, Baruch

Wildcard: Jude Gardner, Fredonia (6)

Wildcard: CJ Loomis, Mexico (3)

Wildcard: Jordan Torbitt, Whitney Point (4)

Wildcard: Codie Nichols, Unatego (4)

 

152 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Brett Pastore, Irvington

Section 2 Champion: Connor Lawrence, Duanesburg

Section 3 Champion: Rowdy Prior, Phoenix

Section 4 Champion: Kyle Halladay, Chenango Valley

Section 5 Champion: Trey Duvall, Addison

Section 6 Champion: Alex Smythe, Eden

Section 7 Champion: Zachary Myers, Beekmantown

Section 8 Champion: Luigi Miranda, Mineola

Section 9 Champion: Kevin Palko, Tri-Valley

Section 10 Champion: Curtis Fuller, Gouverneur

Section 11 Champion: Matthew Migliore, Smithtown Christian

PSAL Champion: Tyson Simon, Petrides

Wildcard: Tyler Spann, Adirondack (3)

Wildcard: Kevin Thayer, Unatego (4)

Wildcard: Dan Woughter, Alfred Almond (5)

Wildcard: Max Lloyd, Pal-Mac (5)

 

160 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Edgar Solis, Westlake

Section 2 Champion: Nick Gallo, Schalmont

Section 3 Champion: Tyler Silverthorn, General Brown

Section 4 Champion: Mike Beckwith, Greene

Section 5 Champion: Burke Paddock, Warsaw

Section 6 Champion: Gunnar Van Curen, Portville

Section 7 Champion: James Black, Saranac

Section 8 Champion: Jordan Formicola, Locust Valley

Section 9 Champion: Austin Weigel, Onteora

Section 10 Champion: Cody Allen David, Ogdensburg Free Academy

Section 11 Champion: Ryan Woodward, Port Jefferson

PSAL Champion: Robert Kowalik, Petrides

Wildcard: Matt Fisher, Oneida (3)

Wildcard: Leland Slawson, Unatego (4)

Wildcard: Tyler Keear, Geneva (5)

Wildcard: Tom Confer, Camden (3)

 

170 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: John Messinger, Putnam Valley

Section 2 Champion: Geno Brancati, Hudson Falls

Section 3 Champion: Daniel Smith, South Jefferson

Section 4 Champion: Christian Dietrich, Greene

Section 5 Champion: Jon Levchuk, Byron Bergen

Section 6 Champion: Zach Buckley, Fredonia

Section 7 Champion: Troy Seymour, Peru

Section 8 Champion: Yamique Webb, Locust Valley

Section 9 Champion: Aidan Mathews, Marlboro

Section 10 Champion: Andrew Cole, Ogdensburg Free Academy

Section 11 Champion: Tomasz Filipkowski, Mattituck

PSAL Champion: Adis Radoncic, Riverdale Knightsbridge

Wildcard: Jeff Day, Letchworth (5)

Wildcard: Collin Fox, Midlakes (5)

Wildcard: Mike Green, Cobleskill-Richmondville (2)

Wildcard: Mark Dove, Homer (3)

 

182 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Chris Kim, Edgemont

Section 2 Champion: Brad Burns, Hoosick Falls

Section 3 Champion: Zack Zupan, Canastota

Section 4 Champion: Ryan Marszal, Unatego

Section 5 Champion: Tim Schaefer, Warsaw

Section 6 Champion: Austin Lynn, Frewsburg

Section 7 Champion: Gage Bourdeau, Beekmantown

Section 8 Champion: Chris Roufanis, Cold Spring Harbor

Section 9 Champion: Andy Martinez, Liberty

Section 10 Champion: Alex Cole, Ogdensburg Free Academy

Section 11 Champion: Brian Loskamp, Babylon

PSAL Champion: Isaiah Blake, Baruch

Wildcard: Derrick Din, Canisteo-Greenwood (5)

Wildcard: Logan LaFlamme, South Jefferson (3)

Wildcard: Mike Beers, Walton (4)

Wildcard: Tyler Veno, Portville (6)

 

195 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Jacob Wiegard, Lourdes

Section 2 Champion: Jeff Senecal, Duanesburg

Section 3 Champion: Lane Frost, Vernon-Verona-Sherrill

Section 4 Champion: Mark Viviano, BGA

Section 5 Champion: Bryce Mazurowski, Avon

Section 6 Champion: Matt Booth, Cattaraugus/LV-PV

Section 7 Champion: Matt Lashway, Northern Adirondack

Section 8 Champion: Alex Galizia, Oyster Bay

Section 9 Champion: Dustin MacKenzie, Onteora

Section 10 Champion: Hunter Ayen, Gouverneur

Section 11 Champion: Christopher Baglivi, Mattituck

PSAL Champion: Christian Gioia, Petrides

Wildcard: Tyler Smith, Midlakes (5)

Wildcard: Wyatt Albanese, Canastota (3)

Wildcard: Dusty Lewis, Salamanca (6)

Wildcard: Andre Maxam, Glens Falls (2)

 

220 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Dan Breit, Nanuet

Section 2 Champion: Joe Nellis, Johnstown

Section 3 Champion: Corey Gaffney, General Brown

Section 4 Champion: Ryan Wolcott, Waverly

Section 5 Champion: Zack Bacon, Hornell

Section 6 Champion: Chris Saden, Fredonia

Section 7 Champion: Luke McKee, Peru

Section 8 Champion: Enndy Nunez, Clarke

Section 9 Champion: Jesse Corcoran, Eldred-Fallsburg

Section 10 Champion: Mike Mandigo, Gouverneur

Section 11 Champion: Rafal Rokosz, Southampton

PSAL Champion: Joshua Ferlazzo, Petrides

Wildcard: Mike Silvis, Holley (5)

Wildcard: Josh Langley, Holland Patent (3)

Wildcard: Dillon Hurlbert, Marathon (4)

Wildcard: Scott Hamblin, Copenhagen (3)

 

285 Pounds:

Section 1 Champion: Matt Acevedo, Pawling

Section 2 Champion: Alex Soutiere, Ravena

Section 3 Champion: Brandon Fayle, Lowville

Section 4 Champion: Matt Abbott, Windsor

Section 5 Champion: Christian Shepard, Geneva

Section 6 Champion: Matt Montesanti, Medina

Section 7 Champion: Scott Guerin, Northern Adirondack

Section 8 Champion: Robert Incorvaia, Cold Spring Harbor

Section 9 Champion: Troy Grant, New Paltz

Section 10 Champion: Nate Sarkin, Ogdensburg Free Academy

Section 11 Champion: Peter Strassfield, Southampton

PSAL Champion: Anthony Hernandez, Petrides

Wildcard: William Baker, Taconic Hills (2)

Wildcard: Wyatt Morris, Morrisville Eaton (3)

Wildcard: Connor Calkins, Alfred Almond (5)

Wildcard: Mike Saxman, Byron Bergen (5)

 

 

FLWC's Grey and Realbuto Win Titles; Buffalo Places Four at Edinboro Open

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While the New York Division I wrestling teams didn’t see dual action on Saturday, a number of wrestlers from the Empire State placed at the Edinboro Open in Pennsylvania.

Realbuto, Photo by BV

A pair of grapplers from the Finger Lakes Wrestling Club (FLWC) in Ithaca won titles – Mark Grey (133) and Brian Realbuto (157).  Grey once again battled with Lehigh’s Mason Beckman, an opponent he has faced a number of times dating back to high school.  Beckman has had a very impressive redshirt year, but Grey came out with the 4-3 victory.  Meanwhile, Realbuto picked up five wins, including three by bonus points and topped Pittsburgh’s Donnie Tasser 9-7 in the championship bout.

Also placing for the FLWC were Gabe Dean at 184 (fourth) and Angelo Silvestro at 141 (fifth).

Those wrestlers will likely suit up for Cornell in the future.  Some current Big Red grapplers delivered strong performances on Saturday, with 197-pounder Billy George earning second place behind American’s Daniel Mitchell at 197 and 141-pounder Joe Rendina grabbing fourth.

Buffalo put four wrestlers on the podium, including three fourth place finishers – Blake Ruolo (149), Tony Lock (197) and Justin Heiserman (285).  Notching fifth was Justin Lozano at 165 pounds.  Lozano lost to eventual gold medalist Ian Miller of Kent State in the second round but came back to win five consolation matches.

Binghamton’s David White was edged in the 125-pound finals by Pittsburgh’s Anthony Zanetta, while 2012 Frewsburg High School state runner up Nick Mitchell of Edinboro picked up third at 174.  Mitchell’s one setback was against champion PJ Tasser of Pittsburgh, but he responded with four consecutive victories to collect bronze.

Brackets are available here: EUP_Open_2013

 

 

Changes to Sectional Tournaments Due to Weather

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The following are changes that we are aware of to the original Sectionals schedules.  Some of the tournaments were not impacted. Please contact us at newyorkwrestlingnews@gmail.com with any additional information.

Section 1: Division I and II tournaments now on Sunday at Pace University, with DI finishing on Monday

Section 2: Tournaments moved to Sunday at Queensbury High School

Section 4: Tournaments now only on Saturday

Section 5: Tournaments now Saturday and Sunday at Brockport

Section 8: Division I tournament is now on Sunday and Tuesday at the Mack Sports Arena at Hofstra; Division II tournament on Sunday at Carle Place

Section 9: Division I tournament now Sunday (Monroe Woodbury) and Monday (Valley Central)

Section 11: Division I tournament now begins Tuesday at the Mack Sports Arena at Hofstra; Division II tournament not certain as of Sunday night

PSAL: Tournaments to be held only on Sunday at Truman High in the Bronx

CHSAA: Postponed (not this weekend)

 

 

New York State High School Rankings #3 – Where Things Stand As The Postseason Really Begins

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The postseason is finally here.  Soon, we’ll find out who will have the opportunity to battle for a state title in Albany.  But before the Sectional championships get underway, here’s a look at where our panel thinks things stand across the weights in New York State.  There are sure to be some surprises and some great performances in the coming weeks by these wrestlers and by others.  Please feel free to provide comments or suggestions and we’ll consider them as long as they are done respectfully.

Good luck to all . . .

99 Pounds:

Photo by BV

  1. Yianni Diakomihalis, Hilton (5)
  2. Vito Arujau, Syosset (8)
  3. Jesse Dellavecchia, East Islip (11)
  4. John Arceri, Huntington (11)
  5. Chris Cuccolo, Pine Bush (9)
  6. Garrett Baugher, St. Joseph’s Collegiate (C)
  7. John Busiello, Eastport South Manor (11)
  8. Andrew Flanagan, Holley (5)

A Few Notes: Busiello re-enters the rankings after splitting matches with John Arceri, although the Huntington wrestler came out on top in their bout this past weekend.  The Suffolk tournament will no doubt be tough at this weight with those two wrestlers and Jesse Dellevecchia all in the top 8.  Holley’s Andrew Flanagan also joins the list after edging Jake Yankloski of Wayne.  Flanagan looks to improve upon last year’s fourth place finish in this class in Albany.

106 Pounds:

  1. Alex Tanzman, Westhampton Beach (11)
  2. Nick Barbaria, New Rochelle (1)
  3. Kyle Quinn, Wantagh (8)
  4. James Szymanski, Shoreham Wading River (11)
  5. Jimmy Overhiser, Corning (4)
  6. Jonathan Haas, Spencerport (5)
  7. Tony Recco, Lyndonville (5)
  8. Luis Weirebach, Hoosick Falls (2)

A Few Notes: Golan Cohen of Colonie looked great at Eastern States and will likely be in the mix at the state tournament.  However, Luis Weirebach‘s recent decision against Cohen vaults him into the rankings, a year after placing at 99 pounds for Hoosick Falls.

Photo by BV

113 Pounds:

  1. Nick Piccininni, Ward Melville (11)
  2. Kyle Kelly, Chenango Forks (4)
  3. Dillon Stowell, Gouverneur (10)
  4. Bryan Lantry, Wayne (5)
  5. Tyler Walsh, West Islip (11)
  6. Andrew Shomers, Lewiston Porter (6)
  7. Joe Calderone, Walt Whitman (11)
  8. Cheick Ndiaye, Brooklyn International (P)

A Few Notes: The departure of Anthony Orefice to 120 pounds moved several wrestlers up a few slots from the last time.  In addition, Tyler Walsh of West Islip joins the rankings after his victory over Walt Whitman’s Joe Calderone, a returning fourth placer, in last weekend’s qualifier.  Andrew Shomers has been solid all year long with a 42-1 record, including wins over All-State wrestlers Orefice and Drew Marra.

120 Pounds:

  1. Alex Delacruz, Ossining (1)
  2. Mike D’Angelo, Commack (11)
  3. John Muldoon, Pearl River (1)
  4. Blaise Benderoth, North Rockland (1)
  5. Travis Passaro, Eastport South Manor (11)
  6. Blake Retell, Shaker (2)
  7. Steve Michel, Lancaster (6)
  8. Sean Peacock, Midlakes (5)

A Few Notes:  The top five hasn’t changed since the last version of the rankings. Muldoon did lose a match in overtime to Nanuet’s Anthony Calvano (who has a number of solid wins), but Muldoon avenged that loss shortly thereafter. The injury to Nick Tolli of Arlington moved him off the list and Steve Michel re-entered. The returning state placer from Lancaster has several quality wins this year including over Sean Peacock, Anthony Orefice (twice) and Kellen Devlin of Amherst (twice).  We expect to see strong surges from proven postseason performers such as Robert Person and Trey Aslanian.

Photo by Josh Conklin

126 Pounds:

  1. TJ Fabian, Shoreham Wading River (11)
  2. Dylan Realbuto, Somers (1)
  3. Chris Araoz, Wantagh (8)
  4. Mark West, Hauppauge (11)
  5. Brad Wade, Islip (11)
  6. Corey Jamison, Huntington (11)
  7. William Koll, Lansing (4)
  8. Dakota Gardner, Fredonia (6)

A Few Notes: The top four remain the same as last time at 126.  However, there is a bit of a shake-up afterwards. Islip’s Brad Wade moves into the rankings.  He has been impressive, beating Corey Jamison twice and state runner up Justin Cooksey. Honestly, eight slots don’t seem to be enough in this class.  Wrestlers such as Mike Raccioppi of Minisink Valley, Rocco Russo of Frontier, Laken Cook of Ilion, Jake Nicholson of Waterloo and Freddie Dunau of St. Anthony’s, among others, could do a lot of damage in Albany.

132 Pounds:

  1. Renaldo Rodriguez-Spencer, Cheektowoga (6)
  2. Tristan Rifanburg, Norwich (4)
  3. Sam Melikian, Fordham Prep (C)
  4. Matt Leshinger, Sayville (11)
  5. Brandon Lapi, Amsterdam (2)
  6. Vinny Turano, Wantagh (8)
  7. Conor O’Hara, Sachem East (11)
  8. Sam Ward, Locust Valley (8)

A Few Notes: Sam Ward of Locust Valley will be someone to watch in the Division II ranks. He upended Vinny Turano shortly after Eastern States and also had a win over Conor O’Hara in early December.  Two wrestlers that may be under the radar for those outside of Section 5, Jacob Sepor of Pavilion and Clyde Carey of Addison, are ones to keep tabs on as well.

Photo by Josh Conklin

138 Pounds:

  1. Nick Kelley, Shenendehowa (2)
  2. Nick Tighe, Phoenix (3)
  3. Connor Lapresi, Lansing (4)
  4. Tom Dutton, Rocky Point (11)
  5. Vincent DePrez, Hilton (5)
  6. Dan Reagan, Lewiston Porter (6)
  7. Derrick Gray, Indian River (3)
  8. Skylar Kropman, Penfield (5)

A Few Notes: Nothing has changed here. However, one wrestler we will be following the rest of the way is Danny Graham of West Seneca East.  Before the season, he was mentioned to us by a Section 6 coach as someone who could have a breakout year.  Thus far, he is undefeated.

145 Pounds:

  1. Louis Hernandez, Mepham (8)
  2. David Almaviva, Shenendehowa (2)
  3. Drew Hull, Royalton Hartland (6)
  4. Tom Grippi, Fox Lane (1)
  5. Brendan Dent, Connetquot (11)
  6. Eric Lewandowski, Lancaster (6)
  7. Jordan Torbitt, Whitney Point (4)
  8. Nick Koelmel, Immaculate Heart Central (3)

A Few Notes: Louis Hernandez holds the top spot and Eric Lewandowski remains in the rankings, although both dropped a match since our last update.  Hernandez’s only setback of the year came up a weight at 152 against the tough Michael Marrero. However, Hernandez’s run through some of New York’s best at Eastern States kept him in the same position. Tom Grippi has been on a tear since dropping a close one to Lewandowski at Eastern States.

Brendan Dent enters the rankings after an impressive campaign, including a win over Sachem East’s Jackson Mordente, while Jordan Torbitt blanked Norwich’s Frank Garcia, a wrestler who came within one win of placing in Albany last year. Nick Koelmel of Immaculate Heart Central handed Derrick Gray of Indian River (see 138 pound rankings) his only loss early in the season and has remained undefeated. Fredonia’s Jude Gardner placed in the Times Union Center last year and has only lost to Drew Hull this season (twice).  He may get another shot at Hull this weekend.

Photo by Josh Conklin

152 Pounds:

  1. Corey Rasheed, Longwood (11)
  2. Tyler Spann, Adirondack (3)
  3. Chris Koo, Great Neck South (8)
  4. Angelo Kress, Columbia (2)
  5. Brendan Goldup, LaSalle (2)
  6. Rowdy Prior, Phoenix (3)
  7. Joe Mastro, Yorktown (1)
  8. Alex Smythe, Eden (6)

A Few Notes: The small school tournament in Section 3 will be extremely tough this weekend at 152 pounds.  Tyler Spann, Rowdy Prior and two-time state placer Isaiah Riccio of Beaver River will fight it out for the  title.  Riccio has taken third and fifth the past two years in Albany and knows how to perform on the biggest stage. Rasheed and Koo keep cruising to victories.

160 Pounds:

  1. Burke Paddock, Warsaw (5)
  2. Tyler Grimaldi, HHHW (11)
  3. Steven Schneider, MacArthur (8)
  4. Mike Beckwith, Greene (4)
  5. Jake Weber, Clarence (6)
  6. Andrew Psomas, Monsignor Farrell (C)
  7. Austin Weigel, Onteora (9)
  8. Nick Gallo, Schalmont (2)

A Few Notes: There haven’t been any changes here.  Staying on our radar is General Brown’s Tyler Silverthorn, a placer in Albany last year, who seems to be picking up some steam as the most important matches of the year approach. In addition, returning All-Stater Dale White of John Jay East Fishkill is back after injuries kept him on the sideline for much of the season.  He’ll be someone to watch as well.

Photo by Josh Conklin

170 Pounds:

  1. Dan McDevitt, Wantagh (8)
  2. Christian Dietrich, Greene (4)
  3. Joe Piccolo, HHHW (11)
  4. Troy Seymour, Peru (7)
  5. Carlos Toribio, Brentwood (11)
  6. Zack Buckley, Fredonia (6)
  7. Johnny Vrasidas, St. Anthony’s (C)
  8. Mike Green, Cobleskill-Richmondville (2)

A Few Notes: Joe Piccolo goes to third after pinning Carlos Toribio at the Islip Cup.  Previously, Toribio had notched a 5-0 decision over Piccolo.  The rubber match could happen in a few days.  Mike Green makes his debut in the rankings. The Section 2 wrestler is 40-1 with his loss coming against Vrasidas.  He has defeated state placer Brad Burns and previously ranked Brett Perry of John Jay East Fishkill.  Brockport’s Jared Mesiti is another wrestler who could made a big impact at the state tournament.

182 Pounds:

  1. Zack Zupan, Canastota (3)
  2. Shayne Brady, Carthage (3)
  3. Tim Schaefer, Warsaw (5)
  4. Trent Egenlauf, Spencerport (5)
  5. James Corbett, Wantagh (8)
  6. James Benjamin, Vestal (4)
  7. Gio Santiago, Sachem North (11)
  8. Anthony Liberatore, Williamsville South (6)

A Few Notes: Williamsville South’s Anthony Liberatore, who won multiple matches in the state capital last season, comes in at number eight.  He has put together an impressive season with a single loss (to Egenlauf).  Thomas Murray of Yorktown is also a medal contender.

Photo by Josh Conklin

195 Pounds:

  1. Reggie Williams, Johnson City (4)
  2. Bryce Mazurowski, Avon (5)
  3. Colton Kells, Fairport (5)
  4. Chris Chambers, East Islip (11)
  5. Steven Sabella, Yorktown (1)
  6. Nick Weber, Kings Park (11)
  7. Ben Honis, CBA/Jamesville-Dewitt (3)
  8. Levi Ashley, Shenendehowa (2)

A Few Notes: Ben Honis made the podium at Fargo this summer and has followed up with a strong season, including wins over wrestlers like Hunter Ayen of Gouverneur, Tyler Smith of Midlakes and Scott Wymbs of Horace Greeley.  He also recently beat Joe Nasoni of Baldwinsville, who was in the last set of rankings.  The two could meet again for the Section 3 crown. Joining this list at 195 is Levi Ashley of Shenendehowa, who has moved up after spending much of the campaign at 182. Syosset’s Dan Choi has been dominant and should be a contender in Albany.

220 Pounds:

  1. Zack Bacon, Hornell (5)
  2. Ryan Wolcott, Waverly (4)
  3. Dan Breit, Nanuet (1)
  4. Nick Lupi, Huntington (11)
  5. Mike Silvis, Holley (5)
  6. Richard Sisti, Monsignor Farrell (C)
  7. Joe Sprung, Berne Knox Waterloo (2)
  8. Matt Mott, Lynbrook (8)

A Few Notes: Matt Mott of Lynbrook enters the rankings after his undefeated campaign.  He will definitely be tested this weekend, however, as he wrestles a very tough group in Section 8. Steven Mills of Sachem North will look to top Nick Lupi in Section 11 after a 34-1 season.

Photo by BV

285 Pounds:

  1. El Shaddai Van Hoesen, Columbia (2)
  2. Mike Hughes, Smithtown West (11)
  3. Matt Montesanti, Medina (6)
  4. Alex Soutiere, Ravena (2)
  5. James O’Hagan, Seaford (8)
  6. Terrence Cheeks, NFA (9)
  7. Austin DiCerbo, Colonie (2)
  8. David Varian, Yorktown (1)

A Few Notes: There was some movement here.  The trio of Austin DiCerbo of Colonie, David Varian of Yorktown and Terrence Cheeks of Newburgh have taken turns beating each other with Cheeks coming out on top of recent meetings.  Brandon Fayle of Lowville was upset last weekend, while Austin Coleman of Spencerport looks to be peaking at the right time and will be a tough matchup in the postseason.

————

Special thanks to Mike Carey.

2 weeks to go until the state tournament!

From 'Tough to Unbreakable', Inside Trip Goes Behind the Scenes With Cornell Wrestling

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Taking them from ‘tough to unbreakable’.  That’s what Cornell head coach Rob Koll says his program aims to do with the wrestlers that enter the Big Red room.

What’s the method used to do that?  While most wrestling fans have seen Cornell wrestlers such as Kyle Dake in action, far fewer have witnessed what goes on behind the scenes to produce the kind of success the Ivy League squad has enjoyed, both on the mat and in the classroom, over the years.

Inside Trip, a DVD by Nick Garone and Riccio Productions, looks to change that, giving viewers an opportunity to see beyond the training.

“I was really excited when Nick [Garone] asked if he could do the video because it was another opportunity for us to show the difference between Cornell and almost any other program,” Koll said.  “It gives a deeper perspective into our program and lets people see not just what our team looks like in matches and in postmatch interviews but much more than that.  It lets them really meet our kids and see what they’re like and why they’re successful.”

Indeed, over 15 wrestlers and coaches, ranging from national champions to second or third stringers, provide insights on everything from practices, the academic experience, the camaraderie and the dreaded cold tub.

Freshman Nahshon Garrett tells about why studying for tests is easier than doing plate runs. All-American Mike Nevinger talks about wrestlers being different. Joe Stanzione discusses the full academic and athletic experience.  Kyle Dake talks about total dominance. And so on.

“We were shooting for something that was similar to the NFL Hard Knocks concept,” Garone said. “You get to see everyone working hard but also having a great time. There are a lot of things that people would never see, like the ice tubs and the goofing around in the training room, the fun at dinner. It’s been well received by those who have seen it.”

That’s certainly true of National Wrestling Hall of Fame member Gene Mills, now the head coach at Phoenix High School, who said he was excited to show the Inside Trip video to his wrestlers.

“I thought it was awesome,” Mills said. “It was something that caught my attention from the beginning and I didn’t want to stop watching because I wanted to see what was coming next.  I showed it to my team and it got them really motivated; it pumped them up.  It was great to see what the experience at Cornell is like.  I think kids would like to see what the experience would be like in other schools too.”

They can.

The series has been expanded to include an inside look at ACC squads Duke and Maryland as well as the Grapple at the Garden event. Plans are in the works for a video on Ohio State as well as individuals such as Olympic gold medalist Jordan Burroughs.

But the Inside Trip series began with Cornell, where Big Red 197-pounder Lukasz Stala explains that “there’s never a dull moment” in his student-athlete experience.

As the video shows, that’s how it is when you’re taking wrestlers from tough to unbreakable.  Countless young wrestlers are hoping to make that transition.  Perhaps they can get inspired with the Big Red.

To see the trailer see here or for more information, see here

The Inside Trip Series with Cornell, Duke, Maryland and Grapple at the Garden

Who Will Qualify for Albany? Weight Classes to Watch at Sectionals This Weekend

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Qualifying for the state tournament last year in Section 11 at 120 pounds last year was an achievement.  Three of the top four finishers in Albany (champion Sean McCabe of Conntequot, bronze winner Matt Leshinger of Sayville and fourth placer TJ Fabian of Shoreham Wading River) came from Suffolk County.  In fact, a former state champion, Mark West of Hauppauge, took fourth in the Section and didn’t get a ticket to the Times Union Center.

There are sure to be some brackets at this weekend’s Sectional tournaments that similarly have a number of wrestlers who have the potential to notch All-State honors . . . if they get a bid to the state capital.  Let’s take a look at a few of the Sectional battles we are interested in monitoring.

99 Pounds:

We’ve had three different Section 11 wrestlers in the top 8 of our state rankings this season.  That’s because East Islip’s Jesse Dellevecchia, Eastport South Manor’s John Busiello and Huntington’s John Arceri all have the ability to make some noise in Albany.  They’ve had some entertaining matches against each other in 2012-13. There was a one-point win for Dellevecchia over Busiello. And a pin for the Eastport South Manor wrestler over Arceri, followed by a 3-2 decision by Arceri over Busiello. Whoever makes it to the state capital from this group will be a contender.

Cuccolo, Photo by Josh Conklin

Returning Section 9 qualifier Vinny Vespa is looking for his second consecutive trip to the biggest tournament of the season in late February.  He will have a formidable competitor in his path, however, as Chris Cuccolo has had a very strong campaign.  The Pine Bush wrestler has had a lot of success on the national level in Freestyle and Greco in the past and added some top-notch folkstyle victories this season, including his Eastern States Classic crown.

 

106 Pounds:

In a late January dual meet, fans were treated to a 7-5 sudden victory win for returning state bronze medalist Alex Tanzman over James Szymanski.  Then, at least weekend’s Section 11 qualifiers, Tanzman, #1 in our individual state rankings, won round two between these competitors by fall.  Could we see bout number three next week? We could, but you can’t ignore returning qualifier Steven Lee of West Babylon or others like Eastport South Manor’s Nick Garone and Central Islip’s Mike Figueroa, who have wrestled well all year.

 

113 Pounds:

It looked like this would be a showdown between 2012 All-State wrestler Drew Marra of Olean, returning state qualifier Pat McCarthy of Fredonia and Section runner up Andrew Shomers of Lewiston Porter.  However, with McCarthy out last weekend for the Section 6 qualifiers, it looks like it could come down to a third bout between Shomers and Marra.  Their first was a sudden victory win for Shomers.

 

120 Pounds:

Ask a number of wrestling fans around New York who will win the state title at 120 pounds, in either Division I or Division II, and you will be amazed at the wide array of answers.  It appears to be wide open as to who will even be in the brackets.

Muldoon vs. Delacruz, Photo by Josh Conklin

Take Section 1.  Even with an injury to Arlington’s Nick Tolli, there are a number of All-State quality wrestlers on both the Division I and II sides.  In the large schools, Alex Delacruz of Ossining, Blaise Benderoth of North Rockland and John Muldoon of Pearl River are all capable of placing.  The first two have previously competed in Albany.  Who will earn the right do so this year?

In Division II, Trey Aslanian looks to get back to the state finals for the third consecutive year, however, even winning the Section won’t be easy as he’ll likely see Nanuet’s Anthony Calvano, a multi-time state qualifier.

Let’s move toward the island and look at Sections 8 and 11.  Mike D’Angelo, who has faced Delacruz and Muldoon this season, has just one loss on his record and has looked as good as anyone in New York at times.  After just missing out on a bid to the state capital last year despite only three losses all year (all to champion Nick Piccininni), he’ll have some hurdles to climb this season as well. Eastport South Manor’s Travis Passaro and Connetquot’s Steven Bulzomi have shown that they can wrestle with some of the nation’s best (both made the Round of 12 at the Super 32 Classic this year).

And in Nassau, Robert Person has made the podium in Albany before but has to get past some solid wrestlers like Simon Greebel of Hewlett (who he beat last weekend) and MacArthur’s Chris Cataldo (who beat Person at the Eastern States) to make a return visit to the Times Union Center medal stand.

And, how about a look at Section 6? Steve Michel and Anthony Orefice were the only two returning 2012 Division I medalists from this Section.  The two have met twice this year, with Michel getting his hand raised on both occasions.  Will they face off again?

 

126 Pounds:

Fabian, Photo by Josh Conklin

We began this article with a discussion of Suffolk County’s 120-pound bracket last year.  Two members of that class, TJ Fabian and Mark West, are now at this weight. When you add in others like Islip’s Brad Wade and Huntington’s Corey Jamison, you have a group of Section 11 wrestlers who are all more than capable of winning a bunch of matches in Albany.

Dakota Gardner of Fredonia took sixth a year ago in Albany as an eighth grader. He is undefeated thus far and looks to be a title contender.  He won’t be the only one with state tournament experience in the Section 6 bracket this weekend, however.  Majed Mohamed, a placer in Albany a few years ago, will compete as will returning qualifier Andrew Lazickas of East Aurora.  Brandon Muntz of Falconer has had a strong year as well.  One of his two losses came in sudden victory to Gardner.

 

132 Pounds:

Matt Leshinger won the 120-pound Suffolk title last season, edging McCabe in the semis and Fabian in the finals. He then took bronze in Albany. He’s looking to finish off his high school career by winning it all at the Times Union Center. He could have some tough bouts in Section 11 before getting there again, however.  Sachem East’s Connor O’Hara is in our top 8 statewide and Hauppauge’s Chris Mauriello has wrestled well at a number of big competitions, including a NHSCA Middle School National championship.  Sean O’Hagan of Sachem North and Gino Titone of Connetquot are among the others in the mix.

 

138 Pounds:

138 is wide open in the CHSAA.  Matt Diano described it this way, “It is essentially a five person race where any one of them are capable of getting hot and emerging with the title.  Making this weight so hard to predict is that in head-to-head matches, all five have taken turns knocking each other off.  Hence, no one has really created that separation that you look for when forecasting an outcome.”

It’s that unpredictability that makes it intriguing.  Who are the five?  Two of them, Blaise Rufo and Chaminade’s Danny Jones battled for the CHSAA title at 120 pounds a year ago.  Rufo was victorious and he won a match in Albany.  Rufo’s Monsignor Farrell teammate Karl Weisner is also in the field, along with St. Anthony’s Kevin Jackson and St. Joseph’s Travis Berube.

As Diano said, things are as clear as mud based on head-to-head matchups between these wrestlers this season.  We’ll just have to see how this is seeded and who comes out on top.

 

145 Pounds:

Hull, Photo by BV

Section 6 has several very competitive wrestlers here.  In Division I Eric Lewandowski will seek another medal to add to his state silver from a few years ago.  On the Division II side, Drew Hull and Jude Gardner both come off All-State showings in 2012.  Runner up Hull pinned Gardner a few weeks ago then edged him 1-0.  What will happen the third time around?

Three PSAL second placers from 2012 will take the mat in Division I looking to break through for a title – Nigel Williams of Eagle Academy, Alex Palmer of Martin Luther King, and Marc D’Chiutiis of James Madison. Williams won the 2013 Mayor’s Cup over Palmer.  D’Chiutiis has dropped a pair of matches to both Williams and Palmer in 2012-13.

Whitney Point’s Jordan Torbitt blanked returning qualifier Frank Garcia of Norwich 7-0 last weekend.  The pair may meet again this weekend for the right to represent Section 4. Codie Nichols of Unatego will look to stop that rematch.  He has compiled a 32-4 mark but has lost to both Torbitt and Garcia.

 

152 Pounds:

Tyler Spann’s 5-2 win over Rowdy Prior at the Section 3 championships in 2012 helped to send the Adirondack wrestler to the state capital, while Prior didn’t get a bid.  Both wrestlers have had terrific seasons with Spann currently unbeaten and Prior with a runner up finish at the Eastern States Classic.  Neither is the top seed in the Section 3 bracket, however. That belongs to Beaver River’s Isaiah Riccio, who is 23-4. Riccio has starred in Albany the past two seasons, placing third and fifth.   There are also several other quality wrestlers in the bracket including Triston Engle of Dolgeville and Trevor Allard of Mexico.

Greene’s Dan Dickman was fourth in the Empire State last year but is the second seed for the upcoming Section 4 event behind Chenango Valley’s Kyle Halladay.  Also lurking in the field are tough grapplers such as Unatego’s Kevin Thayer.  Can the Greene wrestler get back to the Times Union Center and make the medal stand again?

 

160:

Similar to Dickman, Tyler Silverthorn of General Brown made the podium a year ago, taking sixth at the state tournament.  However, the path back will involve topping a strong field in Section 3.  Matt Fisher of Oneida competed well in Albany in 2012, with a pair of one-point losses in a 1-2 showing. Tom Confer of Camden has looked good all season with over 30 wins but has dropped multiple contests to Fisher. In his only match against Silverthorn, however, Confer won 3-1.

 

170:

Over the holiday break in Section 11, Carlos Toribio blanked Joe Piccolo in a dual between their squads.  At the Islip Cup, Piccolo turned the tables and pinned the Brentwood senior in the first period.  Who will take the potential rubber match?  It’s hard to say, but there could certainly be another battle in Albany between the two state title hopefuls.

In Section 5, 2012 state qualifier Jeff Day of Letchworth will have to contend with a number of talented wrestlers to win the SuperSectionals.  Among them are Jon Levchuk of Byron Bergen, with whom he has split matches this season.  In addition, Collin Fox of Midlakes, Keith Vosburg of Alfred Almond and Aaron Paddock of Warsaw are all very much in the mix.

A year ago, two-time PSAL gold medalist Anatoliy Anchakov of Grand Street Campus defeated Cedrick Stephens of Wingate 14-1 in the semifinals of the PSAL tournament on his way to his second-straight PSAL title.  However, Stephens flipped the script so far this season, beating Anchakov twice.  Will Anchakov rebound to earn his third championship?  Or will Stephens punch his ticket to the Times Union Center?

 

182 Pounds:

Tyler Morris of Salem was fourth at the state tournament last year at 182.  Brad Burns of Hoosick Falls was sixth at 170.  They will be the top two seeds in Section 2 this weekend.  In Section 4, returning qualifier Mike Beers looks to get back to Albany but is in a tough group with Unatego’s Ryan Marszal and Greene’s Joel Roselle.

 

195 Pounds:

There could be a number of interesting rematches at this weight.

Ben Honis edged Baldwinsville’s Joe Nasoni last weekend and the two could square off another time for the Section 3 crown.  Honis has some quality wins this year including over Tyler Smith of Midlakes, Wayne Burt of Colonie and Hunter Ayen of Gouverneur.  Nasoni topped Canastota’s Zack Zupan.  Who will get the nod for Section 3?

Kells, Courtesy of Fairport wrestling

In Section 5, Colton Kells of Fairport has defeated Collin Pittman twice this year after beating the Spencerport grappler a number of times last season by pin.  However, Kells said their matches continue to get closer and after the Fairport senior won the last battle in sudden victory, who knows what another meeting might bring?

Also in Section 5, Bryce Mazurowski of Avon and Tyler Smith of Midlakes both made the NYS podium in 2011-12 at 195 pounds, with the Avon wrestler the silver medalist and Smith fourth.

A number of Section 11 standouts have the potential to win matches at the state tournament.  The challenge will be getting there.  East Islip’s Chris Chambers pinned Nick Weber of Kings Park earlier this year.  Both have had outstanding seasons and are ranked in the top 8 in New York.  Look out for Cristian Nunez of Sachem East, who has also had a strong year.

 

220 Pounds:

Holley’s Mike Silvis was one of the few wrestlers to challenge returning state runner up Zack Bacon of Hornell last season. The two haven’t met thus far in 2012-13 but have a good chance of doing so at Section 5‘s SuperSectionals.  Penn Yan’s John Martisch is a wildcard to keep an eye on as he dropped a one-point bout to Bacon recently.

Fredonia’s Chris Saden had an unblemished record going into last weekend.  Tonawanda’s Steve Warthling changed that.  They could meet again for Section 6 supremacy, although others such, as Alden’s Erik Feitshans, who has a win over Warthling, could be dangerous.

In Nassau County, Matt Mott of Lynbrook is undefeated and recently took over the top spot in the Section 8 rankings.  However, prior to that, it was Calhoun’s Jenard Rosemond at #1 with last year’s Nassau runner up Thomas Sinclair of Island Trees third.  The winner here will be very competitive in Albany.

In Section 9, the race looks intriguing with Monroe Woodbury’s Rob Kelly, Minsink Valley’s Josh Bonneau and Middletown’s Alex Ortiz.  All three placed at the Eastern States, with Bonneau taking third, Kelly sixth and Ortiz seventh.

And in Section 11, returning state placer Nick Lupi of Huntington looks for another opportunity at a New York crown.  However, this bracket is loaded with Sachem North’s Steven Mills, Sachem East’s John Vigh and Islip’s Ryan Hughes.  Lupi has beaten Hughes twice this year – in the ultimate tiebreaker and in sudden victory.

 

285 Pounds:

Soutiere, Photo by BV

Section 2 has several top heavyweights, including returning state silver medalists El Shaddai Van Hoesen (Division I) and Alex Soutiere (Division II). They won’t take the mat against each other, but Van Hoesen could meet another contender, Austin DiCerbo, of Colonie.  (Van Hoesen has defeated DiCerbo).

Brandon Fayle of Lowville finished one match short of placing at the Times Union Center in 2012.  However, he is the third seed for the Section 3 tournament after dropping a decision to Canastota’s Jacob Morris last weekend.  The top seed in the bracket is Morrisville’s Wyatt Morris who beat Jacob Morris in the ultimate tiebreaker in January.

And the countdown to Albany marches on  . . .

 

96 to Heavy: Former Johnson City Star Peter Capone Moves Up the Rankings for Ohio State

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According to his father, Peter Capone has asked for a rematch over and over.  Realistically, though, it’s never going to happen.

Back when he was at Johnson City High School, Capone was beaten twice in close matches by current Buckeye teammate Ian Paddock – at 96 pounds.

That’s worth repeating.  96 pounds, less than half of what Capone weighs currently as a Big 10 heavyweight. (Capone took third in New York at that weight as a freshman, beating current Hofstra 133-pound starter Jamie Franco for bronze).

It’s fair to say the former Section 4 star has come a long way from his high school days to become the 12th ranked 285-pounder in the nation today.

“He’s been around wrestling his whole life,” Capone’s father, Peter said. “But I can definitely say I never expected him to become a heavyweight.”

The Buckeye was certainly born into a wrestling family. In addition to uncles that excelled in the sport, his father was a two-time NCAA All-American at Hofstra, including a runner up finish.

While attending dental school at Buffalo, Capone’s father became a graduate assistant coach. Later, he took the head job at Johnson City, where coached multiple state titlewinning teams as well as eight individual state champions.

“When I was at Buffalo, I wrestled my brother Jimmy pretty much everyday,” the elder Capone said. “When he took third (in Division III) and then fifth (in Division II), it made me really proud. And then coaching my son Peter to the state championship when he was a senior in high school was a huge highlight for me.”

That victory at the 2008 New York State tournament came in a solid bracket which saw a pair of current Division I starters – Buffalo’s John-Martin Cannon and American’s Thomas Barreiro – battle for third.

Following that championship, the younger Capone went to Navy Prep for a year but decided afterwards that he wanted to take a different path for college.  He chose to go to the Big 10 over his father’s alma mater, Hofstra.

The Capones had a strong connection to Ohio State head coach Tom Ryan, who watched the elder Capone wrestle for the Pride while he was a high schooler at nearby Wantagh.  And years later, when Ryan became the leader of the Hofstra program, he often saw the Capone family at alumni events and wrestling camps.

“I’ve probably known Pete since he was a seventh grader,” Ryan said. “There were a lot of things we really liked about him.  First, he’s the son of a coach and that’s always attractive.  He knew the whole team concept and what it takes to be successful.  He was also very, very athletic.  We didn’t think he would be a heavy but we knew he hadn’t quite grown into his body yet.  When guys are winning in high school but aren’t physically mature yet, they often do well in college. We were excited to get him to be a Buckeye.”

Photo by Tony Rotundo, wrestlersarewarriors.com

So, it was off to the Big 10 where Capone spent his redshirt year at 174 pounds, placing in the top three in a number of open tournaments.  However, during his freshman season a need arose for the team and he jumped at the opportunity to start – at 197.

He made his debut in the new class at the National Duals and was a bright spot, picking up two victories.  And he continued to be competitive for the remainder of the season while giving up some weight, including a 3-1 decision over nationally-ranked Tyler Dickenson, a crucial win in his team’s 19-16 dual victory over Michigan State.

“Peter was in almost every match for a lot of reasons,” the elder Capone said. “He’s very good on the mat, which is a big advantage. He’s also very athletic – he played soccer and all kinds of sports growing up. He’s agile and if you’re a good athlete who keeps good position, you can be in every match.”

He earned a trip to the NCAA tournament at 197 pounds, despite only weighing 191 or 192 the night before the event began, according to his father.  He went 1-2, defeating Ohio’s Erik Schuth.

The 2011-12 season brought on a new challenge for Capone with another move up, this time to heavyweight. He had some significant highlights, such as a second place finish at the prestigious Cliff Keen Invitational in Las Vegas in which he came within seconds of winning the title.  He registered some quality victories, including over Ernest James of Edinboro and Ben Apland of Michigan and made a return trip to Nationals, where he again won a match.

Knowing he’d be back at heavyweight again as a junior, Capone got to work in the offseason with no shortage of partners to get him to the next level.

“The bigger he got, the better his workout partners got,” his father said. “He’s wrestling with the best guys in the country. Some like [2012 Olympian] Tervel [Dlagnev] have had a really big influence on him. I think the fact that he’s shooting a lot more has a lot to do with Tervel.”

“I think the word priceless is probably fitting when talking about Tervel,” Ryan added. “He has helped Pete a lot through RTC [Regional Training Center] practices. Tervel isn’t only a great wrestler but he has a great understanding of the sport and a great way about him that makes you want to work harder. He’s been very influential in Pete’s rise up the heavyweight class.”

As a result of this training, Capone has had a strong 17-5 season so far, defeating ranked opponents such as David Marone of Virginia Tech, Adam Chalfant of Indiana, Levi Cooper of Arizona State and Bobby Telford of Iowa. (The last two are former All-Americans).

And with the schedule he’s faced, he has rarely had an easy bout.

“The bottom line is, heavyweight is loaded,” said the elder Capone. “There were a lot of top guys returning and then you add in the Olympic redshirts coming back into the weight, which makes it even harder.  If you look at the rankings, not including National Duals, Peter will have wrestled more than half of the top 20 this season. That’s incredible.  When I was at Hofstra, I probably didn’t see more than two or three ranked guys all year.”

Courtesy of OhioStateBuckeyes.com

Perhaps the highlight thus far came in one of the best environments in the sport.  In early January, Ohio State traveled to Carver Hawkeye Arena to meet Iowa in a dual televised live on the Big 10 Network.  The Buckeyes trailed 22-6 going into the heavyweight tilt, but Capone made sure his team left on a high note as he topped the aforementioned Telford, ranked fourth at the time, 3-2 in the tiebreakers.  The Hawkeye had beaten Capone 4-1 in the 2012 NCAAs.

“Peter was fortunate to have wrestled at Carver Hawkeye Arena two years ago as a freshman, so he knew what to expect,” his father said. “He actually enjoyed it because he loved the passion for the sport that you see there. It’s not that common to be in a place where everyone is screaming at you the whole time, even when you’re warming up. It’s a hard place for an opposing wrestler to win a match, so it was a highlight. His experience wrestling there before definitely helped him this time.”

He’s hoping similar experience in front of the sellout crowds at the NCAAs will help him make the podium at this year’s national championships.

“Based on what I see, I believe the sky’s the limit,” Ryan said. “I think he can go win it all. He was even with the defending NCAA champion [Minnesota’s Tony Nelson] with 10 seconds left in the match. He went from being a 174 to being a heavyweight and some things take time.  Wrestling the big guys takes getting used to.  He’s learned how to win matches and he’s building belief that he can get things done in March.”

His parents Peter and Sue will certainly be watching in the crowd in Des Moines as they have been for every one of Capone’s matches this year.  Peter Sr. exited the head coaching job at Johnson City a few years ago (he is still an assistant) to allow more time for travel to see his son and his daughter Emily, who is on the diving team at Allegheny College.

It makes for a lot of long car rides to the Midwest, but it’s been worth it.  While Peter Sr. said he misses being in the corner as a coach, he enjoys other things, such as sharing postmatch meals with his son.

“He was always a skinny kid,” the elder Capone said. “To keep 220, he has to eat five or six times a day. The problem is that Peter isn’t an eater. He was one of those kids who didn’t want to stop playing or whatever he was doing to eat. When we take him out, he doesn’t finish all his food. He doesn’t want to. It’s pretty funny. I keep telling him, ‘Peter, eat all your food, you’re trying to be a heavyweight.’”

“He doesn’t like eating,” Ryan agreed. “Which is what makes it more impressive that he’s done what it takes both with eating and in the weight room to become a better and better heavyweight.”

Years ago, the thought of Capone as a heavyweight might not have been believed.

But now the former 96-pound freshman and 152 pound state champion is among the top 285s in the country.