Articles: Articleshttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/page/12/?d=1Articles: Articlesen2012 Walsh Ironman Running Notebookhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2012-walsh-ironman-running-notebook-r75538/Related Links: Preview | Brackets

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11:30 p.m. ET: For tomorrow morning, in the interest of efficiency, I'll be going twitter only (at minimum primariy). The twitter feed will embed through the InterMat front page. Biggest picture point for me tonight was the impressive performances by freshmen Marinelli and Weiler at 152, and they'll face off against each other in the quarterfinals.

8:30 p.m. ET: Nearing towards the end of our evening. No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J. will lead the way with 10 in the quarterfinals. No. 3 St. Edward, Ohio has seven despite having Domenic Abounader out with injury at 182. Six each for No. 2 Wyoming Seminary, Pa. and No. 30 Massillon Perry, Ohio. Five each for No. 17 St. Paris Graham, Ohio and No. 10 Montini Catholic, Ill. Four each for No. 6 Canon-McMillan, Pa. and No. 34 Christiansburg, Va.

7:30 p.m. ET: We're done with front side action for tonight, consolation round still to go.
220 pound quarters are set with No. 1 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) vs. Parker Knapp (St. Edward, Ohio); Ohio natives Evan Rosborogh (Painesville Riverside) vs. Zane Krall (Wauseon); Garrett Ryan (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) vs. Edgar Ruano (Montini Catholic, Ill.); and Alex Campbell (Canon-McMillan, Pa.) vs. Joe Tayse (Massillon Perry, Ohio).
285 pound quarters are set with No. 2 Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Dane Mills (Parkersburg South, W.Va.), Jemal Averette (Good Counsel, Md.) vs. Jake Moore (Rootstown, Ohio), Jake Pinkston (Robinson, Va.) vs. Zach DeLuca (Pittsburgh CC, Pa.), and Stefano Millin (Massillon Perry, Ohio) vs. Michael Johnson (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)

7:20 p.m. ET: Quarters at 195 are set with Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy) vs. Nick Havener (CVCA, Ohio), Jimmy Szep (Lake Catholic, Ohio) vs. LJ Barlow (Haverfield School, Pa.), Adam Kluk (Medina Highland, Ohio) vs. Spencer Neff (Good Counsel, Md.), and DJ Zissimos (Broomfield, Col.) vs. Gabe Dzuro (St. Edward, Ohio).

7:00 p.m. ET: Quarters at 182 are set. Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) vs. Jake Turk (Montini, Ill.), nationally ranked wrestlers Taylor Jackson (The Villages, Fla.) vs. Brett Harner (Norristown, Pa.), Addison Kneppshield (Blair Academy) vs. Immanuel Barber (Canyon Springs, Calif.), and a battle of Ohio DIII stars in Travis Linton (Rootstown) and B.J. Toal (Troy Christian).

6:50 p.m. ET: Quarters at 160 are set. Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) vs. Briar Shively (Parkersburg South, W.Va.), nationally ranked wrestlers Mark Martin (McDonogh, Md.) vs. Abraham Rodriguez (Hermiston, Ore.), nationally ranked wrestlers Josh Llopez (St. Mary's Ryken, Md.) vs. Nicky Hall (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), and Colton Jackson (The Villages, Fla.) vs. Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.). All six nationally ranked wrestlers in on the front side.

6:40 p.m. ET: Quarters at 170 start with Epperly (Christiansburg) and Luke Cramer (Oak Harbor, Ohio) against one another. The other quarter up top is Subjeck (Oak Ridge, Calif.) v Quentin Hiles (Brecksville). On the bottom half, it's nationally ranked wrestlers all on deck: Coover (Blair Academy) v Santos (Oakmont, Calif.), and Griego (Sultana, Calif.) v Wiercioch (Canon McMillan, Pa.)

6:25 p.m. ET: Quarters at 145 have super juniors Milonas (Blair Academy) v Jacob Danishek (Dayton Christian, Oh.), then Shields (Franklin Regional, Pa.) vs. Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.), Joey Lavallee (Reno, Nev.) vs. Tyler Fahrer (Delta, Ohio), and seniors Colt Cotten (Benton, Pa.) v Edgar Bright (St. Edward, Ohio).
The other three quarters at 152 have Tony Dailey (Massillon perry, Ohio) vs. Jack Bass (Robinson, Va.), a pair of seniors Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.) vs. Markus Scheidel (St. Edward, Ohio), and National Prep wrestlers Toby Hague (McDonogh, Md.) vs. Russ Parsons (Blair Academy, NJ).

6:20 p.m. ET: Crazy with a pair of freshmen in the quarters at 152 matching up Alex Marinelli (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) vs. Chris Weiler (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.). Marinelli just beat 2x CA placer - and 2x S32 placer, also Reno TOC champ - Shayne Tucker (Bella Vista) 5-4.

6:15 p.m. ET: A very impressive win for Josh Shields (Franklin Regional, Pa.) at 145 over Super32 champ Grant Leeth (Kearney, Mo.). Major props for an 8-3 win!

6:10 p.m. ET: 126 quarters: Dance (Christiansburg, Va.) v Ervin (Union County, Ky.), Anthony Tutolo (Lake Catholic, Ohio) v Adams (Scottsbluff, Neb.), Ivan McClay (Massillon, Ohio) v Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.), Judson Preskitt (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) v Bryce Meredith (Campbell County, Wyo.)
138 quarters: Retherford (Benton, Pa.) v Maruca (Franklin Regional, Pa.), Colin Heffernan (St. Edward, Ohio) v Isaac Bast (Massillon Perry, Ohio), Ryan Skonieczny (Akron SVSM, Ohio) v Chris Garcia (Montini Catholic, Ill.), Mason Manville (Blair Academy, NJ) v Anthony Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.)

5:55 p.m. ET: We have seven quarterfinalists at each 126 and 138. Waiting on the last one and we'll unveil the pairings.

5:45 p.m. ET: 132 quarterfinal pairings: Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio) vs. P.J. Klee (Blair Academy, NJ), George Fisher (Marmion Academy, Ill.) v Micah Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), Connor Schram (Canon McMillan, Pa.) vs. Aaron Pico (St. John bosco, calif.), Josh Decatur (CVCA, Ohio) vs. JR Wert (C'Burg, Va.)

5:20 p.m. ET: 120 quarterfinal pairings: Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio) vs. David Bavery (Massillon Perry, Ohio), Jordan Laster (Montini Catholic, Ill.) vs. Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.), Johnny Jimenez (Marmion Academy, Ill.) vs. Vincenzo Joseph (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.), Dalton Macri (Canon McMillan, Pa.) vs. Matthew Kolodzik (Blair Academy, NJ)

5:15 p.m. ET: 113 quarterfinal pairings: Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.) vs. Tanner Shoap (Chamersburg), Jaret Singh (Kearney, Mo.) vs. Eli Seipel (Graham, Ohio), Tommy Pawleski (Montini Catholic, Ill.) vs. Ke-Shawn Hayes (Park Hill, Mo.), Chaz Tucker (Blair Academy, NJ) vs. Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Ohio).

5:00 p.m. ET: A coupe tight matches at 113 pounds in the round of 16. 3-1 overtime victory for Tanner Shoap (Chambersburg, Pa.) over Zach Fuentes (Norristown, Pa.). Eli Siepel (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) with a 4-3 victory over Drew Romero (Broomfield, Col.)

4:50 p.m. ET: Quarterfinals at 106 are Assad (Brecksville) v Mueller (Trinity CA, Tex), LJ Bentley (St Edward) v Jose Rodriguez (Massillon Perry), Mario Guillen (Perrysburg) v Anthony Bosco (Marmion Academy, Ill.), Eli Stickley (St. Paris Graham) v Alex Mackall (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio)

4:45 p.m. ET: Alex Mackall (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio) leading No. 2 in the nation Jordan Kutler (Blair Academy, NJ) 3-1 after two full periods at 106 downstairs.

4:30 p.m. ET: Austin Assad (Brecksville, Ohio) at 106 is the first quarterfinalist, as he won downstairs. Quarterfinal 106 has started downstairs. 113 upstairs will start shortly.

4:20 p.m. ET: Blair Academy, NJ already out to a dominant lead with 50 points after the bulk of the first full championship round. Wyoming Seminary, Pa. and St. Paris Graham, Ohio just under 15 points back.

4:05 p.m. ET: Did get confirmation that Tony Dailey (Massillon Perry, Ohio) upset nationally ranked Kevin Cooper (Simon Kenton, Ky.) by tech fall at 152 pounds.

3:50 p.m. ET: State placer Jeric Kasunic (Benton, Pa.) will withstand the charge of Ray Barr (St. Edward, Ohio) to win 9-6. Cadet double AA Xavier Montalvo (Montini Catholic, Ill.) falls to defeat, 3-2 against Dom Scalise (Kiski Prep, Pa.). Both of those at 160.

3:40 p.m. ET: Early team scores have St. Paris Graham, Ohio in the lead with 30, Blair Academy, NJ with 29, and then Wyoming Seminary, Pa. with 25.

3:25 p.m. ET: Big round for the freshmen at 152, Chris Weiler (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) beats top seed Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) 10-8, and Alex Marinelli (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) beat state champion Jordan Marshall (Troy Christian, Ohio) 8-3.

3:05 p.m. ET: Nice upset win by fall for Andrew Mendel (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio) over Cadet freestyle All-American Jose Champagne (Montini Catholic, Ill.) - one of the nation's best freshman. That match at 132.

2:35 p.m. ET: I was downstairs, twitter had some stuff. That includes state champ David Bavery (Massillon Perry, Ohio) beating freshman sensation Brent Moore (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) 8-5 at 120.

2:05 p.m. ET: Nationally ranked Doyle Trout (Centennial, Neb.) - three seed - in a battle against freshman Garrett Lambert (Strongsville, Ohio). 4-4 after two, Lambert escapes to 5-4, which is the final.

1:55 p.m. ET: Ironman placer last year Troy Lang (Brecksville, Ohio) loses 3-1 in overtime at 182 in the last of the prelim matches against Daniel Mika (Robinson, Va.)

1:50 p.m. ET: Got action in the field house, weight class 113. Our first rd of 32 match in the main dome is Austin Assad (Brecksville, Ohio) - top seed at 106 - against T.K. Megonigal (McDonogh, Md.). Colbray looks good to hang on to the 6-3 win over Belaia.

1:45 p.m. ET: Tough prelim match for Super 32 placr Alex Belaia (N. Olmsted, Oh) against Cadet Greco champ Samuel Colbray (Hermiston, Ore.) at 182 on mat four - far end of the main facility.

1:30 p.m. ET: Starting to send some matches downstairs, which means the round of 32 will be upon us.

1:20 p.m. ET: Top seed Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) gets the pin at 2:50 at 152 pounds. Joins fellow Penn State recruit Retheford as a top seed winning.

1:15 p.m. ET: Our first one seed has wrestled, and it was quick. A 58 second pin by Zain Retherford (Benton, Pa.) at 138 pounds. Straight up beast.

1:03 p.m. ET: And we have one result already, pin by Jose Rodriguez (Massillon Perry, Ohio) over Jimmy Pawleski (Montini Catholic, Ill.) in the first period.

12:55 p.m. ET: Looks like we're a go for an on-time start at 1:00 et.

12:33 p.m. ET: Other scratches include Danny Boychuck (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) at 106 and Kevin Kinney (Kearney, Mo.) at 138. We're just under 30 minutes from the start.

11:38 a.m. ET: I've been told, but cannot confirm, Domenic Abounader (St. Edward, Ohio) is OUT of the Walsh Ironman. I am on my way there. See ya there.

11:36 a.m. ET: Thanks for reading the running notebook from the Walsh Ironman. There will also be Twitter updates, which will be similar to the updates posted on this running notebook.]]>75538Fri, 07 Dec 2012 16:37:14 +00002012 Walsh Ironman Previewhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2012-walsh-ironman-preview-r75530/Bo Jordan, the nation's No. 1 recruit, will be in search of his third Walsh Ironman title (Photo/Rob Preston)

Professional golf has The Masters, NASCAR has the Daytona 500, and high school wrestling has the Walsh Ironman. Though extremely uncommon, these three sporting activities have what is clearly the biggest event of their seasons very early in the schedule. The 19th annual edition of the Walsh Ironman Tournament features thirteen nationally ranked teams, including the top three overall; as well as 71 nationally ranked wrestlers, including ten ranked at the pinnacle of their weight class at the start of the season.

The following wrestlers enter the 2012 Walsh Ironman ranked first in the nation: Austin Assad (Brecksville, Ohio) at 106 pounds, Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.) at 113, Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio) at 120, Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.) at 126, Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio) at 132, Zain Retherford (Benton, Pa.) at 138, Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) at 160, Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) at 182, Domenic Abounader (St. Edward, Ohio) at 195, and Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) at 220. Note that Abounader will actually be competing at 182 this season, so there is a potential showdown of No. 1 vs. No. 1 at 182 pounds.

Wrestling will start at 1 p.m. ET on Friday and go through the round of 16 on the championship side on Friday afternoon, which will set up the quarterfinals on Saturday morning at 10 a.m. ET. Consolation wrestling on Friday will eliminate about half the field so that 16 overall wrestlers remain in each weight class. Semifinals will follow the Saturday morning quarterfinals, with all matches but those first, third, and fifth occurring in said session. Top six medal matches to occur Saturday at 6 p.m. ET.

InterMat will be providing a running notebook article with periodic updates. There will also be Twitter updates (@JoshMLowe). Updated quarterfinal pairings and team scores will be provided after Friday's competition with a recap story being published after the completion of the event. Brackets and tournament updates will be available on either the tournament website or through TrackWrestling.com.

The following is a look at each of the weight classes, their key components, and the key dynamics for how the tournament might play out. Information is based on participants as of Wednesday evening.

106:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 1 Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Ohio), No. 2 Jordan Kutler (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 5 Danny Boychuck (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), No. 9 Jose Rodriguez (Massillon Perry, Ohio), No. 16 Doyle Trout (Centennial, Neb.), and No. 20 Eli Stickley (St. Paris Graham, Ohio)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: Alex Mackall (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio), 2012 junior high state champion at 108; Darek Huff (Broomfield, Col.), fourth at Preseason Nationals and 2011 Cadet double All-American; Brendan Price (Canon-McMillan, Pa.), 36-10 as a sophomore at 106

Key potential round of 16 matchups: Rodriguez vs. L.J. Bentley (St. Edward, Ohio); Anthony Bosco (Marmion Academy, Ill.) vs. Jack Mueller (Trinity Christian Academy, Tex.), battle of Preseason Nationals placers

Commentary: Many (historically) great wrestlers have won opening weights at the Ironman -- Harry Lester, Cory Cooperman, Ryan Lang, Robbie Preston, David Taylor, and Hunter Steiber for instance. While there are six nationally ranked wrestlers, including those ranked first and second, there is not THAT GUY in the field this year. At present it is a balanced bracket with three ranked wrestlers in each half of the draw, including the top four seeds.

The top seed is Austin Assad, ranked first in the nation. His path to the final would likely involve having to face Super 32 placer Stickley in the quarterfinal, and then Rodriguez or Bentley in the semifinal. The second seed Kutler is ranked second nationally. His path to the final would likely involve the Bosco/Mueller winner in the quarterfinal, and then a National Prep finals rematch against Boychuck, who was on the Cadet Greco-Roman World Team.

The softest path in the draw is the 5/12 portion with Junior freestyle All-American Payton Gutierrez (Pickerington North, Ohio) and Jake Vosburgh (St. Mary's Ryken, Md.). If you're a non-seed, hope to be in this pod.

Predicting a finals match: Assad over Kutler

The rest of the top eight: Boychuck, Rodriguez, Trout, Stickley, Mueller, and Bentley

113:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 1 Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.), No. 4 Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Ohio), No. 9 Chaz Tucker (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 11 Jaret Singh (Kearney, Mo.), and No. 13 Ke-Shawn Hayes (Park Hill, Mo.)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: Jeremy Schwartz (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), 2011 Super 32 Challenge placer; Armando Torres (Elyria, Ohio), 2010 Cadet freestyle All-American

Key potential round of 16 matchups: Zach Fuentes (Norristown, Pa.) vs. Tanner Shoap (Chambersburg, Pa.), pair of two-time state placers; Tucker vs. Cameron Kelly (Bellbrook, Ohio); Singh vs. Jared Ganger (Troy Christian, Ohio)

Commentary: For being the nation's top sophomore -- and a wrestler that won titles at the Ironman, California state tournament, FloNationals, and Cadet freestyle -- there is skepticism about how truly great Zahid Valencia is entering his sophomore season. While that might be perceived as disrespectful given his results, there is some merit, because of the some-to-many tight matches he faced along the way. Two key questions to watch with respect to Valencia: (1) how does he manage the weight class, as he seems big for it (2) can he separate matches in the way a grade-level number one customarily does.

This Ironman field is solid, but not stellar, in comparison to those at national events like the Ironman, Super 32, Fargo, etc. If the seeds hold, Valencia is looking at a quarterfinal against one of two Pennsylvania two-time state placers -- Fuentes or Shoap; Shoap being a wrestler that extended Valencia to sudden victory at the Super 32. The likely semifinal would be against one of two senior two-time state champions in Singh or Drew Romero (Broomfield, Col.).

The bottom half of the draw is led by senior three-time state placer Aaron Assad, a Junior National freestyle All-American. Despite being the second seed, he comes into the event with a red flag after losing 6-0 in a dual meet last week to a non-factor on the national landscape, Ohio state qualifier Dustin Warner. Unfortunately for him, the next best wrestler in this field looms as the quarterfinal opponent -- Cadet National freestyle runner-up Chaz Tucker, though Tucker projects to face state champion Kelly on Friday.

The third seed is two-time Junior National runner-up Tommy Pawleski (Montini Catholic, Ill.), who failed to place in last year's 106 pound weight class despite being the fourth seed, and was pinned in both of his losses. The sixth seed, who lines up in the quarter with Pawleski is the nationally ranked Hayes, a wrestler that has twice placed third in Cadet freestyle. The softest relative landing spot for a non-seed would be in the pods with Pawleski or Romero.

Predicting a finals match: Valencia over Tucker, which would make it repeat titles at the Ironman for Valencia

The rest of the top eight: Assad, Hayes, Singh, Fuentes, Shoap, and Ganger

120:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 1 Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio), No. 4 Isaiah Locsin (Live Oak, Calif.), No. 6 Matthew Kolodzik (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 11 Johnny Jimenez (Marmion Academy, Ill.), No. 10 (at 113) Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.), No. 19 Seth Brayfield (Kearney, Mo.), and No. 20 (at 113) Vincenzo Joseph (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.)

Notable non-seeded wrestler: Brent Moore (St. Paris Graham), No. 17 overall in the Class of 2016

Key potential round of 16 matchups: Locsin vs. Dalton Macri (Canon-McMillan, Pa.); Brayfield vs. Jordan Laster (Montini Catholic, Ill.), battle of two-time state placers; Jimenez vs. Will Crisco (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), two-time state champion against a returning New England champion

Commentary: Even though two-time defending Ironman champion Tomasello enters this weight class as the favorite -- and it would be a surprise to see him beat -- this is still an intriguing weight class with seven nationally ranked wrestlers. If the seeds hold to form, Tomasello has a very manageable quarter with a likely Saturday morning match against Wyatt Scribner (Hermiston, Ore.), a two-time Greco-Roman All-American in Fargo, or defending state champion David Bavery (Massillon Perry, Ohio). The likely semifinal is also one Tomasello should win as well, be it against two-time Super 32 placer Ozias, Junior freestyle All-American Brayfield, or two-time state placer Jordan Laster (Montini Catholic, Ill.).

Last year's 106 pound runner-up Kolodzik has found his way to Blair, he competed as a single-entry from the Miami Valley School in Dayton, Ohio last year, and is the second seed after a Cadet freestyle championship this summer. However, the two seed doesn't mean much, as he's looking at a quarterfinal date against Locsin, a two-time California state finalist and state champion this past year. In the other quarter of the same half is two-time state champion Jimenez, who is looking at a likely quarterfinal date with Joseph, a returning Ironman placer and Cadet National Greco-Roman runner-up.

The one soft landing pod is with the eight seed in terms of where a non-seed could make some true noise. However, any seed that sees Brent Moore next to them should be concerned. Keep in mind, this is a wrestler who split matches with Kolodzik at the Ohio ToC in April and beat Luke Pletcher in a junior high tournament just under eleven months ago.

Predicting a finals match: Tomasello over Locsin, and this would be his third Walsh Ironman title

The rest of the top eight: Kolodzik, Jimenez, Ozias, Brayfield, Moore, and Joseph

126:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 1 Joey Dance, No. 3 (at 120) Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.), No. 11 Colton Adams (Scottsbluff, Neb.), No. 18 Bryce Meredith (Cheyenne Central, Wyo.), and No. 19 Ivan McClay (Massillon, Ohio)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: Vincent Turk (Montini Catholic, Ill.), Cadet Greco-Roman national champion; Joseph Dominguez (St. John Bosco, Calif.)

Key potential round of 16 matchups: Meredith vs. Austin Riggs (Robinson, Va.), Junior freestyle All-American against NHSCA freshman nationals champion; Judson Preskitt (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) vs. Tommy Zeigler (St. Ignatius, Ohio), two-time Naitonal Prep placer against two-time state placer

Commentary: One of the few things that Joey Dance has not done in his high school wrestling career is win the Walsh Ironman (or for that matter the Beast of the East). He's won state titles, Super 32 Challenge titles, Junior National freestyle titles, FILA Junior freestyle titles, et al -- but never here at the Ironman. However, this is a weight class that he quite frankly should win. There is one, maybe two, authentic challengers to him. He'd see the first of those in a likely semifinal match against three-time Preseason Nationals champion Colton Adams. That presumes Dance clears three-time state champion Brock Ervin (Union County, Ky.) and Adams beats likely opponent Anthony Tutolo (Lake Catholic, Ohio), a 2010 Ironman placer, in their respective quarterfinal matches.

The other half of the draw features three nationally ranked wrestlers, the favorite of which is the sixth seed in this weight class Kemerer, a two-time Super 32 Challenge finalist. To hit the finals match, he is likely going to have to beat returning Ironman placer McClay in the quarterfinal and Junior National freestyle All-American Meredith in the semifinal.

Predicting a finals match: Dance over Kemerer, which is a rematch of the Super 32 Challenge final

The rest of the top eight: Adams, McClay, Ervin, Meredith, Judson Preskitt (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), and Anthony Tutolo

132:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 1 Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio), No. 3 Aaron Pico (St. John Bosco, Calif.), No. 4 Micah Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), No. 4 (at 126) Connor Schram (Canon-McMillan, Pa.), No. 10 P.J. Klee (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 10 (at 120) J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.), and No. 14 George Fisher (Marmion Academy, Ill.)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: Jose Champagne (Montini Catholic, Ill.), ranked No. 12 overall in the Class of 2016; Walter Gibson (Akron SVSM, Ohio) and Brandon Egnor (Elyria, Ohio), both with state tournament experience

Key potential round of 16 matchups: Klee vs. Michael Kostandaras (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio); Fisher vs. Tyler Smith (Franklin Regional, Pa.)

Commentary: Like at 120, this weight class has seven nationally ranked wrestlers. Unlike at 120, the defending champion is not a clear favorite. Top seed in this weight class is Heil, who was the Outstanding Wrestler at last year's Ironman, and was also runner-up in this tournament as a freshman. However, right on his neck is the freshman sensation Pico, a two-time Cadet National double champion who extended Heil to the brink in the Super 32 Challenge final before Heil won in overtime. Though not the top seed, good news here is that Pico at present is the six seed, which means the two could meet in the final.

Just because Heil is the top seed does not mean life will be easy. In fact, he will be challenged from the quarters on in, starting with a projected quarterfinal against returning placer Klee -- who also is a 2010 Cadet freestyle All-American and 2011 FILA Cadet freestyle All-American. The other quarter of the top half features a pair of nationally ranked wrestlers in two-time state champion Jordan, who has been one match away from placing at the Ironman each of the last two years, and 2011 state champion Fisher -- champion at the Preseason Natonals last month.

Pico is looking at a quarterfinal date with three-time Pennsylvania state finalist Schram, who was fourth in Junior freestyle this summer; and then a semifinal match against three-time state champion Wert, who has placed twice at the Super 32 and Ironman. The softest landing spot for a non-seed here is with the seven seed Beau Gleed (Hermiston, Ore.), a three-time state placer in Washington.

Predicting a finals match: Heil over Pico, which is a rematch of the Super 32 Challenge final, and it would be back-to-back Ironman titles for Heil in his third finals appearance

The rest of the top eight: Jordan, Schram, Klee, Fisher, Wert, and Champagne

138:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: Zain Retherford (Benton, Pa.), No. 16 (at 145) Mason Manville (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 16 Anthony Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.), No. 18 Tyler Berger (Hermiston, Ore.), and No. 11 (at 132) Josh Maruca (Franklin Regional, Pa.)

Notable non-seeded wrestler: Kade Kowalski (Tri-Valley, Ohio), NHSCA freshman nationals champion

Key potential round of 16 matchups: Dallas Smith (Robinson, Va.) vs. Colin Heffernan (St. Edward, Ohio); Chris Garcia (Montini Catholic, Ill.) vs. Manville, two-time state placer and returning Ironman placer against Cadet double finalist and FloNationals placer; Kevin Kinney (Kearney, Mo.) vs. Maruca, state champion against Super 32 placer

Commentary: If one was to have started time from the last week of March this year, there would be absolutely zero argument that Retherford was the best high school aged wrestler in America. Going forward from that point, he has won titles at the NHSCA Junior Nationals, FILA Cadet Nationals in freestyle, Junior Nationals in freestyle, FILA Cadet Worlds in freestyle, and the Super 32 Challenge. None the less, that is not the case; however, he is still extremely talented and the strong favorite to win yet another title come Saturday night.

Looking at Retherford's half of the draw, if the seeds hold, extremely manageable would be a fair way to assess things. The likely quarterfinal opponent would be two-time National Prep placer Xavi Ramos (McDonogh) or three-time state placer Tyler Richards (Parkersburg South, W.Va.). The semifinal opponent is likely to be one of state placer Colin Heffernan (St. Edward, Ohio) or state champions Dallas Smith (Robinson, Va.) and Jayce Carr (Union County, Ky.).

On the other hand, the met of this bracket is in the bottom half based on the present seeds, with four of the five nationally ranked wrestlers residing here. The likely semifinal here is Cadet freestyle champion Valencia against Cadet Greco-Roman champion Manville, both of whom have more than robust resumes. Valencia is looking at a quarterfinal against either Kinney or Maruca, while Manville likely has to clear both Garcia and two-time FloNationals placer Berger to hit the semifinal.

Predicting a finals match: Retherford over Manville

The rest of the top eight: Valencia, Berger, Heffernan, Kinney, Maruca, and Garcia

145:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 4 Edgar Bright (St. Edward, Ohio), No. 5 (at 152) Dylan Milonas (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 8 Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.), No. 12 Colt Cotten (Benton, Pa.), and No. 14 Grant Leeth (Kearney, Mo.)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: Tony Neis (Colonial Forge, Va.) and Ryan Roth (Perrysburg, Ohio), both of whom are state placers

Key potential round of 16 matchups: Phil Downing (Broomfield, Col.) vs. Jacob Danishek (Dayton Christian, Ohio), battle of juniors who already have a pair of state titles; Cotten vs. Tyrel White (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), both wrestlers were Junior Greco-Roman All-Americans; Joey Lavallee (Reno, Nev.) vs. Zach Kelly (Kiski Prep, Pa.)

Commentary: Though only five nationally ranked wrestlers here, the dynamics in this weight class will be extremely interesting to follow. It is led by representatives from the two perennial national powers, Blair Academy and St. Edward. The top seed here is defending Ironman champion Milonas, who is a two-time National Prep runner-up and was a Junior National freestyle All-American this summer. Seeded second in this weight is returning Ironman runner-up Bright, who is also a two-time state runner-up.

Setting up the path to the finals for Milonas, if the seeds hold it would start with a Saturday morning quarterfinal against either Downing or Danishek. The likely semifinal is then against Clark, whom he beat in the quarters of the Ironman but lost to in the National Prep final. This presumes Clark is able to beat Super 32 champion Leeth in his quarterfinal match.

In the bottom half of the draw, Bright is looking at a likely quarterfinal against three-time state placer Cotten, who also placed at the NHSCA Junior Nationals and Junior National Greco-Roman tournaments in the last year. The quarter opposite of Bright is relatively the softest of the four with key seeds being three-time state champion Joey Lavallee (Reno, Nev.), who placed fifth at FloNationals but failed to place at last year's Ironman or the Super 32 just over six weeks ago; three-time state runner-up Russell Coleman (Park Hill, Mo.), and National Prep placer Kelly who is also a Super 32 placer and Cadet freestyle All-American.

Predicting a finals match: Bright over Milonas

The rest of the top eight: Clark, Cotten, Leeth, Downing, Lavallee, and Josh Shields (Franklin Regional, Pa.)

152:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 6 Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.), No. 6 (at 160) Russ Parsons (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 8 Garrett Hammond (Chamersburg, Pa.), No. 9 Jack Bass (Robinson, Va.), No. 13 Shayne Tucker (Bella Vista, Calif.), No. 14 Markus Scheidel (St. Edward, Ohio), No. 17 Kevin Cooper (Simon Kenton, Ky.)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: Alex Marinelli (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), ranked No. 15 overall in the Class of 2016; J.P. Newton (Perrysburg, Ohio), Cadet freestyle All-American; Ben Schram (Bellbrook, Ohio), NHSCA freshman nationals champion; Tony Dailey (Massillon Perry, Ohio)

Key potential round of 16 matchups: Tucker vs. Jordan Marshall (Troy Christian, Ohio), pair of two-time state placers with Marshall having won state this past year; Hague vs. Seth Williams (Tiffin Columbian, Ohio), pair of juniors both of whom have placed twice at state/national preps

Commentary: For those who place a friendly wager on this tournament using a confidence scale for champions, this weight might represent one that you want to use a lower number on. It is extremely wide open with seven nationally ranked wrestlers, who on any given day could stand atop the podium. Additionally, there are a couple excellent candidates just outside the national rankings and a potential ninth grade bracket buster.

The on-paper favorites, a loose term, would be the second and third seeds in Parsons and Matthews. That means they would meet in the semifinal round. Parsons, a National Prep champion and Junior freestyle All-American, is the two seed; while two-time state runner-up Matthews, a runner-up at last year's Ironman, is the three seed. Parsons is looking at a quarterfinal against National Prep runner-up Toby Hague (McDonogh, Md.) or NHSCA sophomore nationals runner-up Seth Williams (Tiffin Columbian, Ohio). Matthews is likely to face fellow nationally ranked competitor Scheidel, a state runner-up last year and placer at both the Ironman and NHSCA Junior Nationals.

Leading the top half of the draw is state champion Hammond, who placed third at the Ironman last year and was a Super 32 runner-up this fall, and is the top seed. He is looking at a tough quarterfinal against two-time state placer and Super 32 placer Tucker, presuming Tucker upends state champion Jordan Marshall (Troy Christian). The four-five quarterfinal places nationally ranked wrestlers against one another in FILA Cadet freestyle national champion Bass and FloNationals third place finisher Cooper.

Predicting a finals match: Matthews over Hammond, a battle of wrestlers that have finished second at the Super 32

The rest of the top eight: Parsons, Bass, Tucker, Schidel, Cooper, and Marshall

160:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 1 Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), No. 2 Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.), No. 5 Josh Llopez (St. Mary's Ryken, Md.), No. 10 (at 152) Myles Martin (McDonogh, Md.0, No. 12 Nicky Hall (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), and No. 20 Abraham Rodriguez (Hermiston, Ore.)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: Jack Wedholm (Blair Academy, N.J.); Ray Barr (St. Edward, Ohio); Bruno Millin (Massillon Perry, Ohio), finally at an optimal weight class
Key potential round of 16 matchups: Hall vs. Xavier Montalvo (Montini Catholic, Ill.)

Commentary: As good as the top six portion of this weight class is, all nationally ranked wrestlers, there is that steep a gap between those six and the rest of the field. The nation's top two wrestlers in this weight class are the top two seeds and favorites to make the final yet again. Jordan, the nation's number one overall senior is the top seed and looks at a likely semifinal against either Cadet freestyle runner-up Martin or Super 32 placer Rodriguez. The other semifinal is a potential matchup of Junior freestyle champions, Martinez and Llopez, who also met up as the FloNationals and Super 32 Challenge finals pairing in the last year; however, two-time New York state placer Hall will try and spoil that match in a likely quarterfinal against Llopez.

The most relevant name outside the top six is sophomore Xavier Montalvo (Montini Catholic), a Cadet National double All-American. He is seeded 11th. The nature of this weight class yields extreme opportunity for a lesser known wrestler to earn an Ironman placement.

Predicting a finals match: Jordan over Martinez in a rematch of last year's finals matchup at 152 pounds, which would be his third Ironman title in all

The rest of the top eight: Llopez, Martin, Hall, Rodriguez, Montalvo, and Jeric Kasunic (Benton, Pa.)

170:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 2 Cody Wiercioch (Canon-McMillan, Pa.), No. 3 Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.), No. 10 Peter Santos (Oakmont, Calif.), No. 17 Keaton Subjeck (Oak Ridge, Calif.), No. 18 Patrick Coover (Blair Academy, N.J.), and No. 19 Corey Griego (Sultana, Calif.)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: Nick Rumple (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio), state qualifier; Anthony McLaughlin (St. Ignatius, Ohio), beat Rumple in last weekend's Solon Comet Classic final

Key potential round of 16 matchups: Luke Cramer (Oak Harbor, Ohio) vs. Terrell Forbes (St. Benedict's, N.J.), state placer against National Prep placer; Dakota Sizemore (Moeller, Ohio) vs. Quentin Hiles (Brecksville, Ohio), battle of state placers

Commentary: Six nationally ranked wrestlers makes this yet another stellar weight class in this year's Walsh Ironman -- then again almost every weight could have that sentence applied to it. The two lead wrestlers in this weight are three-time state champion Epperly and three-time state finalist Wiercioch.

Seeded first, Epperly is also a two-time Super32 placer and placed third in last year's Ironman. If the seeds hold, he is looking at a path featuring a quarterfinal date with Cramer or Forbes and then a semifinal with state placer Santos, who placed at FloNationals and won the NUWAY Vegas tournament last month.

Despite being a two-time Super 32 champion and three-time state finalist, twice coming home with state titles, Wiercioch is seeded third in this weight. His path to the final likely entails a quarterfinal against two-time state placer Subjeck, who placed seventh at the Super 32 this year, and then a semifinal against either Coover or Griego; Coover is already a two-time Ironman placer and was a National Prep champion last year, while Griego placed at state last year and was a match away from placing at the Super 32.

Predicting a finals match: Wiercioch over Epperly

The rest of the top eight: Santos, Subjeck, Coover, Griego, Forbes, and Hiles

182:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 1 (at 195) Domenic Abounader (St. Edward, Ohio), No. 1 Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), No. 6 (at 170) Brett Harner (Norristown, Pa.), No. 7 B.J. Toal (Troy Christian, Ohio), and No. 18 Taylor Jackson (The Villages, Fla.)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: Alex Belaia (North Olmsted, Ohio), Super 32 placer; Quention Rosser (Moeller, Ohio), Matt Williams (Sultana, Calif.), and Rocco Caywood (Perrysburg, Ohio) -- all of whom are returning state qualifiers

Key potential round of 16 matchups: Toal vs. Samuel Colbray (Hermiston, Ore.), Super 32 runner-up against Cadet double All-American; Addison Knepshield (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Tyler Patrick (McDonogh, Md.); Jackson vs. Garrett Conner (Centerville, Ohio), Disney Duals gold medalist against Disney Duals silver medalist

Commentary: This is a remarkably robust weight class with five nationally ranked wrestlers, including two ranked first in the country. In addition there are five other state placers, a returning Ironman placer, a Super 32 placer, a Cadet Greco-Roman national champion, and multiple others with state tournament experience. There will be some very high level matches wrestled on Friday in this upper-weight, as well as just to place on Saturday.

Leading the way here are Morris and Abounader, the top two seeds, who both were runners-up at the Ironman last year. The seedings have yielded likely semifinals that are all-Pennsylvania and all-Ohio in nature; Morris and three-time state placer Harner on the top, Abounader and Super 32 runner-up Toal on the bottom.

Morris is looking at a quarterfinal against one of two state placers -- Travis Linton (Rootstown, Ohio), also a NHSCA Sophomore Nationals champion, or Jake Turk (Montini Catholic, Ill). Harner's likely quarterfinal is against two-time Ironman placer Knepshield. Toal, assuming he clears Cadet Greco-Roman champion Colbray on Friday, has a probably quarterfinal against either state placer Conner or two-time state champion Jackson. Lastly, Abounader is looking at a quarterfinal against one of two state placers -- Immanuel Barber (Canyon Springs, Calif.) or Zach Martinez (Colonial Forge, Va.).

Predicting a finals match: Abounader over Morris

The rest of the top eight: Harner, Toal, Jackson, Linton, Conner, Knepshield

195:

Nationally ranked wrestler: No. 5 Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy, N.J.)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: Cody Snodgrass (Marmion Academy, Ill.), returning state qualifier

Key potential round of 16 matchups: L.J. Barlow (Haverford School, Pa.) vs. Josh Murphy (Brecksville, Ohio), National Prep placer against state qualifier

Commentary: Rare is a weight in the modern-day Ironman this soft. There are only seven wrestlers with seeding criteria points (Fargo All-American, state placer, or Ironman placer), and there is one singular nationally ranked wrestler. That wrestler, Mattiace, is the defending champion and was a National Prep champion. He is an extreme favorite, and should the seeds hold, would have a nominal test in the semifinal against either National Prep third placer Barlow or state third placer Jimmy Szep (Lake Catholic, Ohio).

The second seed at present is returning Ironman placer Thornberry, who placed eight at state in 2011 as a freshman but did not make state last year. However, he is coming straight off of football, so his presence in the tournament is a question. National Prep placer Matt Doggett (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) is the likely quarterfinal opposition at present. In the de facto semifinal of the bottom half, if the seeds hold, you'll have two-time two-time state placer Adam Kluk (Medina Highland, Ohio) wrestling National Prep and Super 32 placer Spencer Neff (Good Counsel, Md.)

Predicting a finals match: Mattiace over Neff

The rest of the top eight: Barlow, Kluk, Szep, Doggett, Murphy, and Thornberry

220:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 1 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.), No. 4 Garrett Ryan (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), No. 11 (at 195) Joe Tayse (Massillon Perry, Ohio), and No. 19 Zane Krall (Wauseon, Ohio)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: none in particular, which of course knowing my luck means one will place

Key potential round of 16 matchups: Edgar Ruano (Montini Catholic, Ill.) vs. Parker Knapp (St. Edward, Ohio), battle of past Cadet National All-Americans; Ryan vs. Lucas Warren (Marmion Academy, Ill.), Junior double All-American against a freshman sensation

Commentary: Defending champion Snyder, who is also ranked second overall in the Class of 2014, is the strong favorite in this weight due to his extreme athleticism and solid strength as well as excellent wrestling acumen. However, he will be somewhat tested along the way to the final -- a likely quarterfinal (if seeds hold) would be against state placer Alex Campbell (Canon-McMillan, Pa.); then, the semifinal against either two-time state placer Chalmer Frueauf (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio), a returning Ironman placer who is coming right off of football, or state runner-up Krall.

The bottom half of the draw features the other two nationally ranked wrestlers -- state champion and Ironman placer Tayse, as well as state champion and Junior National double All-American Ryan. That is the likely semifinal, though Ryan would have to clear state placer Evan Rosborogh (Painesville Riverside, Ohio) and Tayse needs to navigate through state placer Edgar Ruano (Montini Catholic, Ill.)

Predicting a finals match: Snyder over Ryan, marking Snyder's second straight Ironman title

The rest of the top eight: Tayse, Krall, Campbell, Rosborogh, Frueauf, and Ruano

285:

Nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 2 Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.) and No. 9 Michael Johnson Jr. (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)

Notable non-seeded wrestlers: Alex Fritz (Marmion Academy, Ill.), two-time state qualifier

Key potential round of 16 matchups: none truly pique my interest

Commentary: Where 195 was as clear a champion as this tournament will yield, this weight class gives us an extremely likely, almost prohibitively likely, championship match. It would be a rematch of the National Prep final this past year between Black and Johnson, an extremely tight match that Black won. Black is the top seed and looks at a likely semifinal against state placer Jake Moore (Rootstown, Ohio), while Johnson is the two seed and looks at a semifinal against state runner-up Jake Pinkston (Robinson, Va.)

Predicting a finals match: Black over Johnson Jr.

The rest of the top eight: Pinkston, Moore, Fritz, Jemal Averette (Good Counsel, Md.), Dre'kBrumley (Akron SVSM, Ohio), and Zach DeLuca (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.)

Team:

Blair Academy, N.J., is the perennial power when it comes to high school wrestling. They are the defending national champions, 32-time consecutive National Prep Tournament champions, and winners of ten Ironman titles including three of the last four. For an excellent read about the program, check out The Standard of Excellence written by David Ritterspusch.

Despite the transition from Jeff Buxton to Charles Danhof, the Buccaneers start the season No. 1 in the nation with ten members of their team nationally ranked -- and that is with Cadet World Team representative Joey McKenna essentially out for the season due to injury. This team is crazy stacked and could reach the rarified air of the 1999-2000 St. Edward, Ohio (297-1/2) and 2001-2002 Blair (287-1/2) teams for points at the Ironman.

The star power from those two teams is staggering. From St. Edward you're talking about Ryan Lang, Mark Moos, Mason Lenhard, Mark Jayne, Ryan Bertin, and Matt Koz. On the Blair Academy side of the ledger that list includes Robbie Preston, Max Meltzer, Ryan Davis, Mark Perry, Matt Palmer, and Kurt Backes.

Entering the season second nationally is not St. Edward, but instead it is Wyoming Seminary, Pa. An excellent team the last three years, including top four finishes at the Ironman, they have reached a new kind of good this year. The Blue Knights are aided by six upper-class newcomers to the program, which augment an existing core that included a National Prep champion, two runners-up, and another pair of placers. They have five wrestlers nationally ranked within their weight class.

Instead, the Eagles of St. Edward start the season third in the Fab50 with four Class of 2013 wrestlers in that group's top 100. They also return an additional senior that placed at state and a sophomore who made the state tournament.

Behind that group, it is very open in terms of how the Ironman team race will turn.

No. 6 Canon McMillan, Pa. features four returning state placers; however, that does not include arguably their second best wrestler in Solomon Chishko, who is out this weekend due to an injury sustained in the Super 32 Challenge. No. 10 Montini Catholic, Ill., does not have a single nationally ranked individual, but has an extremely balanced squad. The Broncos will need to thrive through volume -- having multiple wrestlers elevate their performance level into placement finishes.

On the other hand, No. 17 St. Paris Graham, Ohio is a rather top-heavy squad. They have three nationally ranked wrestlers, another returning state placers, a pair of freshmen that are top 25 nationally in their class, but little else behind that. The Falcons could soar here, especially if their two freshmen sensations make their names even more known than they are now.

Similarly constructed is No. 34 Christiansburg, Va., with four nationally ranked wrestlers but little to augment that quartet. Also in that vein is St. John Bosco, Calif., which has three ranked wrestlers -- the Valencia brothers and Aaron Pico -- then maybe a solid soph in Joseph Dominguez, and a lot of total unknowns.

Rounding out the nationally ranked teams in this field is No. 25 Kearney, Mo., No. 27 McDonogh, Md., No. 28 Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio, No. 30 Massillon Perry, Ohio, No. 33 Colonial Forge, Va., and No. 35 Hermiston, Ore.]]>75530Thu, 06 Dec 2012 07:46:20 +0000Weekly High School Lowe Down: Dec. 5, 2012https://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/weekly-high-school-lowe-down-dec-5-2012-r75521/Cincinnati Moeller's Chalmer Frueauf (Photo/The Guillotine)

Normally one goes to Rivals, Scout, or ESPN's Recruiting Nation to get good high school football coverage. However, for one last time this year, we'll mention the football success of some elite wrestling teams.

No. 22 Allen, Texas has its football team playing in the Division 5A1 state quarterfinals this weekend. In all likelihood, this will preclude three of the key wrestlers -- No. 3 Oliver Pierce (160), No. 18 Nick Cobb (195), and state placer Stone Drulman (220) -- from participating in their four most important national-level competitions this year.

Thursday night, Allen travels to No. 21 Broken Arrow, Okla., for a triangular meet with No. 16 Tuttle, Okla., and the host Tigers. Then the Eagles will compete in the Mid-America Nationals hosted by Tulsa Union on Friday and Saturday. The succeeding two weekends see Allen making trips to the Kansas City Wrestling Classic and the Zinkin Invitational hosted by Buchanan, Calif.

Two nationally ranked New Jersey wrestling squads -- No. 39 Bergen Catholic and No. 43 Don Bosco Prep -- had their football teams meet up in the state semifinals on Friday night; it was Bergen Catholic avenging a regular season loss, and ending an 11-game losing streak in the rivalry, with a 28-14 victory. Bergen Catholic's state title game is this weekend, with wrestling seasons in New Jersey beginning next weekend.

It becomes highly unlikely that No. 5 Johnny Sebastian (182) and state qualifier Carmine Goldsack (285) will be with Bergen Catholic for their season-opening tournament at Pittsburgh Central Catholic. More importantly, it is an open question that the two will be a part of the team for their December 18 dual at No. 27 South Plainfield, N.J., or at the Beast of the East that weekend. For Don Bosco, it makes it much more likely that they'll have the services of state champion Razohn Gross (195/220) and Zach Chakonis (220/285) for their opening tournament and the Beast of the East.

Finally, let's recognize No. 28 Cincinnati Moeller, who had six starting wrestlers as part of a state championship winning football team in Ohio's big-school division this past weekend. Without those wrestlers, the Crusaders went 3-1 at the Moeller Duals suffering a 35-32 defeat against a Marysville, Ohio squad that returns five state qualifiers. Winning that event was Marmion Academy, Ill., with match victories in the "top" round-robin: 43-24 over Marysville and 33-24 over Oregon Clay, Ohio.

Online registration for the Walsh Ironman this weekend lists all of those young men -- 2011 state placer Dean Meyer (160), state placer Dakota Sizemore (170), state qualifier Quinton Rooser (182), 2011 state placer Jerry Thornberry (195), two-time state placer Chalmer Frueauf (220), and Max Swoboda (285) -- being slated to compete, which would qualify as a surprise to me.

Events to watch this coming weekend

There are many key events with multiple national ranked teams on the docket for this weekend. Most will have some combination of a separate event preview article on the InterMat feed or be mentioned within the course of this column.

Arguably the best in-season tournament in the nation will be held this Friday and Saturday at Walsh Jesuit High School just southeast of Cleveland, Ohio. Thirteen nationally ranked teams are among the field: No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J., No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio, No. 3 Wyoming Seminary, Pa., No. 6 Canon McMillan, Pa., No. 10 Montini Catholic, Ill., No. 17 St. Paris Graham, Ohio, No. 25 Kearney, Mo., No. 27 McDonogh, Md., No. 28 Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio, No. 30 Massillon Perry, Ohio, No. 33 Colonial Forge, Va., No. 34 Christiansburg, Va., and No. 35 Hermiston, Ore.

In addition, the following top ranked wrestlers in their respective weight classes will be in the field: Austin Assad (Brecksville) at 106, Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.) at 113, Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio) at 120, Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.) at 126, Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio) at 132, Zain Retherford (Benton, Pa.) at 138, Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) at 160, Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) at 182, Domenic Abounader (St. Edward, Ohio) at 195, and Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) at 220. Note that Abounader will actually be competing at 182 pounds this season, which sets up a No. 1 vs. No. 1 matchup in that weight; Abounader ranked No. 20 overall in the senior class, Morris 21st.

A pair of dual meets on Friday night in Minnesota will showcase the Gopher State's four Fab 50 teams. No. 18 Kasson-Mantorville travels to No. 4 Apple Valley, while No. 8 Simley travels to No. 5 St. Michael-Albertville.

It is opening weekend for wrestling in the state of Michigan. No. 15 Detroit Catholic Central was scheduled to host No. 46 Davison on Wednesday afternoon; however, the death of a student at Detroit Catholic Central overnight Monday into Tuesday caused that to be postponed indefinitely. Then on Friday and Saturday, Davison and No. 9 St. Johns appear in the same tournaments. On Friday, both teams are slated to compete in the Owosso Invitational; while on Saturday each team will send competitors to a pair of tournaments, one of which for each is the East Kentwood Tournament.

No. 11 Clovis, Calif., is the main attraction in the Clovis West Shootout on Friday and Saturday. On Friday, each of 16 teams will compete in five dual meets. The eight "home" teams include squads such as Clovis, Clovis West, and Buchanan; while the eight "away" teams include teams such as Collins Hill, Ga., and Henley, Ore. The home and away teams will compete against teams from the other cluster.

Then on Saturday, there will be an individual bracket event. The top 8 wrestlers compete in a gold bracket, while the bottom eight in a silver bracket. The featured weight of that competition could be at 120 pounds with No. 5 Ronnie Bresser (Henley), No. 12 Jonas Gayton (Clovis), and No. 18 Ryan Millhof (Collins Hill) all potentially in this class.

It's also a big weekend for wrestling in the Sooner State. On Thursday night, No. 21 Broken Arrow will host No. 16 Tuttle, Okla., and No. 22 Allen, Texas. Then, on Friday and Saturday, Tulsa Union hosts its annual Mid-America Nationals tournament -- an event which features Tuttle, Allen, and No. 14 Collinsville, Okla. among other teams including a very solid but unranked Edmond North, Okla., squad.

No. 32 Bettendorf, Iowa and No. 36 West Delaware Manchester, Iowa will be among the 16 teams competing in the Cedar Rapids Duals on Saturday. A couple of non-ranked teams to watch in this event are Linn-Mar, Iowa and Waverly-Shell Rock, Iowa.

Saturday also marks the Cleveland Duals in Tennessee, an always excellent showcase of some of the best wrestling talent in the southeastern United States. That field includes two nationally ranked teams -- No. 46 Pope, Ga., and No. 49 Christian Brothers, Tenn.

Welcome back to the rankings, Southeast Polk

Despite ending the 2011-12 season ranked No. 13 in the Fab 50 rankings, Southeast Polk, Iowa was excluded from the initial team rankings of this season. The Rams made their position about that loud and clear with a championship at the GEHS Invite in Kansas on Saturday in which they out-pointed previous No. 20 Broken Arrow, Okla. 252-234. It is evident that they have bounced back from having to replace superstars Cory Clark and Will Miklus, as well as state finalist Bud Smith, due to graduation.

The Rams were led by a trio of champions on Saturday in Nolan Hellickson (106), Bryce Fisher (220), and Jacob Scanlan (285). Runners-up included Briar Dittmer (132), Tim Miklus (160), and Dylan Blackford (170); while Dylan Buchheit (138) and Colin Strickland (145) finished third.

Their balance was enough to upend the seven finalists for Broken Arrow, including five championships coming from Markus Simmons (120), Zach Edwards (132), Tanner Bailey (145), Paden Bailey (152), and Brock Warren (182); while Nathan Clark (126) and Christian Vaverka (195) finished as runners-up. However, the Tigers did not have a wrestler entered in the 220 or 285 weight classes.

National team rankings: Balancing act

As always, the results of the first "true" weekend lead to conclusions being made about the team rankings. Some of these questions do come with merit -- certain teams are "under-ranked" and others are clearly "over-ranked". However, certain situations have a bit of nuance to them.

Is a team missing wrestlers from their lineup? Are they "key" ones? What is the format of the event: dual meets, small tournament, medium tournament, mega-tournament, etc.?

A couple of these scenarios showed up in the opening weekend:

Broken Arrow remains above Southeast Polk despite finishing second to them at the GEHS Invite, partly because the Tigers had five champions to the Rams three, and the Tigers did not have a wrestler in the upper two weight classes. For example, in a bigger field event -- the GEHS Invite had just 16 teams -- those champions would be more likely to relatively maintain performance, while the Rams' "success by volume" approach may not hold up.

Bettendorf, Iowa -- now ranked No. 32 nationally -- finished second at the Keith Young Invitational -- to unranked North Scott, Iowa by 1.5 points. However, the Bulldogs were missing three starters from their lineup in the 16-team field event. They also led the tournament in terms of champions with four from five finalists, while North Scott only had a pair of champions.

Christiansburg, Va. -- now ranked No. 34 nationally -- lost a dual meet 45-26 against unranked Gilmer, Ga. at the Lake Norman Duals. However, the Blue Demons have a quartet of nationally ranked wresters in Coy Ozias (113), J.R. Wert (120), Joey Dance (126), and Zach Epperly (170). They are a squad that will more than thrive at the Walsh Ironman and Beast of the East this month. However, with the relative inexperience and youth around them, there will be some growing pains in dual meets and/or small tournaments.

Ranked Wrestlers Results Analysis

The "true" opening weekend of high school wrestling saw a series of matchups involving nationally ranked wrestlers that merited further attention.

No. 4 Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Ohio) was upset 6-0 in dual meet action at 113 pounds by Dustin Warner (Claymont, Ohio). Warner was a state qualifier last year at 120 pounds, which was up two weights due to the presence of multiple-time state placers in the lineup at 106 and 113.

Also at 113 pounds, No. 13 Ke-Shawn Hayes (Park Hill, Mo.) upended No. 11 Jaret Singh (Kearney, Mo.) in the final dual meet at the Park Hill Duals. Also in that meet, No. 19 Seth Brayfield (Kearney) outlasted two-time state placer John Erneste 5-3 in overtime at 120, and No. 14 Grant Leeth (Kearney) defeated three-time state runner-up Russell Coleman 10-3 at 140. In terms of the dual meet, No. 24 Kearney defeated Park Hill 31-27 with a pin from Dillon Grime at 285 even with the absence of two key starters.
The Ray Oliver Invitational finals offered a pair of interesting results. At 160 pounds, No. 6 Josh Llopez (St. Mary's Ryken, Md.) left with a 6-5 overtime victory over No. 10 (at 152) Myles Martin (McDonogh, Md.). Then at 182 pounds, it was an upset as Tyler Patrick (McDonogh, Md.) upended No. 16 Troy Murtha (Georgetown Prep, Md.), 5-3.

No. 4 Garrett Ryan (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) was upended by post-graduate McZiggy Richards (St. Benedict's Prep, N.J.) 8-5 in the 220 pound final at the Caruso Invitational on Saturday. Richards was a state placer as a senior at 182 pounds in New York State last year and placed in Fargo on multiple occasions.

Marist: The Schedule Warriors

Through the first two weekends in Illinois, Marist has already competed in dual meets against a pair of nationally ranked teams. Thanksgiving weekend, the Red Hawks lost to No. 12 Oak Park River Forest 26-25, while this past weekend they lost to a short-handed Montini Catholic team 31-27. Marist was without state placer Peter Andreotti (160) in both matches and two-time state placer Mark Duda (120) against Montini.

Over the next two weekends, they have dual meets against solid teams like Lockport, Ill., Lowell, Mich., and Marmion Academy, Ill. Then, before Christmas they'll be in the Dvorak Memorial Tournament, and the Red Hawks travel to The Clash National Wrestling Duals after Christmas.]]>75521Wed, 05 Dec 2012 06:47:59 +0000Weekly High School Lowe Down: Nov. 28, 2012https://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/weekly-high-school-lowe-down-nov-28-2012-r75487/The Walsh Ironman is one of the nation's premier high school wrestling events (Photo/Rob Preston)

Saturday marks the first day of December, and it is this weekend that the high school wrestling regular season will begin in true earnest.

No. 25 McDonogh, Md., hosts its annual Ray Oliver Wrestling Tournament on Friday and Saturday, and the 20-team field features many elite wrestlers from the Mid-Atlantic region. Nationally ranked wrestlers in the field include Brent Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.), seventh at 113 pounds; Alfred Bannister (Bishop McNamara, Md.), eighth at 138 pounds; Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.), eighth at 145; Myles Martin (McDonogh, Md.), 10th at 152; Josh Llopez (St. Mary's Ryken, Md.), fifth at 160; Troy Murtha (Georgetown Prep, Md.), 16th at 182; and Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.), champion at 220.

Mt. Carmel, Ill., hosts a quad on Saturday that also includes Machensey Park Harlem, Ill.; No. 10 Montini Catholic, Ill.; and No. 13 Marist, Ill. The host Caravan is anchored by the Bryce Brill, who is ranked No. 2 nationally at 145 pounds; and Harlem features state champion (also a two-time state finalist) Jordan Northrup at 120, along with two-time state placer Zac Denny at 126. Even though Montini will be without three returning state qualifiers/placers due to playing in the state football title game this past weekend, and Marist is without returning state placer Peter Andreotti (160) due to football injury, both lineups are littered with talent. The featured matchup would be at 120 pounds, with two-time state placers Jordan Laster (Montini) and Mark Duda projected to compete.

Arguably the best individual bracket tournament of the season in the Southeastern United States will be held this Friday and Saturday outside of Tampa at the Strawberry Festival Grounds. The Durant Cougar Invitational does not have any nationally ranked teams, but features regional powerhouses such as Collins Hill, Ga.; Lake Highland Prep, Fla.; Osceola, Fla.; and South Dade, Fla.

No. 38 West Delaware Manchester, Iowa hosts a tournament on Saturday that will also include No. 36 Davenport Assumption, Iowa as well as a formidable Linn Mar, Iowa squad that returns five state placers. The other event of the weekend featuring multiple nationally ranked teams is Saturday's Dick Shiels Invitational in Faribault, Minn., which includes No. 4 Apple Valley, Minn. and No. 18 Kasson-Mantorville, Minn.

However, this is but one weekend of the season. Below is a calendar of key events to be held throughout the rest of the high school season.

December:
Dec. 6: Allen, Texas and Tuttle, Okla., at Broken Arrow, Okla.
Dec. 7: Simley at St. Michael-Albertville,-Kasson-Mantorville at Apple Valley (Minnesota Showdowns)
Dec. 7-8: Mid-America Nationals (Tulsa, Okla.); Walsh Jesuit (Ohio) Ironman Invitational
Dec. 14-15: Battle of Waterloo (Iowa); Kansas City (Mo.) Wrestling Classic; King of the Mountain (Central Mountain, Pa.); Minnesota Christmas Tournament (Rochester, Minn.); Reno (Nev.) Tournament of Champions; Tri-State Invitational (Coeur d'Alene, Idaho)
Dec. 22: Kyle Maynard Duals (Collins Hill, Ga.)
Dec. 22-23: Beast of the East (Newark, Del.); Dvorak Memorial Invitational (Machesney Park, Ill.)
Dec. 28-29: Bethlehem (Pa.) Hurricane Classic; Granite City (Illinois) Invitational; Medina (Ohio) Invitational; POWERade Christmas Wrestling Tournament (Canon-McMillan, Pa.); The Clash XI – National High School Wrestling Duals (Rochester, Minn.)

January:
Jan. 4-5: Cheesehead Invitational (Kaukauna, Wis.); Doc Buchanan Invitational (Clovis, Calif.); Geary (Okla.) Invitational
Jan. 5: St. Paris Graham, Ohio at Blair Academy, N.J.; Marines.com Battlefield Duals (Colonial Forge, Va.)
Jan. 11-12: Basheor (Kan.) Tournament; Virginia Duals (Hampton, Va.)
Jan. 12: Detroit Catholic Central (Mich.) Super Duals; NHSCA Festival of Wrestling (York, Pa.)
Jan. 18: Detroit Catholic Central, Mich., vs. St. Johns, Mich., at the University of Michigan
Jan. 18-19: Clinch Gear Battle for the Belt (Temecula Valley, Calif.); Oklahoma City University Duals; Top Gun Wrestling Tournament (Alliance, Ohio)
Jan. 19-20: Escape the Rock Wrestling Tournament (Council Rock South, Pa.)
Jan. 23: Montini Catholic, Ill., at Oak Park River Forest, Ill.
Jan. 25-26: Reser's Tournament of Champions (Portland, Ore.)

February:
Feb. 2: Blair Academy, N.J., at St. Edward, Ohio

State Championships

Individual

Dec. 7-8: Alaska (Class 123A)
Feb. 1-2: Alaska (Class 4A)
Feb. 7-9: Arizona
Feb. 8-9: Montana, Nevada
Feb. 13-16: Utah
Feb. 14-16: Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Tennessee
Feb. 15-16: Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, North Dakota, Virginia, Washington
Feb. 21-23: Colorado, Texas, West Virginia, Wisconsin
Feb. 22-23: Arkansas, Delaware, Idaho, Kansas, National Prep Championships, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Wyoming
Feb. 23-24: South Dakota
Feb. 28-March 2: Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio
March 1-2: California, Hawaii, Maryland, Minnesota, New England Regional
March 7-9: Pennsylvania
March 8-10: New Jersey

Dual Meet

Jan. 11-12: Georgia
Feb. 1-2: Tennessee
Feb. 7-9: Pennsylvania
Feb. 9: Maryland, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina
Feb. 12: Delaware
Feb. 13: Iowa
Feb. 14: North Dakota
Feb. 16: North Carolina
Feb. 17: New Jersey
Feb. 22-23: Michigan
Feb. 23: Illinois, Nebraska
Feb. 28: Minnesota
March 1-2: Wisconsin

Over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, we saw the opening weekend of competition in the Land of Lincoln. Highlighting that docket was a 26-25 victory for No. 13 Oak Park River Forest on the road at No. 12 Marist. Both squads were able to win seven matches in this tightly contested dual meet.

Key individual matches came at 195 pounds, where OPRF junior Andre Lee upset returning state placer Josh Pruitt with a takedown in overtime; at 220 pounds, with Marist junior Mark Duda upending sophomore Matthew Rundell 11-6 in a battle of returning state runners-up; at 138 with Marist junior Mario Leveille beating Junior Greco-Roman All-American Jake O'Mara 6-5; and at 145 with Marist senior Matt Sears defeating state qualifier Johnny Gahagan 6-4. However, Marist was without state placer Peter Andreotti at 160, and Oak Park River Forest used a fall in that match to seal the dual meet.

Despite sliding back slightly last season, then again who wouldn't given the personnel that left the program, Marmion Academy showed they are back and a forced to be reckoned with at the season opening Moore-Prettyman Wrestling Invitational. The Cadets dominated the 28-school field at Barrington with seven finalists, including four championships from Anthony Bosco (106), No. 11 Johnny Jimenez (120), No. 14 George Fisher (132), and Cody Snodgrass (195). They scored 274 points, while runner-up Libertyville had 185.5 points.]]>75487Wed, 28 Nov 2012 05:10:40 +0000Weekly High School Lowe Down: Nov. 21, 2012https://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/weekly-high-school-lowe-down-nov-21-2012-r75453/Johnny Sebastian is a running back on a Bergen Catholic football team in the state semifinals (Photo/Rob Preston)

While the high school wrestling season doesn't start in earnest until about ten days from now, the regular season did start in a couple of states this past weekend. However, of greater interest to the early part of the season for some ranked teams is how football programs are performing. Generally speaking, it takes two weeks at minimum -- and more likely even three weeks -- to get wrestlers back on the mat after the end of the football season. This is due to recovery/transition time after the football season, working down to wrestling weight, and getting acclimated into wrestling condition.

In the Illinois state tournament, No. 33 Glenbard North and No. 10 Montini Catholic saw their football teams advance to the state finals in Class 8A (big-school) and Class 5A respectively. Those two football title games will be held on Saturday in Champaign, Ill.

For Glenbard North, Brian Murphy -- ranked No. 2 nationally at 152 pounds, and No. 11 overall in the senior class -- is the starting quarterback and also contributes on defense. The Panthers are scheduled to begin their wrestling season this weekend at the Conant Invitational. However, in the bigger picture, early season targets for them are a Dec. 20 dual against No. 28 Carl Sandburg, Ill., before the Dvorak Invitational that weekend.

Montini Catholic's football team has returning state placer Michael Maduko (170) as a starting linebacker, state qualifier Anthony Ferraro (195) starting at offensive guard, and state placer Edgar Ruano (220) is a starting defensive tackle. The trio of Broncos' multi-sport athletes is juniors. The overall wrestling schedule is rigorous with key early competition including a quad that also features No. 12 Marist, Ill. next weekend, the Walsh Ironman on Dec. 7 and 8, and the Dvorak Invitational two weekends after that.

No. 21 Allen, Texas has their football team in the second round of a six-round state football tournament in Class 5A Division I. The 10-1 Eagles will be playing undefeated Mesquite this weekend. Key wrestlers contributing to the football team are quarterback/athlete Oliver Pierce -- ranked No. 3 nationally at 152 pounds, and No. 14 overall in the senior class; linebacker Nick Cobb, a three-time state champion and No. 18 nationally at 195 pounds; as well as defensive lineman Stone Drulman (220), third at state last year. Allen's initial wrestling competitions are in two weeks time -- Dec. 6 in a triangular meet at Broken Arrow, Okla., and the following two days in the Mid-Am Nationals at Tulsa Union.

No. 26 Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio had its football team advance to the Division I (big-school) state football semifinals this coming weekend after a 24-21 victory over nationally ranked Cincinnati Colerain. It was the second win for the Crusaders in football over nationally ranked opposition in four weeks, having beaten Louisville (Ky.) Trinity in the last regular season game. From a wrestling perspective, the Crusaders schedule starts next weekend with the Moeller Duals, while the Walsh Ironman and SWOWCA Coaches Classic are the following two weekends.

Five juniors with state wrestling experience are on the football roster. Most notable among them are starting defensive lineman Chalmer Frueauf (220/285), who has placed fourth at state each of the last two years, and returning state third placer Dakota Sizemore (170) who also contributes on the defensive line. 2011 state placers Jerry Thornberry (195/220) and Dean Meyer (152/160) are rostered on the defensive line and at running back, while state qualifier Quentin Rooser (182) is rostered as a linebacker.

No. 31 Blue Springs, Mo., had its football team advance to the Class 6 (big-school) title game this coming weekend at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis. In terms of the wrestling squad, state placer Austin Reyes is a starting offensive lineman. The Wildcats' wrestling schedule commences next weekend with a pair of dual meets in Kansas, the Staley Duals on December 8th, and the Kansas City Wrestling Classic the next weekend.

No. 34 Colonial Forge, Va., plays in the Division 6 (big-school) regional football championship this weekend. A trio of upper-weight starters are a part of the Eagles football squad: junior Chris Carter (195), sophomore Patrick Grayson (220), and senior Matt Beaulieu (285). The four weekends after this one feature key wrestling tournaments: the Skyline Elite Opener, Walsh Ironman, King of the Mountain, and Beast of the East.

Both No. 37 Bergen Catholic and No. 43 Don Bosco Prep have their football teams making playoff runs in New Jersey's non-public Group 4. The perennial football powers play in regular season games this week before battling with each other on the field in the state semifinal on Nov. 30. A win there would put them in the state title game the next week. Each school starts wrestling in a Dec. 15 tournament, and they compete in the Beast of the East the next weekend, which is two weeks after the football championship.

Bergen Catholic's football team features state qualifier Carmine Goldsack (285) on the offensive line, while state champion Johnny Sebastian -- who is ranked No. 5 nationally at 182 pounds, and No. 18 overall in the junior class -- is part of the running back rotation. Six-time defending state champion Don Bosco has its two best wrestlers as part of the defensive line on the football -- state champion Razohnn Gross (195) and state placer Zach Chakonis (220), who is ranked No. 25 overall in the sophomore class.

As for some actual wrestling that happened this past weekend:

No. 7 Brandon, Fla., competed in the Chamberlain High School 10-way this past weekend. The Eagles had nine dual meets and shut out each and every opponent. It was a stellar debut, and they'll return to the mats for competition next weekend with the Troy Smith Duals at Gateway. Brandon is off this coming weekend.

No. 22 Perry Meridian, Ind., hosted the season opening Capital City Classic this past Saturday, and validated their standing as top team in the Hoosier State with a dominant tournament title. The Falcons scored 309 points in winning eight of fourteen weight classes, and four others finishing second. Champions included Jacob Cottey (113), Brandon James (126), No. 18 Cody LeCount (132), Nick Bova (138), Keanu Cooper (152), Riley McClurg (160), Jake Masengale (182), and No. 5 Donte Winfield (285).

Second place in the eight-team tournament was Warren Central, ranked No. 13 in the Hoosier State, with 251 points. They had five of the other six weight class champions, along with two others who finished in second place.

This coming weekend is "opening weekend" for the state of Illinois. Probably the feature of the schedule is a match between No. 12 Marist and No. 13 Oak Park River Forest as part of Saturday's Marist Thanksgiving Wrestling Quad. From an individual standpoint, a match between returning state runners-up Mark Duda (Marist) and Matt Rundell is possible at 120 pounds. Unfortunately, Marist will be without returning state placer Peter Andreotti (160), as he recovers from an injury sustained during football.]]>75453Wed, 21 Nov 2012 06:54:10 +0000Wrestling 49: Minnesotahttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/wrestling-49-minnesota-r75425/With the high school wrestling season' start approaching, InterMat will be taking fans across the United States of America on a tour of scholastic wrestling. From now until the middle of November, InterMat will introduce fans to the top high school senior wrestlers in the 49 states with scholastic wrestling. From Alaska to Florida, and Maine to California, fans will gain exposure to future college and senior level stars.

The top ten most wanted list from Minnesota has some very well-known names and then a few gems only Minnesota/Midwest fans know. Class AA takes up half this list with Simley taking the honor of most wrestlers with three, while Kasson-Mantorville serves up the remaining two.

1. Jake Short (Simley)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 145/152
Projected College Weight Class: 149/157
College: Minnesota

Jake Short (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)
Analysis: I haven't been able to find anyone who would argue against the top choice. Jake Short has accomplished more in the last four years than any senior on this list. He is the No. 1-ranked 145-pound wrestler in the nation and is currently slotted as the No. 8 recruit by InterMat. He will be attempting to win his fourth state title and in the process will break every Simley wrestling record. He has been a Cadet and Junior National folkstyle champion. He has also won a Cadet National freestyle title, and was runner-up in the Junior National freestyle competition in 2011 and third this past summer. Short comes from a deep wrestling history of success as his dad and three uncles were all state champions. But none accomplished as much as Jake in high school. His career record is 189-20

2. Mitch Bengtson (Saint Cloud Apollo)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 138
Projected College Weight Class: 141/149
College: North Dakota State

Mitch Bengtson (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)
Analysis: The No. 2-ranked senior on this list owns one of Minnesota's most cherished, yet somewhat obscure records. Bengtson ran up 179 wins without taking a loss. The streak was put to a halt in the state finals last season by Eden Prairie's Sam Brancale. Nevertheless, Bengtson is a five-time state placer with three state titles. His overall record is a gaudy 223-6 with 162 pins. His success has crossed over to the international styles where Bengtson is a two-time Fargo runner-up in Greco-Roman, and a one-time third-place finisher in freestyle. Bengtson is currently ranked as the No. 22 recruit in the country and fifth in the nation at 138 pounds by InterMat.

3. Broc Berge (Kasson-Mantorville)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 195
Projected College Weight Class: 184/197
College: Iowa

Broc Berge (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)
Analysis: Rounding out the top three is a wrestler who until just recently has been keeping a rather low profile nationally. Berge shot up on everyone's radar with an explosive runner-up finish in Fargo this past summer in freestyle at 195 pounds. This followed three very successful in-season performances as Berge is a three-time state placer and two-time state champion. Berge has also won the prestigious Minnesota Christmas tournament twice. His career record is 126-6 and InterMat has him slotted as the No. 25 recruit. He is currently the No. 2-ranked 195-pound wrestler in the nation by InterMat.

4. Nick Wanzek (Simley)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 170
Projected College Weight Class: 165/174
College: Minnesota

Nick Wanzek (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)
Analysis: The second of the Simley entrants comes in at No. 4. Nick Wanzek has been Short's best friend, as both compete as football players and are two of the nation's top wrestlers. Wanzek will be attempting to win his third state title to go along with a runner-up finish. He has had plenty of offseason success as both a Cadet and Junior National folkstyle champion. This past summer he was a runner-up in the Junior National freestyle competition in Fargo. Wanzek's career record going into his senior campaign is 174-20. He is ranked as the No. 27 senior and the fifth-ranked wrestler at 160 pounds by InterMat.

5. Kyle Gliva (Simley)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 126
Projected College Weight Class: 125
College: North Dakota State

Kyle Gliva (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)
Analysis: The last of the Simley gang to enter our top ten is Kyle Gliva. This Minnesota lightweight has quietly gathered some of the more cherished hardware in the sport. Gliva enters his senior season with a ninety-percent winning percentage and a career record of 121-13. Like Wanzek, he will be taking a run at his third state championship, to go along with a runner-up finish. Gliva is a past Cadet National folkstyle runner-up, as well as a Cadet National freestyle All-American. He has been a part of four out of the last five Simley state championship teams.

6. Daniel Woiwor (Apple Valley)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 160
Projected College Weight Class: 157/165
College: Iowa State

Daniel Woiwor (Photo/The Guillotine)
Analysis: No top ten list in Minnesota would seem complete without an entrant from Apple Valley, a national wrestling powerhouse. Woiwor shows up here as the nation's No. 51 recruit and is currently ranked No. 10 at 160 pounds by InterMat. He is one of the few Minnesota wrestlers who can say he is a five-time state placer going into his senior season. He won his lone state title as a freshman and has a career record of 179-31. Woiwor won a title at the NUWAY Southwest Kickoff Classic a year ago and was third this fall. It will be interesting to see how Woiwor recovers from a shoulder injury, as well as moving down two weight classes in Apple Valley's lineup

7. Darick Vancura (Jackson County Central)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 160/170
Projected College Weight Class: 165/174
College: Undecided

Darick Vancura (Photo/The Guillotine)
Analysis: Vancura is arguably Minnesota's most underrated senior. He is a four-time state entrant, placing third in 2010 at 130 pounds, second in 2011 at 145 pounds, and winning a title in 2012 at 160 pounds. He enters his senior year with a 168-31 career. He is a three-time USA Wrestling folkstyle All-American, placing sixth in 2009 at 119 pounds, fifth in 2010 at 140 pounds, and eighth in 2011 at 160 pounds. He will be one of the leaders on his team as JCC seeks a seventh state team title in Class A.

8. Taner Trembley (Lake Crystal-Wellcome Memorial)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 138
Projected College Weight Class: 133/141
College: Undecided

Taner Trembley (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)
Analysis: Trembley has shot up on everyone's radar in the last few weeks. He won the 2012 InterMat JJ Classic (after finishing third in the event in 2011) and followed that with an impressive championship trophy at Iowa's Preseason Nationals. He is a four-time state entrant, placing fourth in 2010, fifth in 2011, and first in 2012. Trembley also took third in the Cadet National folkstyle competition in 2011. He enters his senior campaign with a career record of 163-50 and will likely be the favorite to win a second state title. He is the complete package with very few weaknesses in his game. He seems ready to take the next step to the college level.

9. Adam Cooling (Madelia/Truman/Martin Luther)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 152/160
Projected College Weight Class: 157/165
College: Undecided

Adam Cooling (Photo/The Guillotine)
Analysis: Cooling is another highly sought-after wrestler from a small high school. He enters his senior year with a career record of 157-40. Cooling is a four-time state entrant, winning a title in 2012 at 145 pounds in class A. He was also a state fourth-place finisher in 2011 at 140 pounds. Cooling owns a pair of fourth-place finishes nationally in the Junior National folkstyle competition at 145pounds and NHSCA (Virginia Beach) in 2011 at 140 pounds. He was runner-up at the 2011 InterMat JJ Classic, falling in the finals to four-time state champion Brandon Kingsley of Apple Valley.

10. Nate Thomas (Kasson-Mantorville)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 126
Projected College Weight Class: 125/133
College: Minnesota

Nate Thomas (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)
Analysis: Thomas surprised many in the state as a freshman, winning both the Minnesota Christmas Tournament as well as finishing as the state champion at 103 pounds. His sophomore season followed with more of the same success, but finished runner-up at both of those events. He spent most of last season with a severe injury suffered early in the season. Recently his comeback has begun with an impressive gold medal at the Junior Olympics, finishing 18-0. He is also undefeated at The Clash (12-0). His career record is 92-13.

This story also appears in the Nov. 16 issue of The Guillotine. The Guillotine has been covering amateur wrestling in Minnesota since 1971. Its mission is to report and promote amateur wrestling at all levels -- from youth and high school wrestling to college and international level wrestling. Subscribe to The Guillotine.]]>75425Thu, 15 Nov 2012 07:07:04 +0000Wrestling 49: Ohiohttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/wrestling-49-ohio-r75376/With the high school wrestling season' start approaching, InterMat will be taking fans across the United States of America on a tour of scholastic wrestling. From now until the middle of November, InterMat will introduce fans to the top high school senior wrestlers in the 49 states with scholastic wrestling. From Alaska to Florida, and Maine to California, fans will gain exposure to future college and senior level stars.

This year marks the third time in the past five years that Ohio has the top wrestling recruit in the nation. David Taylor and Logan Stieber were the nation's top recruits in 2009 and 2010, and Bo Jordan is the nation's top recruit this year. Both Taylor and Stieber have already won NCAA wrestling championships, and Jordan will look to do the same.

This year's Ohio recruiting class is pretty deep in talent behind Jordan in fact there will be three wrestlers, including Bo Jordan, going for their fourth state title in the Buckeye State. This Ohio class has a collective total of six wrestlers in the Top 50 of InterMat's Top 100 seniors.

Bo Jordan (Photo/Kevin Schlosser)
1. Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 160
Projected College Weight Class: 157/165
College: Ohio State (Committed)

Analysis: Bo Jordan is a once in a decade type of talent. With his strength and technical abilities, Jordan was the most coveted recruit in the nation for good reason. He has one blemish his record while at Graham coming to last year's Ohio best recruit Nate Skonieczny as a freshman. Jordan avenged that loss at the state tournament en route to his first state title. Since that loss Jordan is undefeated with many matches being lopsided. Jordan has committed to Ohio State -- a huge grab for the Buckeyes and breaks the family tradition of heading to Wisconsin. Look for big things from Jordan his senior year as he goes for his fourth state title.

2. Nathan Tomasello (Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 120
Projected College Weight Class: 125
College: Ohio State (Committed)

Analysis: Tomasello will be going for his fourth state title this year at 120 pounds. Tomasello has run off 100 straight high school victories going back to his freshman year at 103 pounds. This year he will look for a third Ironman title to go with a potential fourth state title. Tomasello has committed to the Buckeyes and projects to be at 125 pounds.

3. Dean Heil (St. Edward)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 132
Projected College Weight Class: 133
College: Oklahoma State (Committed)

Analysis: Heil looks to be come the third group to win his fourth state title in the Buckeye State. Heil will also become the fourth Eagle from St. Edward to win a fourth state title. Heil, fresh off being crowned champion at the Super 32 Challenge at 132 pounds, will look to take that momentum into the season. Heil will head out to Oklahoma State and projects to be a 133-pounder out in Stillwater for legendary coach John Smith.

4. Anthony Collica (Solon)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 145/152
Projected College Weight Class: 149/157
College: Oklahoma State (Committed)

Analysis: Anthony Collica perhaps overlooked by many spectators in Ohio and around the nation changed that this summer as he won a Junior National freestyle title in Fargo. Collica, already a two-time state champion, really cemented his name nationally over the summer with a brilliant performance in Fargo. Collica, a very funky wrestler that is often hard to score on, will take his talents to Stillwater to wrestle for the Cowboys of Oklahoma State.

Dominic Abounader (Photo/Kevin Schlosser)
5. Dominic Abounader (St. Edward)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 195
Projected College Weight Class: 197
College: Michigan (Committed)

Analysis: Abounader, already a two-time state champion in the upperweights, will look to cement his legacy as one of the best that St. Edwards has ever had. A perfect blend of brute strength and quickness Abounader had an outstanding year taking second at Ironman but later revenging his only loss in a dual later in the year. Abounader will move on to Ann Arbor at the end of this year joining the long line of Eagles to become Wolverines.

6. Edgar Bright (St. Edward)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 145
Projected College Weight Class: 149
College: Pittsburgh (Committed)

Analysis: Bright comes into the season as the best wrestler in the state not to win a state title. Last year he came in as the favorite before falling to two-time state champion Joey Ward in a very close match that went to overtime. Bright looks to move up to 145 this year and should be able to win his first state title before heading off to Pitt to wrestle in college.

7. B.J. Toal (Troy Christian)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 182
Projected College Weight Class: 184
College: Missouri (Committed)

Analysis: Toal will look for his second state title this year after he was runner-up his sophomore year and winning his first title last year at 182. Toal is ranked No. 7 in the nation at his weight class and should have a strong senior year before going off to join older brother Zach at Missouri.

8. JoJo Tayse (Massillon Perry)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 195
Projected College Weight Class: 197
College: Undecided

Analysis: Last year at 195 JoJo Tayse was able to pull off the upset by knocking off rival James Suvak of St. Edward, who he was beaten by twice last year at Ironman. He was able to claw his way to a close victory. Tayse will look to do the same this year. However, with the addition of Dominic Abounader he will have a serious challenge going for his second state title at 195.

9. Brandon Thompson (Solon)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 120
Projected College Weight Class: 125
College: Undecided

Analysis: Brandon Thompson may be one of the most unheralded wrestlers in the state of Ohio. This year he will be going for his third state title. Thompson is a very difficult wrestler to score on, which should translate well to the college level. This year he projects up to the 120-pound class.

10. Josh Lehner (Lexington)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 195
Projected College Weight Class: 197
College: North Carolina (Committed)

Analysis: Lehner, for a heavier weight, can score points in bunches. Never was this more evident than at the state tournament where he recorded a technical fall in each of four matches. Lehner will look to do the same this year as he did last year before heading to Chapel Hill to wrestle for the Tar Heels.]]>75376Thu, 08 Nov 2012 18:23:55 +0000Wrestling 49: Indianahttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/wrestling-49-indiana-r75329/
There really isn't much Mitch Sliga hasn't done during his three years in high school (Photo/Paul Tincher, IndianaMat.com)
1. Mitch Sliga (Fishers)
Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 195
Projected College Weight Class: 197

Analysis: There really isn't much Sliga hasn't done during his three years in high school, he has won Fargo twice, won FILA Cadets, won a state title, placed at FILA Juniors, placed at FILA Cadet Worlds and the list goes on. Along with his stellar wrestling accolades, this Northwestern commit, has a done serious damage in the classroom. He will be a great fit for the Wildcats in the top of their lineup and after beating some college wrestlers at FILA Juniors he could step in as a true freshman.

  • 2010: Third at 189 pounds
  • 2011: Third at 189 pounds
  • 2012: Champion at 195 pounds

    2. Neal Molloy (Danville)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 138
    Projected College Weight Class: 141

    Analysis: Molloy has had quite an offseason after finishing a disappointing fifth at state as a junior. First he placed third at FloNationals, then he placed fifth at Fargo and he wrapped up the offseason with a runner-up finish at the Super 32 Challenge. He has verbally committed to Indiana University and will look to wrestle 141 pounds in college. He has the build to move up to 149 pounds if that is where the Hoosiers need to be.

  • 2010: Qualifier at 119 pounds
  • 2011: Champion at 130 pounds
  • 2012: Fifth at 132 pounds

    3. Isaiah Bradley (Muncie South)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 160
    Projected College Weight Class: 165

    Analysis: Bradley has kept getting better and better while making multiple jumps in weight throughout his career. He captured a state title last year at 152 pounds after making the jump from 135 pounds as a sophomore. Last spring he placed sixth at FloNationals and outside that tournament has had limited exposure outside of the state.

  • 2010: Qualifier at 119 pounds
  • 2011: Fifth at 135 pounds
  • 2012: Champion at 152 pounds

    4. Nick Crume (Jimtown)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 132
    Projected College Weight Class: 133

    Analysis: Crume comes from a school that is better known for their football teams than their wrestling teams. Don't let that fool you as he is a tough, gritty competitor much like their football team. He is a great technician that rarely gets out of position and is tough to score on.

  • 2010: Qualifier at 112 pounds
  • 2011: Third at 125 pounds
  • 2012: Third at 126 pounds

    5. Josh Farrell (Greenfield-Central)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 152
    Projected College Weight Class: 157

    Analysis: Farrell is just one of two incoming seniors that has three state medals. He is sneaky good and one that is not flashy or look to be exceptionally talented. He is a hard worker and while jumping from 103 pounds as a freshman to 138 pounds as a junior he continued to get better. Look for him to be at 152 pounds this year and challenge for that elusive blue ring.

  • 2010: Sixth at 103 pounds
  • 2011: Seventh at 119 pounds
  • 2012: Runner-up at 138 pounds

    6. Schuyler Phillips (Yorktown)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 120
    Projected College Weight Class: 125

    Analysis: Phillips has steadily improved each year of his high school career. After qualifying for semi-state as a freshman, he extended his season by a week his sophomore year by qualifying for state. As a junior he finished second behind No. 1-ranked Jarred Brooks. This year this tough Tiger wrestler will be in the hunt once again for a state championship.

  • 2011: Qualifier at 112 pounds
  • 2012: Runner-up at 113 pounds

    7. Luke Blanton (Alexandria)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 138
    Projected College Weight Class: 141

    Analysis: Blanton comes from a wrestling family with many brothers to wrestle with inside the wrestling room and outside of it. The past two years he has pulled two of the biggest upsets in the state. As a sophomore he defeated semi-state champion and returning placer Layton Binion in the opening round. Last year he defeated returning state champion Neal Molloy in the quarterfinals. He is a tough wrestler that has a knack for rising to the occasion for big matches.

  • 2011: Sixth at 125 pounds
  • 2012: Fourth at 132 pounds

    8. Donte Winfield (Perry Meridian)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 285
    Projected College Weight Class: 285

    Analysis: Winfield was having a fine junior campaign until he was upset on Friday night at state. He was a favorite to challenge for the title and due to the lack of wrestlebacks was put out of the state tournament. His spring included a runner-up finish at Fargo that got him on the national radar very quickly. He is a hard-nosed wrestler that is extremely hard to score on.

  • 2012: Qualifier at 285 pounds

    9. Matt Hurford (Culver Community)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 182
    Projected College Weight Class: 184/197

    Analysis: Most wrestlers are at a disadvantage when they start their career as an upperweight, but much like Mitch Sliga, Hurford has made the most of it. He qualified for state as a freshman and followed that up with a fifth-place finish as a junior. This spring he also placed Seventh at FloNationals against many of the nation's top wrestlers.

  • 2010: Qualifier at 189 pounds
  • 2012: Fifth at 182 pounds

    10. Jake Masengale (Perry Meridian)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 182
    Projected College Weight Class: 174/184

    Analysis: Masengale has recently committed to wrestle for Duane Goldman and the Indiana Hoosiers upon graduation. After qualifying for state as a sophomore, he placed second last year to longtime rival Sean Mappes. Masengale has had limited national exposure, but did go 6-1 at Cadet Duals in 2011.

  • 2011: Qualifier at 171 pounds
  • 2012: Runner-up at 170 pounds

    Honorable Mention:

    Luke Kriech (Franklin Community)
  • 2012: Runner-up at 152 pounds

    Blake Giffin (South Dearborn)
  • 2012: Third at 145 pounds

    Anthony Linnear (Fort Wayne North Side)
  • 2012: Third at 170 pounds

    Adam Garcia: Merrillville
  • 2012: Fourth at 120 pounds

    Luke Welch (Castle)
    *Committed to Purdue
  • 2012: Fifth at 120 pounds

    Mitchell Hartman (South Bend Clay)
  • 2012: Sixth at 138 pounds

    Jullian Torres (Portage)
  • 2012: Sixth at 126 pounds

    John Tatom (Hamilton Southeastern)
    *Committed to Indiana
  • 2012: Sixth at 145 pounds

    Dylan Jones (Avon)
  • 2012: Sixth at 195 pounds

    Nick Bova (Perry Meridian)
  • 2012: Seventh at 138 pounds

    Brad Busse (Bellmont)
  • 2012: Seventh at 182 pounds

    Levi Moss (Ben Davis)
  • 2012: Eighth at 132 pounds

    Jared Boehm (Heritage Hills)
  • 2012: Eighth at 220 pounds

    Nathan Wright (Evansville Mater Dei)
  • 2012: Eighth at 285 pounds

    Anthony McHugh (Culver Academies)
  • Three-time state qualifier]]>75329Thu, 25 Oct 2012 05:10:58 +0000Day of milestones at 2012 Super 32 Challengehttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/day-of-milestones-at-2012-super-32-challenge-r75318/
    Suriano, ranked seventh nationally among all freshmen and a middle school division Super 32 champion last year, also beat fourth-ranked freshman Luke Pletcher (Greater Latrobe, Pa.) 2-0 in the semifinal and New York state runner-up Jose Rodriguez (Massillon Perry, Ohio) 3-0 in the quarterfinals. Earlier in the tournament, he also beat a state runner-up 9-3, and fellow 2011 middle school division champion Chad Red (New Palestine, Ind.), 3-2.

    En route to being the first eighth-grader in tournament history to make the final, Lee had shut out all six opponents he wrestled. That included two first-period pins, a 17-0 technical fall, two major decisions, and a 4-0 decision victory. He is ranked third among junior high wrestlers nationally.

    Yet another milestone came when Mark Hall (Apple Valley, Minn.) won the 152 pound championship with an 8-5 victory over state champion Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.). Already with two state titles prior to the ninth grade in Minnesota, Hall became the first freshman in ten years to win a title at above the opening weight. (Ashtin Primus won a Super 32 title in 2002.)

    A third milestone champion emerged at 285 pounds, where Jesse Webb (Mt. Anthony Union) became the first ever Vermont native to win a Super 32 championship. In the final, he scored four takedowns to beat Luke Fleck (Franklin Regional, Pa.) 9-4. However, his toughest match was the semifinal when he secured a fall at the 5:24 mark of overtime against Patrick Garren (Bishop Ready, Ohio) in a rematch of this spring's NHSCA Sophomore National final.

    Wrestlers from Pennsylvania were absolutely dominant in this year's Super 32 Challenge yet again, as five Keystone State grapplers won titles, with eight others taking second place. Champions were Sam Krivus (Hempfield Area) at 120 pounds, Zain Retherford (Benton) at 138, Cody Wiercioch (Canon McMillan) at 170, Jacob Taylor (Bald Eagle Area) at 182, and Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area) at 195.

    After placing sixth as a freshman at 113, Krivus upset J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.) -- last year's third place finisher in the same weight -- by a 3-2 score on a late takedown. Then, in the 120 pound final, he upended two-time undefeated state champion Josh Alber (Dakota, Ill.) 5-1 with takedowns in the first and third period. Alber, a 2011 InterMat JJ Classic champion, reached the final by upsetting 2010 champion Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) 3-1 with a late takedown.

    Retherford continued his dominant string of winning going back to last spring, with a 5-0 victory in the final against Neal Molloy (Danville, Ind.) -- a 2011 state champion and Junior National freestyle All-American this past summer. It was a fourth straight Super 32 placement for Retherford, who had won titles at the NHSCA Junior Nationals, FILA Cadet Nationals (freestyle), Junior Nationals (freestyle), and FILA Cadet Worlds (freestyle) since having to miss his junior season due to the PIAA ruling him ineligible.

    He had two early round pins than an "Ashnault 2010-like" gauntlet of five matches ensued, with wins over Cadet freestyle All-Americans Logan Massa (St. Johns, Mich.) and Josh Shields (Franklin Regional, Pa.) just to get to the Sunday quarterfinals; then a 3-2 victory over state placer Brock Zacherl (Brookville, Pa.) in the quarterfinal, followed by a 7-0 win over two-time state runner-up Troy Heilmann (South Plainfield, N.J.) in the semifinal round.

    Wiercioch made his third Super 32 challenge placement a superlative one with a second title in three years. The championship match was a possible state finals preview, as he upended Brett Harner (Norristown, Pa.) 5-3 with takedowns in the first and third periods in a battle of Top 100 senior prospects. In making it to the final, Harner had two wins on Sunday over fellow Top 100 senior prospects -- first was a 6-5 win over returning runner-up Nick Kee (Scotland, N.C), and then in the semifinals it was a 3-1 upset victory over returning placer, and Junior National freestyle All-American, Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.).

    Taylor improved upon his fourth place finish in last year's event, as he won the title at 182 pounds with a 3-1 overtime victory against state champion B.J. Toal (Troy Christian, Ohio). In earlier matches, Taylor beat two-time state champion Jared Haught (Parkersburg, W.V.) 3-2 and upended a pair of returning state runners-up in Shayne Brady (Carthage Central, N.Y.) and Ryland O'Brien (First Colonial, Va.)

    McCutcheon became a repeat Super 32 champion with a 4-1 victory over fellow Top 100 senior Raymond O'Donnell (Saucon Valley, Pa.). Key to the victory was a second period takedown for McCutcheon. From five matches on the weekend, McCutcheon was extremely stingy, as he only gave up two points.

    The third, and final, multi-time champion from this year's event was Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.), who won the 126 pound title match with a 4-3 decision over defending champion Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.). Just to reach the final, Kemerer beat a pair of three-time state champions that are also top 30 in the senior class. In the quarters, it was a 4-2 victory over Dalton Brady (Chandler, Ariz.); while the semifinal match was a 4-3 tiebreak win against fellow defending Super 32 champion Ryan Diehl (Trinity, Pa.). Kemerer needed a last-second takedown to force overtime in the semi against Diehl.

    Dance had the lone offensive points of the final against Kemerer with a first period takedown and third period reversal. In Sunday matches prior to the final, Dance majored Junior freestyle All-American Tate Robinson (Baylor School, Tenn.) 13-3 in the quarterfinal, and then beat two-time Cadet freestyle champion Seth Gross (Apple Valley, Minn.) by an 8-2 score in the semifinal.

    Without a shadow of a doubt, the match of the tournament came in the 132 pound final, where three-time state champion Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio) pulled somewhat of a “Houdini Act” to beat freshman sensation Aaron Pico (St. John Bosco, Calif.) 11-9 in overtime. It did not seem that this would be the case after one period, as Heil opened out to a 4-1 lead on the strength of two excellent takedowns. However, Pico turned it up in the second period with two takedowns of his own, including one rather late in the period, to exit with a 6-5 lead. Heil tied it at 6-6 with an opening escape. Then, Pico got an escape when Heil took a second injury time, which gave him a 7-6 lead.

    Then, with close to 30 seconds left, Pico got what most thought would be a match-sealing takedown. However, it was not to be, as Heil scored an escape, and then got a takedown just before time was out to tie things at 9-9. The overtime period featured an excellent scramble starting from a Heil attack, each wrestler having chances to score; but it was determined that Heil established momentary control for the match-winning takedown, and an 11-9 victory.

    Rounding out the weight class champions were Ryan Millhof (Collins Hill, Ga.) at 113 pounds, Grant Leeth (Kearney, Mo.) at 145, Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.) at 160, and Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) at 220.

    Millhof used two technical falls and a pin to reach Sunday competition, where he would use a 3-0 victory over two-time state placer Jake Gromacki (Erie Cathedral Prep, Pa.) and 11-6 victory over two-time state champion Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.) to advance to the final. In that match, he upended high school teammate Sean Russell, 1-0 on a second period escape.

    Leeth, a state champion this past year and 2011 Cadet freestyle champion, won his championship match in the first period on an injury default against Solomon Chishko (Canon McMillan, Pa.) in a battle of Top 50 in the nation juniors. It was a fourth Super 32 placement for Chishko, who placed eighth at 112 while in eighth grade, before taking third and fifth the prior two years.

    Martinez replicated a FloNationals final victory over fellow Junior National freestyle champion Josh Llopez (St. Mary's Ryken, Md.) to win the weight class championship; this time it was a 9-4 victory in which he scored offensively in all three periods. Llopez had a massive battle in the semifinals with fellow top 50 ranked junior Garrett Peppelman (Central Dauphin, Pa.). Trailing 3-1 with about 20 seconds left, he scored a reversal with near falls to earn a 6-3 victory and the finals berth.

    Finally, the highly anticipated clash between Snyder and Thomas Haines (Solanco, Pa.) certainly was worth the wait. Ranked second overall in the junior class, Snyder scored an 8-4 victory over Haines -- a defending Super 32 champion ranked sixth overall in that same Class of 2014.

    The match was tied 2-2 after two, with Snyder scoring a takedown in the first period. Then, in a reversal situation, Snyder was in deep on an attack and planted Haines onto his back. It was called a reversal with imminent near fall, as Haines was briefly hurt. After Haines escape, Snyder scored another takedown off his same hi-crotch/low-single attack. The 8-4 score reflects a subsequent Haines escape.

    As always, the Super 32 showcased many of the nation's best wrestlers in highly competitive matches.]]>    75318Sun, 21 Oct 2012 23:19:17 +0000    Quarterfinals set at 2012 Super 32 Challengehttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/quarterfinals-set-at-2012-super-32-challenge-r75310/GREENSBORO, N.C. -- After Day 1 of the Super 32 Challenge, the quarterfinal matches in all 14 weight classes are set. Wrestling will resume on Sunday morning at 8:00 a.m. ET. All eight past Super 32 champions are in contention to win another championship tomorrow, including the trio in the 126-pound weight class.

    106: Luke Pletcher (Greater Latrobe, Pa.) vs. Kyle Bierdumpfel (Don Bosco Prep, N.J.), Nick Suriano (Don Bosco Prep, N.J.) vs. Jose Rodriguez (Massillon Perry, Ohio); Brandon Olsen (Indian River, Va.) vs. Ricky Cavallo (Hempfield, Pa.), Eli Stickley (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) vs. Spencer Lee (Saegertown, Pa.)

    Pletcher, Bierdumpfel, and Suriano are excellent ninth graders, all top 25 ranked nationally. Pletcher was fourth in the Super 32 high school division last year, Bierdumpfel a double Cadet runner-up, and Suriano won the middle school division last year. Rodriguez was second at state, Stickley took fifth, and Olsen was sixth at state. Cavallo did not qualify for state as freshman, but was second at POWERade; while Lee is ranked third overall among junior high wrestlers nationally.

    113: Zack Fuentes (Norristown, Pa.) vs. Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.), Jake Gromacki (Erie Cathedral Prep, Pa.) vs. Ryan Millhof (Collins Hill, Ga.); Drew Romero (Broomfield, Col.) vs. Brent Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.), Sean Russell (Collins Hill, Ga.) vs. Nick Piccinnini (Ward Melville, N.Y.)

    Six wrestlers in this weight class's quarterfinal round were state champions last year. This includes all four wrestlers in the bottom half of the draw, as well as Ozias and Millhof from the top half. All four returning Super 32 placers in this weight have advanced to the quarterfinal round -- Ozias, Millhof, Fleetwood, and Russell. Placing fifth at state was Fuentes, while Gromacki was sixth. Upset of the day was had by Piccinnini in the round of 16 when he beat Zahid Valencia, the nation's No. 1 sophomore, 2-1 in the overtime tiebreaker.

    120: J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. Nathan Boston (Woodford County, Ky.), Sam Krivus (Hempfield, Pa.) vs. Kevin Jack (Danbury, Ct.); Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) vs. Jared Prince (Palm Harbor University, Fla.), Josh Alber (Dakota, Ill.) vs. Dylan Lucas (Brandon, Fla.)

    Four wrestlers in this weight won state championships this past high school season -- Wert, Cruz (also a 2010 Super 32 champion), Alber, and Lucas -- while Boston finished as state runner-up after winning in 2011. Finishing second at state was Prince, while Jack was second at the New England Regional, and Krivus finished third at state after placing sixth in this event last year.

    126: Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. Tate Robinson (The Baylor School, Tenn.), Seth Gross (Apple Valley, Minn.) vs. Colby Ems (East Stroudsburg, Pa); Ryan Diehl (Trinity, Pa.) vs. Brandon James (Perry Meridian, Ind.), Dalton Brady (Chandler, Ariz.) vs. Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.)

    All three past Super 32 Challenge champions advanced to the quarterfinals -- 2009 champion Dance, and defending champions in Diehl and Kemerer. Four state champions remain in the quarterfinals as well, one per match -- Dance, Gross, Diehl, and Brady. Robinson, a state champion in 2011, and Kemerer finished as runners-up this past year. Finishing third last year was James, while Ems was a state qualifier.

    132: Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio) vs. Scott Delvecchio (South Plainfield, N.J.), Javier Gasca III (Kingsburg, Calif.) vs. Josh Maruca (Franklin Regional, Pa.); Cody Lecount (Perry Meridian, Ind.) vs. Dennis Gustafson (Forest Park, Va.), Jason Estevez (Livingston, N.J.) vs. Aaron Pico (St. John Bosco, Calif.)

    Heil and Delvecchio are the lone 2012 state champions left in the quarterfinal round, four other remaining wrestlers finished top three at state, Maruca was fifth in his state tournament as a frosh, while Pico is the nation's second ranked freshman.

    138: Daniel Lewis (Blue Springs, Mo.) vs. Neal Molloy (Danville, Ind.), Fox Baldwin (Osceola, Fla.) vs. Tyson Dippery (Central Dauphin, Pa.); T.J. Miller (Camden Catholic, N.J.) vs. Troy Heilmann (South Plainfield, N.J.), Brock Zacherl (Brookville, Pa.) vs. Zain Retherford (Benton, Pa.)

    Lewis and Baldwin are the lone 2012 state champions left in the quarterfinal round; however, Molloy and Miller were 2011 state champions, while Retherford won state in 2010. Dippery and Heilmann were state runner-up this past year, while Zacherl placed seventh at state as a sophomore.

    145: Victor Lopez (Poway, Calif.) vs. Chad Walsh (Camden Catholic, N.J.), Solomon Chishko (Canon McMillan, Pa.) vs. Jordan Marshall (Troy Christian, Ohio); Reed Van Anrooy (Roseburg, Ore.) vs. Grant Leeth (Kearney, Mo.), Troy Joyce (Brandon, Fla.) vs. Zach Kelly (Kiski Prep, Pa.)

    Marshall, Van Anrooy, and Leeth were all state champions in this past high school season. Chishko is one win away from placing at the Super 32 for a fourth consecutive year, and placed third at state this past year; while Lopez was fourth at state, Kelly fourth at National Preps, and Walsh was fifth at state; and Joyce was not in the lineup last year but took second in 2010 as an eighth grader.

    152: Wayne Stinson (Northern Burlington, N.J.) vs. Shayne Tucker (Bella Vista, Calif.), Joshua Farrell (Greenfield Central, Ind.) vs. Mark Hall (Apple Valley, Minn.); Ryan Harris (Beachwood, Ohio) vs. Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.), Raymond Nicosia (Pocono Mountain East, Pa.) vs. Nick Hall (Thompson, Ala.)

    Hammond, Mark Hall, and Nick Hall are the remaining state champions in the quarterfinal round. Tucker and Farrell both finished as state runner-up, Harris finished third at state, Nicosia sixth, while Stinson has yet to place at state despite qualification appearances in all three high school seasons to date.

    160: Abraham Rodriguez (Hermiston, Ore.) vs. Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.), Ryan Blees (Bismarck, N.D.) vs. Jonathan Schleifer (East Brunswick, N.J.); Cody Law (Forest Hills, Pa.) vs. Josh Llopez (St. Mary's Ryken, Md.), Ty Walter (Mifflinburg, Pa.) vs. Garrett Peppelman (Central Dauphin, Pa.)

    Five state champions remain in a championship bracket that has loaded up for wrestling tomorrow morning -- Rodriguez and Martinez facing one another, joined by Blees, Llopez (also a defending Super 32 champion), and Peppelman. Law was a state runner-up, Schleifer third at state, and Walter was sixth in 2011 though he placed in this event last year.

    170: Parker Vonegidy (Piedmont, N.C.) vs. Peter Renda (Brandywine Hts., Pa.), Cody Wiercioch (Canon McMillan, Pa.) vs. Keaton Subjeck (Oak Ridge, Calif.); Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. Andrew Garcia (Detroit Catholic Central, Mich.), Nick Kee (Scotland, N.C.) vs. Brett Harner (Norristown, Pa.)

    Six quarterfinalists combine for five InterMat Top 100 Class of 2013 wrestlers and five state champions from last year in an absolutely stacked set of quarterfinals. Epperly vs. Garcia is a matchup of state champions, while Kee and Harner is match of Top 100 seniors. Vonegidy, Wiercioch (also a 2010 Super 32 champion), Epperly, Garcia, and Kee won state titles; Vonegidy, Wiercioch, Epperly, Kee, and Garcia are Top 100 seniors. Renda was second at state, Harner third at state, and Subjeck took fifth last year.

    182: Jared Haught (Parkersburg, W.V.) vs. Dylan Reynolds (Saegertown, Pa.), Shayne Brady (Carthage Central, N.Y.) vs. Jacob Taylor (Bald Eagle Area, Pa.); Chip Ness (Buford, Ga.) vs. Dakota DesLauriers (Burrell, Pa.), Taylor Jackson (The Villages, Fla.) vs. B.J. Toal (Troy Christian, Ohio)

    Haught, Ness, Jackson, and Toal are the four state champions remaining in the quarterfinals of this weight class. A pair of runner-ups also resides in the front side of the draw with Brady and DesLauriers advancing to the quarterfinals, while Taylor placed third at state last year.

    195: Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area, Pa.) vs. Spencer Neff (Good Counsel, Md.), Zachery Roseberry (Brentsville, Va.) vs. Matthew Moore (Brick Memorial, N.J.); Raymond O'Donnell (Saucon Valley, Pa.) vs. Jesse Stephanos (Jupiter, Fla.), Jacob Hart (Hampton, Pa.) vs. Rory Bonner (West Deptford, N.J.)

    All eight wrestlers remaining placed at state last year, including a pair of state champions in McCutcheon (defending Super 32 champion) and Stephanos. Hart was a state runner-up, Roseberry and O'Donnell were third at state, Neff was fifth at National Preps, Bonner was fifth at state, and Moore took seventh at state.

    220: Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) vs. Patrick Phillips (Porter Ridge, N.C.), Trevor Stevens (Pope, Ga.) vs. Christian Jenco (Bergen Catholic, N.J.); John Kramer (Wilson Central, Tenn.) vs. Trent Allen (South Brunswick, N.C.), Justin Williams (Skyline, Va.) vs. Thomas Haines (Solanco, Pa.)

    Snyder and Haines remain on a collision course, both won their season-ending tournament last year; Snyder won National Preps for a second time, while Haines won the Super 32 and a second Pennsylvania 3 state title last year. Stevens was fourth at state, Williams took fifth, and Kramer sixth. Jenco did not make the state tournament, but was double third at the Cadet Nationals; and Allen placed at the Super 32 but did not compete in the state tournament.

    285: Chaas Delgado (Trinity, N.C.) vs. Jesse Webb (Mt. Anthony Union, Vt.), Jacob Roza (Gladwin, Mich.) vs. Patrick Garren (Bishop Ready, Ohio); Logan Turner (Martinsville, Va.) vs. Travis Boyd (Blanchester, Ohio), Ivan Deleon (Seven Lakes, Tex.) vs. Luke Fleck (Franklin Regional, Pa.)

    No state champions remain in this weight class; however, six of the wrestlers placed at their state tournaments. Placing third were Garren and Turner, Deleon was fourth, Webb was fifth at the New England Regional, while Roz and Boyd were fifth at state. Delgado was a state qualifier, while Fleck made the state tournament in 2011.]]>    75310Sun, 21 Oct 2012 01:58:12 +0000    Super 32 Challenge: Five key questionshttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/super-32-challenge-five-key-questions-r75292/
    As of Wednesday evening, this field included 37 of the nation's Top 100 seniors, 17 of the Top 50 juniors, 18 of the Top 50 sophomores, 9 of the Top 25 freshmen, as well as two of the Top 15 junior high wrestlers. Most notable among these wrestlers include:

    Three Top 10 seniors: No. 3 Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.), No. 7 Zain Retherford (Benton, Pa.), and No. 9 Cody Wiercioch (Canon McMillan, Pa.)

    Four Top 10 juniors: No. 2 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.), No. 5 Solomon Chishko (Canon McMillan, Pa.), No. 6 Thomas Haines (Solanco, Pa.), and No. 8 Josh Llopez (St. Mary's Ryken, Md.)

    Three Top 5 sophomores: No. 1 Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.), No. 2 Fox Baldwin (Osceola, Fla.), and No. 5 Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.)

    Six Top 7 freshmen: No. 1 Mark Hall (Apple Valley, Minn.), No. 2 Aaron Pico (St. John Bosco, Calif.), No. 4 Luke Pletcher (Greater Latrobe, Pa.), No. 5 Israel Saavedra (Modesto, Calif.), No. 6 Kyle Norstrem (Brandon, Fla.), and No. 7 Nick Suriano (Bergen Catholic, N.J.)

    In addition the two-day high school tournament, the event also has a middle school division that will be wrestled on Sunday. Its field includes many of the nation's top junior high talent. When considering both the high school and middle school divisions, 11 of the top 15 ranked junior high wrestlers will be competing in Greensboro this weekend.

    No. 3 Spencer Lee (Saegertown, Pa.) and No. 4 Nick Lee (Evansville Mater Dei, Ind.) are in the high school tournament at 106 and 120 pounds respectively. Registered in the middle school tournament are the following nationally ranked wrestlers: No. 9 Colton Yapoujian (Colorado) and No. 15 Gavin Teasdale (Pennsylvania) at 80 pounds, No. 2 Cade Olivas (California) at 85, No. 5 Yianni Diakomihalis (New York) and No. 7 Daton Fix (Oklahoma) at 100, No. 6 Eric Hong (Pennsylvania) at 105, No. 11 Ty Lucas (Florida) at 112, and No. 8 Chase Singletary (Florida) at 145.

    This middle school division has grown into an excellent tournament with many elite competitors, and for the first time its field reached full capacity (at 400 wrestlers). The field for Sunday's tournament includes wrestlers from 33 different states. Three wrestlers seek repeat middle school division titles: Trent Snader (Pennsylvania) at 75 pounds, and then the previously mentioned Yapoujian and Olivas.

    And now shifting the focus towards the high school event ...

    Earlier this week we published a full, detailed weight-by-weight analysis, now let's look at five key questions for this year's Super 32 Challenge.

    How has the Super 32 Challenge grown into this "800-pound gorilla?"

    The event, in something of its present form, started in 1999 as a small-scale local tournament held at Morehead High School in North Carolina, where tournament co-director Dave Barker served as assistant coach. Barker was also the primary ranker for NCMat.com, the website run by the tournament's other co-director Sara Koenig. The name "Super 32" came from the statewide rankings, top eight wrestlers from each of four divisions in each weight class.

    Starting in 2003, the event has reached its capacity in all but one year. After having fields of approximately 700 wrestlers in 2003 and 2004 at Morehead High School, the move was made to the Greensboro Coliseum Special Events Center starting with the 2005 edition of the event. Over the next five years, the 1,250 wrestler capacity was reached every year, capped off in 2009 when the tournament sold out in just over 30 minutes.

    Those circumstances were the catalyst in changing to the present format of a two-day event, which has enabled more wrestlers to compete, as well as the integration of a middle school event on Sunday. From the last two Super 32 Challenge tournaments, the season ending InterMat rankings have featured just under 70 wrestlers which competed in the event (just under one-quarter of the 280 total weight class ranked wrestlers). Additionally, the tournament fields from 2010 and 2011 each included approximately 200 wrestlers that went on to win a state title, New England Regional title, or National Prep championship at season's end. The 2010 field featured four wrestlers that would end the high school season ranked number one by InterMat, while the 2011 field featured five wrestlers earning the same accomplishment.

    The legacy of excellence is long-standing, as manifesting in wrestlers that end up earning All-American honors at the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships. At the 2012 tournament, 22 of the 80 All-Americans had participated in the Super 32 Challenge while in high school. This included a quartet of NCAA champions and two others that finished as runners-up. In the 2011 NCAA tournament, five of the ten champions were former Super 32 Challenge participants.

    Which wrestlers are seeking to win an additional Super 32 Challenge title?

    There are eight wrestlers who have already won a "belt" (Super 32 Challenge title) and seek another this year. Three of these wrestlers are in the 126-pound weight class: Michael Kemerer, Ryan Diehl (Trinity, Pa.), and Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.). Two-time runner-up Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.) is also featured in this weight class. When considering the pair of second-place finishes from Dance the last two years, these four wrestlers have accounted for seven total finals appearances in the Super 32.

    Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), a 2010 champion, is featured in the 120-pound weight class; Josh Llopez competes at 160; 2010 champion Cody Wiercioch is registered at 170; Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area, Pa.) is at 195; while Thomas Haines is at 220.

    If you could only watch one possible match, what would it be?

    In most weight classes, it's going to be hard to narrow down to a singular matchup because of the depth in the field. The top two "on paper" wrestlers can be hard to determine and/or can easily be blocked from reaching the final because of the depth in these weight classes. However, when one looks at the 220-pound field, it would be the shock of the tournament if Kyle Snyder and Thomas Haines did not meet in the final.

    Through two high school seasons, Snyder has yet to lose a high school match and has finished in the top three in both styles in Fargo each of the last two summers. Snyder was a Cadet freestyle champion in 2011 and a Junior Greco-Roman champion this past year. Haines is the defending champion in this event, absolutely dominating his opposition along the way, and has won big-school titles in the state of Pennsylvania during his first two high school seasons.

    The remarkable thing about both of these junior superstars is their refined level of wrestling technique, physical maturity, and freakish athleticism. This match will not fit the traditional upper-weight stereotype of a "grind-it-out" slog-fest in the least.

    Can a freshman make history this year?

    Not since Ashtin Primus (Connelsville, Pa.) in 2002, when he won the 125-pound title, has a freshman won a Super 32 Challenge title above the opening weight class. However, there are a couple of freshmen that could easily be in the hunt for a "belt" when Sunday comes around in Mark Hall (152) and Aaron Pico (132).

    Hall won high school state titles each of the last two years in Minnesota's big school division; the Gopher State allows junior high wrestlers to compete in high school competition. He also was a Cadet National freestyle champion this past summer. Despite not wrestling a single in-season high school match, Pico is already a known commodity, having already doubled at the Cadet Nationals each of the last two summers in Fargo, N.D. He also had won a bushel of Roller World of Wrestling Championships over the years.

    Come Sunday afternoon, what should we expect?

    Based on the field composition as of Wednesday night, here are my top three wrestlers within each weight class:

    106:
    Luke Pletcher (Greater Latrobe, Pa.)
    Hayden Lee (Garrett, Ind.)
    Austin Griffiths (Southmoreland, Pa.)

    113:
    Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.)
    Ryan Millhof (Collins Hill, Ga.)
    Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.)

    120:
    Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio)
    Dalton Brady (Chandler, Ariz.)
    J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.)

    126:
    Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.)
    Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.)
    Ryan Diehl (Trinity, Pa.)

    132:
    Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio)
    Jason Nolf (Kittaning, Pa.)
    Aaron Pico (St. John Bosco, Calif.)

    138:
    Zain Retherford (Benton, Pa.)
    Neal Molloy (Danville, Ind.)
    Tyson Dippery (Central Dauphin, Pa.)

    145:
    Solomon Chishko (Canon McMillan, Pa.)
    Colt Cotten (Benton, Pa.)
    Grant Leeth (Kearney, Mo.)

    152:
    Mark Hall (Apple Valley, Minn.)
    Jack Bass (Robinson, Va.)
    Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.)

    160:
    Isaiah Martinez ((Lemoore, Calif.)
    Josh Llopez (St. Mary's Ryken, Md.)
    Tyler Askey (Northgate, Ga.)

    170:
    Cody Wiercioch (Canon McMillan, Pa.)
    Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.)
    Brett Harner (Norristown, Pa.)

    182:
    Jacob Taylor (Bald Eagle Area, Pa.)
    Dakota DesLauriers (Burrell, Pa.)
    Taylor Jackson (The Villages, Fla.)

    195:
    Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area, Pa.)
    Raymond O'Donnell (Saucon Valley, Pa.)
    Payne Hayden (St. Johns, Mich.)

    220:
    Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.)
    Thomas Haines (Solanco, Pa.)
    Eldon Valery (Landstown, Va.)

    285:
    Jesse Webb (Mt. Anthony Union, Vt.)
    Luke Fleck (Franklin Regional, Pa.)
    Travis Boyd (Blanchester, Ohio)

    Be sure to follow InterMat throughout the weekend for updates on the Super 32 Challenge -- via Twitter (@JLowe_intermat), and recap articles updating competition after both Saturday and Sunday.]]>    75292Thu, 18 Oct 2012 06:57:15 +0000    Wrestling 49: Montanahttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/wrestling-49-montana-r75293/With the high school wrestling season' start approaching, InterMat will be taking fans across the United States of America on a tour of scholastic wrestling. From now until the middle of November, InterMat will introduce fans to the top high school senior wrestlers in the 49 states with scholastic wrestling. From Alaska to Florida, and Maine to California, fans will gain exposure to future college and senior level stars.

    The 2011-2012 wrestling season was a year of reunion and rebirth in Montana. Fans, coaches, and athletes alike were "over the moon" to reconvene at the Metra in Billings and be a part of the spectacle that is the all-class state wrestling tournament.

    In Class AA, Kalispell Glacier was making history. Glacier, second a year ago, won the championship in just its fifth season as a school. In an exciting semifinal round, Billings Skyview pulled within eight points of Glacier, 200-192. However, the Wolfpack had a strong showing in the consolation rounds and were able to outlast Great Falls and Skyview to earn the championship trophy. The Wolfpack tallied 253 points and 13 state placers. Great Falls was second with 238 and Skyview came in third with 224.

    Meanwhile, in Class A, Laurel went to a photo finish with Corvallis for the Class A wrestling title. In the last match of the day, Laurel's Tommy Cooper battled Havre's Eli Hinebauch in the 152-pound finals. A win would give the Locomotives the first-place trophy. Hinebauch, a four-time finalist, held off a last-second surge from Cooper for a 3-0 decision. His win clinched the team title for the Blue Devils and kept the Locomotives from winning their second consecutive crown. Corvallis finished with 222.5 points. Laurel was second with 219. The Locomotives trailed the Blue Devils by 21.5 points entering the championship round and almost pulled off the comeback. "It came down to the final seconds," said Laurel coach Ted Hill.

    On the Class B-C mats, the squad from Forsyth showed its dominance. The Dogies won five individual titles and three third-place medals en route to their second consecutive B-C championship. Forsyth came into the final round leading Choteau by just 10 points, but swept its title matches to blowout the Bulldogs. Forsyth finished with 211 points, while Choteau placed second with 161.5. Chinook, behind national consecutive pins record holder (101) Ben Stroh, scored 98.5 points and came away with its fourth consecutive Class C team title.

    The 2012-2013 season will have much to live up to, as last year's Wrestling 49 class saw seven of ten athletes sign Division I letters of intent.

    Let's take a look at the "Big Sky's" top talent for the upcoming year.

    Please note: This Wrestling 49 also includes non-seniors.

    Barrett Stanghill (Photo/USOEC)
    1. Barrett Stanghill
    High School: Drummond (Class B-C)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 160
    Projected College Weight Class: 165

    Analysis: After a fifth-place finish as a freshman, Stanghill won state titles as a sophomore and junior in dominating fashion. Only Jacen Paterson was able to somewhat contain Stanghill. Stanghill will not compete in Montana this year, as he accepted an invitation to work out and finish high school in the USOEC Greco-Roman program at Northern Michigan.

    2. Gabe Schroek
    High School: Helena (Class AA)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 135
    Projected College Weight Class: 141

    Analysis: Schroek has been a dominant force at the lower weights, earning back-to-back state titles as a freshman and sophomore. Rumor has it that his family moved to Iowa this fall. If so, the Hawkeye State better prepare itself.

    3. Taylor French
    High School: Forsyth (Class B-C)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 130
    Projected College Weight Class: 133

    Analysis: This fiery redhead has aggressively brutalized his opponents on route to winning two state titles. He triggers memories of Eric Dunmire and Mike Zadick-type style on the mat. Pretty good company to keep!

    4. Grant Boggs
    High School: Helena (Class AA)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 119
    Projected College Weight Class: 133

    Analysis: Boggs will no doubt lead the Bengal wrestling team this year. A two-time state champion, his junior campaign will be fun to observe. He will be on a collision course to meet Skyview's Justin Waterson at the Holiday Classic early in the 2012-2013 season.

    5. Justin Waterson
    High School: Billings Skyview (Class AA)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 130
    Projected College Weight Class: 133

    Analysis: This Skyview Falcon will have sky-high expectations entering his senior season. His best wrestling seems to be in front of him. With all three Malia boys (Nebraska, Iowa State, Oregon) guiding his progress, the best seems yet to come.

    6. Gresh Jones
    High School: Sidney (Class A)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 125
    Projected College Weight Class: 141

    Analysis: This sophomore finished the 2012 season 48-0 en route to a state title. He looks to join in the great tradition that Coach Guy Melby has built at the eastern Montana powerhouse.

    7. Brandon Weber
    High School: Forsyth (Class B-C)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 145
    Projected College Weight Class: 157

    Analysis: If it was possible to be the best wrestler a weight class below and above 157, this Dogie could by all means be the best in the heard. A second-place finish as a freshman only motivated his sophomore campaign to dominance. The son of Forsyth head wrestling coach Scott Weber, Brandon has been part of the fabric that has seen Dogie wrestling hold steady at the top of the podium.

    8. Matt Weber
    High School: Forsyth (Class B-C)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 135
    Projected College Weight Class: 165

    Analysis: Younger brother of the aforementioned Matt continues in the line of great Forsyth wrestlers. His sophomore season should be a head turner and expectations will be Montana sky-high.

    9. Casey Dobson
    High School: Great Falls (Class AA)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 130
    Projected College Weight Class: 149

    Analysis: A loss in the state finals in the waning seconds will only make the fire burn hotter for this Bison sophomore. The depth in GFH's room will push his skills to the max. Watch closely as he develops in 2013.

    10. Joe Malchuski
    High School: Skyview (Class AA)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 152
    Projected College Weight Class: 197

    Analysis: Winning a state title as a freshman at 145 is matter to scoff at. This Falcon will have a major target on his back as he begins his sophomore quest and drive for his second title.

    Honorable Mention: Jacen Paterson (St. Ignatius), Jake French (Choteau), Matt Welch (Skyview), Chris Nile (Forsyth), Jake Lienwiend (Billings West), Austin Shupe (Great Falls), Vito DeGidio (Bozeman).]]>    75293Wed, 17 Oct 2012 06:32:17 +0000    2012 Super 32 Challenge Weight-by-Weight Previewhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2012-super-32-challenge-weight-by-weight-preview-r75302/The 2012 Super 32 Challenge takes place on Saturday and Sunday in Greensboro, N.C. InterMat will be providing coverage throughout the two-day event.

    Below is a weight-by-weight preview of this year's event. Weight class information is based on participant registration as of Wednesday, October 10th.

    106:
    Freshman Luke Pletcher (Greater Labrote, Pa.), ranked third in the Class of 2016 by InterMat, leads the way in this weight class coming off his fourth-place finish in this weight at last year's Super 32 Challenge. Last year, he also placed third at the FloNationals and won a record-tying fifth PJW championship.

    Eclipse-trained Kyle Bierdumpfel was a Cadet National double finalist in Fargo (Photo/Dave Jedlicka)
    He is joined by four other nationally ranked Class of 2016 wrestlers in this weight -- No. 7 Nick Suriano (Bergen Catholic, N.J.), No. 10 Luke Karam (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), No. 17 Kyle Bierdumpfel (Don Bosco Prep. N.J.), and No. 20 Gage Curry (North Hills, Pa.). Suriano won the Super 32 Challenge middle school division each of the last two years, and captured a Tulsa Nationals 15-and-under title this past January; Karam was a Cadet freestyle runner-up in 2011; Bierdumpfel was a Cadet National runner-up in both styles this past summer; while Curry has won PJW titles each of the last two years.

    Including Karam and Bierdumpfel, at least fourteen wrestlers in this weight class have earned All-American honors in Fargo at the Cadet and/or Junior Nationals. Among them is Tyron Klump (Nazareth, Pa.); Devon Brown (Steubenville, Oh.), who also finished third in his state tournament; Tommy Aloi (Forest Park, Va.), a state runner-up and NHSCA Junior Nationals runner-up; Darek Huff (Broomfield, Colo.); and state placer Jacob Cottey (Perry Meridian, Ind.).

    Others to watch include Hayden Lee (Garrett, Ind.) and Austin Griffiths (Southmoreland, Pa.), each of whom took third in their state tournaments last year; Ricky Cavallo (Hempfield, Pa.), one match away from placing at the Super 32; Chad Red (New Palestine, Ind.), champion of the middle school Super 32 last year; and Spencer Lee (Saegertown, Pa.), who is ranked third nationally among junior high wrestlers.

    113:
    Four Cadet National champions are featured in this weight class, led by Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.), who is ranked first nationally in the Class of 2015 according to InterMat. Valencia won a freestyle title at 113 pounds this summer, and during the scholastic year was a state champion and FloNationals champion. Other Fargo champions included Kyle Norstrem (Brandon, Fla.), Scott Parker (Pennridge, Pa.), and Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.). Norstrem is ranked sixth in the Class of 2016, and was Greco-Roman champion at 106 pounds; Parker was the freestyle champion at 106, and also was runner-up to Valencia at the FloNationals; while Ozias was Greco-Roman champion at 113, fourth in freestyle at the same weight, and finished sixth in the Super 32 last fall.

    In addition to Ozias, three other wrestlers in this weight class placed at the Super 32 Challenge last year. Ryan Millhof (Collins Hill, Ga.) was third at 106 pounds, and went on to win a NHSCA Sophomore Nationals title at 113 in early April; Sean Russell (Collins Hill, Ga.) was fifth at 106, and won a second state title in as many seasons; while Brent Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.) was seventh at 106, and later earned a NHSCA Sophomore Nationals title at 106 and was fifth in Junior National freestyle at 113.

    Among the additional Fargo All-Americans in this weight class are Vincenzo Joseph (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.), Drew Romero (Broomfield, Colo.), and A.C. Headlee (Waynesburg, Pa.). Joseph is ranked 30th in the sophomore class nationally, was runner-up at the Beast of the East and champion at the Powerade as a freshman; Romero is now a two-time state champion; and Headlee is ranked 50th in the sophomore class nationally.

    Other past FloNationals placers include two-time state placer Luis Gonzalez (Don Bosco Prep, N.J.); Israel Saavedra (Modesto, Calif.), ranked fifth nationally among freshmen; and two-time Indiana state finalist Nathan Boston (Woodford Country, Ky.). Additional notable state champions in this weight class include David Bavery (Massillon Perry, Ohio), Lance Hill (Parkersburg South, W.V.), and Nick Piccininni (Ward Melville, N.Y.).

    120:
    Nathan Tomasello won his second Junior National freestyle title this past summer in Fargo (Photo/Dave Jedlicka)
    This weight class is anchored by four InterMat Top 100 Class of 2013 wrestlers. Leading the way is two-time Junior National freestyle champion Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio), who is ranked 23rd and also is a two-time Super 32 Challenge runner-up. Three-time state champion Dalton Brady (Chandler, Ariz.) was a FILA Cadet freestyle champion in 2011, and is ranked 30th in the senior class. FloNationals champion J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.) placed third at the Super 32 last year, is a three-time state champion, and ranks 42nd in the senior class. Finally in this group, it is 2010 Super 32 champion Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), who earned an elusive state title this past year, and is ranked 55th in this class.

    In addition, this field also features four wrestlers ranked among the top 50 in the Class of 2015. Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.) is fifth among all sophomores after winning the Super 32 last year at 106 pounds, finishing as a state runner-up, and earning fifth place in Cadet freestyle. Dylan Lucas (Brandon, Fla.) ranked 19th after winning a second state title and a FILA Cadet Greco-Roman title. Brandon James (Perry Meridian, Ind.) had just one loss in finishing third at his state tournament before earning a second consecutive Cadet freestyle All-American finish, and is ranked 21st in the sophomore class. Last in this group is Sam Krivus (Hempfield, Pa.), who was sixth in the Super 32 Challenge, third at the state tournament, fourth at the FloNationals, and 25th in the Class of 2015.

    At least thirteen wrestlers in this field have earned an All-American honor in Fargo over the years. In addition to those listed above, includes Josh Terao (Mid-Pacific, Hawaii), two-time state champion Jaret Singh (Kearney, Mo.), three-time state champion and returning Super 32 placer James Flint (Brandon, Fla.), two-time state champion Brendan Calas (Seton Hall Prep, N.J.), 2010 Super 32 placer Dalton Macri (Canon McMillan, Pa.), Adam Burchett (Klahowya, Wash.), and two-time state champion Josh Albert (Dakota, Ill.).

    Others to watch include NHSCA Junior National runner-up Phillip Anderson (Milton, Ga.) and NHSCA Freshman National champ Boo Lewallen (Yukon, Okla.). Also in this weight is FloNationals placer Nick Lee (Mater Dei, Ind.), who ranked fourth overall among junior high wrestlers.

    126:
    Despite what relatively speaking is a lack of a broad-base of depth, this weight class certainly packs a punch at the top with a pair of wrestlers that have won Super 32 Challenge championships in the past. Leading the way is three-time finalist Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.), who won a title in 2009 before finishing second each of the last two years. Dance is a three-time state champion, won a Junior National freestyle title in 2011, and was a FILA Junior freestyle champion this past spring; he is ranked 15th overall by InterMat in the Class of 2013. Also here is 2011 champion Ryan Diehl (Trinity, Pa.), who is ranked 29th in the senior class, and is now a three-time state champion. Diehl had some very excellent wins in 2011-12, including his Super 32 finals win over George DiCamillo, the end of season number one ranked wrestler; and a state semifinal victory over defending state champion Jason Nolf, who was undefeated in his career prior to that match.

    Four FloNationals placers from this past year also feature in this weight class: Ken Bade (Detroit Catholic Central, Mich.), Emilio Saavedra (Modesto, Calif.), Anthony Giraldo (North Bergen, N.J.), and Theirno Diallo (Duval, Md.). Bade is a two-time state champion and ranks 77th in the Class of 2013, Saavedra is a two-time state placer and ranks 31st in the Class of 2014, Giraldo is a two-time state placer, while Diallo was also a Junior National Greco-Roman All-American.

    Two-time Cadet National freestyle champion Seth Gross will be a contender at 126 (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)
    Others to watch in this weight class include Junior National freestyle All-American Tate Robinson (Baylor School, Tenn.), ranked 37th in the junior class; two-time state placer Michael Pongracz (Delaware Valley Regional, N.J.); two-time Cadet freestyle champion Seth Gross (Apple Valley, Minn.), ranked 47th in the junior class; three-time state champion Brock Ervin (Union County, Ky.); two-time state finalist Kyle Springer (Davenport Assumption, Iowa); and state placer Zach Hertling (Ocean Township, N.J.), ranked 32nd in the Class of 2014.

    132:
    An extremely deep weight class here that includes six members of the InterMat Top 100 Class of 2013. It is led by Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio) and Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.). Ranked 13th in the senior class, Heil is a three-time state champion, 2011 FloNationals champion, multi-time Disney Duals gold medalist, and was named Outstanding Wrestler at the Walsh Ironman this past year. Jeske ranks 17th in the senior class, is a four-time Super 32 placer (including second-place finishes in 2009 and 2010), three-time Beast of the east top three placer (runner-up in 2009 and 2011), and a Junior freestyle runner-up in 2011.

    Other nationally ranked seniors include No. 57 Javier Gasca (Kingsburg, Calif.), No. 74 Jacob Schmitt (St. Johns, Mich.), No. 82 Andrew Atkinson (Liberty Christian Academy, Va.), and No. 94 Corey Stasenko (South Plainfield, N.J.). Gasca was third in the state tournament this past year and a FloNationals runner-up; Schmitt is a three-time state finalist (two-time champ), five-time Fargo All-American, and placed fifth in the 2010 Super 32; Atkinson is a three-time National Prep placer, and placed third in the Super 32 this past year; while Stasenko placed fourth in the Super 32 and was a state placer this past year.

    Aaron Pico, the nation's No. 2 freshman, was dominant in Fargo this past summer (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)
    However, it is a pair of underclassmen that serve as the primary challengers to Heil and Jeske in this weight class. Jason Nolf (Kittanning, Pa.) ranks 20th in the Class of 2014 after winning state as a freshman, finishing third as a sophomore, and earning Outstanding Wrestler honors along with a gold medal at the Disney Duals. Two-time Cadet National double champion Aaron Pico (St. John Bosco, Calif.) ranks second among all freshmen according to InterMat. Also among the class ranked wrestlers are three sophomores: No. 14 Logan Massa (St. Johns, Mich.), state runner-up and third in Cadet freestyle this past summer; No. 18 Josh Marcua (Franklin Regional, Pa.), fifth at state and third in Cadet freestyle this past summer; and No. 42 Cole Water (Mifflinburg, Pa.), third at state and fifth in Cadet Greco-Roman.

    Others to watch in this weight include state champions Scott Delvecchio (South Plainfield, N.J.), Jon Townsend (Comanche, Okla.), Nate Rodriguez (Neosho, Mo.), Will Steltzen (Collinsville, Okla.), and Clay Walker (Eastside, S.C.); state runners-up Cody Lecount (Perry Meridian, Ind.), Chris Garcia (Montini Catholic, Ill.), and Jonce Blaylock (Berryhill, Okla.); state third-place finishers George Weber (John Carroll, Md.), Jason Estevez (Livingston, N.J.), and Dennis Gustafson (Forest Park, Va.). Also to note are NHSCA Junior National champion Chris Araoz (Wantagh, N.Y.) and returning Super 32 placer Bryce Killian (Middletown, Pa.).

    138:
    Like the weight before, the stars of the national wrestling landscape have come out to play here as well, led by five InterMat Top 100 seniors. Anchoring this weight is Zain Retherford (Benton, Pa.), who has clearly been the nation's most productive wrestler since the high school season ended. Ranked seventh in the Class of 2013, Retherford has won the following tournaments -- NHSCA Junior Nationals, FILA Cadet National freestyle, Junior National freestyle, and FILA Cadet World freestyle. Additionally, he was state champion as a freshman and is a three-time Super 32 placer.

    Other ranked seniors are No. 38 Neal Molloy (Danville, Ind.), a 2011 state champion who was fifth in Junior freestyle this summer; 2009 Super 32 placer Tyson Dippery (Central Dauphin, Pa.), ranked No. 41 in the class, NHSCA sophomore and junior national champion, Junior Greco-Roman runner-up, and a two-time state placer; No. 62 T.J. Miller (Camden Catholic, N.J.), three-time state placer and 2011 state champion; and No. 68 Darick Lapaglia (Blue Springs, Mo.), a two-time state champion and seventh in Junior freestyle this summer.

    In addition, there are nine underclass wrestlers ranked in their grade per InterMat. In the class of 2014, there are four: No. 33 Tyler Berger (Hermiston, Ore.), who has twice won state titles, placed at the FloNationals, and finished fourth in Cadet freestyle; No. 39 Daniel Lewis (Blue Springs, Mo.), a two-time state champion; No. 41 Gary Wayne Harding (Collinsville, Okla.), a two-time state champion and 2011 Cadet freestyle runner-up; and No. 46 Joe Galasso (Father Judge, Pa.), a two-time state placer and FloNationals runner-up this past year.

    Fox Baldwin won a Cadet National freestyle title this past summer in Fargo (Photo/Dave Jedlicka)
    From the Class of 2015, there are four as well: No. 2 Fox Baldwin (Osceola, Fla.), a two-time state champion, who this past year won FloNationals and Cadet freestyle titles; No. 9 Anthony Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.), a state champion, FloNationals champion, and Cadet freestyle champion; No. 13 Josh Shields (Franklin Regional, Pa.), sixth at state and fifth in Cadet freestyle; and No. 29 Ronnie Gentile (Paulsboro, N.J.), who was third in Cadet freestyle.

    Others to watch include two-time state runner-up Troy Heilmann (South Plainfield, N.J.); state champion Lawrence Otero (Volcano Vista, N.M.), who was one match away from placing at the Super 32 last year; state champions Sal Annoreno (Bartlett, Ill.), Brandon Brunner (Baylor School, Tenn.), Scott Akers (Flower Mound, Tex.), and Jacob Danishek (Dayton Christian, Ohio); Junior Greco-Roman All-American Daniel Sanchez (Georgetown Prep, Md.); state placers Gary Dinmore (Hunterdon Central, N.J.), Brian Hamann (Jackson Memorial, N.J.), and Christian Pagdilao (Northview, Calif.); as well as with Austin Kraisser (Centennial, Md.), who ranks 11th overall in the Class of 2016.

    145:
    Three-time Super 32 Challenge placer Solomon Chishko (Canon McMillan, Pa.) is the leader of the pack in this weight class. Ranked fifth overall in the Class of 2014, Chishko was a POWERade champion this past year, has placed third two times at the state tournament, and was a Disney Duals gold medalist this summer. Among those challenging for the title in this weight will be ten past Fargo All-Americans.

    The two most notable among them are Colt Cotten (Benton, Pa.) and Grant Leeth (Kearney, Mo.). Ranked 66th overall in the senior class, Cotten is a three-time state placer, took fifth in Junior Greco-Roman, and was second at the NHSCA Junior Nationals. Leeth ranks 32nd in the junior class, was a Cadet National freestyle champion in 2011, earned a state title this past year, and was a NHSCA Sophomore Nationals runner-up. Among the others are three-time state finalists Reed Van Anrooy (Roseburg, Ore.) and Alexander Aniciete (Las Vegas, Nev.); National Prep runner-up Toby Hague (McDonogh, Md.); nationally ranked sophomores No. 16 Patrick Duggan (Cumberland Valley, Pa.) and No. 37 Colston DiBlasi (Park Hill, Mo.).

    Others meriting mention in this weight are Chad Walsh (Camden Catholic, N.J.), fourth at the FloNationals; two-time state placer Victor Lopez (Poway, Calif.); state third placer Tommy Forte (Mishawaka, Ind.), ranked No. 12 in the Class of 2015; state champions Jordan Marshall (Troy Christian) and Alec Pantaleo (Canton, Mich.); as well as state runner-up Paul Hamilton (Campbell County, Ky.), who was one match away from placing at last year's Super 32.

    152:
    Mark Hall is a two-time state champion going into his freshman season (Photo/The Guillotine)
    Both of the Fargo freestyle champions from the 152 pound weight class this summer will be among the field here. Cadet Nationals champion Mark Hall (Apple Valley, Minn.) has already won a pair of high school state titles before his freshman year, and is ranked No. 1 in the Class of 2016 per InterMat. Junior Nationals champion Josh Llopez (St. Mary's Ryken, Md.) ranked fifth in the Class of 2014 and is the defending Super 32 Challenge champion in this weight class, also a two-time state champion, and was runner-up at the FloNationals this past spring.

    However, this is not a two-man show in the least, as there are five wrestlers in this weight residing in the Top 100 of the Class of 2010. Leading that group is No. 58 Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.), a state champion who placed fourth in the Super 32 last year. No. 61 Joey Lavallee (Reno, Nev.) was fifth at the FloNationals and was fifth in Junior freestyle in 2011; No. 63 Shayne Tucker (Bella Vista, Calif.) placed in the 2009 Super 32, was a state runner-up this past year, and took eighth at the FloNationals; No. 80 Nick Gravina (Northern Highlands, N.J.) is a two-time state placer and was third at the NHSCA Junior Nationals; while No. 90 Eric Hoffman (Northern Calvert, Md.) took eighth in both styles at the Junior Nationals and was fifth at the NHSCA Junior Nationals.

    Also present in this weight is Jack Bass (Robinson, Va.), a FILA Cadet freestyle champion this spring, who took fourth in Junior freestyle this summer, and ranks 19th in the Class of 2014; Kevin Cooper (Simon Kenton, Ky.), a two-time state champion who placed third at the FloNationals; 2010 Cadet freestyle All-Americans Nick Hall (Thomspon, Ala.) and Wayne Stinson (Northern Burlington, N.J.); and Ryan Niven (Tyngsboro, Mass.), a New England Regional champion who took fifth at the NHSCA Junior Nationals.

    Others to watch include state champions Aaron Calderon (Brighton, Mich.), Chad Pyke (Woodward Academy, Ga.); state runners-up Kyle Barnes (Hughesville, Pa.), Vinny Corsaro (Indianapolis Catherdral, Ind.), Josh Farrell (Greenfield Central, Ind.), Luke Kreich (Franklin, Ind.); along with Dayton Racer (Apple Valley, Minn.), a state runner-up and Cadet Greco-Roman All-American who is ranked No. 34 in the Class of 2015.

    160:
    Isaiah Martinez, a two-time state champion, has committed to Illinois (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)
    A trio of nationally ranked senior and junior wrestlers is among the field in this weight, which is anchored by Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.). Martinez ranked third overall in the Class of 2013 per InterMat, is a two-time state champion, and was both a FloNationals and Junior freestyle champion this past year. The two other ranked seniors are No. 48 Tyler Askey (Northgate, Ga.), a three-time state champion, 2010 Super 32 place-winner, who this past spring won the NHSCA Junior Naitonals before taking second at the FloNationals; and No. 51 Daniel Woiwor (Apple Valley, Minn.), a three-time state placer and 2010 state champion.

    Nationally ranked juniors include No. 26 Garrett Peppelman (Central Dauphin, Pa.), who this past year was a state champion and placed fifth at the Super 32; No. 36 Jonathan Schleifer (East Brunswick, N.J.), a two-time state placer and NHSCA Sophomore Nationals champion; along with No. 38 Ryan Blees (Bismarck, N.D.), a two-time state champion who was a Junior Greco-Roman runner-up this summer as well.

    Among the other notable seniors to watch are state champion and FloNationals placer Isaiah Bradley (Muncie Southside, Ind.); 2011 state placer and Super 32 placer Ty Walter (Mifflinburg, Pa.); state runner-up and FloNationals placer Cody Law (Forest Hills, Pa.); two-time state champion Jacob Haydock (Brandon, Fla.); state champion Abraham Rodriguez (Hermiston, Ore.); 2011 state champion Drake Dudley (Flower Mound, Tex.); state (or National Prep) placers Austin McCloskey (Western Boone, Ind.), Greg Bacci (Malvern Prep, Pa.), Archie Colgan (Pomona, Colo.), Bryce Pappas (St. Mary's Ryken, Md.), Tony Parks (Davenport Assumption, Iowa), and Zach Voytek (Greensburg Salem, Pa.)

    Underclassmen to watch include 2011 state champion Logan Marcicki (Detroit Catholic Central, Mich.) as well as state placer and NHSCA Sophomore Nationals runner-up Seth Williams (Tiffin Columbian, Ohio).

    170:
    Five Top 100 Class of 2013 wrestlers make this an excellent overall weight class. That group is led by two-time state champion Cody Wiercioch (Canon McMillan, Pa), who is also ranked 9th overall among seniors and was a Super 32 champion in 2010. Three-time state champion Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.) is ranked 24th among seniors, placed fifth in last year's Super 32, and was fourth in the Junior freestyle competition this summer. No. 53 Brett Harner (Norristown, Pa.) is a three-time state placer; No. 70 Nick Vonegidy (Piedmont, N.C.) is a two-time state champion, placed sixth in the Super 32 last year, was seventh at the FloNationals, and is a 2011 Cadet freestyle runner-up; while No. 99 Nick Kee (Scotland, N.C.) was runner-up at the Super 32 last year, runner-up at the NHSCA Junior Nationals, and is a two-time state champion.

    Drew Garcia, a state champion, won a title at the Grappler Fall Classic on Saturday (Photo/MichiganGrappler.com)
    Seven additional wrestlers in this weight have earned All-American honors in Fargo over the years. Among them is state runner-up Peter Renda (Brandywine Hts., Pa.), state champions Drew Garcia (Detroit Catholic Central, Mich.) and Matthew Gancayo (Patuxent, Md.), NHSCA Junior National runner-up Travis Berridge (Brandon, Fla.), and 2011 state placer Nick Corba (Beavercreek, Ohio).

    Others to watch include two-time state placer Keaton Subjeck (Oak Ridge, Calif.), New England Regional champion Christopher Chorzepa (Newington, Conn.), state placer Corey Griego (Sultana, Calif.), National Prep placer Terrell Forbes (St. Benedict's Prep, N.J.), and NHSCA Junior National placer Brett Stein (Forest Park, Va.).

    182:
    Three Top 100 Class of 2013 prospects per InterMat are featured in this weight class. First among the trio is No. 50 Jacob Taylor (Bald Eagle, Pa.), who placed third at state, fourth at the Super 32, and was a FloNationals champion. Ranked 69th is three-time state placer Dakota DesLauriers (Burrell, Pa.), while two-time state champion and Disney Duals gold medalist Taylor Jackson (The Villages, Fla.) is ranked 95th.

    Other notable seniors in this weight class include Immanuel Barber (Canyon Springs, Calif.), who took third in the state tournament and at NHSCA Junior Nationals; two-time state champion Jared Haught (Parkersburg, W.V.), who was fourth at NHSCA Junior Nationals; state champion B.J. Toal (Troy Christian, Ohio); state runners-up Shayne Brady (Carthage, N.Y.), Miles Hammerlund (Delano, Minn.), and Ryland O'Brien (First Colonial, Fa.); state (or National Prep) placers Nicholas Shawley (Bellefonte, Pa.), Nick Zak (Jackson Liberty, N.J.), Troy Murtha (Georgetown Prep, Md.), and Liam Korbul (North Hunterdon, N.J.); as well as 2011 double Cadet National fourth-place finisher Aaron Rothwell (Sheboygan North, Wis.)

    Key underclassmen in this weight include two-time state champion Chip Ness (Buford, Ga.), a Cadet freestyle runner-up and NHSCA Sophomore Nationals third-place finisher; state placer Travis Linton (Rootstown, Ohio), champion at the NHSCA Sophomore Nationals; and state runner-up Armani Robinson (Greenview, Ohio), a Cadet freestyle All-American.

    195:
    Defending Super 32 champion Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area, Pa.) added a state title at season's end, and is the 35th ranked Class of 2013 wrestler nationally per InterMat. The other Top 100 prospect in this weight class is No. 64 Raymond O'Donnell (Saucon Valley, Pa.), a two-time state placer who finished seventh in Junior freestyle this summer.

    Payne Hayden, fourth in last year's Super 32 Challenge, is coming off a title at the Grappler Fall Classic (Photo/MichiganGrappler.com)
    Other notable seniors in this weight include three-time state placer Payne Hayden (St. Johns, Mich.), who was fourth in last year's Super 32; state runner-up Jacob Hart (Hampton, Pa.); state placer Matthew Moore (Brick Memorial, N.J.), who was fifth at the NHSCA Junior Nationals; state placer Rory Bonner (West Deptford, N.J.), who was eighth at the NHSCA Junior Nationals; state placer Zach Roseberry (Brentstville, Va.), a NHSCA Junior Nationals runner-up; state champion Jesse Stephanos (Jupiter, Fla.), third at the NHSCA Junior Nationals; Junior Greco-Roman runner-up Alen Turcinhodzic (North Hills, Pa.); National Prep placer Spencer Neff (Good Counsel, Md.); and state champion Nathan Dawson (Brooke, W.V.). A notable underclassman in this field is state champion Sam Davis (Stuarts Draft, Va.).

    220:
    Undefeated Maryland standout Kyle Synder is the nation's No. 2 wrestler in the Class of 2014 (Photo/Rob Preston)
    Two of the nation's absolute elite and dynamic upperweight talents are present in this weight class. Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) ranks second in the Class of 2014, and has yet to lose a high school match. The two-time National Prep champion, and a FloNationals champion this past year, gave up playing football on a perennial national power this year to focus on his wrestling exploits. Those further include double All-American finishes in Fargo each of the last two summers -- he was a Junior Greco-Roman champion this past summer and a Cadet freestyle champion in the summer of 2011. Joining him is defending Super 32 Challenge champion Thomas Haines (Solanco, Pa.), who ranks sixth in that same junior class, and has already won a pair of big-school state titles in Pennsylvania.

    Two other wrestlers in this field return from placing at last year's Super 32 -- Trevor Stevens (Pope, Ga.) placed sixth, and is a two-time state placer having also placed eighth at the NHSCA Junior Nationals; while Trent Allen (South Brunswick, N.C.) placed eighth. An additional pair of wrestlers placed at the NHSCA Junior Nationals last year -- state runner-up Eldon Valery (Landstown, Va.) placed third, while state champion Kacee Hutchinson (Enka, N.C.) placed sixth.

    Also meriting attention in this weight class are state placer Mauro Correnti (Holy Cross, N.J.), who placed sixth in Junior freestyle, and Christian Jenco (Bergen Catholic, N.J.), who was third in both styles at the Cadet Nationals.

    285:
    Putting it mildly, there will be a lot of opportunity here for wrestlers to increase their visibility on the national landscape. Most notable among the field here is Jesse Webb (Mt. Anthony Union, Vt.), who has placed fifth at the New England Regional in each of his first two high school seasons and earned titles at the NHSCA Freshman and Sophomore Nationals.

    Also meriting attention is 2011 state qualifier Luke Fleck (Franklin Regional, Pa.); state placers Travis Boyd (Blanchester, Ohio), Logan Turner (Martinsville, Va.), Ivan Deleon (Seven Lakes, Tex.), and Robert Coe (Detroit Catholic Central, Mich.); state placer and NHSCA Sophomore runner-up Patrick Garren (Bishop Ready, Ohio); state qualifier Dre'k Brumley (Akron SVSM, Ohio); and 2011 Cadet freestyle All-American Kyle Kania (Westfield, N.J.).]]>    75302Mon, 15 Oct 2012 06:58:50 +0000    Wrestling 49: New Yorkhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/wrestling-49-new-york-r75278/With the high school wrestling season' start approaching, InterMat will be taking fans across the United States of America on a tour of scholastic wrestling. From now until the middle of November, InterMat will introduce fans to the top high school senior wrestlers in the 49 states with scholastic wrestling. From Alaska to Florida, and Maine to California, fans will gain exposure to future college and senior level stars.

    Led by a pair of InterMat Top 100 recruits, this group of 10 representing the Empire State is unique in the fact that of those being recognized, only three have won individual NYS titles in their respective divisions, including a two-timer in both DI and DII. Therefore, if you were to look at total number of state titles earned, the number five may falsely cause you to believe that this current class is weaker than the ones that came before it. We can assure you, nothing could be further from the truth. Unlike some of their ancestors, the "it quality" of the Class of 2013 is the breadth of success they have enjoyed outside the comforts of their own state. Combining for two NHSCA Nationals champions, 12 NHSCA All-Americans, two FloNational All-Americans, four Junior National freestyle All-Americans, and a Junior National Greco-Roman All-American, this dirty dozen knows how to get the job done when the bright lights are shined upon them.

    With four of the chosen 10 having already committed to DI schools (oddly enough, they all selected Binghamton), and the six remaining all being heavily recruited by schools in respective NCAA DI power conferences, the proof is in the pudding. These kids are winners and more importantly, they all are leaders and role models for their schools.

    The current senior class in New York was so deep than when you look at those who missed the cut and had to settle for honorable mention distinction, you will find a 2012 NHSCA Junior National champion, a 2012 NYS DII champion, as well as several state runners-up.

    Note: InterMat No. 85 recruit, Nicky Hall (formerly of Longwood; currently attending Wyoming Seminary) was originally selected to this list. As a two-time NYS DI placewinner/2012 state runner-up, who had earned multiple NHSCA All-American honors, Hall figured to be slotted in the No. 3 or No. 4 spot. Because it has since been announced that Hall will be completing two years at the Scott Green-run prep school powerhouse, the second generation stud will be included in the 2014 edition of this series.

    1. Zack Zupan (Canastota/NYS DII)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 182
    Projected College Weight Class: 184
    College Plans: Committed to Binghamton

    Zack Zupan (Photo/Boris Veysman)
    Analysis: The future Bearcat student-athlete has been an impact performer since day No. 1, placing in all three of his trips to Albany, including a state title effort last season in a loaded 170-pound bracket, which included the likes of current Edinboro freshman Nick Mitchell (who had been undefeated in 2012 before dropping the 3-2 decision to Zupan in the state finals), Burke Paddock (the InterMat No. 40-ranked junior), and fellow class of 2013 Top 10 member Troy Seymour. In his first two attempts at the brass ring, Zupan put forth strong showings, finishing fourth at 160 as a freshman and fifth at 171 as a sophomore, despite competing at weights usually controlled by upperclassmen.

    The No. 87-ranked wrestler in his class per InterMat, Zupan has repeatedly demonstrated that he is a force to be reckoned with, both state-wide and against the nation's best. A two-time finalist in Virginia Beach at the NHSCA Nationals, Zupan was a national champion in 2010, falling one "w" short of the repeat as a sophomore. His success on the national scene would continue in 2012 when he upended two-time New Jersey state champion Ryan Harrington (now competing for the University of North Carolina) in leading Team New York to the upset victory over the Garden State in the second annual NY/NJ All-Star Charity Challenge. The win snapped Harrington's 84-match winning streak. Zupan would put an emphatic cap on his junior campaign, earning his third career All-American distinction with an eighth-place finish at the 2012 FloNationals. Zupan heads into senior year as the No. 11-ranked wrestler in the land (at 170) per Flowrestling.com.

    Words From the Corner: "He has been a true pleasure to coach. He is self motivated and driven. By the time he was 2 you could tell he was different than most kids. He was so focused on what he was doing at any given time that he did not go from one thing to the next like other kids. Case in point, when he was 2-years-old, I would take him bullhead fishing at my assistant coach's house. We would be amazed at how he would focus on those poles for hours. He'd catch one after another, and when I would tell him it was time to go he would beg to stay. Such was also true of his wrestling. He would attend every varsity tournament with me and, by the age of five would ask, 'Dad who is the best three guys in this gym?' I would tell him who I thought were the best and he would go to the mats those kids were wrestling on and study them the entire day. That was when I knew he was going to be something special. He has meant a lot to our program since he was in seventh grade and our starting 135-pounder. He has been a team leader for years and has helped to develop other kids on the team, enabling them to reach their potential. He was pivotal in leading Canastota to an improbable section 3 team title last season, dethroning six-time champ Phoenix." -- Canastota coach (and Zack's father) Nick Zupan, a 1985 NYS placewinner (4th at 138).

    Career Highlights:
  • Three-time NYS DII placewinner (4th in '10 at 160; 5th in '11 at 171; 2012 NYS champion at 170)
  • Two-time NHSCA All-American (National champion in 2010 at 160; National Runner-up in 2011 at 171)
  • 2012 FloNationals All-American (8th at 170)

    2. Nick Kelley (Shenendehowa/NYS DI)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 132/138
    Projected College Weight Class: 141
    College Plans: Committed to Binghamton

    Nick Kelley (Photo/John Carl D'Annibale, Times Union)
    Analysis: The first of two Shenendehowa student-athletes profiled, Kelley, the No. 93-ranked recruit from the current class, made it two-for-two for new Binghamton head wrestling coach Matt Dernlan when he verbally committed to the CAA Conference school in late August. Despite not having an individual state crown to don his mantel, many consider Kelley to be a lock to walk through the 2013 DI tournament, due in large part to the magnitude of his accomplishments on the national stage. Considered the pound-for-pound best wrestler in the Empire State without the hardware, Kelley has been an integral and irreplaceable component in Shenendehowa's back-to-back state team titles. A shoe-in to join the exclusive club of six-time NYS tournament qualifiers, Kelley had to endure some hardships, failing to reach the podium in his first three trips to the Times Union Center.

    However, true to his fighting spirit and the passion he feels for the world's oldest and greatest sport, Kelley would never get down on himself, combating defeat with additional hard work. The blood, sweat, and tears shed by the longtime Journeymen WC member would finally pay off in 2011 when Kelley earned his first New York state placement, taking fourth at 130 pounds with his only losses coming at the hands of a pair of eventual NCAA DI wrestlers Steven Rodrigues (the eventual state champion who is currently wrestling for the University of Illinois) and Chris Perez (who finished third in NYS in 2011 and was a NHSCA Senior National runner-up prior to becoming the starting 133-pounder for the Princeton University Tigers). As a junior, Kelley would be the victim of seeding criteria, as facts and figures won out over common sense, resulting in the two best 132-pound wrestlers in the state meeting in the semifinals. Pitted against nationally ranked Jamel Hudson (now a freshman at Hofstra University), Kelley would push the pace and be relentless in his attacks, coming just inches away from a takedown on the edge of the mat in the closing seconds, before having to accept the 8-7 loss. To his credit, the Plainsmen team captain would shake off the loss quickly, dominating his final two matches of the weekend en route to the bronze medal

    Ranked by Flo as the No. 6 132-pounder in the country heading into his swan song, if there was one wrestler who really solidified his stock after the high school season had concluded, it was Kelley. A 5-1 winner over New Jersey state champion Scott Delvecchio in the aforementioned Charity Challenge, Kelley would save his best performance to date for the FARGODOME, finishing fourth at the Junior National freestyle competition. This impressive showing marked the third time that the Section II representative would earn All-American accolades, adding it to a resume that also included a fifth-place showing at the 2011 FloNational tournament and a third-place finish as a freshman at NHSCA Nationals.

    Words From the Corner: (Speaking on what makes his wrestler effective) "Nick Kelley is an "old-school, throw-back" wrestler. In my 20 years of coaching wrestling, I have not had a wrestler as tenacious as he is. Add into that a work ethic that is off the scale, and you begin to see why Nick is an effective wrestler. Nick is a 12-month-a-year wrestler. Additionally, Nick has spent a lifetime developing a style of wrestling that is very hard to compete with. When most wrestlers concede in a scramble or situation, Nick takes everything to the next level. His style tends to "break" his opponents." -- Shenendehowa head wrestling coach Rob Weeks.

    (Speaking on the leadership abilities of his wrestler) "You couldn't ask for a better role model in your room than Nick Kelley. He truly lives the clean life. If Nick isn't wrestling, he's practicing wrestling. If he's not practicing wrestling, he's fishing or hunting or camping. Additionally, he has a strong relationship with his family. They have invested with Nick into the sport of wrestling and they have helped guide him through the process. Nick is adamantly opposed to the "party" lifestyle. He definitely lives his life above the temptations that others succumb to. The other wrestlers on the team know that and aspire to be like Nick. He is definitely a lead-by-example type of captain." -- R. Weeks

    (On the overall make-up of his wrestler) "Nick Kelley has the best work ethic I have ever seen. It's just tremendous; off the charts. And, in regards to both him and David [Almaviva], both are incredibly respectful. They are good citizens; they are good wholesome guys. And it translates on the mat; it's great when that happens. It's not always the case where guys have both talent and character. I think that when it does work out that way, it's like seeing the 'good guy' win. Everything kind of feeds off the other and in the end, it just works." -- Shendendehowa assistant wrestling coach/Journeymen Wrestling Club founder & head coach Frank Popolizio

    Career Highlights:
  • Two-time NYS DI placewinner (4th in 2011 at 130; 3rd in 2012 at 132)
  • 2010 NHSCA Freshman All-American (3rd)
  • 2011 FloNationals All-American (5th at 125)
  • 2012 Junior freestyle All-American (4th at 132)

    3. Nick Tighe (Phoenix/NYS DII)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 132
    Projected College Weight Class: 133/141
    College Plans: Committed to Binghamton

    Nick Tighe
    Analysis: The Division II 126-pound bracket was full of intrigue last February with several standouts and storylines. Tristan Rifanburg (the No. 45 ranked sophomore according to InterMat) looked for his third straight finals appearance as a freshman. Corey Dake (brother of former two-time NYS DII champion/three-time NCAA champion Kyle) was attempting to get an elusive title after placing in each of his three previous attempts in Albany. Renaldo Rodriguez-Spencer (rated as the No. 49 overall prospect in the junior class), fresh off of a summer that witnessed him become a Cadet freestyle All-American (fourth at 125) aimed to make his mark. But at the end of the tournament, it was Tighe topping the podium for the second straight year after pinning three of his four opponents and surviving a late charge from Rodriguez-Spencer in the finals to prevail by a score of 13-8.

    This title effort made him the first wrestler in school history to win multiple state crowns. He'll go for his fourth All-State finish (having complemented his two titles with a fifth-place showing in 2010 at 112 pounds) and a third New York state crown in 2013 for Coach "Mean" Gene Mills.

    Tighe has proven time and time again that his achievements aren't limited to the Empire State borders. Nationally, he has twice placed at the NHSCA Nationals, taking fourth at 112 as a freshman and seventh at 119 as a sophomore. Just last month, Tighe posted an unblemished 7-0 record at the inaugural National Hall of Fame Duals. He enters his senior season currently ranked 15th in the nation per Flo.

    Words From the Corner: (On what makes his wrestler successful on the mat) "Nick (Tigi Monster) puts a lot of time on the mat and wants to make sure his technique is perfect so he can't be countered. He works hard on his setups and tries to finish almost every move taking his opponent to their backs. Nick is a high-intensity competitor and makes many of his opponents want to quit in the middle of a match due to the intense pressure he imposes on his opponents." -- Phoenix head wrestling coach, Gene Mills

    (On the leadership qualified possessed by Tighe) "Nick is a great leader by example, always focusing on the task at hand and encouraging others. Nick's leadership elevates everyone on the team, especially the ones who work out with him on the mat. After wrestling with his partners, he always tries to offer words of encouragement and help them try to be better also. Nick is one in a billion and the Phoenix Wrestling program is blessed to have such a great role model." -- G. Mills

    Career Highlights:
  • Three-time NYS NYS DII placewinner/two-time state champion (5th in 2010 at 112; state champion in 2011 at 119; state champion in 2012 at 126)
  • Two-time NHSCA All-American (4th in 2010 at 112; 7th in 2011 at 119)

    4. Tyler Grimaldi (Half Hollow Hills West/NYS DI)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 160
    Projected College Weight Class: 157/165
    College Plans: Considering Harvard, Princeton, Cornell, Columbia, Penn, Hofstra, Virginia, Arizona State, Bucknell, and North Carolina State

    Tyler Grimaldi
    Analysis: A wrestler with the heart of a lion and the gas tank of a Honda CR-Z, Grimaldi enjoyed a breakout season in 2012, making the most of his first NYS tournament appearance, finishing as the state runner-up at 160 pounds behind only fellow Long Islander/2012 NHSCA Senior National champion Dylan Palacio (a 2012 Top 10 senior honoree; Cornell recruit who will join the Big Red in 2014). As impressive as this showing may have been, those who have followed Grimaldi closely during his scholastic career suggested that we are only now seeing the depth of this young man's potential. He possesses as high a ceiling as any prospect in the Empire State, regardless of grade level. Every time he steps on the mat, he seems to learn something and get just that much better. When you consider that he went 48-2 last season, the thought that he might have another gear that he has yet to show should strike fear into the hearts of all 160-pounders across New York State and beyond.

    Equally outstanding is the job Grimaldi does in the classroom, making him nothing if not the true embodiment of what it means to be a student-athlete. It is this double-barreled weaponry of brains and brawn that makes Tyler such a dream recruit for interested college coaches. The lucky school that lands him will know that they are getting that .5-percent gentleman who will always handle his responsibilities and who will never fail to represent his school and sport with utter class and honor.

    A force on the national scene the past few months, Grimaldi became the first member of the 2013 Top 10 to earn multiple All-American distinctions as a junior. A testament to his versatility, Grimaldi proved just how quick his learning curve was when a few months removed from placing fourth at the NHSCA Junior National tournament, he made the journey to Fargo to compete in freestyle, a discipline in which he had only recently begun serious training. However, just like Roy Hobbs took to baseball, Grimaldi would show himself to be a natural, finishing sixth in Junior freestyle in a very deep weight class consisting of the creme de la creme of upperclassmen, including the No. 3 overall prospect from the current senior class Isaiah Martinez (California) and the No. 27 ranked member of the class of 2013 Nick Wanzek (Minnesota; committed to the University of Minnesota). Grimaldi will begin his quest for the state title that escaped him as the 15th-ranked wrestler in the land at his weight.

    Words From the Corner: (On speaking about what makes his wrestler so successful) "Tyler is the whole package. He has all of the talents needed to be a successful wrestler. What he has that many kids do not is a tenacious desire to be the best at whatever he is doing. Being that Tyler only started wrestling in the eighth grade, he had a lot of catching up to do. He has put in more work over the past two years then most wrestlers do in a lifetime." -- Hills West head wrestling coach/former two-time NCAA All-American Mike Patrovich

    (On what makes Tyler Grimaldi a great leader/example for the team) "I have built my program around Tyler Grimaldi. He is the best example of what every student-athlete should strive to be like. He is a natural leader and the kids flock to him. He is a great example of what a wrestler should be like both on and off the mat. Tyler is already the most accomplished wrestler in the history Hills West High School and still has one more year to go! Tyler has lifted our program from one of the worst in Suffolk County to a top ten program!" -- M. Patrovich

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 NYS DI Runner-up at 160
  • 2012 NHSCA Junior National All-American (4th at 160)
  • 2012 Junior freestyle All-American (6th at 160)

    5. Tim Schaefer (Warsaw/NYS DII)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 182/195
    Projected College Weight Class: 184/197

    Tim Schaefer (Photo/Pete Rao & Pete Roetzer)
    Analysis: Question: Which member of New York's Class of 2013 leads the race for most appearances on the podium in Albany? Answer: Tim Schaefer. The current Warsaw senior has qualified for the state tournament five times and has placed in four of them. He began his career in Division I with Lancaster in Section 6 before moving to Warsaw. As a seventh-grader, Schaefer began his medal run with a sixth-place finish in a meat grinder of a 96-pound weight bracket that saw every person who finished ahead of him either win a state title (Bob Dierna, Sean McCormick, Damon McQueen, and three-time champion Brian Realbuto) or make a state finals appearance (Matt Ross). Schaefer would equal the feat the following year at 103. He was fourth at 112 as a sophomore before taking third up several weight classes at 182 this past campaign. His junior year included several quality wins, including victories over the Division I champion and runner-up (John Glenn's Nick Bellanza and Scarsdale's Jacob Berkowitz, respectively). His ability to compete with the best in the state since seventh grade in a wide range of weights bodes well for his future.

    Words From the Corner: (On what makes his wrestler a winner) "Tim Schaefer is extremely humble and hard working, but what sets him apart from the rest is that his tenacity and the way that he evaluates himself after a match and constantly works to get better. Being tenacious is what makes Tim able to climb mountains and leap obstacles, and with the spirit of a champion Tim will continue to be without limits." -- Warsaw head wrestling coach, Rob Hirsch

    (On the effect that Tim Schaefer's success has on the Warsaw program) "Tim provides leadership by example during practice and on the mat working nonstop from whistle to whistle. But most of all for a team that continues to compete at the highest levels Tim brings a laidback cool and confident demeanor that relaxes the team so they can wrestle their best in intense situations." -- R. Hirsch

    Career Highlights:
  • Five-time NYS tournament qualifier
  • Four-time NYS placewinner (6th in 2008 at 96; 6th in 2009 at 103; 4th in 2011 at 112; 3rd in 2012 at 182)

    6. Troy Seymour (Peru/NYS DII)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 170/182
    Projected College Weight Class: 174
    College Plans: Considering Rider and Kent State

    Troy Seymour (Photo/Keith Lodell)
    Analysis: If there is one wrestler from this group of 10 that has seemingly done his best wrestling when competing on the grandest stages, it is Seymour. Similar to 2012 Top 10 list members, the previously mentioned Palacio and current Brown University freshman Anthony Finocchiaro during the duration of his scholastic career, Seymour has shown an uncanny ability to flip the switch and elevate his game to an entirely different level when opposed by foes from across the nation. A three-time NYS tournament qualifier for perennially strong Peru, Seymour got his first taste of the medal stand as a junior, finishing fourth at 170 pounds behind a plethora of current and future DI wrestlers (Zupan, Mitchell, and Paddock).

    Turning the page and looking at his curricula vitae on the national stage, there might not be a more accomplished wrestler in the Top 10 than Seymour. An All-American at every grade level in Virginia Beach, Seymour will head into senior year on a bit of a hot streak, having put forth his best finish ever at the NHSCA-run event, finishing as the national runner-up at 170 pounds. In the two years that preceded this finals appearance, the Section 7 wrestler mustered a fifth place showing as a freshman at 145, followed by a sixth-place finish at 152 pounds.

    Words From the Corner: (On the passion his wrestler feels for the sport of wrestling) "Troy likes wrestling more than 99 percent of the kids I've ever coached. It's all about wrestling. He's always doing something related to wrestling. He follows Division I closely, gets magazines, follows everything online, and coaches the peewees. He'll go to a tournament a day earlier just to coach the little kids. He just loves the sport. He's never said no when I've asked him to go to a tournament. We're at least five hours away from most events. He's probably spent more time in a car than any New York kid his age travelling to tournaments, but he's willing to go anywhere. He's really competitive." -- Peru head wrestling coach Mike Hogan

    (On what Troy Seymour has approved upon and how he foresees his wrestler's success at the next level) "Whatever college Troy chooses will be getting a good one. He's young for his grade and he's gotten a lot more physical over the past year after weightlifting hard. He's always been good on his feet and on bottom and he could ride. But the difference last year was that he could turn people. He became a lot more effective on top." -- M. Hogan

    Career Highlights:
  • Three-time NYS DII tournament qualifier
  • 2012 NYS DII placewinner (4th at 170)
  • Three-time NHSCA All-American (5th in 2010 at 145; 6th in 2011 at 152; National runner-up in 2012 at 170)

    7. David Almaviva (Shenendehowa/NYS DI)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 145
    Projected College Weight Class: 141/149
    College Plans: Committed to Binghamton

    David Almaviva
    Analysis: Much like Grimaldi, 2012 was a coming-out party for Almaviva, as he unleashed all of the raw potential he showed as a schoolboy when he placed as the NHSCA National Middle School runner-up in 2009. A DI state qualifier as a sophomore, Almaviva just missed making All-State by a single victory, dropping a hard-fought decision to the previously referenced Hudson in the money round. However, in compliance with the lessons and virtues preached in the Plainsmen wrestling room, loss was not met by sulking, but rather by growth and development. These are characteristics centered on a sense of perseverance were ones that would aid Almaviva this past February when again he found himself in a spot that neither he, nor his team expected him to be. Upset in the first match of the 2012 DI tournament, it would have been easy for the future Bearcat (a bit of pattern is emerging here among college selections) to cash in his chips and mentally check out. But alas, that simply is not the Shen way. Instead, Almaviva would pick himself off the ground and go on finish the weekend on a five match winning streak (including a 4-1 decision win over top-seeded Dan McDevitt in the consolation semifinals) en route to a bronze medal showing at 138 pounds.

    Priding himself on being more than just a folkstyle specialist, Almaviva would open a lot of eyes and turn more than his fair share of heads during the summer months, first knocking off two-time Junior National freestyle All-American/four-time DII state champion/current Indiana freshman Quinton Murphy at the NYS freestyle tournament. Almaviva's encore would be even better as he entered the confines of the FARGODOME a relative unknown, but left it a few days later as an All-American, finishing eighth at 145 pounds (with his three losses coming at the hands of a trio of InterMat Top 100 recruits, No. 7 Brian Murphy (Illinois), No. 37 Brandon Sorensen (Iowa), and No. 65 Austin Eads (Missouri).

    Words From the Corner: (On the reasons his wrestler is so successful) "David Almaviva is a very gifted athlete. He naturally has that advantage over a lot of opponents. Add to that his commitment and work-ethic, and he becomes a very effective wrestler. David is a 12-month-a-year wrestler. He is very quick on his feet. That is, he often has his opponents reacting to his offensive movement, only to take them down with an explosive leg attack. Additionally, he has a very strong for his weight. When riding an opponent, he often takes them out of the match with an array of tilts and turns." -- Shenendehowa head wrestling coach Rob Weeks

    (On the strengths that David Almaviva brings to the Shen wrestling room) "David is very focused on the 'objective' when he enters the wrestling room. He tends to bring other wrestlers up to a higher level when they train with him. Again, David is a very gifted wrestler and a lot of technique comes relatively easy to him. So having David in the room is like having an assistant coach in the room. He can assist in the breakdown of technique to guys on the team who may struggle with it. Additionally, David has a dry sense of humor that can break up the monotony that can build up during the season. David has been part of the varsity program since seventh grade and he has developed a level of respect that comes with the time he has spent with us." -- R. Weeks

    (On what makes David Almaviva special) "David has some of the best technique I have ever seen. He is like an encyclopedia; he just picks it up; he sees it once, he's got it, and then he can implement it. So While he and Nick [Kelley] have their different strengths, they work together all the time, and as a tandem, they bring the best out of each other." -- Frank Popolizio, Shenendehowa assistant wrestling coach/founder & head coach of the Journeymen WC

    Career Highlights:
  • Two-time NYS DI qualifier/2012 DI State placewinner (3rd at 138)
  • 2012 Junior freestyle All-American (8th at 145)

    8. Nick Lupi (Huntington/NYS DI)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 220
    Projected College Weight Class: 285

    Nick Lupi (Photo/Huntington Public School Distric)
    Analysis: A wrestler who made this list perhaps not because of his feats to date, but because of the immense potential he has shown. In speaking to Empire State wrestling aficionados, the theme that has emerged is that we are still at the tip of the iceberg in regard to Lupi's development. To say that he is right up there with fellow Suffolk Country peer Grimaldi in terms of the depth of his potential is an understatement. Lupi still has another level that he feasibly can reach; a frightening notion when you consider that nationally he has already announced his presence with authority, winning a NHSCA National title as sophomore in 2011, before finishing in the top four as a junior last season. It is for this reason this he was a "must have" addition to this list. With co-writer Matt Diano having dropped the ball on guys like Tony Fusco, Tony Lock, and Kyle Stanton last season, there was no way we were going to allow for another ultra talented big man go unrecognized.

    As the lone returning medalist at his weight class, not only is Lupi a sure-fire guarantee to improve upon last season's fifth-place showing in his first trip to the state's capital, he is also the frontrunner to walk away with the hardware. Flowrestling.com thought so highly of him that they ranked Lupi as 19th-ranked 220-pounder in the country.

    Words From the Corner: "Nick Lupi has what all our former champions have: Desire, discipline, and determination. Nick has set some high goals for this upcoming season and will not let up until they all are achieved. Having Nick improve each and every year for the past five years shows others that, commitment and hard work pays off. He has done this not only on the wrestling mat, but in the classroom as well." -- Huntington head wrestling coach Kieran Mock

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 NYS DI placewinner (5th at 220)
  • Two-time NHSCA All-American (National champion in 2011 at 220; 4th in 2012 at 220)

    9. Kyle Kelly (Chenango Forks/NYS DI)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 113
    Projected College Weight Class: 125
    College Plans: Considering Cornell, Binghamton, Bucknell, and Ithaca (NCAA DIII)

    Kyle Kelly (Photo/Erin Kelly)
    Analysis: The most accomplished wrestler to come out of the Forks program since former five-time NYS champion/four-time NCAA All-American (Cornell) Troy Nickerson, on paper, Kelly might be the most credentialed wrestler in this year's Top 10. A pure three-style competitor, Kelly has come, seen, and conquered in every style of the sport known to man. In fact, he is so multidimensional that if tomorrow someone told him to start practicing sambo, by year's end, the smart money would be on him being a champion in the Russian style. Unfortunately, what has hurt Kelly and resulted in such a low placement on this list is his lack of size. A three-year All-State wrestler/the two-time defending New York state champion at the lightweight weight class (96/99), there is some concern whether or not this immensely gifted student-athlete has the frame to eventually fill out to a college-sized 125 pounds. If Kyle is indeed able to add the necessary muscle mass in the coming years, he could end of being the biggest steal of the bunch as a premier career 125-pounder is not easy to come by. With the plan being to jump two weight classes to 113 in 2013, Kelly will have every opportunity in the world to demonstrate that his unmatched level of success down low is easily replicable as he moves up.

    As noted above, when it comes to the scope of one's national resume, few, if any, wrestler in the Empire State (regardless of grade) can stand toe-to-toe with the wealth of success enjoyed by the Section 4 standout. A 2012 NHSCA Junior National All-American (fifth at 106), Kelly has no doubt proven how adept he is when competing in folkstyle. However, it is his diverse accomplishments in the international styles that set him apart from many of his colleagues. A two-time Junior Greco-Roman All-American (a pair of seventh-place finishes at 98 pounds in 2011 and 106 points in 2012 respectively, Kelly just missed being a double junior AA this past summer, coming a single victory short of the podium in Fargo.

    Words From the Corner: "Kyle is a very dedicated, intelligent, and committed three-sport student-athlete. Plus, he has earned All-American status in all three styles of wrestling, folk-style, freestyle, and Greco-Roman. This level of athleticism and versatility allows Kyle to make improvements in each and every practice. Thus, when Kyle and senior teammate Jake Green work out in our wrestling room they both model a work ethic and wrestling proficiency that all wrestlers from youth level to varsity try to emulate. The Chenango Forks wrestling community is very proud of Kyle's accomplishments, in the classroom, and in both state and national tournaments." -- Chenango Forks head wrestling coach/2009 USA Wrestling Developmental Coach of the Year recipient Rick Gumble

    Career Highlights:
  • Three-time NYS DI placewinner (4th in 2010 at 96; 1st in 2011 at 96; 1st in 2012 at 99)
  • Two-time Junior National Greco-Roman All-American (7th in 2011 at 98; 7th in 2012 at 106)
  • 2012 NHSCA Junior All-American (5th at 106)

    10. John "Trey" Aslanian (Edgemont/NYS DII)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 120
    Projected College Weight Class: 125
    College Plans: Considering Harvard, Princeton, and Penn

    Analysis: If there was an award at the New York tournament given to the student-athlete who came the closest to winning it all, then that honor would be to Aslanian who in 2011 had eventual state champion William Koll on his back early into their 106-pound finals before losing a 50/50 position and getting pinned. In 2012, the dual threat (smarts + athleticism) would again find himself on center stage, but for the second time in as many years would have to settle for the bridesmaid spot on the podium, dropping a 5-0 decision to a wrestler who got hot at the right time, Sean Peacock (who had defeated Koll earlier in the day in the state semifinals). In his only non-finals appearance in 2010, Aslanian would just narrowly miss making it an 3-for-3 sweep, dropping his semifinal bout by the slimmest of margins, 6-5, to eventual state runner-up Drew Longo. Aslanian would win two of his remaining three bouts to emerge with a solid fifth in his Times Union Center debut.

    John "Trey" Aslanian
    Nationally, Aslanian has opted to test himself against the country's best in the international styles. A 2011 Junior freestyle All-American (eighth at 112), Aslanian would add an additional bullet point to his collective body of work, compiling a 7-1 overall record at the 2012 Junior National Duals in freestyle. While his attempt to repeat as Junior National All-American in Fargo would be an unsuccessful one, his 4-2 record under the dome more than confirms that he remains one to watch in 2013.

    Words From the Corner: "I think Trey's biggest strength is the amount of time he puts into honing his craft. He's very technical for a high school wrestler and he spends lots of time drilling. He watches films of himself and standout wrestlers from around the world. He figures out why some things work and others don't. He's a real student of the game. If you line him up against the best in the state, he won't be the strongest kid or the best natural athlete. He's achieved what he has by working hard to play to his strengths. Trey has a great gas tank. He just doesn't get tired. He's also very academically minded. He's a great student who takes a lot of AP and honors classes." -- Edgemont head wrestling coach, Peter Jacobson

    Career Highlights:
  • three-time NYS DII placewinner (5th in 2010 at 96; 2nd in 2011 at 103; 2nd in 2012 at 113)
  • 2011 Junior freestyle All-American (8th at 113)
  • Compiled a 7-1 record at the 2012 Junior Freestyle Duals.

    Honorable Mention Selections (Alphabetical):

  • Chris Araoz (Wantagh/DI) -- 2012 NHSCA Junior National champion at 120
  • Zack Bacon (Hornell/DII) -- 2012 NYS runner-up at 220
  • Shayne Brady (Carthage/DI) -- 2012 NYS runner-up at 170
  • TJ Fabian (Shoreham Wading-River/DI) -- 2012 NYS 4th place at 120; two-time NHSCA All-American (4th in 2011 at 112, 6th in 2012 at 120)
  • Drew Hull (Royalton-Hartland/DII) -- Two-time NYS placewinner (6th in 2011 at 135; 2nd in 2012 at 145); 2011 NHSCA All-American (7th at 135)
  • Austin Keough (Warsaw/DII) -- Three-time NYS placewinner (2nd in 2012 at 103, 4th in 2011 at 112, 6th in 2012 at 113)
  • Christopher Koo (Great Neck South/DI) -- Two-time NHSCA All-American (6th in 2011 at 145, 7th in 2012 at 152)
  • Connor Lapresi (Lansing/DII) -- 2012 NYS champion at 132; two-time NHSCA All-American (8th in 2010 at 112, 8th in 2011 at 125)
  • Matt Leshinger (Sayville/DI) -- 2012 NYS placewinner (3rd at 120); defeated 2012 NYS champion, Sean McCabe in the Section 11/Suffolk County tournament
  • Drew Longo (Ardsley/DII) -- Two-time NYS placewinner (2nd in 2010 at 96, 5th in 2011 at 112)
  • Bryce Mazurowski (Avon/DII) -- 2012 NYS runner-up at 195
  • Dan McDevitt (Wantagh/DI) -- 2012 NYS placewinner (5th at 138); two-time NHSCA All-American (8th in 2011 at 130, 5th in 2012 at 138)
  • Cheick Ndiaye (Brooklyn International/DII) -- 2012 NYS runner-up at 106
  • Dylan Realbuto (Somers/DI) -- Two-time NYS finalist/champion in 2012 at 113; NYS runner-up in 2011 at 96; younger brother of 2012 No. 1 ranked wrestler in NYS Brian
  • Alex Soutiere (Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk/DII) -- 2012 NYS runner-up at 285
  • El Shaddai Gilmore Van Hoesen (Columbia/DI) -- 2012 NYS runner-up at 285; three-time NHSCA All-American (5th in 2010, 4th in 2011, and 6th in 2012, all in the 285 weight class.

    For all the latest New York wrestling news, visit Newyorkwrestlingnews.com.]]>75278Wed, 03 Oct 2012 10:22:29 +0000Wrestling 49: Michiganhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/wrestling-49-michigan-r75229/With the high school wrestling season' start approaching, InterMat will be taking fans across the United States of America on a tour of scholastic wrestling. From now until the middle of November, InterMat will introduce fans to the top high school senior wrestlers in the 49 states with scholastic wrestling. From Alaska to Florida, and Maine to California, fans will gain exposure to future college and senior level stars.

    Here is a look at Michigan's top ten wrestlers from the Class of 2013 ...

    1. Adam Coon (Fowlerville)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 285
    Projected College Weight Class: 285

    Fowlerville's Adam Coon won a USA Wrestling Junior National Triple Crown this year (Photo/Dave Jedlicka)
    Analysis: Coon entered the high school ranks with high expectations and an even higher ceiling. Needless to say, he has not failed to disappoint, dominating his way to three consecutive state titles in the process of developing into the country's top high school heavyweight. He has perennially been a monster on the USA Wrestling circuit, winning a total of four national championships in Fargo during his prep career, as well as claiming a folkstyle national title this spring. But the accolades do not stop there, as Coon's most impressive accomplishment came last summer when he traveled to Hungary and became the United States' first Cadet World champion since 1999.

    Despite his brutal schedule of elite competition, Coon's most impressive attribute throughout his career has been his consistency. He approaches every tournament with the same mindset, and is relentless the entire time he is on the mat. There is nothing flashy about his offense, but he dominates with powerful tenacious hand-fighting backed by outstanding position and reaction time. Due to his lack of close folkstyle matches in recent years, his mat skills probably stand to improve and will continue to develop over the course of his college career. Given his tremendous seasoning and impressive physical ability, Coon is as college-ready as any heavyweight in recent memory and will enter his collegiate career poised to compete for multiple individual national titles in the near future. Coon committed to the University of Michigan on Aug. 23.

    2. Ben Whitford (St. Johns)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 152
    Projected College Weight Class: 149/157

    Ben Whitford, like Adam Coon, will be takings his talents to Ann Arbor to wrestle for the University of Michigan (Photo/MichiganGrappler.com)
    Analysis: It's hard to remember a wrester as fun to watch as Ben Whitford, who has gained notoriety around the nation for his high-flying style as well as his dominance on the mat. Whitford, a Michigan native who spent the first two years of his high school career at Marmion Academy in Illinois, has been a one-man wrecking crew since bursting onto the scene and winning a Cadet National freestyle title in 2009 prior to his freshman season with a classic finals win over Mark Grey of Blair Academy. Since then, he has annihilated competition with regularity in the process of winning national championships in all three styles to go along with three consecutive high school state titles.

    A string of injuries kept him out of the big spring and summer events, which is virtually the only thing separating him from Coon for the top spot in this class. Offensively he may be the most dangerous wrestler in the country, and his vast toolbox of filthy attacks on his feet will make Whitford an instant-impact recruit when he hits the mats at the University of Michigan next season. The only area where he may need work transitioning to college is on the mat. However, his athleticism and wide-open style of wrestling should give him the ability to score big points on the best in the Big Ten and the NCAA right away. Regardless of whether or not he redshirts Whitford will immediately be expected to contend for All-American honors, and with continued polishing to his already sensational skills a NCAA championship will be a very attainable objective before his days in Ann Arbor are complete.

    3. Ken Bade (Detroit Catholic Central)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 135
    Projected College Weight Class: 133

    Analysis: If college recruiting was like the stock market, chances are that Ken Bade would be a pretty darn good investment. The kid has done nothing but improve throughout his high school career, and shows no signs of slowing down or hitting his plateau. Not only did he dominate the state meet en route to his second state title this season, but he also turned in his best national performance to date by placing fifth in a loaded weight at FloNationals this spring and he was runner-up at the Grappler Fall Classic, losing a great finals match to Oregon State recruit Jack Hathaway of Iowa. His biggest knock is a lack of freestyle success, but everything Bade has shown over the past few years both in and out of state suggest he should be able to make a smooth transition to the collegiate scene. As previously mentioned his motor is terrific, and it is a accompanied by good combination of strength and quickness. Bade's mat wrestling is solid also, and he has proven that he can score points against quality wrestlers from the top position. He can scramble as well as anyone in this class, and he has displayed good mat awareness that should help ease his transition from high school to college. Likely he will be competitive from the onset his college career, and if he continues the trend of improvement he has exhibited in high school Bade could be contending for All-American status a few years down the road.

    4. Jacob Schmitt (St. Johns)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 130
    Projected College Weight Class: 133

    Analysis: Since breaking into the high school ranks Schmitt has steadily been one of the class of 2013's premier wrestlers, dominating his in-state competition and excelling on the national stage throughout his career. He has been a model of consistency, with a multitude of strong performances at prestigious national tournaments including a Cadet National Greco-Roman title in 2010, back-to-back runner-up finishes at the FILA Cadet Nationals in 2010 and 2011 along with an All-American performance at the Super 32 Challenge in 2010. All of this success has come with little flash or frill, and a whole lot of old school hardnosed wrestling. He is a banger by nature who is not scared to mix it up with the top guys in the country, as well as a competent rider who doesn't give away any easy points on the mat. In order to maximize his success at the next level, Schmitt will need to tighten up his neutral defense a bit and improve his fluidity in scramble situations. He may be able to come in and wrestle at 125 for a year or two, further valuing his recruiting value. However, Schmitt projects to be a 133-pounder in the long run. He fell short of All-American honors in Fargo this year. However, he has scored notable wins over just about all the big name lightweights in the country over the past couple years. Regardless of the weight he competes at, his brute physicality and wealth of national experience will make Schmitt a highly sought after lightweight investment for a top-tier Division I program.

    5. Josh Pennell (St. Johns)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 145
    Projected College Weight Class: 149

    Analysis: It only takes one glance to see that Josh Pennell is powerful kid that can do some serious damage on a wrestling mat. He is built like a house and his overall strength and squatty build make him a nightmare to match up with. Just as importantly, Pennell has great mat awareness and understands how to use his strength to score points without inducing a lot of risk. For proof, look no further than the US Wrestling Greco-Roman Nationals in 2010 and 2011 where Pennell utilized his excellent power and positioning to earn second and third-place finishes at the prestigious event. He has also had a great deal of success on the freestyle circuit, finishing fourth in Fargo in 2010 followed up by a runner-up performance at FILA Cadet Nationals in 2011. Last fall he added a notable folkstyle achievement to his impressive r�sum�, finishing seventh in a stacked weight at Super 32. Over the course of his career he has done a very good job grinding out close matches, combining his strength with superb patience and mat awareness. At times he does seem a bit choppy, so Pennell will need to improve his scrambling ability in order to thrive to the fullest of his abilities at the next level. While a state title has eluded him, falling short in the some of the toughest weights of D2 each year, his plethora of national success should give college coaches nationwide the ease of mind that he can and will be highly competitive at the collegiate level.

    6. Mitch Rogaliner (Temperance Bedford)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 119
    Projected College Weight Class: 125

    Analysis: While he may not be as gifted as the other wrestlers on this list athletically, it has not prevented Mitch Rogaliner from proving wrong a slew of doubters and developing into one of Michigan's finest lightweights. A classic overachiever, Rogaliner has developed a style that suits his strengths well and has led to a pair of state titles and some big wins on the national scene. Generally he does not wrestle very well in space, but he neutralizes this weakness by dictating the pace of the match and forcing opponents to wrestle within the positions he is best suited for. His short counter-offense is simply the best I have ever seen, highlighted by a wicked short dump that makes him an extremely frustrating opponent, and his mat wrestling is top notch with a series of dangerous turns and pinning combos on top. Many wrote off Rogaliner's first state title as fluke, but he has silenced any skeptics with several impressive performances on the national stage to validate his status as a top recruit. Rogaliner enjoyed a breakout junior season in terms of national success that raised his recruiting stock significantly, starting when he won one of the strongest weight classes at last year's Grappler Fall Classic in convincing fashion. He then went on to earn All-American honors in the Junior National folkstyle competition and has been very active on the freestyle and Greco-Roman circuit, highlighted by a 10-2 overall record at the Junior National Duals. Rogaliner still needs to add some strength before he can be competitive at the collegiate level, and it would be nice to see him develop a go-to shot for situations when he needs a quick takedown, but the intangibles are there for him to succeed at a major NCAA program. He flies under some national radars. However, with his status as potential lifetime 125-pounder in college, Rogaliner has huge upside and could be a great asset for a big time college to land that will be a force to reckon with atop their lineup for a few years.

    7. Payne Hayden (St. Johns)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 189/215
    Projected College Weight Class: 197

    Analysis: College coaches will be hard-pressed to find any 197-pounders capable of matching the motor of Payne Hayden. After spending the first two years of his career at 135 and 140, Hayden made the move up to 189 pounds last year and didn't miss a beat. In fact he posted his best season to date, placing second at the Grappler Fall Classic and fourth at Super 32 before narrowly missing out on a state title at 215 pounds. This offseason Hayden has continued to be one of Michigan's most frequent competitors on the national scene, wrestling well at the Junior National Duals and coming a match away from placing in both styles in Fargo. He possesses a very unique skill set for a wrestler his size, and has the potential to develop into a very good 197-pounder. Hayden wrestlers at a terrific pace that opponents struggle greatly to match, and his scrambling ability will be a huge asset at the college level. If he can put in some additional work in the weight room and continue to gain the strength and size for his weight class Hayden should develop into a very successful college wrestler.

    8. Gage Hutchinson (Buchanan)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 285
    Projected College Weight Class: 285

    Analysis: Perhaps the most intriguing prospect in this class is Gage Hutchison, a returning undefeated Division 3 state champion who will be wrestling at heavyweight this season after beginning his career at 160 pounds. There is a lot to like about Hutchison as a recruit, who just recently made a verbal commitment to Eastern Michigan. He has great wrestling skill for a big man, and excellent athleticism that he uses to generate points from all positions. Hutchison's biggest strength may be his upper body wrestling, where he holds very solid position and is not afraid to throw. He is also very capable on the mat, particularly in the down position where his movement is very good and will be critical to his success in college. While his national r�sum� may not be as long as others, he made a big statement last fall when he defeated Ohio state champion Josh Lehner to win the Grappler Fall Classic. Now the biggest task ahead of him will be making the necessary tweaks to his style that will allow him to excel as he makes the transition to heavyweight this season.

    9. Brant Schafer (St. Johns)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 140
    Projected College Weight Class: 141

    Analysis: Physically, few wrestlers in the state of Michigan are as gifted as Brant Schafer. He possesses an ideal blend of strength, athleticism, explosiveness, and overall wrestling ability that is special to watch when firing on all cylinders. Unfortunately, that is not always the case, and he has struggled with consistency at some points of his career. His national outings have been a bit of a mixed bag, but none were as impressive as his trip to Fargo last summer where he rattled off wins in his first seven matches to place sixth on an absolutely stacked Junior freestyle chart. On his feet Schafer is an absolute force, and when his offense is clicking his attacks can be almost impossible to stop. He is a solid rider as well, but will need to continue to improve his overall mat game at the next level. Developmentally he is an interesting recruit, and if he finds the right fit in a college program his potential will be sky high.

    10. Anthony Gonzales (Holly)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 135/140
    Projected College Weight Class: 141

    Analysis: Certainly not a traditional folkstyle wrestler, Gonzales has used a unique and unorthodox style to enjoy a great deal of success in his high school career. A two-time Division 2 state champion, Gonzales is an interesting prospect who has a lot of upside. He is an excellent athlete, and has elite upper body strength and crazy hips that have led to a lot of Greco-Roman success and makes him a very dangerous opponent. In 2011 he put together a phenomenal offseason, winning a Cadet National folkstyle title and following it up with a fifth-place finish at in the Cadet National Greco-Roman competition. However he has been very quiet this offseason, hurting his stock a bit in these rankings. The biggest challenge he will face heading into college is his mat wrestling, where significant progress will need to be made in order to thrive at the Division I level. Gonzales is a little bit of a project and needs to continue to develop technically, but he has a very high ceiling and his combination of athleticism, strength and attitude should make him a highly sought-after recruit.]]>    75229Wed, 12 Sep 2012 06:30:18 +0000    Wrestling 49: Arizonahttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/wrestling-49-arizona-r75207/With the high school wrestling season' start approaching, InterMat will be taking fans across the United States of America on a tour of scholastic wrestling. From now until the middle of November, InterMat will introduce fans to the top high school senior wrestlers in the 49 states with scholastic wrestling. From Alaska to Florida, and Maine to California, fans will gain exposure to future college and senior level stars.

    Arizona keeps trying to gain more respect nationally and did a good job of it this offseason with quality results in nearly every event. Whether it was the Arizona Cadet National Dual team going 6-2 with in Daytona Beach, Fla., in June, getting five All-Americans in Fargo, or having a FILA Cadet double champion in Garrett Ryan, progress was certainly made. Although Ryan has since left for Wyoming Seminary (Pa.), the state has some quality talent preparing for their final high school season Here is a look at the top seniors in 2012-13 ...

    Honorable Mention: Eric Jeong (Rio Rico), Dajour Reese (Caesar Chavez), Efren Hernadez (Carl Hayden), Marshall Varner (Horizon), Raul Moraga (Sunnyside), Mike Kaledgian (Red Mountain).

    1. Dalton Brady (Chandler)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 126/132
    Projected College Weight Class: 125 (Committed to Arizona State)

    Dalton Brady (Photo/Jason Skoda)
    Analysis: Dalton is the most decorated wrestler to come out of Chandler High School and is rarely challenged in state. He has a 115-1 record heading into his senior season. He avenged his only controversial loss to Safford's Trey Andrews his sophomore year. He is a three-time Arizona state champion. At the national and international level, he was third at 2010 FILA Cadet Nationals in freestyle, 2011 FILA Cadet National champion and fifth place at 2011 FILA Cadet World Championships.

    Words From the Corner: "Dalton is an awesome young man. Dalton trains year-round to perfect his skills. He is always looking at ways to improve his skills, never satisfied or complacent. His work ethic and attitude influence his teammates to step-up their performance. Pound for pound, I believe Dalton is the most technical and best wrestler in the state of Arizona and one of the best in the country. Dalton has a bright college future ahead of him." -- Vidal Mejia

    2. Alex Bambic (Desert Vista)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: Class 182
    Projected College Weight Class: 184/197

    Alex Bambic (Photo/Darryl Webb)
    Analysis: Bambic got serious about the next level when he dropped from 215, where he wrestled as a freshman and sophomore, down to 197 last year. He is expected to drop even lower -- down to 182 -- and take on the better athletes in his quest for a third Arizona title. Bambic is 104-18 in high school career.

    Bambic has fared well at the national and international level, finishing eighth in the 2012 Junior Freestyle Nationals, third at the 2012 FILA Junior World Team Trials at 96 kilos, fifth at the 2012 FILA Junior Nationals in Greco-Roman, first at the 2011 USA Wrestling Preseason Nationals at 220 pounds, and a gold medalist at the 2011 FILA Cadet Pan Ams in Greco-Roman.

    Words From the Corner: "Alex is always working to get better and there is no letdown. He is willing to do whatever it takes to improve." -- David Gonzalez

    3. Seth Monty (Mountain View)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 145/152
    Projected College Weight Class: 141-149

    Analysis: This is not your typical Arizona wrestler as he comes from Michigan and his physical, constant movement style shows it. He has a 106-18 record at the high school level and is a three-time state placer, two-time finalist who is looking for his second state title after winning in 2010. He did really well at the national level, finishing as a FILA Junior All-American after beating a couple of college competitors. He has spent time in the Michigan wrestling room and has benefited from it.

    Words From the Corner: "He is a fierce competitor and he is always finding new ways to motivate himself." -- Bob Callison

    4. Ben Andrew (Mesa)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 220
    Projected College Weight Class: 220

    Analysis: Had a junior year, including the preseason leading up to it, in state when he beat four state champions (and lost to some of them as well) on the way to becoming a Division I state champion. It was a big leap for someone who didn't place as a sophomore. The progression should continue this year as the athletic and powerful Andrew builds off last year's success, which included representing the state at 220 pounds in the Boarder Wars at Arizona State.

    Words From the Corner: "He was pretty hungry after not placing at state as a sophomore. He felt like he hadn't done enough and worked really hard to make sure he didn't feel like that again." -- Bobby Williams

    5. Marky Lopez (Rio Rico)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 145
    Projected College Weight Class: 141

    Analysis: Some wondered where Lopez stood in the state's rankings coming from a smaller, but very respected program. The two-time state champion performed well in Virginia Beach, finishing in third place at the NHSCA tournament as a sophomore and missed All-American status by one match as a junior. He is a great student with a 4.167 GPA.

    Words From the Corner: "Hard worker. He trains year-round to stay on top." -- Brad Beach

    6. Sergio Miranda (Sunnyside)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 120/26
    Projected College Weight Class: 125

    Analysis: Miranda is the epitome of a wrestler from Sunnyside, the state's top program. He competes for six minutes, is tougher than a overcooked steak at the Waffle House. He is a two-time state placer (third as a freshman, fifth as a junior) with a 91-22 career record and was a NHSCA All-American after finishing seventh.

    7. Curt Done (Highland)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 138/145
    Projected College Weight Class: 141

    Analysis: Done is a three-time state placer, two-time finalist who won state as a sophomore. He got caught in the finals as a junior and was pinned, but it wasn't indicative of his season. He is a methodical wrestler who keeps coming after his opponent.

    Words From the Corner: "He likes the hard matches instead of the chump matches because he wants to be pushed." -- Abel Figueroa

    8. Matt Filbert (Ironwood Ridge)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 152/160
    Projected College Weight Class: 149-157

    Analysis: Filbert will be the top wrestler for Division II power Ironwood Ridge after being a nationally ranked junior in 2011. He failed to place at state as a sophomore while wrestling with mono but came back to win it all at 152 in Division II in 2011. He is a powerful wrestler who has great hips and is fundamentally sound. He went 4-2 at The Clash in Minnesota. Filbert hasn't wrestled much at the national level as he wants to attend one of the academies on his own merits so he has been to West Point and Annapolis for leadership programs.

    Words From the Corner: "He used to have horrible nerves to the point where he wasn't going to wrestle. Once he got control of that, he reached the next level and he should only get better." -- Tim Berrier

    9. Jesse Morales (Marcos de Niza)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 138/145
    Projected College Weight Class: 141

    Analysis: Morales is a two-time state champion in Division II that can also put a Flowing Wells championship on his resume after winning Arizona's top regular season tournament. He wrestles with a toughness that can't be taught and has good mat awareness. Squeaked out a state quarterfinal win, 6-5, and then cruised to second state title.

    10. Isaac Camarillo (Cibola)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 126/132
    Projected College Weight Class: 133

    Analysis: Camarillo is a two-time state placer after finishing fifth as a sophomore (112) and third as a junior (126). He went 84-11 the last two seasons. Camarillo also has had some success nationally as a three-time Pocatello placer, second at the America's Cup at Clovis (Calif.).]]>    75207Tue, 04 Sep 2012 06:59:45 +0000    Wrestling 49: Pennsylvaniahttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/wrestling-49-pennsylvania-r75199/With the high school wrestling season' start approaching, InterMat will be taking fans across the United States of America on a tour of scholastic wrestling. From now until the middle of November, InterMat will introduce fans to the top high school senior wrestlers in the 49 states with scholastic wrestling. From Alaska to Florida, and Maine to California, fans will gain exposure to future college and senior level stars.

    Regarded as the most competitive state for high school wrestling, it is again a banner year for the Pennsylvania senior class. The Keystone State sports a World champion and national champion, a Pan American champion, and numerous state champions. In all, these ten wrestlers have combined for twelve state championships, a national prep championship, and nineteen state finals appearances.

    Here are the top ten wrestlers in the state of Pennsylvania for the Class of 2013 ...

    1. Zain Retherford (Benton)
    Projected 2012-2013 High School Weight Class: 132/138
    Projected College Weight Class: 133/141
    College Choices (listed alphabetically): Cornell, Iowa, Lehigh, Oklahoma State, Penn State

    Zain Retherford won a Junior National freestyle title in Fargo (Photo/Dave Jedlicka, jedicheetah.com)
    Analysis: Retherford had a decorated offseason after missing the high school season. He was ruled ineligible to wrestle as a junior after it was determined that his transfer to Benton was partially motivated by athletics. He wrestled for Line Mountain during his freshman and sophomore years of high school. While there, he had only three losses. A three-time Super 32 Challenge placewinner in North Carolina, it is regarded as the most competitive preseason individual tournament. To cap off his amazing summer, Retherford traveled to Azerbaijan and won a Cadet World championship in freestyle. His coach Russ Hughes was a two-time state champion at Benton and an All-American at Penn State University.

    Words From the Corner: "Zain is an incredibly dedicated student-athlete. How many wrestlers can miss a whole high school season and still win FILA Cadets and Fargo in the same summer? He is one of the few to accomplish these feats. This shows a lot about the character and self sacrifice of this young man. He spent his junior year learning, training, coaching, and studying to help him excel at the next level. Zain has two great parents who have helped guide their son into a great citizen. But what makes me most proud is how he has traded his eagle wings in for tiger claws and is ready to show the world how good of a wrestler he has become." -- Russ Hughes, Benton head wrestling coach

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 FILA Cadet World Championships gold medalist (63 kilos)
  • 2012 USAW Junior National freestyle champion (132)
  • 2012 FILA Cadet Nationals freestyle champion (63 kilos)
  • 2012 NHSCA Junior Nationals champion (126)
  • 2011 USAW Cadet Nationals freestyle fifth-place finisher (125)
  • 2011 2A state third-place finisher (112, competed for Line Mountain)
  • 2010 2A state champion (103, competed for Line Mountain)

    2. Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 170
    Projected College Weight Class: 174/184
    College Choices: Cornell, Harvard, Pennsylvania

    Eric Morris
    Analysis: Entering high school, Morris was rated InterMat's No. 1 incoming freshman. He burst onto the scene as a ninth-grader by placing fifth at the Beast of the East at 130 pounds in his first high school tournament. During that season in a dual meet, Morris won by fall over St. Edward, Ohio senior Jamie Clark, who at the time was a consensus top three wrestler in the 130-pound weight class. One of the most difficult wrestlers in the nation to score on, Morris has superior mat awareness.

    Words From the Corner: "No one in the country wrestles harder than Eric. He has an advanced understanding of position and tremendous short offense. He has put a ton of effort into generating his own offense. His top position is college-ready now. His accomplishments on our schedule speak for themselves." -- Scott Green, Wyoming Seminary head wrestling coach

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 Pan American Cadet freestyle champion (85 kilos)
  • 2012 Pan American Cadet Greco champion (85 kilos)
  • 2012 National Prep Tournament champion (170)
  • 2011 Walsh Ironman third-place finisher (170)
  • 2011 USAW Cadet Greco Nationals champion (160)
  • 2011 USAW Cadet Nationals freestyle third-place finisher (160)
  • 2011 National Prep runner-up (152)
  • 2010 National Prep runner-up (130)

    3. Cody Wiercioch (Canon-McMillan)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 170/182
    Projected College Weight Class: 174
    College Choices: Maryland, North Carolina, Penn State, West Virginia

    Cody Wiercioch (Photo/Rob Preston)
    Analysis: Wiercioch transferred to the western Pennsylvania powerhouse Canon-McMillan for his junior year after attending Charleroi, which is a Class 2A school. The buzz about Wiercioch began after he won the POWERade Christmas Tournament as a freshman at 152 pounds. He went onto win a state title that season and the talk started about him becoming the state's eleventh four-time state champion. His hopes of being a four-timer were derailed in the state final match of his sophomore year when he lost to Travis McKillop in overtime. Wiercioch has four losses in his high school career, all to McKillop of Burrell.

    Words From the Corner: "Great kid. So technically sound in all three positions. Truly one of the most talented wrestlers in the country! Pleasure to coach and fun to watch. Also big goals, bright future! Cody is coming off an outstanding junior season, being part of state dual meet championship team and capturing his second individual state title." -- Chris Mary, Canon-McMillan head wrestling coach

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 3A state champion (170)
  • 2011 POWERade Christmas Tournament champion (170)
  • 2011 2A state runner-up (160, competed at Charleroi)
  • 2010 POWERade Christmas Tournament runner-up (160)
  • 2010 2A state champion (152, competed at Charleroi)
  • 2009 POWERade Christmas Tournament champion (152)

    4. Michael Racciato (Pen Argyl)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 152/160
    Projected College Weight Class: 157
    College Choices: Lehigh, Ohio State, Penn State, Virginia Tech

    Analysis: In the heart of the nation's hotbed for wrestling, District 11, reigns one of America's most exciting wrestlers in Racciato. A superior athlete who also stars as a do-it-all playmaker for his football team. In a highly anticipated state final match in 2012, Racciato decisioned Austin Matthews 11-8 to capture his second state gold medal. As a sophomore, Racciato won his first state title by beating Matthews' older brother Adam by major decision 10-2.

    Words From the Corner: "Mikey's wrestling style is phenomenal and exciting to watch and be a part of! His brute strength and wanting to win is the reason we as coaches want to be a part of his success. But most of all wrestling isn't the only thing Mikey is good at. When he walks into a room his fun personality makes you laugh and care for our kids is tremendous! Mike will be very successful as he moves on in life." -- Scott Desmond, Pen Argyl head wrestling coach

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 2A state champion (138)
  • 2011 2A state champion (135)
  • 2010 NHSCA Freshman Nationals runner-up (130)
  • 2010 2A state third-place finisher (130)

    5. Connor Schram (Canon-McMillan)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 126
    Projected College Weight Class: 125/133
    College Choices: Harvard, Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh, Princeton, Stanford

    Analysis: Schram is looking to become a rare four-time state finalist. After winning gold as a freshman at 103, he has had to settle for silver the past two seasons. Don't look for the silver trend to continue during Schram's senior year as he will be more determined than ever to win his second state title. Had an impressive showing at Fargo in July at Junior Nationals in freestyle by placing fourth. Schram had wrestled very few freestyle matches before this summer and did not skip a beat when he was in action beating many consensus national top twenty wrestlers.

    Words From the Corner: "An excellent student-athlete! Extremely talented in all three positions. A pleasure to coach, a true champion on and off the mat! A bright kid, big goals, and bright future! I am sure Connor and Cody Wiercioch's goal is to win state titles in their senior season. Both individuals will be noted as two of the best in Pennsylvania history. -- Chris Mary, Canon-McMillan head wrestling coach

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 USAW Junior Nationals freestyle fourth-place finisher (126)
  • 2012 3A state runner-up (120)
  • 2011 3A state runner-up (112)
  • 2010 POWERade Christmas Tournament champion (112)
  • 2010 3A state champion (103)

    Schram had wrestled very few freestyle matches before this summer and did not skip a beat when he was in action beating many consensus national top twenty wrestlers.

    6. Ryan Diehl (Trinity)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 126
    Projected College Weight Class: 133
    College Commitment: Maryland

    Analysis: The Diehl hype-train began after he won the Super 32 Challenge by beating No. 1-ranked 120-pound wrestler George DiCamillo of St. Ignatius, Ohio in the final. Living in West Virginia, Diehl commutes daily to attend Trinity High School. He is a two-time West Virginia state champion, accomplishing the feat at Berkeley Springs, a Class AA school that sits in the northeastern corner of the Mountain State. He went undefeated as a sophomore, with his only two losses coming during his freshman year. He beat the same opponent, Zach Brown of Oak Glen, W.V., to win his first two state tournaments.

    Words From the Corner: "Ryan is a fantastic individual overall. He works hard on and off the mat, and it shows. He challenges himself daily and looks to continually evolve as a wrestler and a person. It has been an honor to have been part of his growth over the years. He is dedicated to his team, his partners, and his self development, while being very thankful for the outstanding support network he has daily. I expect Ryan to be successful not only on the mat in the future, but in life in general. He has learned that wrestling is a tool that has established key individual values and characteristics that will allow him to overcome any obstacle. (Maryland coach) Kerry McCoy is getting an outstanding young man. I wish him the best and I look forward to seeing him on the national stage soon." -- Chris Bentley, Trinity head wrestling coach

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 2A state champion (113)
  • 2011 Super 32 Challenge champion (120)
  • 2011 Class AA state champion (112, competed for Berkeley Springs, W.V.)
  • 2010 Class AA state champion (103, competed for Berkeley Springs, W.V.)

    7. Austin Matthews (Reynolds)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 152
    Projected College Weight Class: 157
    College Choices: Binghamton, Kent State, Penn State, Virginia

    Austin Matthew (Photo/Rob Preston)
    Analysis: Matthews started his stellar junior year with a runner-up finish at the Super 32 Challenge before losing to five-time Fargo champion Ben Whitford of St. Johns, Mich., in the championship match. He continued onto the Walsh Ironman tournament where he worked his way through a brutal 138-pound bracket to become a finalist. An accomplished folkstyle wrestler, he won grade-level championships in first two years of high school at the NHSCA Nationals in Virginia Beach, Va. Regarded as the best wrestler in Pennsylvania to have not won a state championship, yet.

    Words From the Corner: "It has been an honor to coach Austin the past three years and look forward to his senior year as he has committed himself to becoming a leader on and off the mat. Austin is a pleasure to be around, and is a great role model for his teammates and youth wrestlers. He always has time for the young wrestlers that look up to him. I firmly believe that he has the intangibles to obtain his goal of a state title this year and transfer that success on to the collegiate level." -- Casey Taylor, Reynolds head wrestling coach

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 NHSCA Junior Nationals runner-up (138)
  • 2012 2A state runner-up (138)
  • 2011 Walsh Ironman runner-up (138)
  • 2011 NHSCA Sophomore Nationals champion (140)
  • 2011 2A state runner-up (140)
  • 2010 NHSCA Freshman Nationals champion (125)

    8. Ryan Solomon (Milton)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 195
    Projected College Weight Class: 197 College Choices: Cornell, Iowa State, Maryland, Penn State, Pittsburgh

    Ryan Solomon (Photo/Dave Jedlicka, jedicheetah.com)
    Analysis: Consider the names of past USA Wrestling All-Americans: Andrew Alton, Dylan Alton, and Josh Kindig. Those three Pennsylvania wrestlers had seven, six, and seven USAW All-American placements in Fargo, respectively. Ryan Solomon enters his senior year with six All-American finishes in Fargo. The past two summers he was a double All-American in the Junior division and in 2010 he was a double Cadet All-American. He is in elite company when you consider this. Along with being a spectacular student, he competes all year on the mat.

    Words From the Corner: "Every high school coach should have an opportunity to coach a student-athlete like Ryan Solomon. He is a first-class wrestler and person who epitomizes the work ethic that it takes to succeed in any endeavor in life. An outspoken leader that is a winner on and off the mat. It is because of his character, that I have no doubts that Ryan will accomplish his lofty goals as a wrestler and most importantly in his career after wrestling." -- Mike Snyder, Milton head wrestling coach

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 USAW Junior National Greco-Roman champion (195)
  • 2012 USAW Junior National freestyle third-place finisher (195)
  • 2012 2A state champion (195)
  • 2011 2A state runner-up (215)
  • 2010 2A state sixth-place finisher (189)
  • 2010 NHSCA Freshman Nationals third-place finisher (189)

    9. Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 182/195
    Projected College Weight Class: 184
    College Commitment: Penn State

    Matt McCutcheon
    Analysis: McCutcheon had his coming-out party during the last weekend in October of 2011. In the semifinal of the Super 32 Challenge, he defeated two-time Cadet National freestyle champion Mitch Sliga of Indiana to catapult himself into one of the elite upper weight wrestlers in the country. He capped off the tournament by defeating another former Cadet National freestyle champion Brooks Climmons of Georgia to win the 195-pound weight class at the Super 32 Challenge.

    Words From the Corner: "Matt has worked very hard over his career and has made himself into one of best high school wrestlers in the country. He has showed big improvements with his offseason workouts recently now with his focus only on wrestling. Matt is a great kid and is an awesome role model for younger wrestlers both on and off the mat." -- Jody Strittmatter, coach/club director Young Guns Wrestling

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 3A state champion (182)
  • 2011 Super 32 Challenge champion (195)
  • 2011 3A state fifth-place finisher (189)

    10. Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 152
    Projected College Weight Class: 157/165
    College Choices: Drexel, Maryland, Northwestern, Penn State, Pittsburgh

    Analysis: In his first high school tournament as a freshman for Wyoming Seminary, Hammond grinded his way through the consolation bracket of the Walsh Ironman to finish eighth at 125 pounds. As a sophomore, he returned home to Chambersburg High School and immediately was a threat in the South Central Region. He capped off a phenomenal sophomore campaign by placing third at the NHSCA Nationals. A talented mat wrestler, Hammond scores from the top position with a patented crab ride.

    Words From the Corner: "Garett is an excellent role model and example for our young wrestlers to follow. He is very coachable, driven and goal-oriented in his approach toward his training. He is always looking to improve his skills and techniques." -- Matt Mentzer, Chambersburg assistant wrestling coach

    Career Highlights:
  • 2012 3A state champion (145)
  • 2012 Escape the Rock champion (152)
  • 2011 Walsh Ironman third-place finisher (152)
  • 2011 USAW Cadet Nationals freestyle fourth-place finisher (145)
  • 2011 USAW Cadet Greco Nationals fifth-place finisher (145)
  • 2011 3A state runner-up (135)
  • 2010 National Prep Tournament seventh-place finisher (125: competed for Wyoming Seminary)]]>75199Tue, 28 Aug 2012 05:29:31 +0000Coaching legend Buxton resigns at Blair Academyhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/coaching-legend-buxton-resigns-at-blair-academy-r75193/
    Jeff Buxton led Blair Academy, N.J., to a No. 1 ranking this past season in the InterMat Fab 50 (Photo/Rob Preston)
    Buxton had served as a mathematics teacher at Blair Academy since 1982, and became co-head wrestling coach in 1984 and sole head coach in 1991.

    Blair Academy finished this past season ranked No. 1 in the InterMat Fab 50 after winning titles at the Walsh Ironman, Beast of the East, and POWERade Christmas Wrestling Tournament. It marked the 10th time Blair Academy has finished the season ranked No. 1 nationally since 1995. The Buccaneers have won 32 consecutive National Prep titles.

    Buxton has coached several wrestlers who went on to earn All-American honors and NCAA titles in college, with the most recent being 2012 NCAA Division I champions Kellen Russell (Michigan) and Ed Ruth (Penn State). (It was Russell's second NCAA title.) Blair Academy alums Mark Perry (Iowa) and Steve Mocco (Iowa/Oklahoma State) won two NCAA titles. Since 2001, Blair wrestlers have earned 30 NCAA All-American honors and eight NCAA titles.

    Charles Danhof will take over as interim head wrestling coach at Blair Academy, replacing Buxton, according to a source close to the situation.

    Danhof has served as an assistant coach at Blair Academy and is an English teacher at the school. He wrestled collegiately at Williams College.]]>    75193Sat, 25 Aug 2012 20:30:31 +0000    Wrestling 49: Kansashttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/wrestling-49-kansas-r75172/With the high school wrestling season' start approaching, InterMat will be taking fans across the United States of America on a tour of scholastic wrestling. From now until the middle of November, InterMat will introduce fans to the top high school senior wrestlers in the 49 states with scholastic wrestling. From Alaska to Florida, and Maine to California, fans will gain exposure to future college and senior level stars.

    The rankings within this article do not necessarily reflect those done by InterMat.

    Last year's class made its mark in Kansas wrestling history by placing seven wrestlers on Division I rosters. We said goodbye to Fargo national champion Austin Hood, who is headed to Oklahoma State, and to NHSCA National champion Matt Reed, who will wear the crimson and cream at the University of Oklahoma.

    Once again the excitement is building for an encore! The following seniors are considered the ten best in the Kansas Class of 2013. In all, they have accounted for 14 state championships, including a FILA Cadet National title.

    1. Nathan Butler (Leavenworth)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 285
    Projected College Weight Class: 285

    Nathan Butler
    Analysis: Nathan has a stockpile of accomplishments both on and off the mat. With two state titles and a career record of 113-18, 86-4 over the last two years, he stood at the top of the podium at FILA Cadet Nationals in freestyle in June and placed second in Greco-Roman. He was a 2011 Fargo All-American before making the jump to heavyweight after his junior year. His height and frame will allow him to grow into an elite heavyweight and he is now on everybody's recruiting list. With his work in the classroom, Nathan will be able to name his college.

    2. Zac Gentzler (Andover Central)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 120
    Projected College Weight Class: 125

    Zac Gentzler
    Analysis: Zac is on the verge of becoming the 29th Kansas four-time state champion. With a stellar 114-1 career record, he is undefeated versus Kansas competition over three high school seasons. In 2010, Zac also went 10-0 at the Junior National Duals in freestyle. He has that in-your-face style and has punishing riding skills. He will have a wide range of college choices and will have a real shot to follow his older brother to a Division I school.

    3. Will Geary (Topeka)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 285
    Projected College Weight Class: 285

    Will Geary
    Analysis: Will Geary is a multi-sport phenom. You will rarely see a heavyweight with his combination of size and agility. He is on everybody's football recruiting list and will have to decide between the college gridiron or mat. Having just started wrestling in ninth grade, Will has a 93-12 career record, finishing 31-0 and atop the Kansas state podium in 2012. He is a true crowd-pleaser with his leg attacks to go along with his impressive physical presence. Look for him at Virginia Beach in 2013.

    4. Levi Eck (Andale)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 182
    Projected College Weight Class: 174

    Analysis: Levi's career record is 115-15. He is a three-time state placer and two-time finalist, winning a state title last year with a 40-1 record. This last season, he was a USAW Folkstyle National All-American. He won the Kansas Greco state championship and in 2010 he finished 14-3 at the Cadet National Duals. With a solid duckunder and an innate ability to come out on top of scrambles, he led his high school team to two straight state titles.

    5. Calvin Ochs (Hoxie)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 160
    Projected College Weight Class: 157

    Analysis: Calvin had his best year ever in 2012, making the state finals for the third straight year and taking home the gold with a 30-3 junior campaign. After the folkstyle season, he stepped up his training efforts by winning the Rocky Mountain Nationals, Kansas state freestyle title and a runner-up finish at Southern Plains. He was a big part of the Greco National Dual team in OKC, winning six matches which prepared him for his success at Fargo by gaining All-American status for the first time in his career!

    6. Jonathan Blackwell (Bonner Springs)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 152
    Projected College Weight Class: 149

    Analysis: Jonathan is a three-time state finalist, winning a state title in 2011 as a sophomore. He has a 121-20 career record and has been a key contributor to the National Duals teams. He has a really strong short fireman's and keeps in great position on his feet. He made the All-Class dual team in 2011 and 12, representing Team Kansas at the Rocky Mountain Duals. Expect him to make the finals for the fourth straight year!

    7. Bryce Shoemaker (Baldwin)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 138
    Projected College Weight Class: 133

    Analysis: With a 115-16 career record, Bryce climbed the top of the state podium his freshman season, overcoming an injury in 2010 to make the finals last year on his way to a 40-6 record. At the 2012 Bobcat Classic, Bryce beat nationally ranked Gary Wayne Harding from Oklahoma before beating Kansas four-time state champion and Wyoming signee Dylan Schumacher. He has made the schools Honor Roll all three years and served as Team Captain the last two years.

    8. Dustin Reed (Colby)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 126
    Projected College Weight Class: 125/133

    AAnalysis: As a three-time State Finalist and two-time state champion with a career record of 118-6, Dustin is the odds on favorite to bring home a third title this year. He has a strong sense of team loyalty, serving as captain for the state runner-up Colby Eagles last year. He is 84-3 over the last two seasons!

    9. Jared Johnson (Pleasant Ridge)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 170
    Projected College Weight Class: 165

    Analysis: With 21 career Fargo victories, Jared is a two-time Fargo All-American. His career high school record is 109-13, going 38-3 on his way to the state finals last season. He has been an integral part of the National Dual teams and has won the Southern Plains regional two times. Jared is a crowd favorite with his Greco experience and has been a huge help with my postseason teams. He is the favorite this season to take home that elusive state title.

    10. Hunter Haralson (Lawrence)
    Projected 2012-13 High School Weight Class: 132
    Projected College Weight Class: 133

    Analysis: Hunter finally won his Kansas state championship that many expected out of this elite athlete from Lawrence, Kan. As a multiple-time Kansas kids state champion, many across the state had projected him as a possible four-time champ. He placed second as a freshman and fourth as a sophomore, accumulating a 111-21 career record. I will never forget his effort as a fifth-grader for the National Dual Team in Illinois, lighting up the bench as he trashed the 70-pound competitors at the start of each dual!

    Honorable Mention:
    Chris Burley (Great Bend)
    Cody Eastman (Arkansas City)
    Trey Francka (Chase County)
    Bryant Guillen (Topeka Seaman)
    Dakota Leach (Goddard)
    Nick Meck (Shawnee Heights)
    Aaron Rafalko (Junction City)
    John Risewick (Norton)
    Clay Wilcox (Chaparral)
    Spencer Wilson (Lawrence Free State)]]>    75172Tue, 21 Aug 2012 13:21:30 +0000    Updated high school grade rankings releasedhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/updated-high-school-grade-rankings-released-r75165/Top 100 seniors, Top 50 juniors, Top 50 sophomores, Top 25 freshmen, and Top 15 junior high wrestlers are ranked. InterMat Platinum is required to view all the rankings.

    Below is a sneak peek at the top wrestlers in each grade.

    Seniors (Top 10):
    1. Bo Jordan (Graham, Ohio)
    2. Adam Coon (Fowlerville, Mich.)
    3. Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.)
    4. Ben Whitford (St. Johns, Mich.)
    5. Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    6. J'den Cox (Hickman, Mo.)
    7. Zain Retherford (Benton, Pa.)
    8. Jake Short (Simley, Minn.)
    9. Cody Wiercioch Canon-McMillan, Pa.)
    10. Anthony Ashnault (South Plainfield, N.J.)

    Juniors (Top Five):
    1. Chance Marsteller (Kennard Dale, Pa.)
    2. Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.)
    3. Bryce Brill (Mount Carmel, Ill.)
    4. Nick Nevills (Clovis, Calif.)
    5. Solomon Chisko (Canon McMillan, Pa.)

    Sophomores (Top Five):
    1. Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.)
    2. Fox Baldwin (Osceola, Fla.)
    3. Michael Johnson Jr. (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)
    4. Myles Martin (McDonogh, Md.)
    5. Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.)

    Freshmen (Top Five):
    1. Mark Hall (Apple Valley, Minn.)
    2. Aaron Pico (St. John Bosco, Calif.)
    3. Mason Manville (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    4. Luke Pletcher (Greater Latrobe, Pa.)
    5. Israel Saavedra (Modesto, Calif.)

    Junior High (Top Five):
    1. Brady Berge (Minnesota)
    2. Cade Olivas (California)
    3. Spencer Lee (Pennsylvania)
    4. Nick Lee (Indiana)
    5. Yianni Diakomihalis (New York)]]>    75165Fri, 17 Aug 2012 03:26:28 +0000    Lowe: Top ten high school in-season tournamentshttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/lowe-top-ten-high-school-in-season-tournaments-r75084/
    Honorable Mention

    Bethlehem Holiday Wrestling Classic
    Dec. 28 and 29, 2012 (Friday and Saturday); Bethlehem Liberty High School, Bethlehem, Pa.

    Brecksville Holiday Invitational Tournament
    Dec. 28 and 29, 2012 (Friday and Saturday); Brecksville High School, Brecksville, Ohio

    Clinch Gear Battle for the Belt
    Jan. 18 and 19 (Friday and Saturday); Temecula Valley High School, Temecula, Calif.

    Ed Winger Invitational
    Jan. 19, 2013 (Saturday); Urbandale High School, Urbandale, Iowa

    King of the Mountain
    Dec. 14 and 15, 2012 (Friday and Saturday); Central Mountain High School, Lock Haven, Pa.

    Minnesota Christmas Tournament
    Dec. 14 and 15, 2012 (Friday and Saturday); University Center Rochester Field House, Rochester, Minn.

    Medina Invitational Tournament
    Dec. 28 and 29, 2012 (Friday and Saturday); Medina High School, Medina, Ohio

    Tri-State Tournament
    Dec. 21 and 22, 2012; North Idaho College, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

    Tulsa Mid-America Nationals
    Dec. 7 and 8, 2012 (Friday and Saturday); Tulsa Union High School, Tulsa, Okla.

    Virginia Duals
    Jan. 11 and 12, 2013 (Friday and Saturday); Hampton Coliseum, Hampton, Va.

    10. Geary Invitational Wrestling Tournament
    Date: Jan. 4 and 5, 2013 (Friday and Saturday)
    Venue: Stegall-Long Fieldhouse, Geary, Okla.

    Key Teams: Broken Arrow (Okla.), Tulsa Union (Okla.), and Tuttle (Okla.)

    History: Over the years, many a Sooner State wrestling star has appeared in this event -- going all the way to its inception and names such as Hugh Perry and Danny Hodge, through the Smith brothers (John, Lee Roy, and Pat), and all the way to names of recent lore like Johny Hendricks. With all these stars, it is staggering that only two wrestlers have ever won this tournament four times -- Brandon Tucker and Matt Bryan, both from Broken Arrow.

    The tournament, which debuted in 1944, has maintained much of the old time tradition. The small, yet distinctive, Geary medal is awarded to placewinners; visiting schools are hosted in local homes; the entire community flocks to support the tournament; and the tournament has a (what is in modern times) unique format with no seeding or advancement points, but does allow challenge matches for true second place. The tournament was hosted in the high school gymnasium through 1977, but for the last 35 years has been hosted in the Stegall-Long Field House (originally Bison Field House) two blocks to the west.

    Last Year: An extremely tight team race occurred between Oklahoma big school stalwarts Broken Arrow and Tulsa Union, which Broken Arrow won by 5.5 points (like they did later on at the state tournament). The 24-team field (22 from Oklahoma, one from New Mexico, and one from Texas) featured 17 wrestlers that stood on top of the podium at their respective state tournaments (15 from Oklahoma, one each in New Mexico and Texas). Nine of the eventual tournament champions went on to win state titles, while there was one championship match featuring a pair of eventual state champions. The 120-pound weight class featured four wrestlers that won state titles (Gunner Laffoon, Calib Freeman, Josh Walker, and Braun Marquez), but it was Jake Goodwin -- who finished third at National Preps -- that took home the weight class title.

    Comment: "Tradition is a big word in Geary, just as Geary is a big word in the world of wrestling. This is the oldest tournament in Oklahoma as well as the entire nation. Because of this tournament, Geary has become known through Oklahoma and the country. We'd like to thank the fans and community for their support and enthusiasm of this wonderful tournament." -- GearySchools.org website

    9. Al Dvorak Memorial Invitational Tournament
    Date: Dec. 22 and 23, 2012 (Saturday and Sunday)
    Venue: Machesney Park Harlem High School, Rockford, Ill.

    Key Teams: Montini Catholic (Ill.), Marist (Ill.), Glenbard North (Ill.), Oak Park River Forest (Ill.), and Iowa City West (Iowa)

    Newcomer for 12-13: Lake Highland Prep (Fla.)

    History: The event started in the early 1970s as the Rockford (West) Christmas Tournament. For a time in the mid-1970s, the event was actually two mini 16-team tournaments (Class 2A, Class 1A) with a grand final between the two champions. The event subsequently moved to Glenbard East, and was renamed the Al Dvorak Memorial Invitational in 1988 in memory of a Glenbard East wrestler that was tragically killed when hit by a truck. It moved temporarily in the early 2000s to Dundee-Crown High School, before taking its current home at Machesney Park Harlem in Rockford Ill., in 2006. Over the years, it has always had about a thirty-team field featuring many of the best individuals and teams from across the state of Illinois. In addition, a live webcast of the semifinals and finals hosted by IllinoisMatmen.com has helped to bolster the national profile of the event in recent years. As did the 2004 edition of the event when sophomores Mike Benefiel and Albert White, both off of state titles as freshmen were upset by their semifinal opponents. It relegated these future four-time state champions to the third-place match, one that Benefiel won by a 5-2 decision.

    Last Year: Montini Catholic won the event for a fourth time in six seasons. Perennial contender Iowa City West finished in third place, their fifth top-three finish in the same six seasons -- including a championship in 2007. The schools in the tournament field combined for fifteen state champion wrestlers in the Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin championships. During the event, three matches featured would-be state champions against one another -- Jordan Northrup vs. Phillip Laux in the 113-pound semifinal, Eddie Klimara vs. Jack Hathaway in the final at 126 pounds, and Brad Johnson vs. Gage Harrah in the 195-pound final.

    Comment: "The tournament is unique in that it still brings together the top teams from across the state in both the top two divisions, where seeing a Class 2A state champ and a Class 3A state champ get the chance to face each other can take place." -- Mick Torres, tournament manager

    8. Kansas City Wrestling Classic
    Date: Dec. 14 and 15, 2012 (Friday and Saturday)
    Venue: Hale Arena, Kansas City, Mo.

    Key Teams: Bettendorf (Iowa), Collins Hill (Ga.), Blue Springs, Tuttle (Okla.), Allen (Texas), Christian Brothers (TN), Kearney, Park Hill, and Collinsville (Okla.)

    History: In a relatively short time, the Kansas City Wrestling Classic presented by USA Wrestling and Dollamur, has grown into an early season showcase event. The tournament came about in response to significant restrictions placed on Missouri high school wrestling programs' ability to seek out elite competition. Since top teams and wrestlers in Missouri couldn't go out to find the competition, tournament organizers sought to bring the competition to them. In its initial year, the event started out with 24 teams, and now has grown into a field of 40 teams from ten states. The event has always had the format of a preliminary pool followed by a bracket of wrestlers finishing in similar pool positions. Currently, there are eight five-person pools on Friday evening. Wrestling continues on Saturday with a 16-person bracket for first and second place pool finishers, as well as a 16-person bracket for third and fourth-place finishers. At the end of the tournament, wrestlers leave with 4-9 matches against credible competition.

    Last Year: The tournament was won by newcomer Bettendorf, derailing the attempt of Collins Hill to three-peat in the event. However, the Eagles ended up in second, their fifth consecutive appearance in the top three at this tournament. Out of 28 tournament finalists, 23 of them appeared in their respective state tournament finals match. This included four matches that had eventual state champions battling it out for a KCWC title -- among them was the 120-pound weight class that featured six state champions among its top seven finishers.

    Comment: "We try to give each competitor the most matches we possibly can, and come Saturday afternoon, almost every wrestler is competing against others at their skill level. By keeping a solid base of long-standing quality programs, our field always has quality individuals on a year-to-year basis." -- Tom Taulbee, KCWC Competition Committee Chairman

    7. Doc Buchanan Invitational
    Date: Jan. 4 and 5, 2013 (Friday and Saturday)
    Venue: Clovis High School, Clovis, Calif.

    Key Teams: Bakersfield (Calif.), Clovis (Calif.), Clovis West (Calif.), Gilroy (Calif.), Poway (Calif.), Roseburg (Ore.), and St. John Bosco (Calif.)

    Newcomer for 12-13: Wyoming Seminary (Pa.)

    Doc Buchanan (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)
    History: Over its 35 year history, the Doc Buchanan Invitational has evolved into the pinnacle regular season event in California's Central Section, which is the dominant area for wrestling in the Golden State. The event is named for the longtime former administrator of the Clovis Unified School District, and an ardent supporter of the sport of wrestling. Each tournament champion gets a unique prize, a fitted cowboy hat.

    In recent years, the tournament has been able to maintain the same field capacity, while gaining a significant boost in quality through the inclusion of partial entries. The last few tournament fields have featured wrestlers from just over 90 schools throughout California, and also from other "West Coast" states. One of the unique features that has helped increase the visibility of the tournament is the live web streams offered through the ClovisWrestling.com website for competition in the tournament.

    Last Year: The 2012 event featured 12 of 14 California state champions, as well as 22 of the 28 finalists. An additional ten state champions from three other states (Nevada, New Mexico, and Oregon) were also in the field. Two championship matches at the Doc Buchanan featured eventual state titlists against one another -- Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco) vs. Paul Mascarenas (Cleveland, N.M.) at 106, and Joey Davis (Santa Fe, Calif.) vs. Zach Nevills (Clovis) at 170. In fact, Davis had to beat another state champion -- Steven Elicegui (Wooster, Nev.) -- in the semis, just to reach the championship.

    Comment: "This is hands down the toughest individual tournament in California, 70 to 80 percent of the state's toughest kids will participate, and probably anywhere west of the Mississippi River. It is the California version of the Walsh Ironman -- a truly first-class tournament in all aspects, and has started to get more attention in recent years." -- Adam Tirapelle, Clovis assistant coach

    6. Reno Tournament of Champions
    Date: Dec. 14 and 15, 2012 (Friday and Saturday)
    Venue: Reno Events Center, Reno Nev.

    Key Teams: Bakersfield (Calif.), Easton (Pa.), Maple Mountain (Utah), Poway (Calif.), Roseburg (Ore.), and Tulsa Union (Okla.)

    Newcomers for 12-13: Broken Arrow (Okla.) and Canon-McMillan (Pa.)

    History: During the summer of 1994, a group of wrestling enthusiasts came together seeking to establish a tournament like no other, which would bring together the best of the best to raise funds for youth sports program. After close to 18 months of planning, the first tournament came to be in January 1996, and featured 32 of the best high school teams from coast-to-coast throughout the United States. It is claimed by some that this initial Reno TOC was the best high school wrestling tournament ever.

    Reno Medals (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)
    Over the years, this coming season being the 18th edition, the field has expanded to close to 80 teams. In addition, a college event was added to the weekend. It started out as a four-team dual meet, and has now grown into a tournament that features approximately 20 teams from across the country. The high school tournament recognizes eight placers per weight with the first three being named as All-Americans. Designed by Jostens, the awards and Outstanding Wrestler rings are unique and of fine quality that reflect the true honor of placing in the tournament.

    Last Year: Despite having just one champion in Connor King, and four other top four placers, Poway (Calif.) dominated the tournament on the basis of quantity -- twelve wrestlers finishing in the top seven of their respective weight classes. The Titans won the title for the second time in three seasons. Finishing as runner-up for the second straight year was Tulsa Union (Okla.) with a pair of champions and another pair of runner-up wrestlers. Perennial contender and 2010 champion Easton (Pa.) took third in the standings. Sixteen wrestlers who went on to win state titles made the championship match at the Reno TOC, and five of the fourteen championship matches featured a pair of wrestlers that would go onto stand atop their state tournament podiums at season's end.

    Comment: "Over the years we've had many great athletes compete in our tournament. These athletes have gone on to become NCAA champions, Olympic medalists, and then thrive in MMA and/or UFC. Because of the success the tournament has had over the years, it has continued to attract teams from all across the nation." -- Ryan Teubner, RTOC media relations coordinator

    5. Cheesehead Invitational
    Date: Jan. 4 and 5, 2013 (Friday and Saturday)
    Venue: Kaukauna High School, Kaukauna, Wis.

    Key Teams: Apple Valley (Minn.), Bettendorf (Iowa), Montini Catholic (Ill.), Simley (Minn.), and Southeast Polk (Iowa)

    Newcomers for 12-13: Davenport Assumption (Iowa), Glenbard North (Ill.), and West Fargo (N.D.)

    Cheesehead logo
    History: Started from the ideas of former Kaukauna High School co-coaches Scott Kluever and Steve McDaniel, and inspired by connecting with legendary former Walsh Jesuit head coach Bill Barger at the 1997 Dapper Dan Wrestling Classic, a tournament that will turn 15 this coming season was created. The January 1999 featured nine teams, including perennial powers Apple Valley, St. Edward (Ohio), and Walsh Jesuit (Ohio). It continued as an 8-9 team event with one out-of-state anchor for another couple years, before expanding to 16 teams in 2003, 20 teams in 2004, and slight incremental expansion to the present field size of 24-26 teams.

    The 2004 expansion enabled the tournament to include more strong teams from Wisconsin, as well as the addition of Illinois power Montini Catholic. The next major growth event for the tournament was in 2009, with Brandon (Fla.) making an appearance in the tournament. It led coaches away from their confusion about the tournament's format (preliminary pool leading into a bracket or cross-over matches) and scoring, and focused their attention towards the competition and benefit of getting kids many matches against like competition. With a date opposite of The Clash, and the return of Apple Valley to the tournament, it is in these last three years the Cheesehead has reached the standing it has in the national tournament landscape. The pinnacle for the tournament was in December 2010 when it can be argued that the national title race between Apple Valley and Blair Academy (N.J.) came to a head in this event that also featured six other nationally ranked teams.

    Last Year: Apple Valley made it a three-peat in the tournament, as they won the championship by four points over Bettendorf with Simley and Southeast Polk close behind. The January 2012 edition saw the appearance of Iowa teams in the event for the first time, as well as the inclusion of emerging national power Allen (Texas) in the field. Out of 28 tournament finalists, half were state champions, and only two did not finish in the top three of their respective state tournaments. This included a pair of finals matches that were previews of eventual state championship matches, as well as four title matches that featured a pair of state champions against one another.

    Comment: "It's been a great ride. We are thankful for the support of TrackWrestling, corporate sponsors such as ATC and J Robinson Intensive Camps, and Fox Sports Wisconsin that have enabled the event to expand and be covered across the media spectrum. It has become a point of pride to be on the cutting edge in terms of promoting the sport of wrestling." -- Scott Kluever, Tournament Director

    4. POWERade Christmas Wrestling Tournament
    Date: Dec. 28 and 29, 2012 (Friday and Saturday)
    Venue: Canon McMillan High School, Canonsburg, Pa.

    Key Teams: Benton (Pa.), Blair Academy (N.J.), Canon McMillan, (Pa.), and Franklin Regional (Pa.)

    Newcomers for 12-13: Cincinnati Moeller (Ohio), Clovis (Calif.), Erie McDowell (Pa.), and Hermiston (Ore.)

    History: Ever since its inception in 1967 as the California University Christmas Wrestling Tournament, the quality and legacy of the event befit the location of the tournament in Western Pennsylvania. The tournament gained a corporate sponsorship for the 1995 edition from the Cameron Coca-Cola Co. in Washington Township, moved to Trinity High School, and was given its present name. It moved to its present home at Canon-McMillan High School in 2003. Many stars of wrestling have made their initial dent on the high school landscape on the mats of this tournament, including Nate Carr, Cary Kolat, and most recently Chance Marsteller. Over the years, 19 NCAA Division I champions have participated in this event, including Frank Molinaro (Southern Regional, N.J./Penn State) and Steve Bosak (State College/Cornell) from this past year.

    2011 POWERade champions (Photo/Rob Preston)
    Last Year: Blair Academy made its debut in the event, and they emerged as dominant champions. The host school, Canon McMillan, came in second after winning the event in December 2010. Twelve of the tournament's champions appeared in their respective state or National Prep championship final, as did four runner-up finishers, while fourteen participants in consolation medal matches (third through eighth) would go on to win state titles. The most notable final had National Prep champion Todd Preston (Blair Academy, N.J.) upend Nate Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio) 2-1 in overtime at 138 pounds.

    Comment: "This tournament is one of the premier tournaments in the country. The list of state champions and NCAA champions to have participated in this event is impressive, and some have even gone beyond that and are on a world-class level (like 2012 Olympians Coleman Scott and Jake Herbert). This legacy is something that we want to continue on a year-to-year basis." -- Frank Vulcano, Jr., tournament director

    3. The Clash XI, National High School Wrestling Duals
    Date: Dec. 28 and 29, 2012 (Friday and Saturday)
    Venue: University Center Rochester Field House, Rochester, Minn.

    Key Teams: Apple Valley, Carl Sandburg (Ill.), Marist (Ill.), Simley (Minn.), and St. Michael-Albertville

    Newcomers for 12-13: Blue Springs (Mo.), Collins Hill (Ga.), Kearney (Mo.), Montini Catholic (Ill.), and Oak Park River Forest (Ill.)

    The Clash is held at the UCR Regional Sports Center in Rochester, Minn. (Photo/Jeff Beshey, The Guillotine)
    History: The event was initially designed to bring 16 teams from the Midwest to Rochester for two-day tournament in January 2003. However, the format was quickly altered when four national-caliber teams expressed an interest in participating. Three of those teams would finish in the top four of the debut tournament's 20-team field, with Glenbard North (Ill.) taking home the crown, Vacaville (Calif.) finishing third, and Wasatch (Utah) taking fourth.

    As a result, the field expanded to 32 teams -- as well as the present format of three dual meets in a bracket on Day 1, and then dual meets against the three teams placing in the same position of the other brackets on Day 2 the next year. Over the event's history, the goal has been to have a diverse field featuring in-state teams, bordering state teams, and those from across the country. In ten editions, there have been 130 teams from 29 different states represented in the event. The field has also grown in competitiveness each year, culminating in last year's field that featured five of the top eight teams from the end of season Fab 50 rankings and three others in the top 18.

    Last Year: Last year, St. Edward (Ohio) ended Apple Valley's three-year reign as champions of the event with their title in The Clash X. Additionally, Apple Valley has made the Day 2 championship bracket eight times in event history, including each of the last six years, and have an event-leading four championships. The only other team with even two titles is Carl Sandburg, who has been in the day two championship bracket on two other occasions. Glenbard North (Ill.) joins Carl Sandburg with four championship bracket appearances, while Simley and Montini Catholic (Ill.) have three appearances each.

    Comment: "Even though we've had the privilege of watching some of the best high school wrestlers in the country compete at The Clash, the tournament's chief appeal is the unique dual team format. Every wrestler and team gets to compete in six matches, and every one of them counts. Beside a few inevitable early round mismatches, most dual meets are very tight and lead to an electric competitive environment." -- Steve Patton, tournament director.

    2. Beast of the East
    Date: Dec. 22 and 23, 2012 (Saturday and Sunday)
    Venue: University of Delaware, Newark, Del.

    Key Teams: Bethlehem Catholic (Pa.), Blair Academy (N.J.), Central Dauphin (Pa.), Christiansburg (Va.), Colonial Forge (Va.), McDonogh (Md.), St. Peter's Prep (N.J.), and Wyoming Seminary (Pa.)

    Newcomers for 12-13: Benton (Pa.), Cincinnati Moeller (Ohio), and Massillon Perry (Ohio)

    History: The tournament started in January of 1994 as the Delaware Mid-Atlantic Classic at St. Mark's High School, where it remained for two years before moving to its present mid-to-late December. It moved locations to Newark High School in December 1995, and then Delaware State in 1996, before switching to its present home at the Bob Carpenter Center on the University of Delaware campus in 1997. Starting in 2000, which happens to mark the beginning of Blair Academy's consecutive tournament title streak (the Buccaneers have won 16 of 19 previous tournaments), the event was rebranded the "Beast of the East."

    The Beast of the East is held at the University of Delaware in mid-to-late December (Photo/Rob Preston)
    This tournament serves as the primary fundraiser for the Delaware Wrestling Alliance, which has awarded over $600,000 dollars in scholarship money in the 19-year history of the event, and at least five $10,000 scholarship awards in each of the last nine years; along with supporting a wide variety of other wrestling activities throughout the state. Three of the seven U.S. freestyle Olympians competed in this tournament: Jordan Burroughs failed to place in December 2005 during his senior year at 135 pounds; Coleman Scott was a two-time finalist, champion at 125 pounds as a senior in December 2003 and runner-up the year prior at 112 pounds to Troy Nickerson; and Jake Herbert suffered his last high school loss to Matt Palmer in the 160-pound final during his junior year in December 2001.

    Last Year: For a twelfth straight year, Blair Academy emerged as the champion with yet another dominating tournament having five of its wrestlers stand on top of their respective weight class podiums. Among the 28 finalists from the December 2011 tournament, 20 of them went on to win state or National Prep championships and another five finished in second place. Seven weight class finals had state or National Prep champions wrestling against one another, while another pair served as previews of the eventual National Prep championship match.

    Comment: "The tournament is always an exciting event, with some of the nation's best high school wrestling teams and individuals present. We try to provide a first-class event every year, and it would not be possible without our great sponsors and awesome volunteers." -- Bob Shaw, tournament director

    1. Walsh Jesuit Ironman Wrestling Tournament
    Date: Dec. 7 and 8, 2012 (Friday and Saturday)
    Venue: Walsh Jesuit High School, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

    Key Teams: Blair Academy (N.J.), Broken Arrow (Okla.), Christiansburg (Va.), Cincinnati Moeller (Ohio), Massillon Perry (Ohio), McDonogh (Md.), Montini Catholic (Ill.), St. Edward (Ohio), St. Paris Graham (Ohio), and Wyoming Seminary (Pa.)

    Newcomers for 12-13: Canon-McMillan (Pa.), Clovis (Calif.), Colonial Forge (Va.), and Kearney (Mo.)

    History: Coming up is the 18th year of the Walsh Ironman, the initial event being a 15-team event held in December 1994. Key teams in the initial event were the host Walsh Jesuit Warriors, St. Edward, and the three perennial Lehigh Valley stalwarts of Easton, Nazareth, and Northampton. That initial tournament was won by the host school, and marks the only time the Warriors have came home with the title. It was in the 1995 edition of the Ironman that Blair Academy made its debut trip, and the Buccaneers came home with their first of ten tournament championships.

    The Walsh Ironman is hosted by Walsh Jesuit High School in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio (Photo/Rob Preston)
    Over the years, the tournament field has evolved to where it is today -- a platform for top programs from coast-to-coast and all points between, as well as an opportunity for individuals to prove where they stand against the most elite of competition. In the tournament's relatively short history, the event has produced six U.S. Olympians, and 18 individuals have went on to win 25 NCAA Division I titles. In recapping the 2007 Walsh Ironman, Sports Illustrated deemed this event, "the toughest high school tournament in the country."

    Last Year: As expected, the tournament ended up being a showdown between the nation's two best teams, Blair Academy and St. Edward. The Buccaneers came out with a third title in four tournaments by twelve points over the Eagles on the strength of championships from Dylan Milonas, Frank Mattiace, and Brooks Black -- as well as 13 placers in all. All but one of the 28 finalists won their state or National Prep championships weight class title, or took second place (Greg Kuhar, second at 285 pounds, was injured). In fact, a full half of the finals matches featured state and/or National Prep champions battling it out against one another, with an additional match being a preview of the National Prep final for that weight class. Additionally, seven of the fourteen end-of-season No. 1-ranked wrestlers in the nation competed in this tournament, with two of them not coming home champions.

    Comment: "This tournament is eye-opening reality. The nation is up, and the nation is here. The Ironman is not a state tournament, it's a national tournament." -- Bill Barger, former Walsh Jesuit head coach and Walsh Ironman founder]]>    75084Thu, 12 Jul 2012 07:14:33 +0000    Updated high school grade rankings releasedhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/updated-high-school-grade-rankings-released-r74731/Top 100 seniors, Top 50 juniors, Top 50 sophomores, Top 25 freshmen, and Top 15 junior high wrestlers are ranked. InterMat Platinum is required to view all the rankings.

    Below is a sneak peek at the top wrestlers in each grade.

    Senior (Top 10):
    1. Jason Tsirtsis (Crown Point, Ind.)
    2. Taylor Massa (St Johns, Mich.)
    3. Jimmy Gulibon (Derry, Pa.)
    4. Jordan Rogers (Mead, Wash.)
    5. Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    6. John Meeks (Des Moines Roosevelt, Iowa)
    7. Joey Davis (Santa Fe, Calif.)
    8. Nate Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio)
    9. Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.)
    10. Thomas Gilman (Skutt Catholic, Neb.)

    Ben Whitford (Photo/MichiganGrappler.com)
    Junior (Top Five):
    1. Ben Whitford (St. Johns, Mich.)
    2. Bo Jordan (Graham, Ohio)
    3. Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    4. Adam Coon (Fowlerville, Mich.)
    5. Dean Heil (St. Edwards, Ohio)

    Sophomore (Top Five):
    1. Chance Marsteller (Kennard Dale, Pa.)
    2. Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.)
    3. Bryce Brill (Mount Carmel, Ill.)
    4. Nick Nevills (Clovis, Calif.)
    5. Solomon Chisko (Canon McMillan, Pa.)

    Freshman (Top Five):
    1. Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.)
    2. Michael Johnson Jr. (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)
    3. Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.)
    4. Fox Baldwin (Osceola, Fla.)
    5. Matthew Kolodzik (Miami Valley School, Ohio)

    Junior High (Top Five):
    1. Mark Hall (Apple Valley, Minn.)
    2. Aaron Pico (St. John Bosco, Calif.)
    3. Mason Manville (Apple Valley, Minn.)
    4. Luke Pletcher (Greater Latrobe, Pa.)
    5. Brady Berge (Kasson-Mantorville)]]>    74731Thu, 26 Apr 2012 03:25:09 +0000    InterMat unveils 2012 High School All-Americanshttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/intermat-unveils-2012-high-school-all-americans-r74721/Related Content:
    Rankings|All-Americans T-Shirt

    Most of the 2011-12 scholastic wrestling season came to an end the first weekend of April with the NHSCA grade level nationals, USA Wrestling Folkstyle Nationals, and the FloNationals. Those events came after a long scholastic season that started with preseason tournaments such as the Super 32 Challenge, through early in-season tournaments like the Walsh Ironman and Beast of the East, then into the rest of the regular season, and through the state tournament series across America.

    The last two weekends had interesting opportunities for as well with the FILA Junior Nationals and Wrestling USA Magazine Dream Team Classic. Therefore, it is now time to reflect upon the season that was and recognize the best of the best.

    The Top 20 wrestlers in each weight class represent the 2011-12 InterMat High School All-Americans. Below is a look at the First Team selection, as well as the other All-Americans in each weight.

    2012 Wrestler of the Year: Jason Tsirtsis (Crown Point, Ind.), Senior, 145

    Jason Tsirtsis has been named 2012 InterMat High School Wrestler of the Year (Photo/Paul Tincher, IndianaMat.com)
    Despite losing a pair of matches during his freshman year, which was two more than his older brother Alex lost during his whole high school career, the Northwestern-bound wrestler has been more than dominant in the last calendar year and throughout four high school seasons. In his two postseason all-star matches, Tsirtsis earned a 13-4 major decision over a Pennsylvania state champion at the Dapper Dan and a 22-8 major decision over an Iowa state champion who is ranked second nationally in the Dream Team Classic.

    Tsirtsis, a four-time state champion, went 42-0 in each of his last three high school seasons to accumulate a four year record of 176-2. Among the many high profile accomplishments on Tsirtsis' resume are a 2011 Junior National freestyle championship, a pair of FloNationals titles, a pair of FILA Cadet freestyle titles, two runner-up finishes at the Super 32 Challenge, three All-American finishes at the FILA Junior Nationals, and three additional All-American finishes in Fargo (third in the 2010 Junior freestyle tournament, second and fourth place finishes in Cadet freestyle).

    Other All-Americans at 145:
    2. Gabriel Moreno, Urbandale, Iowa
    3. Mark Hall, Apple Valley, Minn.
    4. Jake Short, Simley, Minn.
    5. Mitch Minotti, Easton, Pa.
    6. Bryce Brill, Mt. Carmel, Ill.
    7. Jimmy Kloc, Iriquois, N.Y.
    8. Rylan Lubeck, Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.
    9. Dylan Milonas, Blair Academy, N.J.
    10. Anthony Collica, Solon, Ohio
    11. Blake Kastl, Graham, Ohio
    12. Jake Faust, Lexington, Ohio
    13. Jack Clark, McDonogh, Md.
    14. Alexander Richardson, St. Peter's Prep, N.J.
    15. Garrett Hammond, Chambersburg, Pa.
    16. Willie Fox, Gilroy, Calif.
    17. Greg Hegarty, Blue Springs, Mo.
    18. Kevin Moylan, Stagg, Ill.
    19. Kaleb Baker, Christian Brothers, Tenn.
    20. Bo Nickal, Allen, Texas

    106 First Team: Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.), Freshman

    The nation's top freshman finished his initial high school season undefeated with in-season titles at the Ironman, Doc Buchanan and California state tournament. Valencia also won the NUWAY Southwest Kickoff Classic prior to the start of the season up at 113 pounds, and was a FloNationals champion earlier in April at 106 pounds.

    Other All-Americans at 106:
    2. Darian Cruz, Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.
    3. Johnson Mai, North Torrance, Calif.
    4. Stevan Micic, Hanover Central, Ind.
    5. Nathan Boston, Lawrence North, Ind.
    6. Ethan Lizak, Parkland, Pa.
    7. Michael Kemerer, Franklin Regional, Pa.
    8. Matthew Kolodzik, Miami Valley School, Ohio
    9. Doug Miner, Spirit Lake Park, Iowa
    10. Brent Fleetwood, Smyrna, Del.
    11. Vincenzo Joseph, Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.
    12. Markus Simmons, Broken Arrow, Okla.
    13. Coy Ozias, Christiansburg, Va.
    14. Sean Russell, Collins Hill, Ga.
    15. Dylan Lucas, Brandon, Fla.
    16. Davion Jeffries, Collinsville, Okla.
    17. Dominic Forys, North Allegheny, Pa.
    18. David Bavery, Massillon Perry, Ohio
    19. Joseph Velliquette, Nixa, Mo.
    20. Sean Cannon, Green Valley, Nev.

    113 First Team: Jarred Brooks (Warsaw, Ind.), Senior

    This senior set a strong tone for his senior season with a Super 32 Challenge championship, including a finals victory over Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio). That result avenged a three-period loss in the championship match of the Junior National freestyle tournament from late July. Then, Brooks capped off an undefeated 35-0 season with a state title and victory in the Dapper Dan Wrestling Classic. For his career, it was a record of 139-5 with state placements of fifth, second, and first.

    Other All-Americans at 113:
    2. Nathan Tomasello, CVCA, Ohio
    3. Ryan Diehl, Trinity, Pa.
    4. Isaiah Locsin, Live Oak, Calif.
    5. Ronnie Bresser, Henley, Ore.
    6. Tommy Thorn, St. Michael-Albertville, Minn.
    7. Jason Nolf, Kittaning, Pa.
    8. J.R. Wert, Christiansburg, Va.
    9. Johnny Jimenez, Marmion Academy, Ill.
    10. Barlow McGhee, Rock Island, Ill.
    11. Billy Rappo, Council Rock South, Pa.
    12. Cassidy Oshiro, Maryknoll, Hawaii
    13. Zac Hall, St. Johns, Mich.
    14. Jens Lantz, Ellsworth, Wis.
    15. Jordan Northrup, Machesney Park Harlem, Ill.
    16. Jonas Gayton, Clovis, Calif.
    17. Micah Perez, Central Union, Calif.
    18. Phillip Laux, Iowa City West, Iowa
    19. Mark Duda, Marist, Ill.
    20. Fredy Stroker, Bettendorf, Iowa

    120 First Team: George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio), Senior

    During December, the University of Virginia bound DiCamillo set the tone for a virtuoso senior season, as he earned his third Walsh Ironman championship and fourth title at the Brecksville Holiday Invitational Tournament. Going the whole season without a loss, he earned a second consecutive undefeated season and state championship to finish his career on a 74 match winning streak, and a three-year strong of 111 wins in 112 matches. For his career, it was a record of 151-7 with placements of seventh, third, first, and first. Additionally, DiCamillo earned victories over nationally ranked three-time state champions from Pennsylvania and Iowa in the Dapper Dan and Dream Team all-star events.

    Other All-Americans at 120:
    2. Nick Roberts, North Star, Pa.
    3. Ryan Taylor, St. Paris Graham, Ohio
    4. Tim Lambert, Forest Hills Eastern, Mich.
    5. Jered Cortez, Glenbard North, Ill.
    6. Dylan Peters, Denver Tripoli, Iowa
    7. Dalton Brady, Chandler, Ariz.
    8. Joey McKenna, Blair Academy, N.J.
    9. Paul Petrov, Hanover Central, Ind.
    10. Mason Todd, Pendleton Heights, Ind.
    11. Godwin Nyama, Brashear, Pa.
    12. Brendan Campbell, New Castle, Ind.
    13. Connor Schram, Canon McMillan, Pa.
    14. Matt Garelli, Oak Park Fenwick, Ill.
    15. Zeke Moisey, Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.
    16. Will Mason, Cape Henry Collegiate, Va.
    17. Daniel Gayton, Clovis, Calif.
    18. Brad Perkins, Oak Park, Mo.
    19. Hermilio Esquivel, Orland, Calif.
    20. Nick Herrmann, Amarillo Tascola, Texas

    126 First Team: Jimmy Gulibon (Derry Area, Pa.), Senior

    Entering high school, greatness was a clear expectation for Gulibon, as he entered with five PJW state championships. In high school, he would have a career unmatched by most, as he was both a four-time Pennsylvania state champion and POWERade Christmas Wrestling Tournament champion. The Penn State bound wrestler ended high school with a 136-4 record, and also earned a pair of wins over a four-time Iowa state champion in the postseason all-star events.

    Other All-Americans at 126:
    2. Dean Heil, St. Edward, Ohio
    3. Rossi Bruno, Brandon, Fla.
    4. Anthony Ashnault, South Plainfield, N.J.
    5. Brandon Jeske, Cox, Va.
    6. Cory Clark, Southeast Polk, Iowa
    7. Joey Dance, Christiansburg, Va.
    8. Dominick Malone, Wyoming Seminary, Pa.
    9. Eddie Klimara, Providence Catholic, Ill.
    10. Nathan Kraisser, Centennial, Md.
    11. Sam Brancale, Eden Prairie, Minn.
    12. Mitch Bengtson, St. Cloud Apollo, Minn.
    13. Hunter Weber, Marshall, Wis.
    14. Jack Hathaway, Iowa City West, Iowa
    15. Kyle Ayersman, Lake Central, Ind.
    16. Kyle Garcia, Choctaw, Okla.
    17. Max Hvolbeck, Blair Academy, N.J.
    18. Micah Jordan, St. Paris Graham, Ohio
    19. Corey Keener, Blue Mountain, Pa.
    20. Eric Devos, Waverly Shell-Rock, Iowa

    132 First Team: Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.), Senior

    Headed to Cornell, this wrestler ended his high school career as a four-time National Prep champion and the first ever competitor to win four titles at the prestigious Beast of the East. With a career record of 140-7, Grey did not lose a single match outside of the Walsh Ironman, where he was a four-time placer and two-time runner-up. Last summer, he was fifth at the FILA Junior World Championships at 121 pounds, and this past weekend won a FILA Junior National freestyle title at 132 pounds.

    Other All-Americans at 132:
    2. Alex Cisneros, Selma, Calif.
    3. Thomas Gilman, Skutt Catholic, Neb.
    4. Kevin Norstrem, Brandon, Fla.
    5. Zane Richards, Carbondale, Ill.
    6. Joey Ward, Moeller, Ohio
    7. Edgar Bright, St. Edward, Ohio
    8. Randy Cruz, Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.
    9. Ben Morgan, Forest Lake, Minn.
    10. Brandon Sorensen, Denver Tripoli, Iowa
    11. Jared McKinley, Perry Meridian, Ind.
    12. Dylan Durso, Reynolds, Pa.
    13. Dakota Trom, Apple Valley, Minn.
    14. Joey Munos, South St. Paul, Minn.
    15. Nikko Villarreal, Gilroy, Calif.
    16. Dakota Bauer, Iowa City West, Iowa
    17. Brent Fickel, Padua, Ohio
    18. Neal Molloy, Danville, Ind.
    19. Kyle Larson, West Des Moines Valley, Iowa
    20. Jamel Hudson, St. Anthony's, N.Y.

    138 First Team: Ben Whitford (St. Johns, Mich.), Junior

    It has been a dominant "cycle" for this Class of 2013 prospect, as he was a double champion at the Junior Nationals in Fargo this past summer, earned bonus points in all seven matches on the way to a Super 32 Challenge title this fall (included five pins), and was undefeated with a 42-0 record this season. When added to his two state titles won at Marmion Academy in Illinois, the junior Whitford -- who has already verbally committed to the University of Michigan -- is already a three-time state champion with a prep record of 127-1.

    Other All-Americans at 138:
    2. John Meeks, Des Moines Roosevelt, Iowa
    3. Nate Skonieczny, Walsh Jesuit, Ohio
    4. Quentin Murphy, Holley Central, N.Y.
    5. Steve Spearman, Erie McDowell, Pa.
    6. Solomon Chishko, Canon McMillan, Pa.
    7. Matt Cimato, LaSalle, Pa.
    8. Todd Preston, Blair Academy, N.J.
    9. Bryant Clagon, Toms River South, N.J.
    10. Mikey Racciato, Pen Argyl, Pa.
    11. Austin Matthews, Reynolds, Pa.
    12. Chase Ferman, Broken Arrow, Okla.
    13. Tony DeAngelo, Southern Alamance, N.C.
    14. Devon Jackson, Yorktown, Ind.
    15. Luke Zeiger, Glasgow, Mont.
    16. Brian Sergi, College Park, Calif.
    17. Alfred Bannister, Bishop McNamara, Md.
    18. Natrelle Demison, Bakersfield, Calif.
    19. Mitch Newhouse, Massillon Perry, Ohio
    20. Jack Bass, Allen, Texas

    152 First Team: Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), Junior

    The junior Jordan already has three state titles, and has been dominant throughout his career with a 133-1 record. His only career loss came in mid-January of his freshman year and was avenged in the state semifinals. In addition, Bo is a two-time Walsh Ironman champion and has won more than 100 consecutive matches.

    Other All-Americans at 152:
    2. Isaiah Martinez, Lemoore, Calif.
    3. Max Schneider, Chicago Lane Tech, Ill.
    4. Brian Murphy, Glenbard North, Ill.
    5. Brian Realbuto, Somers, N.Y.
    6. Oliver Pierce, Allen, Texas
    7. Dylan Palacio, Long Beach, N.Y.
    8. Zach Witte, Cedar Rapids Prairie, Iowa
    9. Zack Dailey, Massillon Perry, Ohio
    10. Josh Llopez, La Plata, Md.
    11. Nick Wanzek, Simley, Minn.
    12. Nick Becker, Hartford, Wis.
    13. Salvatore Mastriani, Don Bosco Prep, N.J.
    14. Austin Trott, Camden County, Ga.
    15. Jake Elliott, Oakmont, Calif.
    16. Keilan Torres, Altus, Okla.
    17. Andrew Morse, Lowell, Mich.
    18. Russ Parsons, Blair Academy, N.J.
    19. Coleman Hammond, Bakersfield, Calif.
    20. Samson Imonode, Horizon, Ariz.

    160 First Team: Chance Marsteller (Kennard Dale, Pa.), Sophomore

    Entering high school with much hype, having already been a quarterfinalist at the Super 32 Challenge high school division and winning match(es) at the Nittany Lion Open prior, the young Marsteller has more than turned that into substantive achievement during his first two years of high school. How does two state titles, an 85-0 record, and winning a 17-7 match this year in the state final against fellow defending state champion Brian Brill (Central Mountain, Pa.) sound? Better yet -- two POWERade Christmas Wrestling Tournament titles, a Super 32 Challenge title, and 33 matches this past summer at the Cadet Nationals and Cadet Duals in which he gave up scoring in one period show dominance.

    Other All-Americans at 160:
    2. Joey Davis, Santa Fe, Calif.
    3. Isaac Jordan, Graham, Ohio
    4. Clark Glass, Brandon, Fla.
    5. Brian Brill, Central Mountain, Pa.
    6. Zach Epperly, Christiansburg, Va.
    7. Brandon Kingsley, Apple Valley, Minn.
    8. Victor Pereira, Newark Memorial, Calif.
    9. Dylan Reel, Washington, Ill.
    10. James Wilson, McNair, Calif.
    11. Brett Harner, Norristown, Pa.
    12. Jacob Crawford, Millbrook, Va.
    13. Shaun'Qae McMurtry, Lockport, Ill.
    14. Johnny Sebastian, Bergen Catholic, N.J.
    15. Justin Koethe, Iowa City West, Iowa
    16. Chandler Rogers, Mead, Wash.
    17. Zeb Wahle, Lewis Central, Iowa
    18. Cody Allala, Hopewell, Va.
    19. Keegan Gennrich, Hortonville, Wis.
    20. Elijah Hull, Lewis County, West Va.

    170 First Team: Taylor Massa (St. Johns, Mich.), Senior

    The University of Michigan bound grappler ended finished high school as an undefeated four-time state champion with a career record of 223-0. Right before the start of the season, Massa earned an elusive Super 32 Challenge title after twice placing second and third each the prior four years. During the two April's before this one, he was a FILA Junior National freestyle champion, and was a member of the FILA Junior World Team at 74 kilos (163 pounds) this past summer.

    Other All-Americans at 170:
    2. Cody Wiercioch, Canon McMillan, Pa.
    3. Kyle Crutchmer, Tulsa Union, Okla.
    4. Geordan Speiller, Pine Castle Christian, Fla.
    5. Mark Martin, St. Edward, Ohio
    6. Zac Brunson, Churchill, Ore.
    7. Eric Morris, Wyoming Seminary, Pa.
    8. Alex Meyer, Southeast Polk, Iowa
    9. Cooper Moore, Jackson County Central, Minn.
    10. Micah Barnes, Simley, Minn.
    11. Matt Reed, Wichita Heights, Kan.
    12. Zach Nevills, Clovis, Calif.
    13. Elliott Riddick, Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.
    14. Zach Beard, Tuttle, Okla.
    15. Silas Nacita, Bakersfield, Calif.
    16. Kyle Begin, Anoka, Minn.
    17. Tyler Askey, Northgate, Ga.
    18. Vince Pickett, Grove City Central Crossing, Ohio
    19. Jacob Taylor, Bald Eagle Area, Pa.
    20. Steven Elicegui, Wooster, Nev.

    182 First Team: Jordan Rogers (Mead, Wash.), Senior

    Short of injury prior to the state tournament his sophomore year, very little kept Rogers from his goals while competing in Washington State. This three-time state champion is headed to Oklahoma State University with a career record of 152-6. In the last two calendar years, Rogers has won three FILA Cadet National titles (two freestyle, one Greco-Roman), traveled twice to represent the United States in international competitions, was a Cadet National double champion in 2010, and a Junior National double All-American in 2011 (third Greco-Roman and second freestyle). He also earned dominant victories in both of his all-star matches against nationally ranked opposition, pinning a Pennsylvania state champ in the Dapper Dan and earning a major decision against one from Iowa in the Dream Team Classic.

    Other All-Americans at 182:
    2. Sam Brooks, Oak Park River Forest, Ill.
    3. Brandon Griffin, Sprague, Ore.
    4. Nikko Reyes, Clovis West, Calif.
    5. Chaz Gresham, Goshen, Ohio
    6. Jordan Thomas, Greenville, Mich.
    7. Huston Evans, Graham, Ohio
    8. Domenic Abounader, St. Edward, Ohio
    9. Roland Dunlap, Muskego, Wis.
    10. Anthony Lock, Pioneer, N.Y.
    11. Nolan Boyd, Deer Creek, Okla.
    12. Jack Dechow, Richmond Burton, Ill.
    13. Taylor McGiffen, Alton, Ill.
    14. Jared Bartel, Mason City, Iowa
    15. Wes Phipps, Grove City, Pa.
    16. David Reck, Colonial Forge, Va.
    17. Kevin Beazley, Detroit Catholic Central, Mich.
    18. Preston Lehmann, West Fargo, N.D.
    19. Matt McCutcheon, Kiski Area, Pa.
    20. Reece Wright-Conklin, Lawrence, Kan.

    195 First Team: Devin Peterson (Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.), Senior

    Arguably the most proficient three-style wrestler in the Class of 2012, the Wisconsin-bound Peterson has earned All-American honors in all eight of his Fargo appearances, including titles in five of the last six tournaments. This was capped by an excellent Olympic style 2011, which included a Junior National double title at 189 pounds and a FILA Junior National Greco-Roman championship at 84 kilograms (185 pounds). His scholastic career record was 188-11, which included wins in 93 of his last 94 contested matches (two additional losses by injury default occurred in that time); as well as state placements of second, second, sixth, and first.

    Other All-Americans at 195:
    2. Tim Dudley, Irmo, S.C.
    3. Ben Stroh, Chinook, Mont.
    4. Brad Johnson, Lockport, Ill.
    5. Gage Harrah, Crystal Lake Central, Ill.
    6. Ross Larson, Ankeney, Iowa
    7. Perry Hills, Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.
    8. Gabe Dean, Lowell, Mich.
    9. Mitch Sliga, Fishers, Ind.
    10. Ryan Solomon, Milton, Pa.
    11. Robert Marchese, Oak Hills, Calif.
    12. Austin Severn, New Lothrop, Mich.
    13. Frank Mattiace, Blair Academy, N.J.
    14. Hashem Omari, Oak Park, Mo.
    15. Caleb Cotter, Sapulpa, Okla.
    16. Broc Berge, Kasson-Mantorville, Minn.
    17. Andrew Dixon, Edmond North, Okla.
    18. Dylan Devine, DeMatha, Md.
    19. Garrett Linton, Rootstown, Ohio
    20. Shawn Scott, Holly, Mich.

    220 First Team: Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.), Sophomore

    The sophomore sensation Snyder joins Marsteller as being undefeated in two years of high school competition. This includes a pair of National Prep championships, a pair of Beast of the East titles, and singular titles at Mount Mat Madness as a freshman and the Walsh Ironman during this sophomore campaign. Last summer, Snyder was a double finalist in Fargo, winning the Cadet National freestyle championship; and in the last month has added a FloNationals title and third place finish in freestyle at the FILA Junior Nationals to his resume.

    Other All-Americans at 220:
    2. Willie Miklus, Southeast Polk, Iowa
    3. John Rizzo, Richland, Pa.
    4. Josh Marchok, Schaumburg, Ill.
    5. Jordan Gruettner, Muskego, Wis.
    6. J'Den Cox, Hickman, Mo.
    7. A.J. Vizcarrondo, Wyoming Seminary, Pa.
    8. Thomas Haines, Solanco, Pa.
    9. Matt Meadows, CVCA, Ohio
    10. Prescott Line, Oxford, Mich.
    11. Andy Janovich, Gretna, Neb.
    12. Ty Walz, St. Edward, Ohio
    13. Mike Swider, Wheaton North, Ill.
    14. Eric Laytos, Lackawanna Trail, Pa.
    15. Spencer Empey, Reed, Nev.
    16. Mick Dougharity, Barlow, Ore.
    17. JT Goodwin, Bear Creek, Calif.
    18. Nathan Butler, Leavenworth, Kan.
    19. Austin Lobsinger, West Valley, Calif.
    20. Logan Byrd, Sallisaw, Okla.

    285 First Team: Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.), Junior

    After finishing as a runner-up at the National Prep Championships as a freshman, Black has just a single loss in the last two scholastic seasons, which includes a pair of titles at both the Walsh Ironman and Beast of the East and approximately ten wins over nationally ranked opponents. After winning three titles at the Cadet Nationals (two in Greco-Roman and one in freestyle), last summer Black was a Junior National freestyle All-American. The Blair Academy junior also has three titles at the FILA Cadet Nationals from the two previous spring seasons (two in freestyle, one in Greco-Roman).

    Other All-Americans at 285:
    2. Adam Coon, Fowlerville, Mich.
    3. Michael Kroells, Scott West, Minn.
    4. Austin Goergen, Caledonia, Minn.
    5. John Dreggors, Springstead, Fla.
    6. Johnny Schupp, Vacaville, Calif.
    7. Mimmo Lytle, Swanton, Ohio
    8. Nick Nevills, Clovis, Calif.
    9. Dink Purnell, A.I. DuPont, Del.
    10. Nick Tavanello, Wadsworth, Ohio
    11. Sam Stoll, Kasson-Mantorville, Minn.
    12. Collin Bevins, Creston, Iowa
    13. Michael Johnson, Wyoming Seminary, Pa.
    14. Nate Shaw, Bettendorf, Iowa
    15. Michael Shoff, Cambridge, Neb.
    16. Nick Gajdzik, Rochester Hills Stoney Creek, Mich.
    17. Avree Robinson, Susquehanna Township, Pa.
    18. Travis Morgan, Stillwater, Okla.
    19. Gaylen Edmo, Highland, Idaho
    20. Cody Klempay, Canon-McMillan, Pa.

    Get your limited edition InterMat High School All-Americans T-shirt!

    Limited edition InterMat High School All-Americans T-shirts available. The T-shirt features the 2012 InterMat High School All-American logo on the front, and the InterMat High School All-Americans (Top 20 wrestlers in each weight class) on the back.

    Get your InterMat High School All-American T-shirts today!

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    ]]>74721Wed, 25 Apr 2012 04:14:04 +0000InterMat names Blair Academy national championhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/intermat-names-blair-academy-national-champion-r74668/Blair Academy finished No. 1 in the Fab 50 (Photo/Rob Preston)

    After two years looking up at the pole position of the national high school rankings, InterMat has placed Blair Academy, N.J., in the No. 1 ranking of the final Fab 50 for the 2011-12 season. Head coach Jeff Buxton shepherded his squad through a verytough early season tournament schedule with titles at the Walsh Ironman, Beast of the East, and POWERade Christmas Wrestling Tournament. Then, later in the season, the Bucs won a tight dual meet against No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio and earned a comfortable victory against No. 8 St. Paris Graham, Ohio.

    2012 Final Fab 50 Team Rankings
    1. Blair Academy, NJ
    2. St. Edward, OH
    3. Apple Valley, MN
    4. St. Johns, MI
    5. Clovis, CA
    6. Brandon, FL
    7. Canon-McMillan, PA
    8. St. Paris Graham, OH
    9. Wyoming Seminary, PA
    10. Bettendorf, IA
    11. Simley, MN
    12. Bethlehem Catholic, PA
    13. Southeast Polk, IA
    14. Christiansburg, VA
    15. Detroit Catholic Central, MI
    16. Bakersfield, CA
    17. Central Dauphin, PA
    18. Cincinnati Moeller, OH
    19. Broken Arrow, OK
    20. Tulsa Union, OK
    21. Poway, CA
    22. Massillon Perry, OH
    23. Allen, TX
    24. Lowell, MI
    25. Perry Meridian, IN
    26. Montini Catholic, IL
    27. Iowa City West, IA
    28. Tuttle, OK
    29. South Plainfield, NJ
    30. Erie McDowell, PA
    31. Oak Park River Forest, IL
    32. Scott West, MN
    33. Wisconsin Rapids, WI
    34. Collins Hill, GA
    35. Colonial Forge, VA
    36. Carl Sandburg, IL
    37. Blue Springs, MO
    38. Easton, PA
    39. Glenbard North, IL
    40. Camden County, GA
    41. McDonogh, Maryland
    42. St. Michael-Albertville, MN
    43. Luxemburg-Casco, WI
    44. Jefferson, GA
    45. Shenendehowa, NY
    46. Marist, IL
    47. Christian Brothers, TN
    48. Grand Island, NE
    49. Roseburg, OR
    50. Kearney, MO
    The season then wrapped up with a 354.5 point showing at the National Prep Championships anchored by nine individual champions -- Jordan Kutler (106), No. 8 Joey McKenna (120), No. 3 Mark Grey (132), No. 4 Todd Preston (138), No. 18 Russ Parsons (152), Patrick Coover (160), Michael Mocco (182), No. 14 Frank Mattiace (195), and No. 1 Brooks Black (285). In addition, Chaz Tucker (113) and No. 9 Dylan Milonas (145) finished as runners-up, No. 17 Max Hvolbek (126) took home third place, while David Farr (220) earned fifth.

    After what has to be the most brutal dual meet schedule in the history of national high school wrestling, St. Edward, Ohio more than earned the number two position in the rankings. The Eagles scored victories over five of the next six teams in the rankings -- No. 3 Apple Valley, Minn., No. 4 St. Johns, Mich., No. 5 Clovis, Calif., No. 6 Brandon, Fla., and No. 8 St. Paris Graham, Ohio. In addition, there were four other victories over nationally ranked opposition -- No. 14 Christiansburg, Va., No. 15 Detroit Catholic Central, Mich., No. 18 Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio, and No. 44 Jefferson, Ga.

    In that lone loss to Blair Academy, the Eagles had a chance to steal the dual meet if No. 8 Edgar Bright would have upset No. 3 Grey in the last match. However, Bright came up barely short, losing 2-1 in the tiebreaker -- even though many a St. Edward fan will wonder if Bright's called takedown at the end of the first period should have stood instead of being waved off. The Bucs won that dual meet 27-22, and the Eagles were out-pointed by Blair Academy 252.5 to 240.5 at the Walsh Ironman.

    Additional top ten squads include No. 7 Canon McMillan, Pa., No. 9 Wyoming Seminary, Pa., and No. 10 Bettendorf, Iowa.

    Schools from 21 different states are represented in the season-ending Fab 50. Pennsylvania has the most schools in the rankings with six, Illinois is next with five (all in the back half), while Ohio and Minnesota each have four schools in the rankings, with three schools from Michigan, California, Iowa, Oklahoma, and Georgia also populating the rankings.

    Get your limited edition InterMat Fab 50 T-shirt!

    Limited edition InterMat Fab 50 T-shirts available. The T-shirt features the 2012 InterMat Fab 50 logo on the front, and the Top 50 high school wrestling teams on the back. Get your InterMat Fab 50 T-shirt today!

  • $15.00 (Shipping not included)
  • White Short Sleeve T-Shirt
  • 50% Cotton/50% Polyester
  • Available Sizes: Adult Small, Adult Medium, Adult X-Large, Adult XX-Large



    ]]>74668Tue, 03 Apr 2012 07:28:13 +0000USAW Folkstyle Nationals: Cadet, Junior semifinals sethttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/usaw-folkstyle-nationals-cadet-junior-semifinals-set-r74660/Junior Folkstyle

    100:
    Semifinals: Alex Costello (Wisconsin) vs. Austin Rust (North Dakota), Tirso Lara (California) vs. Jabari Moody (Illinois)
    Consolation: Noah Ajram (Iowa) vs. Brayden Guidry (Louisiana), Gannon Volk (Minnesota) vs. Dean Roberts (Michigan)

    106:
    Semifinals: Nkosi Moody (Illinois) vs. Aaron Dick (Minnesota), Skyler Petry (Minnesota) vs. Doyle Trout (Nebraska)
    Consolation: Mitchell Capella (Louisiana) vs. J.J. McClelland (Wisconsin), Tyler Scott (Oregon) vs. Zach Fowler (Iowa)

    113:
    Semifinals: Jared Oftedahl (Minnesota) vs. Ronnie Bresser (Oregon), Tommy Thorn (Minnesota) vs. Alijah Jeffrey (Iowa)
    Consolation: Max Malave (Illinois) vs. Chase Lynn (Iowa), Grant Boggs (Montana) vs. Mitch Rogaliner (Michigan)

    120:
    Semifinals: Drake Swarm (Iowa) vs. Gunner Laffoon (Oklahoma), Trae Blackwell (Kentucky) vs. Eli Hale (Oklahoma)
    Consolation: Ryan Strope (Missouri) vs. Artem Timchenko (Ohio), Tanner Johnshoy (Minnesota) vs. Morgan Engbrecht (South Dakota)

    126:
    Semifinals: Colton Adams (Nebraska) vs. Nate Rodriguez (Missouri), Dustin Wienmann (Minnesota) vs. Brock Ervin (Kentucky)
    Consolation: Seth Nehls (Nebraska) vs. Jordan Amine (Michigan), Madison Martin (Georgia) vs. Chris Walters (Iowa)

    132:
    Semifinals: Nick Crume (Indiana) vs. Austin Hood (Kansas), Logan Ryan (Iowa) vs. Kamaal Abdush-Shakur (Georgia)
    Consolation: Roarke Langer (Wisconsin) vs. Levi Moss (Indiana), James Krischke (Missouri) vs. Gabriel Grahek (Wisconsin)

    138:
    Semifinals: Michael Sepke (Illinois) vs. J.J. Whaley (Illinois), Peter Stewart (Iowa) vs. Darick Lapaglia (Missouri)
    Consolation: Mitch Friedman (Wisconsin) vs. Walker Marshall (Iowa), Trent Lyons (Illinois) vs. James Mosher (Illinois)

    145:
    Semifinals: Clayton Ream (Missouri) vs. Adam Cooling (Minnesota), Eleazar DeLuca (Oregon) vs. Austin Eads (Missouri)
    Consolation: Brandon Sorensen (Iowa) vs. Jacob Anderson (Minnesota), Logan Thomsen (Iowa) vs. Nate Harms (Iowa)

    152:
    Semifinals: Archie Colgan (Colorado) vs. Nick Vandermeer (Michigan), Oliver Pierce (Texas) vs. Alex Hernandez (Iowa)
    Consolation: J.C. Vercande (Iowa) vs. Nick Babcock (Colorado), Brandt Gavin (Wisconsin) vs. Jake Marlin (Iowa)

    160:
    Semifinals: Curt Maas (Minnesota) vs. Aaron Calderon (Michigan), Tait Simpson (Iowa) vs. Matthew Gray (Wisconsin)
    Consolation: Jackson Fox (Wisconsin) vs. Diorian Coleman (Arizona), Keilan Torres (Oklahoma) vs. Tim Miklus (Iowa)

    170:
    Semifinals: Alex Meyer (Iowa) vs. Kyle Kerres (Illinois), Levi Eck (Kansas) vs. Nick Fuller (Iowa)
    Consolation: Cooper Moore (Minnesota) vs. Zach Beard (Oklahoma), Kegan Gennrich (Wisconsin) vs. Jacob Morrissey (Wisconsin)

    182:
    Semifinals: Greg Wilson (Texas) vs. Quinn Faust (Wisconsin), Garrett Smith (Iowa) vs. Travis Lang (Missouri)
    Consolation: Cody Lindsay (Missouri) vs. Gerard Roman (Louisiana), Marcus Harrington (Iowa) vs. Robby Chubb (Wisconsin)

    195:
    Semifinals: Derek Geddings (Nebraska) vs. Parker Hines (Wisconsin), Steve Congenie (Illinois) vs. Jacob Davis (Illinois)
    Consolation: Joey Dedick (Wisconsin) vs. Brandon Larson (North Dakota) vs. Mitch Eull (Minnesota) vs. Blake Blair (Illinois)

    220:
    Semifinals: Willie Miklus (Iowa) vs. Austin Edison (Wisconsin), Marcus Malecek (Wisconsin) vs. Brian Moran (Michigan)
    Consolation: Ben Andrew (Arizona) vs. Nick Mabry (Texas), Brandon Rivera (Illinois) vs. Sage Hecox (Illinois)

    285:
    Semifinals: Adam Coon (Michigan) vs. Riley Delzer (Wisconsin), Cole Johnson (Wisconsin) vs. Nathan Jackson (Oklahoma)
    Consolation: Jeremy Brazil (Illinois) vs. Donte Winfield (Indiana), Collin Jensen (South Dakota) vs. Nathan Butler (Kansas)

    Cadet Folkstyle

    88:
    Semifinals: Andrew Smith (Minnesota) vs. Dalton Roberts (Michigan), Drews Hildebrandt (Indiana) vs. Louie Hayes (Illinois)
    Consolation: Michael Pfotenhauer (Illinois) vs. Robert Fairchild (Louisiana), Casey Phillips (Wisconsin) vs. Victor Gliva (Minnesota)

    94:
    Semifinals: Paul Fitterer (Minnesota) vs. Jack Mueller (Texas), Hunter Marko (Minnesota) vs. Danny Vega (Arizona)
    Consolation: Brenden Baker (Iowa) vs. Kyle Burton (Wyoming), Jaxon Sommers (Minnesota) vs. Riley Lull (Wisconsin)

    100:
    Semifinals: Beau Guffey (Oklahoma) vs. Roberto Campos (Illinois), Jarrett Reisenbechler (Missouri) vs. Mitchell McKee (Minnesota)
    Consolation: Henry Pohlmeyer (Iowa) vs. Devante Gray (Illinois), Garrett Pepple (Indiana) vs. Miguel Silva (Illinois)

    106:
    Semifinals: Jacob Schwarm (Iowa) vs. Cole Martin (Wisconsin), Christopher Debien (Tennessee) vs. Ke-Shawn Hayes (Missouri)
    Consolation: Tanner Rohweder (Iowa) vs. Kaid Brock (Oklahoma), Cameron Kelly (Ohio) vs. Branden Leyba (New Mexico)

    113:
    Semifinals: Matthew Kolodzik (Ohio) vs. Kris Williams (Illinois), Carter Happel (Iowa) vs. Jens Lantz (Wisconsin)
    Consolation: Garrett Rowe (Oklahoma) vs. Austin Stevison (Tennessee), Tommy Cash (Indiana) vs. Logan Griffin (Michigan)

    120:
    Semifinals: Max Thomsen (Iowa) vs. Zech Bresser (Oregon), Ryan Schuman (South Dakota) vs. Lawton Benna (Missouri)
    Consolation: Ben Harvey (Indiana) vs. Josh Bird (Wisconsin), Brady Ruden (Iowa) vs. Josh Fuqua (Indiana)

    126:
    Semifinals: Isaiah White (Illinois) vs. Cole Erickson (Iowa), Quinton Berres (Minnesota) vs. Fredy Stroker (Iowa)
    Consolation: Dewey Krueger (Wisconsin) vs. Darius Wright (Wisconsin), Zach Adams (Nebraska) vs. Jacob Rubio (Texas)

    132:
    Semifinals: Seth Gross (Minnesota) vs. Aaron Pico (California), Justin Acuff (Oregon) vs. Mark Voss (Minnesota)
    Consolation: Connor Flynn (Missouri) vs. Kasey Caelwerts (Wisconsin), Luis Bejarano (Colorado) vs. Bryce Paul (Iowa)

    138:
    Semifinals: Nick Reenan (Texas) vs. Zehlin Storr (Michigan), Brendon Kelley (Indiana) vs. Alec Wyatt (Colorado)
    Consolation: Mason Brownlee (Minnesota) vs. Joseph Hayek (Nebraska), Carver James (Illinois) vs. Drew Foster (Iowa)

    145:
    Semifinals: Dayton Racer (Minnesota) vs. Jonathan Viruet (Massachusetts), Chase Straw (Iowa) vs. Lucas Westrich (Minnesota)
    Consolation: Braxton Potrykus (Wisconsin) vs. Ben Donnelly (Minnesota), Josh Selly (Minnesota) vs. Mason Reinhardt (Wisconsin)

    152:
    Semifinals: Bo Nickal (Texas) vs. Jake Anderson (Minnesota), Travis Hettinga (Wisconsin) vs. Dustin Williams (Kansas)
    Consolation: Jay Sornson (Nebraska) vs. Paden Moore (Minnesota), Mark Hall (Minnesota) vs. Ronny Ponick (Wisconsin)

    160:
    Semifinals: Luke Norland (Minnesota) vs. Javaughn Perkins (Nebraska), J.P. Newton (Ohio) vs. Ethan Soderstrom (Wisconsin)
    Consolation: Dustin Gray (Missouri) vs. T.J. O’Hara (Minnesota), Dale Hillerman (Iowa) vs. Robert Steveson (Indiana)

    170:
    Semifinals: Zachary Doty (North Dakota) vs. Michael Pixley (Missouri), Zachary Benkovich (Illinois) vs. Chance Cooper (Missouri)
    Consolation: Billy Duffert (Wisconsin) vs. Tyler Berdahl (Minnesota), Gable Frandsen (Wisconsin) vs. Jake Briggs (Minnesota)

    182:
    Semifinals: Ethan Andersen (Iowa) vs. Nick Osowski (Wisconsin), Cash Wilcke (Iowa) vs. Cameron Thornberry (Illinois)
    Consolation: Nick Hoff (Minnesota) vs. Jacob Anderson (Nebraska) vs. Isaac Florell (Minnesota) vs. Elijah Preisser (Iowa)

    195:
    Semifinals: Ryley Howell (Iowa) vs. Connor Tolley (Indiana), Ben Elliott (Indiana) vs. Lance Benick (Minnesota)
    Consolation: James Russell (Michigan) vs. Tim Grote (Illinois), Landon Pelham (Michigan) vs. Jake Godinez (Illinois)

    220:
    Semifinals: Kaleb Staack (Iowa) vs. Noah Fleckenstein (Illinois), Thomas Baker (Ohio) vs. Kyler Childers (Oklahoma)
    Consolation: Mark Dunsing (Illinois) vs. Jack Ziemer (Minnesota), Austin Roberts (Wisconsin) vs. Jackson Ryan (Minnesota)

    285:
    Semifinals: Gavan Jolley-Little (Indiana) vs. Jacob Marnin (Iowa), Shawn Streck (Indiana) vs. Conor Karwath (Louisiana)
    Consolation: Zach Wood (Michigan) vs. Wyatt Schultz (North Dakota), Adam Blue (Minnesota) with a bye]]>    74660Sat, 31 Mar 2012 05:06:30 +0000    No. 1 Blair Academy vs. No. 2 St. Edward Previewhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/no-1-blair-academy-vs-no-2-st-edward-preview-r74160/
    The finals match is slated to begin at 5:15 p.m., and there will be a free live broadcast exclusively on NHSCA.com, with an archive on the High School Television Network (HSTN) for future viewing. The following is a weight-by-weight breakdown of the battle for number one in the nation.

    106: Jordan Kutler (Blair Academy) vs. L.J. Bentley (St. Edward)
    This match features a pair of freshmen, both of whom are somewhat undersized for the weight class. However, it is Kutler who has had the better season to date, with a seventh place finish at the Beast of the East, while going 2-2 but failing to place at the Walsh Ironman and POWERade. Bentley was two-and-out at the Ironman, but has shown signs of progress since then reversing his second Ironman loss in a dual meet the next week and going 3-3 at the Clash including a tight loss to nationally ranked Coy Ozias. If the Eagles are to have any chance of poaching the dual meet, this is a match they probably need to win; however, look for Blair to win a tight decision. Team: Blair 3-0

    113: No. 3 Joey McKenna (Blair Academy) vs. Alex Moore (St. Edward)
    McKenna is the obvious favorite in this match, having outplaced Moore at the Ironman (second vs. fourth) and possessing the greater resume. This past summer, McKenna was a Cadet National double All-American in Fargo, winning the Greco-Roman tournament for a second consecutive year. Against common opponent Aaron Assad, McKenna possesses 4-3 and 5-0 victories in the Ironman and Beast semifinals, while Moore beat Assad 3-1 in overtime in the consolation semifinals at the Ironman. Expect McKenna to earn a somewhat low-scoring but decisive decision result. Team: Blair 6-0

    120: No. 19 P.J. Klee (Blair Academy) vs. Colin Heffernan (St. Edward)
    Klee is the more proven commodity in this match, though both have been adversely affected by logjams in their area of the lineup during their careers. Last year, Klee (and also Max Hvolbek) was stuck behind the since graduated pair of Evan Silver and Caleb Richardson at 112 and 119 pounds; while Colin Heffernan was forced to wrestle up at 130 pounds due to the presence of Dean Heil and Markus Scheidel at 119 and 125. Prior to his freshman year, in the summer of 2010, Klee was a Cadet freestyle All-American, while last spring he earned All-American honors in freestyle at the FILA Cadet Nationals. This season, he placed sixth at the Ironman and second at both the Beast and POWERade. Heffernan is a complete wild card, as he has wrestled in limited competition due to making the slow descent to this weight class, since Heil and Edgar Bright occupy the weight classes above. He is dangerous, as shown by productive runs this past off-season at the FILA Cadet Nationals and Cadet National Duals in freestyle. The safe pick here is Klee in a close decision, though this is a match St. Edward can hope to poach. Team: Blair 9-0

    126: No. 15 Max Hvolbek (Blair Academy) vs. No. 2 Dean Heil (St. Edward)
    While this is listed as a showdown between nationally ranked wrestlers, it is also a match where there resides a clear favorite. During the course of this season, Heil has a 5-1 record against wrestlers ranked in the top 12 of their respective weight classes, while Hvolbek is 0-5 with all matches being rather non-competitive. In fact, against common ranked opposition (Jimmy Gulibon, Brandon Jeske, and Joey Dance), Heil is 4-0 and Hvolbek 0-4. The one chance Hvolbek may have to win this match is to score points in the top position, though a more likely (but not probable) scenario could involve Heil extending this out to a major decision. Team: Blair 9-3

    132: No. 2 Mark Grey (Blair Academy) vs. No. 8 Edgar Bright (St. Edward)
    This is probably the most anticipated individual matchup of the whole dual meet, with two of the most talented and impressive wrestlers of the early season going toe-to-toe. At the Walsh Ironman, Bright placed second while Grey placed fourth; in fact, Bright beat Alex Cisneros in the semifinal, who beat Grey for third place. However, in the championship match, Bright was upended by Randy Cruz, and Grey was able to avenge that loss in the Ironman semifinal the next week in the Beast of the East final. In other matches since then, Grey added a POWERade title to the Ironman title, and Bright has split matches against nationally ranked competition (losing 3-1 in overtime to Kevin Norstrem and beating Joey Ward 3-1; Grey beat Ward 5-3 in the Ironman quarterfinal). Based on their overall careers, it is not a good proposition to predict against Mark Grey, and I will not be doing so here; however, fans of St. Edward winning this match should mark this down as one they need/want to get. Team: Blair 12-3

    138: No. 4 Todd Preston (Blair Academy) vs. Nick Barber (St. Edward)
    On paper, this appears to be a mismatch. Preston is a two-time National Prep champion and two-time Junior National freestyle All-American, while Barber has placed fourth at the state tournament once and had a poor Junior freestyle tournament last summer going 1-2. However, more relevant to the match on Saturday is what has happened this season. At the Walsh Ironman, Preston placed third to Barber's fifth, including a 1-0 head-to-head victory for Preston in the consolation semifinal. Additionally, both wrestlers have wrestled Nate Skonieczny this year; Barber losing a tight 3-2 decision in a dual meet, while Preston earned a 2-1 victory in the tiebreaker in the finals of the POWERade. The safe pick here is Preston in a close match, but one where the outcome is clear. Team: Blair 15-3

    145: No. 9 Dylan Milonas (Blair Academy) vs. Markus Scheidel (St. Edward)
    The sophomore Milonas has been one of the breakout stars of the early season winning titles at the Ironman and Beast of the East after failing to place at either of those tournaments last season. Additionally, he was a runner-up at the POWERade, and in all has a 6-1 record against nationally ranked wrestlers this season after dominating his way to a Cadet freestyle title in which he did not give up a single point. Though he is the underdog in this match, Scheidel is a pesky and dangerous opponent. He does have a consolation win at the Walsh Ironman over Reno TOC champ Joey Lavallee, and extended the sensational Mark Hall to overtime at the Clash before falling just short. The pick here is for Milonas to win by decision. Team: Blair 18-3

    152: Russ Parsons (Blair Academy) vs. Matt Van Curen (St. Edward)
    Other than 106 this is one of two matches of the dual meet in which neither team presents a nationally ranked wrestler. That does not mean the match is unimportant, nor that the wrestlers here lack talent. Parsons is clearly the more consistent performer, as shown by top four placements at his three major tournaments season to date (fourth at the Ironman, second at the Beast, and champion at POWERade). In order to intelligently predict how Van Curen will perform in any match -- heck during any moment of the match -- one would need powers unknown to mankind. He has incomparable talent, as shown by throwing Felipe Martinez and Bo Jordan to their backs during matches over the years; however, more commonplace has been disappointment, as shown by two 0-2 state tournaments followed by failing to make the state tournament last year. These two wrestlers met in the quarterfinals at the Walsh Ironman, with Parsons winning 7-4. For the sake of sanity, let's pick a similar outcome this time around; however, the universe of possible outcomes is completely undefined. Team: Blair 21-3

    160: Patrick Coover (Blair Academy) vs. Jacob Davis (St. Edward)
    And this is the other match that does not feature a nationally ranked wrestler for either team; however, both wrestlers have strong resumes of success. Coover has placed in all three major tournaments this year -- seventh at Ironman, fifth at Beast, and fourth at POWERade; while Davis out-placed Coover at the Ironman with a sixth place finish, which included a semifinal appearance. Against common opponent Dylan Reel at the Ironman, Davis split matches (winning in the quarterfinal, losing for fifth place), while Coover suffered a 6-2 setback in consolation wrestling. The prediction here is for Davis to win a close decision; however, if Coover can pull the upset here, this would be an indication that things are not going to go anywhere close to St. Edward's way. Team: Blair 21-6

    170: Jack Wedholm (Blair Academy) vs. No. 5 Mark Martin (St. Edward)
    Wedholm did not wrestle for Blair at either the Ironman or the Beast of the East, but did place sixth at the POWERade after a season-ending injury to Addison Knepshield at the Beast of the East. Martin was champion at the Walsh Ironman this season, and was a Junior National freestyle All-American and FILA Junior National freestyle champion this past off-season. In the semifinal of the Walsh Ironman, Martin and Knepshield wrestled, with Martin earning a 10-2 major decision. Look for a similar type of outcome here, with fans of the Eagles hoping Martin can muster additional bonus with a pin. Team: Blair 21-10

    182: Michael Mocco (Blair Academy) vs. No. 11 Domenic Abounader (St. Edward)
    Though not known as a world-beater, Mocco has been solid for Blair this year going against a tough schedule, placing fourth at the Ironman, fifth at the Beast, and fourth at the POWERade. However, Abounader is on a different plane, having won state as a sophomore in 2011, being a two-time Cadet National freestyle All-American, and finishing as runner-up in this year's Walsh Ironman. When the two wrestlers met at the Ironman, Abounader earned a 7-1 semifinal victory. However, in last year's dual meet, Abounader was able to pin Mocco. In this match, Abounader is the clear favorite and looking for big bonus points; however, the prediction here will be a compromise of sorts, a major decision for Abounader. Team: Blair 21-14

    195: No. 15 Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy) vs. No. 20 James Suvak (St. Edward)
    Though this is a showdown of nationally ranked wrestlers, it is lower than one might think on the food chain of interest in this dual meet. Of course, that is a testament to how talented both squads truly are. Mattiace placed third at National Preps last year in the 189 pound weight class, while Suvak was third in Ohio's big-school division at 189. In last year's dual meet Mattiace was able to muster a victory, while at this year's Ironman, Mattiace was champion and Suvak third. Against common opponent Seth Calvert, Mattiace won by 6-1 decision with Suvak losing 4-0. The pick here is for Mattiace to replicate the decision from last year's dual meet, though St. Edward fans are marking down this as a match that can be reversed. Team: Blair 24-14

    220: David Farr (Blair Academy) vs. No. 14 Ty Walz (St. Edward)
    These two wrestlers met in the fifth place match at the Walsh Ironman, with Walz exiting as a 10-5 victor. Remember, that was coming off a disappointing afternoon session for Walz, as he lost an overtime match in the semifinals to A.J. Vizcarrando before being upset by Chalmer Freauf in the consolation semifinal (he avenged that loss to Freauf this past week). This past off-season, Walz was a FILA Cadet National freestyle runner-up and Junior National freestyle All-American. The pick here is for Walz to win the match by a convincing decision, while fans of St. Edward will be hoping for some sort of bonus points. Team: Blair 24-17

    285: No. 1 Brooks Black (Blair Academy) vs. No. 4 Greg Kuhar/Joe Belford (St. Edward)
    Kuhar was runner-up at the Ironman to Black, losing by 3-1 decision, and has never beaten Black when counting two prior in-season dual meets and multiple freestyle matches. This segment was going to be optimistic for Kuhar, as he came into the Ironman off only two weeks of practice from the football playoffs, and he just capped off a tremendous Clash, which included a 6-2 victory over Nick Nevills. However, he did not wrestle this past weekend at the State Duals, and there are questions to if he will wrestle on Saturday. Black is the obvious number one in the country, and has controlled/dominated opposition this year in winning the Ironman, Beast, and POWERade. If Black wrestles Kuhar, Black by decision; if it's Belford, Black by pin or major. Team: Blair 28-17

    Final thoughts: As can be seen here, the on-paper matchups for Blair. However, the potential for bonus points resides more in the St. Edward camp. The dual meet as presented here was 9-5 in matches for Blair. If the Eagles can somehow flip a net total of two outcomes, I would favor them to win in a 7-7 match scenario. Of the fourteen predictions, I can see St. Edward reversing outcomes at 106, 120, 132, and/or 195; while I could see Blair reversing the outcome at 160. The unexpected always plays a critical dynamic in dual meet wrestling, as does momentum. Wrestling fans everywhere should look forward to an awesome dual meet in the early evening on Saturday, and one that should do high school wrestling proud.

    Other details of the event:
    Blair Academy will wrestle three preliminary pool matches against Framingham, Mass., Palisades, Pa., and Cedar Cliff, Pa. The Buccaneers can most certainly substitute liberally in those three dual meets and dominate the opposition. Two potential matches against Cedar Cliff could be somewhat relevant, though clearly Blair wins -- Grey against Chris Vassar at 132, and Preston against Max Good at 138.

    St. Edward will wrestle three preliminary matches against Benton, Pa., Souderton, Pa., and No. 46 Bergen Catholic, N.J. Again, the Eagles can substitute liberally without problem and dominate. However, a couple of matches against Bergen Catholic could pique fan interest -- Bright against Connor Melde at 132, and Davis against No. 13 Johnny Sebastian at 160.

    Assuming Blair wins their pool, they would face the winner of either Pool B or Pool C in a semifinal at 3:30 p.m. Pool B is anchored by Don Bosco Prep, N.J. -- featuring Beast of the East champion at 152 pounds, No. 17 Sal Mastriani; eighth place finisher at 195 Razohn Gross; and freshman sensation Zack Chakonis, who placed sixth at 220. Pool C could be won by either Timberlane, N.H., or Mifflinburg, Pa. Timberlane features 2009 Beast of the East champion Zach Bridson (112), while Mifflinburg features Cadet Greco-Roman All-American Cole Walter (120) and Super 32 placer Ty Walter (160).

    Assuming St. Edward wins its pool, they would face the winner of either Pool D or Pool E in a semifinal at that same 3:30 p.m. time. Pool D is anchored by Germantown Academy, Pa., which features National Prep champion Chris Yankowich (138), Beast of the East third place finisher Nick Grossi (220), along with Ironman and Beast placer Chuck Boddy (285). Pool E is anchored by Northampton, Pa., which is led by two-time Beast of the East placer Jason Stephen (138).

    Link to pools and schedule: http://www.nhsca.com/images/files/2012%20Festival%20Pools%20&%20Schedule.pdf ]]>    74160Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:43:17 +0000    2011 Beast of the East Recaphttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-beast-of-the-east-recap-r74041/
    Champions for Blair were No. 3 Joey McKenna (113), No. 3 Mark Grey (132), No. 7 Todd Preston (138), No. 12 Dylan Milonas (145), and No. 1 Brooks Black (285). Finishing as runners-up were No. 17 P.J. Klee (120), Russ Parsons (152), and No. 15 Frank Mattiace (195).

    The first championship match for the Buccaneers was the easiest of the night, as McKenna got his hand raised at 113 pounds without having to wrestle, after losing in the finals last year at the Beast. No. 9 Zeke Moisey (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) medically forfeited the championship match due to an injury sustained during his 4-4 ultimate tiebreaker rideout victory in the semifinal round against No. 15 J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.). Moisey was able to replicate his victory from last week at the Ironman, and again avenge a loss to Wert in last year's Beast final at 112.

    In the semifinal round, McKenna scored a 5-0 victory over Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Ohio). It was a second consecutive victory for McKenna over Assad in the semifinal round, having won 4-3 at the Ironman last week. "I didn't know who (Assad) was last week," said McKenna in discussing his semifinal opponent. "However, now I knew how he wrestled, though it wasn't that different a match (except for the score)."

    McKenna had slight disappointment about not having a match in the final. "It would've been nice to win and flip the loss from last year," said McKenna. "None the less it feels good (to win a title)."

    Likewise Grey faced a Bethlehem Catholic wrestler in the championship match, No. 7 Randy Cruz. Cruz had upended Grey 9-4 in the semifinal round at the Ironman last week. However, it was a different story this week, as Grey earned the 4-2 victory keyed by a first period takedown. That performance gave him a fourth Beast of the East title, the first wrestler ever to accomplish the feat, despite having never won the Ironman the week before.

    "I always come here trying to bounce back, and forget about the Ironman," Grey said.

    Probably the most interesting sequence came at the start of the second period when Grey chose the down position despite having been ridden out in the second period of both the semifinal and consolation final last week. Cruz also scored a two-point near fall in the second period of the Ironman semifinal. However, this time Grey extended the 2-0 lead to a 4-0 lead due to an illegal hold by Cruz, a figure four to the head trying to avoid being reversed, and an escape thereafter.

    "After Ironman, (Jeff) Buxton and (assistant coach Paul) Klavel worked with me on crab and leg ride counters," Grey commented on a key adjustment from this week. "Despite dealing with an injury, I was very motivated to win a fourth Beast title and avenge last week's loss."

    The performance this weekend, three falls, an 8-3 semifinal victory over Tyson Dippery (Central Dauphin, Pa.), and that finals victory earned Grey a fourth Beast title and Most Outstanding Wrestler honors.

    Like McKenna, Preston was able to ascend one step higher on the podium with a 1-0 victory over Alfred Bannister (Bishop McNamara, Md.) in the championship match. "It feels good to be a champ," said Preston, "Just shows the hard work I do all year pays off."

    Key to the victory were a second period ride out, and then Bannister let Preston loose right at the start of the third period for the match's lone point. Despite some attempts, Bannister - the lowest seed to reach the final (10th) -- was unable to really break through the Preston defense.

    "I knew what (Bannister) was going to do," said Preston about his finals opponent, "so I wanted to make sure to keep contact throughout the match."

    For a second consecutive week, Milonas beat multiple wrestlers ranked ahead of him nationally on the way to a tournament title at 145 pounds. This week, it was a 7-5 overtime victory over No. 6 Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.) in the semifinal and a 6-2 victory over No. 9 Matt Cimato (LaSalle, Pa.) in the championship final. Tied 2-2 headed into the third period of the final, Milonas scored a reversal midway through the period. Then, late in the period, he fended off a couple of reversal attempts by Cimato, countering the last of them into two near fall points at the buzzer.

    "I just have to stay tough and push the pace," said Milonas about his ability to win the close matches against formidable opposition. "I've got the best people to work with, in the practice room, so I can focus on doing what I need to do to get better."

    The sophomore Milonas pulled off the Ironman-Beast double after failing to place in both events as a freshman last year in the same weight class. "It just shows how much I've improved in a year, and it's a great feeling," he said.

    The last of the five champions for the Buccaneers was junior Brooks Black at 285 pounds, who upended Dink Purnell (A.I. DuPont, Del.) 3-0 on an opening period takedown and second period escape. The pair had wrestled to a one point match during a November preseason event at Blair. "It was a preseason match," said Black, "I had things to work on, and I have over the last month. I thought I would face him in the final here, I've been here before, so it's my element."

    Finishing second in the standings to Blair, a long way's back, was No. 10 Wyoming Seminary, Pa. with 179 points. The Blue Knights were anchored by champion Eric Morris (170) and third place finishes from No. 9 Dominick Malone (126) and freshman Michael Johnson, Jr. (285) who had six pins over the two day event. They also had a fourth place finish from No. 7 A.J. Vizcarrando (220), a seventh place finisher from Tyler White (138), and an eighth place finish from Cohl Fulk (145).

    The same six wrestlers placed at both the Ironman and the Beast for Wyoming Seminary. "These two weeks are a gauntlet, but we came through it better than when it began" said head coach Scott Green. "If those six wrestlers can place at these two tournaments, they can compete with anyone in the country. It's our job (as coaches) to keep them at that level, and bring the rest of the squad up (to that level)."

    Morris, ranked No. 7 in the nation, at 170 faced No. 13 Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) in a rematch of a semifinal match from last week that Morris won narrowly. This week, it was a similarly narrow match, as Morris won 1-0 riding out Riddick in the third period.

    "I had ridden him out in the past, but he's always a tough opponent" Morris said about Riddick. "I still felt confident in that third period situation up 1-0 in the top position, and was able to get good positios and breakdowns to win the match."

    Even though No. 14 Bethlehem Catholic, Pa. did fall short in three finals matches – Moisey at 113, Randy Cruz at 132, and Riddick at 170 -- the Hawks did bring home a champion in No. 3 Darian Cruz (106) and earn third place with 163.5 points. Darian Cruz, a junior, earned a repeat Ironman title with a 10-1 finals victory over No. 12 Vincenzo Joseph (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.), after a 12-6 decision against No. 17 Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.) in the semifinals, and three other matches that did not go the distance (two pins and one technical fall).

    "It feels great to bring home two titles (in a row) to Bethlehem Catholic," Darian Cruz said, "and I want to get a third one next year. I had to push the pace against the (last two) tough opponents I had, just have fun, and win."

    A close fourth in the standings was No. 12 Christiansburg, Va. with 159 points. The Blue Demons had No. 11 Zach Epperly (160) earn a weight class title and the Major Ray Mendoza Award for scoring the most team points of any individual in the tournament with 34 in all. No. 6 Joey Dance (126) finished as a runner-up, while Ozias (106) and Wert (113) each brought home third place to bounce back from semifinal losses.

    Epperly scored a second period pin at the 3:31 mark of the championship final against sophomore Johnny Sebastian (Bergen Catholic, N.J.). In advancing to the final, Sebastian beat fellow sophomore Patrick Coover (Blair Academy, N.J.) 1-0 in the quarterfinals on a third period rideout, and then upended No. 9 Jacob Crawford (Millbrook, Va.) 3-2 I the semifinal round.

    Epperly had to rally from behind in his last two matches, a 9-7 overtime victory in the semifinals against fellow junior Brett Harner (Norristown, Pa.), and the pin against Sebastian on a counter move while trailing 4-2 midway through the second period. "I felt some pressure coming from his duck-under attempt, tried to jump through, and happened to catch him in position," Epperly said. "Once I snuck in the half-nelson, (Sebastian) was right on his back."

    In addition to Epperly, two other wrestlers from the Commonwealth of Virginia brought home Beast of the East titles, Will Mason (120) for Cape Henry Collegiate and No. 4 Brandon Jeske (126) for Cox.

    Mason upended No. 17 P.J. Klee (Blair Academy) by a 7-6 score, coming back from a 5-3 deficit after two periods with a reversal and late takedown. "I just had to keep going," was the comment about the comeback effort. "My condition is up there (with the best of them), and it feels awesome to finally win a title (after placing outside the finals the previous three years) at the Beast."

    Jeske was a 5-4 ultimate tiebreaker winner against Dance, who he considers to be his best friend. Dance scored the only takedown of regulation in the second period, but a late stalling call in the third period took it to overtime tied at 3-3. Though Dance was in deep multiple times during regulation and overtime, Jeske was able to fend off the attacks heading into the tiebreaker periods, where each wrestler got an escape. Having scored first with a second period escape, Jeske chose down and got the escape to win.

    "Wrestling Joey (Dance) is the hardest thing to do in the world (though the pair did wrestle in the consolation final last week, Jeske won that 3-2), we've trained with each other a ton, heck we lived together for two years even," said Jeske. "To be able to treat it like just another match, I thought about other things (like possibly winning the outstanding wrestler award) all week."

    This was Jeske's first major in-season tournament title, though he won Cadet freestyle in the summer of 2010. "I've been so close so many times, yet got the stage fright," Jeske said. "It's all about mindset, and this time I broke through."

    Other weight class champions were No. 16 Salvatore Mastriani (Don Bosco Prep, N.J.) at 152 pounds and Ryan Wolfe (Caravel Academy, Del.) at 182, then a pair of football players in No. 10 Perry Hills (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.) at 195 and No. 2 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) at 220 also won titles.

    Mastriani won his last two matches of the tournament by 5-3 scores respectively. It was an overtime match against Garrett Peppelman (Central Dauphin, Pa.) in the semifinals before upending Russ Parsons (Blair Academy, N.J.) in the final with first and third period takedowns to bounce back from getting called for an early illegal slam.

    "I was still confident, but I had to be more cautious," said Mastriani about his match plan after the illegal slam. "It was hard to finish, but I kept getting some good shots and angles, and felt comfortable despite the tight (nature of the) match."

    Wolfe gave the host state a champion after they did not get one last year, though Delaware had at least one in each of the four previous additions. He upended the top seed Scott Gibbons (Archbishop Rummel, La.) in the semifinal 7-3, and then beat No. 15 David Reck (Colonial Forge, Va.) 3-2 in the championship match keyed by a late first period takedown.

    "It feels great, unforgettable, best feeling I've ever had," said Wolfe about winning a title in front of the home crowd. "I've never placed at a major tournament before (was one match short at Super32 this year), and to finally do it, all the hard work paid off."

    The sophomore sensation Snyder, ranked No. 2 in the Class of 2014 pound-for-pound, made it an Ironman-Beast double this year and back-to-back Beast of the East titles with a 2-1 victory over No. 5 (at 285) John Rizzo (Richland, Pa.). Prior to the final it was three pins, a 25-10 technical fall, and a 4-0 victory for Snyder. However, the final was much tougher.

    "He's a tough opponent, and I hope to see him again," Snyder said of Rizzo. "Those are the fun matches, the ones that are close and come down to the wire."

    And indeed it did, as Snyder used a penalty point in the second period, for a second stalling on Rizzo, and a third period escape to earn the narrow victory. The wrestlers each had leg attack chances in the third period that were fended.

    During the football season, Snyder was a nose guard for the Good Counsel football team, one that was ranked No. 5 in the nation this year. In fact, he was even on varsity last year as a freshman. "I'm wrestling up to the start of football practice," said Snyder," and I even do some wrestling after football practice in the fall."

    On the other hand, the 195-pound champion Perry Hills is much more atypical of the wrestling/football combination guys. He has verbally committed to play Quarterback at the University of Maryland next year. In fact, he was not in the Ironman last week due to visiting Maryland, and will not be at POWERade in two weeks due to an all-star game. He upended No. 15 Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy, 3-1, with a second period takedown.

    "I've been practicing for just three weeks," said Hills about coming into wrestling off of football season, "In fact, before this, I had not been on a mat since state (early last March)."

    This has been natural for him, as he's been doing the wrestling/football combination since he was five or six years old. Even as a quarterback, Hills finds wrestling beneficial.

    "The mental and physical toughness involved (in wrestling) makes be better. Every QB should wrestle."

    Finals Results:
    106: No. 3 Darian Cruz (Beth. Catholic, Pa.) maj. dec. No. 12 V. Joseph (Pitt. Central Catholic, Pa.), 9-1
    113: No. 3 Joey McKenna (Blair Academy, N.J.) won by forfeit over No. 9 Zeke Moisey (Beth. Catholic, Pa.)
    120: Will Mason (Cape Henry Collegiate, Va.) dec. No. 17 P.J. Klee (Blair Academy, N.J.), 7-6
    126: No. 4 Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.) dec. No. 6 Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.), 5-4 UTB
    132: No. 3 Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. No. 7 Randy Cruz (Beth. Catholic, Pa.), 4-2
    138: No. 7 Todd Preston (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. Alfred Bannister (Bishop McNamara, Md.), 1-0
    145: No. 12 Dylan Milonas (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. No. 9 Matt Cimato (LaSalle, Pa.), 6-2
    152: No. 16 Salvatore Mastriani (Don Bosco Prep, N.J.) dec. Russ Parsons (Blair Academy, N.J.), 5-3
    160: No. 11 Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.) pinned Johnny Sebastian (Bergen Catholic, N.J.), 3:31
    170: No. 7 Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) dec. No. 13 Elliott Riddick (Beth. Catholic, Pa.), 1-0
    182: Ryan Wolfe (Caravel Academy, Del.) dec. No. 15 David Reck (Colonial Forge, Va.), 3-2
    195: No. 10 Perry Hills (Pitt. Central Catholic, Pa.) dec. No. 15 Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy, N.J.), 3-1
    220: No. 2 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) dec. No. 5 (at 285) John Rizzo (Richland, Pa.), 2-1
    285: No. 1 Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. Dink Purnell (A.I. DuPont, Del.), 3-0

    Team Standings (Top 10):
    1. No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J. 321.5
    2. No. 10 Wyoming Seminary, Pa. 179
    3. No. 14 Bethlehem Catholic, Pa. 163.5
    4. No. 12 Christiansburg, Va. 159
    5. No. 28 Central Dauphin, Pa. 126.5
    6. No. 40 Colonial Forge, Va. 113
    7. No. 38 Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa. 107
    8. No. 47 McDonogh, Md. 99.5
    9. Jackson Memorial, N.J. 92.5
    10 (tie). No. 41 Bergen Catholic, N.J.; Smyrna, Del. 86]]>    74041Mon, 19 Dec 2011 02:56:58 +0000    2011 Beast of the East Finals Matchups/Resultshttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-beast-of-the-east-finals-matchupsresults-r74030/@JLowe_intermat.

    106: No. 3 Darian Cruz (Beth. Catholic, Pa.) maj. dec. No. 12 V. Joseph (Pitt. Central Catholic, Pa.), 9-1
    113: No. 3 Joey McKenna (Blair Academy, N.J.) won by forfeit over No. 9 Zeke Moisey (Beth. Catholic, Pa.)
    120: Will Mason (Cape Henry Collegiate, Va.) dec. No. 17 P.J. Klee (Blair Academy, N.J.), 7-6
    126: No. 4 Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.) dec. No. 6 Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.), 5-4 UTB
    132: No. 3 Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. No. 7 Randy Cruz (Beth. Catholic, Pa.), 4-2
    138: No. 7 Todd Preston (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. Alfred Bannister (Bishop McNamara, Md.), 1-0
    145: No. 12 Dylan Milonas (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. No. 9 Matt Cimato (LaSalle, Pa.), 6-2
    152: No. 16 Salvatore Mastriani (Don Bosco Prep, N.J.) dec. Russ Parsons (Blair Academy, N.J.), 5-3
    160: No. 11 Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.) pinned Johnny Sebastian (Bergen Catholic, N.J.), 3:31
    170: No. 7 Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) dec. No. 13 Elliott Riddick (Beth. Catholic, Pa.), 1-0
    182: Ryan Wolfe (Caravel Academy, Del.) dec. No. 15 David Reck (Colonial Forge, Va.), 3-2
    195: No. 10 Perry Hills (Pitt. Central Catholic, Pa.) dec. No. 15 Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy, N.J.), 3-1
    220: No. 2 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) dec. No. 5 (at 285) John Rizzo (Richland, Pa.), 2-1
    285: No. 1 Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. Dink Purnell (A.I. DuPont, Del.), 3-0]]>    74030Sun, 18 Dec 2011 20:33:47 +0000    2011 Beast of the East Team Standings (Day 1)https://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-beast-of-the-east-team-standings-day-1-r74022/2. No. 10 Wyoming Seminary, Pa. 110 (6/4)
    3. No. 14 Bethlehem Catholic, Pa. 88-1/2 (4/3)
    4. No. 40 Colonial Forge, Va. 86 (3/2)
    5. No. 12 Christiansburg, Va. 83 (4/1)
    6. Mechanicsburg, Pa. 74 (1/4)
    7. No. 47 McDonogh, Md. 72-1/2 (3/3)
    8. No. 38 Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa. 71 (4/3)
    9. No. 28 Central Dauphin, Pa. 69 (3/4)
    10. Jackson Memorial, N.J. 66-1/2 (2/4)

    Other nationally ranked teams: 12 – Bergen Catholic, N.J.63, 22 - No. 34 Timber Creek, N.J. 50]]>    74022Sun, 18 Dec 2011 03:50:01 +0000    2011 Beast of the East Quarterfinal Pairingshttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-beast-of-the-east-quarterfinal-pairings-r74017/106:
    No. 3 Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) vs. Anthony Cefolo (Hanover Park, N.J.)
    Sean Badua (Osbourn Park, Va.) vs. No. 14 Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.)
    No. 14 Brent Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.) vs. Alec Huxford (Jackson Memorial, N.J.)
    Hunter Manley (South County, Va.) vs. No. 12 Vincenzo Joseph (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.)

    113:
    No. 3 Joey McKenna (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Zach Fuentes (Norristown, Pa.)
    Zach Bridson (Timberlane, N.H.) vs. Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Ohio)
    No. 15 J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. Luis Gonzalez (North Bergen, N.J.)
    Cody Stageberg (Cox, Va.) vs. No. 9 Zeke Moisey (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)

    120:
    No. 17 P.J. Klee (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Evan Botwin (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)
    Korbin Levin (Pleasant Grove, Ut.) vs. Ricky Carter (Timber Creek, N.J.)
    Will Mason (Cape Henry Collegiate, Va.) vs. Anthony Giraldo (North Bergen, N.J.)
    Michael Marino (Garnet Valley, Pa.) vs. Kaleb Lemaire (Caesar Rodney, Del.)

    126:
    No. 4 Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.) vs. Michael Hayes (Colonial Forge, Va.)
    Kyle Loeb (Garnet Valley, Pa.) vs. No. 17 Max Hvolbek (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    No. 9 Dominick Malone (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) vs. Eric Friedman (St. Paul's, Md.)
    Clay Walker (Eastside, S.C.) vs. No. 6 Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.)

    132:
    No. 3 Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Demetri D'Orsaneo (Owen J. Roberts, Pa.)
    No. 19 Jeffrey Ott (Belmont Hill, Mass.) vs. Tyson Dippery (Central Dauphin, Pa.)
    Connor Melde (Bergen Catholic, N.J.) vs. Dennis Gustafson (Forest Park, Va.)
    Patrick Duggan (Cumberland Valley, Pa.) vs. No. 7 Randy Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)

    138:
    No. 7 Todd Preston (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Mike Springer (Norristown, Pa.)
    Ross Benzel (Kellam, Va.) vs. John Fahy (Trinity, Ky.)
    Shyheim Brown (Central Dauphin, Pa.) vs. Derek Arnold (Westfield, Va.)
    Alfred Bannister (Bishop McNamara, Md.) vs. Jorge Lopez (Delbarton, N.J.)

    145:
    No. 12 Dylan Milonas (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Justin Staudenmayer (Plymouth-Whitemarsh, Pa.)
    No. 6 Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.) vs. Brooks Martino (Robinson, Va.)
    No. 9 Matt Cimato (LaSalle, Pa.) vs. Max Smith (C.E. Smith, Del.)
    Cohl Fulk (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) vs. Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.)

    152:
    No. 18 Peter Galli (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.) vs. Wayne Stinson (Northern Burlington, N.J.)
    Kirk Johnson (Forest Park, Va.) vs. Russ Parsons (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) vs. Garrett Peppelman (Central Dauphin, Pa.)
    Tyler Manion (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.) vs. No. 16 Salvatore Mastriani (Don Bosco Prep, N.J.)

    160:
    No. 9 Jacob Crawford (Millbrook, Va.) vs. Toby Hague (McDonogh, Md.)
    Johnny Sebastian (Bergen Catholic, N.J.) vs. Patrick Coover (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    Brett Harner (Norristown, Pa.) vs. Patrick Davis (Woodbridge, Del.)
    Rustin Barrick (Mechanicsburg, Pa.) vs. No. 11 Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.)

    170:
    No.7 Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) vs. Tanner Tinsley (Hanover, Va.)
    Greg Bacci (Malvern Prep, Pa.) vs. Anthony Pafumi (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.)
    Shane Springer (Norristown, Pa.) vs. Tyler Rill (Mt. St. Joseph's, Md.)
    Robert Shade (Timber Creek, N.J.) vs. No. 13 Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)

    182:
    Scott Gibbons (Archbishop Rummel, La.) vs. Spencer Neff (Good Counsel, Md.)
    Michael Mocco (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Ryan Wolfe (Caravel Academy, Del.)
    No. 15 David Reck (Colonial Forge, Va.) vs. Tyler Wood (West Chester Rustin, Pa.)
    Matt Hoare (Cumberland Valley, Pa.) vs. No. 11 (at 195) Dallas Winston (Jackson Memorial, N.J.)

    195:
    No. 10 Perry Hills (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.) vs. Razohn Gross (Don Bosco Prep, N.J.)
    Kevin Marvel (McDonogh, Md.) vs. Joe Jessen (Millbrook, Va.)
    Dylan Devine (DeMatha, Md.) vs. Matt Garrity (Colonial Forge, Va.)
    Mike Green (St. Paul's, Md.) vs. No. 15 Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    220:
    No. 2 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) vs. Harry Mauk (Malvern Prep, Pa.)
    Zach DeLuca (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.) vs. Nick Grossi (Germantown Academy, Pa.)
    No. 7 A.J. Vizcarrando (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) vs. Marshall Hollerith (St. Christopher's Va.)
    David Farr (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. No. 5 (at 285) John Rizzo (Richland, Pa.)

    285:
    No. 1 Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Zach Dawe (Pleasant Grove, Ut.)
    Jake Pinkston (Robinson, Va.) vs. Michael Johnson, Jr. (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)
    Daquante Timbers (Freedom, Va.) vs. Dink Purnell (A.I. DuPont, Del.)
    Chuck Boddy (Germantown Academy, Pa.) vs. No. 16 Avree Robinson (Susquehanna Township, Pa.)]]>    74017Sun, 18 Dec 2011 01:07:14 +0000    2011 Beast of the East Running Notebookhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-beast-of-the-east-running-notebook-r74016/@JLowe_intermat. Check the tournament website, http://www.beastwrestling.com, periodically for updated brackets.

    2:25 p.m. ET: Finals at 3:15 p.m., or thereabouts. View finals pairings/results.

    2:20 p.m. ET: 1-1 overtime in the last semi between Avree Robinson (Susq. Twp., Pa.) and Dink Purnell (A.I. DuPont, Del.) Hospitality room food/lunch awaits when this match ends.

    2:10 p.m. ET: John Rizzo (Richland, Pa.) with the ultimate tiebreaker rideout victory over A.J. Vizcarrando (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.). Wyoming Seminary went 0-for-4 in semifinal matches. Last semi coming up - thank god.

    2:00 p.m. ET: Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.) made it an 8th Buccaneer in the finals with a 6-0 victory over freshman Michael Johnson, Jr. (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) at 285. John Rizzo (Richland, Pa.) will take A.J. Vizcarrando (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) to overtime with the score tied 3-apiece.

    1:50 p.m. ET: The nation's No. 2 sophomore Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) wins 4-0 against Nick Grossi (Germantown Academy, N.J.) to move onto the 220 pound final. Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy, N.J.) advances to face Hills in the final with a 2-1 tiebreak victory over Dylan Devine (DeMatha, Md.)

    1:40 p.m. ET: David Reck (Colonial Forge, Va.) uses a early takedown to win 3-2 against Dallas Winston (Jackson Memorial, N.J.). Winston had a late takedown that was waved off. Reck v Wolfe at 182. Perry Hills (Pitt. CC, Pa.) wins 3-2 over Joe Jessen (Millbrook, Va.) due to a first period takedown at 195 pounds.

    1:30 p.m. ET: The homestate kid Ryan Wolfe (Caravel Academy, Del.) upends top seed Scott Gibbons (Archbishop Rummel, La.) 7-3 to make his cheering section happy as all heck at 182 pounds. David Reck (Coloial Forge, Va.) takes the early 2-0 lead against Dallas Winston (Jackson Memorial, N.J.) in the other semifinal - a match of nationally ranked wrestlers. Now 2-1 after the Winston escape.

    1:25 p.m. ET: Morris closes out an 11-2 major decision victory. Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) uses a third period takedown and then hangs on against a tough scramble from Tyler Rill (Mt. St. Joseph, Md.) to win 3-2 setting up a finals match that rematches an Ironman semifinal.

    1:15 p.m. ET: Consolation semifinal wrestlebacks have begun, not tracking those, but it serves as a refence point. Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) leads 8-2 early third period against Anthony Pafumi (St. peter's Prep, N.J.) in the top 170 pound semi.

    1:10 p.m. ET: And down goes another nationally ranked No. 1 seed, this time it's Johnny Sebastian (Bergen Catholic, N.J.) - only a sophomore - upended Jacob Crawford (Millbrook, Va.) 3-2 on a second period takedown. Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.) with an impressive comeback to win 9-7 in overtime on a takedown right at the end of regulation against Brett Harner (Norristown, Pa.) in a battle of juniors.

    12:55 p.m. ET: Russ Parsons (Blair Academy, N.J.) knocks off the No. 1 seed Peter Galli (St. Pauls, Md.) 3-1 with a late takedown. That is the first No. 1 seed to get knocked off. Salvatore Mastriani (Don Bosco Prep, N.J.) survived at the end of regulation on a deep Garrett Peppelman (Central Dauphin, Pa.) shot but scored the takedown to win 5-3 in overtime.

    12:45 p.m. ET: Dylan Milonas (Blair Academy, N.J.) wins an entertainig match with Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.) 7-5. Matt Cimato (LaSalle, Pa.) used a late third period takedown to seal up the 8-4 victory over Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.) at 145 pounds.

    12:35 p.m. ET: Todd Preston (Blair Academy, N.J.) with a clear 6-2 victory over John Fahy (Trinity, Ky.). Sophomore Alfred Bannister (Bishop McNamara, Md.) advaces to the final from the ten seed on a five-point scramble win 7-2 over Shyheim Brown (Central Dauphin, Pa.)

    12:25 p.m. ET: Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.) took it to Tyson Dippery (Central Dauphin, Pa.) in the form of a 8-3 win at 132 pounds. Randy Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) wins 1-0 over Connor Melde (Bergen Catholic, N.J.) with second period rideout and third period escape. I'll take Grey to reverse last week's semifinal loss in this afternoon's final.

    12:15 p.m. ET: It'll be an all Commowealth final at 126. Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.) majors Max Hvolbek (Blair Academy, N.J.) 9-1. Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.) wins 4-3 over Dom Malone (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) on an early third period escape.

    12:05 p.m. ET: P.J. Klee (Blair Academy, N.J.) with a 16-1 technical fall over Korbin Levin (Pleasant Grove, Ut.) at 120. The other semi had Will Mason (Cape Henry Collegiate, Va.) surge to an early 7-1 lead, then Kaleb Lemaire (C. Rodney, Del.) had two third period scores - takedown and reversal - but still lost 8-5. Mason v Klee an all Nat Prep final.

    11:55 a.m. ET: Joey McKenna (Blair Academy, N.J.) wins 5-0 on a second period reversal and near falls against Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Oh.). Lots of mat wrestling in the other 113 semi as Zeke Moisey (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) wins a 4-4 ultimate TB RO over J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.)

    11:40 a.m. ET: Darian Cruz domiates to a 12-6 victory over Ozias, and Joseph rallies back with 3 unanswered takedowns to win 6-5. 106 final is a rematch of last week's Ironman consolation semi.

    11:35 a.m. ET: Notebook will update end of the semis at each weight, twitter for in-match stuff.

    11:30 a.m. ET: Semis are on. Cruz (Beth. Catholic, Pa.) leads 4-2 against Ozias (C'Burg, Va.) - Ironman quarter rematch that Cruz won. Fleetwood (Smryna, Del.) up 2-0 agaist Joseph (Pitt. CC, Pa.). Actually 6-2 Cruz, all still first period.

    10:35 a.m. ET: Time for a break, it's called consolation wrestling. These matches are winners place inside the top 8.

    10:30 a.m. ET: Joe Jessen (Millbrook, Va.) with 6-4 win over Kevin Marvel (McDonogh, Md.) - he'll face Perry Hills (Pitt. CC) in one semi, and in the other semi Dylan Devine (DeMatha, Md.) won a 2-1 tiebreak to face Mattiace. Bottom 220 semi will be a battle of ranked wrestlers in AJ Vizcarrado (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) and John Rizzo (Richland, Pa.) Semis at 285 are Black (Blair, N.J.) against freshman Michael Johnson, Jr. (Wyoming Seminary), along with Dink Purnell (A.I. DuPont, Del.) against Avree Robinson (Susq. Twp., Pa.). Purnell PINNED Junior free AA Daquante Timbers (Freedom, Va.)

    10:25 a.m. ET: Riddick does win 9-4, and he'll face Tyler Rill (Mt. St. Joseph, Md.) in the 170 semi that rematches a quarter from the Super32 - Riddick won that narrowly. Nick Grossi (Germantown Acad, Pa.) advances to the semis with a 3-1 win over unseeded Zach DeLuca (Pitt CC, Pa.) at 220, where he'll face sophomore sensation Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) - who is up big in the quarters against Harry Mauk (Malvern Prep, Pa.), closes it out with a 25-10 tech at 5:50.

    10:20 a.m. ET: Wolfe advaces to the semis 17-11, he'll face Gibbons. Frank Mattaice gets the Blair train back in order with a first period pin over Mike Green (St. Paul's, Md.). Elliott Riddick (Beth. Catholic, Pa.) starting to separate things here in the third period, it's a 7-4 lead against Robert Shade (Timber creek, N.J.)

    10:15 a.m. ET: Bottom semi at 182 is set with nationally ranked wrestlers earing major decisions - David Reck (Colonial Forge, Va.) and Dallas Winston (Jackson Memorial, N.J.). Scott Gibbons (Archbishop Rummel, La.) advanced in the top half of the draw, and he'll face the winner of Ryan Wolfe (Caravel Academy, Del.) and Michael Mocco (Blair) - Wolfe leads 17-11 :40 left in the third period.

    10:05 a.m. ET: 160 semis are set. Joining Crawford up top will be Johnny Sebastian (Bergen Catholic, N.J.) after a 1-0 win agaisnt Patrick Coover (Blair) with a third period rideout. First loss for Blair today. Harer (Norristown, Pa.) and Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.) the other semi - C'Burg with four in the semis, 4-0 quarterfinal round. Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) and Anthony Pafumi (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.) advace to the top semi at 170 - Morris 4-2 over Tinsley (Hanover, Va.) and Pafumi rallies back to beat Bacci (Malvern Prep, Pa.)

    9:55 a.m. ET: Cimato (LaSalle, Pa.) with the 5-1 to advacne to the semis against Clark at 145. 152 semis are set with Galli (St. Paul's, Md.) vs. Parsons (Blair, N.J.) and G. Peppelman (C. Dauphin, Pa.) vs. Manion (Pitt. CC, Pa.). UNC recruit Crawford (Millbrook, Va.) with the 15-3 major over Hague (McDonogh, Md.) to hit the semis at 160.

    9:40 a.m. ET: Klee continues the Blair-a-thon with the 10-1 major at 120 to face Levin in the semi. Fahy (Trinity, Ky.) with the 14-6 major at 138, and he'll face Preston. Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.) with a 6-1 win over Cohl Fulk (Wyoming Sem., Pa.) in his 145 semi. Dylan Milonas (Blair, N.J.) wins 4-0 in his semi in the opposite half at 145. Randy Cruz (BECA, Pa.) beats freshman Patrick Duggan (Cumb. Valley, Pa.) 3-0 to face Melde in his semi. And it will be Milonas against Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.) who milked an early lead to hang on 10-8 against Brooks Martino (Robinson, Va.)

    9:35 a.m. ET: Got some more results here - Will Mason (Cape Henry, Va.) rallies back to win 8-4 against Giraldo (N. Bergen, N.J.) at 120, faces Lemaire in the semis. Dance (C'Burg, Va.) with a pin to set up a semifinal rematch with Malone. Connor Melde (Bergen Cath., N.J.) advances to the 132 semis with a 3-1 win over Gustafson (Forest Park, Va.). 138 has three semifinalists determined with Todd Preston (Blair) up top and down low having Shyheim Brown (C. Dauphin, Pa.) - who survived 7-5 against Dylan Arold (Westfield, Va.) - and Alfred Bannister (Bishop McNamara, Md.) set to face off.

    9:25 a.m. ET: Wert gets the 1-1 rideout victory in ultimate to set up finals rematch from last year with Moisey, semifinal at 113. Kaleb Lemaire (C. Rodney, Del.) won 6-0 in the bottom quarter at 120. Jeske (Cox, Va.) won 3-1 in the top quarter at 126 to set up match with Hvolbek. Malone (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) with a major over Eric Friedman (St. Paul's, Md.) in his quarter at 126. Dippery (C. Dauphin, Pa.) advances to face Grey at 132 semi with 10-2 win over Ott (Belmont Hill, Mass.).

    9:20 a.m. ET: Moisey (BECA, Pa.) gets the fall trailing 5-0 against Stageberg (Cox, Va.) with a cement mixer. He'll face the winner of Wert (C'Burg, Va.) and Gonzalez (N. Bergen, N.J.) - a match tied 1-1 1:00 left third period. Max Hvolbek (Blair, N.J.) with a pin at 126, Grey (Blair, N.J.) winning big at 132, 8-1 middle second period, I missed Klee's match at 120 - Blair-a-thon 2011 BOE quarters.

    9:10 a.m. ET: Top semi at 113 is McKenna (Blair, N.J.) 5-0 win and Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Oh.) with 5-1 win over 2009 Beast champion Zach Bridson (TImberlane, N.H.). Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.) and Darian Cruz (BECA, Pa.) the last two semis at 106.

    9:05 a.m. ET: Pair of pins already at 106 - Ozias (C'Burg, Va.) and Joseph (PCC, Pa.). Cruz (BECA, Pa.) has a 2-1 lead, while Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.) has a 3-0 lead - those in the second period.

    9:00 a.m. ET: And we got whistles!

    8:50 a.m. ET: We've gotten a "clear the mats" call, though the extent to which people are listening is debatable. Ten minutes until an on-time start.

    8:20 a.m. ET (day two: And we're back, wrestling starts in about 40 minutes. Quarters on 6 mats, consol rd16 on the other 5; then an all consolation round on all mats to determine placers; pare down to six mats for semis, consi quarters, and consi semis. Focus yet again on front side matches.

    9:05 p.m. ET: We're done for the day! Notebook will be back up in the morning. Team scores to be posted on the front page shortly (portion of it), full list will be on Beast website.

    8:35 p.m. ET: Getting towards the close of the last round of consolation wrestling tonight. Quarterfinal pairings -- http://intermatwrestle.com/articles/9347 -- we'll try and get a team score list posted as well by night's end.

    7:20 p.m. ET: Team scores updated: No. 1 Blair 136.5 (12 QF), No. 10 Wyoming Seminary, Pa. 99 (6), No. 14 Beth. Catholic, Pa. 80.5 (4), No. 40 Colonial Forge, Va. 80 (3), No. 12 Christiansburg, Va. 79 (4) are the top five. Other nationally ranked teams - 6th No. 38 Pittsburgh C.C., Pa. 64 (4), 8th No. 41 Bergen Catholic, N.J. 59 (2), 9th No. 28 Central Dauphin, Pa. 58.5 (3), 12th No. 47 McDonogh, Md. 55.5 (3), tied 16th Timber Creek, N.J. 50 (2)

    6:35 p.m. ET: And that is the conclusion of the round of 16. I'll be back with random updates tonight, very limited, moreso 9:00 a.m. tomorrow for quarters. Team scores and quarterfinal pairings up on front pages at some point.

    6:30 p.m. ET: Blair Academy concludes 13-1 round of 16 with a 1-0 win by David Farr at 220 over Brandon Taylor (Christiansburg, Va.) - second period rideout, 3rd period escape.

    6:10 p.m. ET: Shane Springer (Norristown, Pa.) - No. 3 seed at 170 - survives 13-10 against Joe Balboni (David Brearley, N.J.) to advacne to quarters. Scores a lot from headlock, but gives up a lot in neutral too.

    5:55 p.m. ET: Jorge Lopez (Delbarton, N.J.) knocks off No. 2 seed Chris Yankowich (Germantown Academy, Pa.) 3-1 in overtime at 138 pounds. alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.) with a late reversal at 145 to win 3-2 over T.C. Warner (Cumberland Valley, Pa.)

    5:40 p.m. ET: It was literally a bloodbath, but we ended up with a 4-2 overtime victory for No. 10 seed Michael Marino (Garnet Valley, Pa.) over No. 7 seed Corey McQuiston (West Chester Rustin, Pa.) at 120.

    5:30 p.m. ET: Order restored, four straight wins for Blair, including a 2-0 victory for Max Hvolbek over Brian Hamann (Jackson Memorial, N.J.) at 126 with 3+ minutes of riding time. Also wins for McKenna (113), Klee (120), and Grey (132).

    5:20 p.m. ET: Stop the presses, Blair lost a match! Alec Huxford (Jackson Memorial, N.J.) upended Jordan Kutler 2-1 in the round of 16 at 106 pounds.

    5:00 p.m. ET: Round of 16 here we go!!

    4:40 p.m. ET: Just received a clarification that this next round will be championship only, which means there will be two rounds of consolation to end the eveing. Round of 16 losers will wrestle in the last of those rounds, round of 16 winners advance to the quarterfinals which start at 9:00 a.m.

    4:25 p.m. ET: Towards the back end of wrestleback round 2 here, rd16 coming shortly. I'm not sure if they're doing this as an all championship or a joint champ/consi round. If it's a joint round, a little easier to provide updates; then one more consi round. If it's a champ only round, we'll have two more consi rounds tonight after the champ rd16.

    2:50 p.m. ET: Team scores through two rounds of championship - http://beastwrestling.com//beast2008/team_scores.pdf
    No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J. in the lead with 101 points, all 14 are into the round of 16. No. 12 Christiansburg, Va. second place with 64. No. 10 Wyoming Seminary, Pa. in third with 62. No. 40 Colonial Forge, Va. fourth with 58-1/2, and No. 14 Bethlehem Catholic, Pa. rounds out the top five with 53. Other nationally ranked teams - seventh is No. 41 Bergen Catholic, N.J. with 44-1/2, eighth is No. 28 Central Dauphin, Pa. with 44, ninth is No. 38 Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa. with 42, 13th is No. 34 Timber Creek, N.J. with 35, and 19th is No. 47 McDonogh, Md. with 31.

    1:50 p.m. ET: Lunch time for me as the rd32 is in the upper weights. Two rounds of consolation to come then rd16 somewhere in the 4:30 p.m. range. I'll be back for that with limited updating in the interim.

    1:45 p.m. ET: Both seeds in the 7-10 quarter at 182 pounds go down.

    1:35 p.m. ET: It's a ridiculous takedown explosion - yet again - for Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) as he closes out the technical fall over Dylan harrington (Jackson Memorial, N.J.). 26-11 at 170 pounds.

    1:20 p.m. ET: State placer Ryan Todora (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) - No. 14 seed at 152 - is upended by Logan Breitenbach (Archbishop Spalding, Md.) 4-2. Second straight week that Todora gets upended early despite a low seed.

    1:10 p.m. ET: And so goes down the No. 6 seed at 152, as Cole Sheptock (Northampton, Pa.) upends Beau Donahue (Westfield, Va.) 7-6.

    1:00 p.m. ET: Career victory No. 100 for Lopez (Delabrton, N.J.) at 138. In addition, it's an upset special for Josef Johnson from the same team at 145 over No. 6 seed Will Switzer (Archbishop Spalindg, Md.) 6-4.

    12:55 p.m. ET: No. 4 seed John Fahy (Trinity, Ky.) narrowly advances to the rd16 with a 6-4 ultimate tiebreak victory against Chris Nuss (Pitt CC, Pa.)

    12:45 p.m. ET: More Blair churning, four more wins - Hvolbek, Grey, Preston, Milonas. Pair of unseeded Keystone State grapplers at 132 in the round of 16 to face each other - Justin Alexander (Pitt CC, Pa.) and Patrick Duggan (Cumberland Valley, Pa.)

    12:25 p.m. ET: No. 2 seed Kaleb Lemaire (Caesar Rodney, Del.) drew a Super32 placer in the second round. Bryce Killian (Middletown, Pa.) extended him to overtime with great top position wrestling. However, the match's fourth takedown was enough for Lemaire to prevail 9-7 in sudden victory at 120 pounds.

    12:10 a.m. ET: North Bergen, N.J. sophomore sensation duo of Luis Gonzalez (113) and Anthony Giraldo (120) domiate their way to the round of 16.

    12:05 a.m. ET: After very few first round matches, Blair has went back-to-back-to-back with wins in the second round. Kutler (106) a decision, then pins from McKenna (113) and Klee (120).

    11:50 a.m. ET: Actually, it's two champ, two consi, champ/consi, consi today. My bad. All champ second round right now. A little chaotic with all 11mats of championship. Limited updates here, sorry.

    11:25 a.m. ET: Joint championship/consolation round matches about to be called. This is the round of 32 on the front side, and first consolation matches on the back (four consol rounds today). Champ, Champ/Consi, Consi, Champ/Consi, Consi

    11:20 a.m. ET: Upset there involving the No. 7 seed at 170 Austin Coniker (Pitt. CC, Pa.) falling to Zach Martinez (Colonial Forge, Va.) 2-1 in the ultimate tiebreaker.

    11:10 a.m. ET: Brackets are up on the Beast site, through some of 132 in the round of 64 (First round).

    11:05 a.m. ET: Trailing 4-1 midway through the match, it was eight unanswered for No. 9 seed Zach Boyles (Smyrna, Del.) to upend Terrell Forbes (St. Benedict Prep, N.J.) 9-4 at 160 pounds in the first round.

    10:55 a.m. ET: The Peppelman tilt-a-thon just came to a conclusion for Central Dauphin, Pa. Garrett (152) earned a major over Ryan Fairbee (Grassfield, Pa.) by something like 11-0, while Colton (160) did the same agaist Cory Case (Southern, N.J.)

    10:45 a.m. ET: Two-time state qualifier Wayne Stinson (North Burlington, N.J.) upends No. 8 seed Casey Kent (LaSalle, Pa.) 4-3 at 152 pounds in the first round. Kent placed third at state two years ago. Tough draw for a first round match - as you would know if you read the preview.

    10:30 a.m. ET: Two of McDonogh, Md. high profile young wrestlers took to the mats. Sophomore Jack Clark won 12-1 at 145, while freshman Myles Martin had two late takedowns against No. 9 seed Brett Hitchings (Trinity, Ky.) but it was not enough as Hitchings won 6-5. In a battle of excellent unseeded wrestlers as Josef Johnson (Delbarton, N.J.) upended Nick Varndell (Central Dauphin, Pa.) 3-2 in overtime. Johnson needed a late escape to tie the score in regulation and then Varndell was hit with a second stall in overtime.

    10:00 a.m. ET: Another seed going down at 138 pounds is No. 14 Daniel King (Suquehanna Township, Pa.). He lost 4-3 to Jake Campana (Southern Regional, N.J.) on takedown inside the last five seconds. Barely surviving was No. 12 seed Ross Benzel (Kellam, Va.), a 1-0 win against Garrett Smith (Cape Henelopen, Del.) on a third period rideout after a very late second period escape.

    9:55 a.m. ET: Taylor Misuna (Grassfield, Va.) gets a 21-6 tech fall over No. 16 seed Ethan Kenney (Connellsville, Pa.) at 138 pounds in the first round. And the first overtime match I saw today had Tyler Frame (Arch. Rummel, La.) with a 5-0 victory agaist Colten Arnold (Chambersburg, Pa.) at 132 pounds.

    9:45 a.m. ET: nationally ranked freshman Patrick Duggan (Cumberland Valley, Pa.) gets the fall in 1:15 against Bruno Geradi (Don Bosco Prep, N.J.) to set up a second round match with no. 10 seed Matt Kibblehouse (Salesanium, Del.) at 132 pounds. Should be a good one there!

    9:40 a.m. ET: Top 15 finishers at the Ironman, Brecksville, Oh. just had three wrestlers in a row go down to defeat (120, 126, 132) - all nonseeds losing to seeds. Most recently Christian Olanowski (Kellam, Va.) upended Austin Strnad at 132 pounds, 3-1 riding out the whole third period in the top position.

    9:20 a.m. ET: No. 12 seed Brett Campbell (Westfield, Va.) goes down 6-5 to Austin Marsico (Kiski Prep, Pa.) at 120 pounds.

    8:55 a.m. ET: 2009 champion Zach Bridson (Timberlane, N.H.) is off to a good start at 113 pounds with a pin at 2:35 against Brady Reilly (Germantown Academy, Pa.)

    8:45 a.m. ET: Early match of interest at 106 had five seed Sean Badua (Osbourn Park, Va.) upending freshman Danny Boychuck (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) 7-3. Also, had a key pin late in the third period for Zach Elvin (Central Dauphin, Pa.) against Ryan Friedman (St. Paul's, Md.). Elvin was trailing 4-3 when he applied a tilt and go the fall at the 5:20 mark at 106.

    8:35 a.m. ET: We're off and wrestling on 11 mats. Every weight (mercifully) has 64 or less this year, so we should be out a little quicker.

    8:15 a.m. ET: We've gotten the "clear the mat" call, and there's going to be an Air Force ceremony before things begin at 8:30 a.m. I can see 4-8 mats well, the other 3-7 not so well, but I'll be scooting around to try and capture the action most effectively.

    12:04 a.m. ET: I will be providing a running notebook with regular updates throughout the two-day tournament. Thanks for following our coverage of the Beast of the East! Wrestling today gets underway at 8:30 a.m. ET with the round of 64 and will end with eight in the quarterfinals and eight in the consolations for Sunday.]]>    74016Sat, 17 Dec 2011 07:47:30 +0000    2011 Beast of the East Previewhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-beast-of-the-east-preview-r74018/
    Though the Buccaneers are prohibitive favorites, there is a formidable field featuring nine other nationally ranked teams. Leading the way are fellow members of the top 15 Wyoming Seminary, Pa. (ranked No. 10), No. 12 Christiansburg, Va., and No. 14 Bethlehem Catholic, Pa. Other nationally ranked teams include No. 28 Central Dauphin, Pa., No. 34 Timber Creek, N.J., No. 38 Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa., No. 40 Colonial Forge, Va., No. 41 Bergen Catholic, N.J., and No. 47 McDonogh, Md.

    Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.) seeks to become the first wrestler to ever win four titles at the Beast of the East, having won championships at 103, 119, and 125 the previous three years. However, he comes in off a fourth place at the Ironman in the 132 pound weight class, which included a semifinal loss to Randy Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.). The wrestlers could meet again this weekend.

    Other defending champions include Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa), competing at 106 pounds; J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.) at 113; Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) at 220; and Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.) at 285 pounds. In addition, 2009 champion Zach Bridson (Timberlane, N.H.) will seek to add another Beast title to his resume, this time at 113 pounds. Unfortunately a pair of defending champions will be unable to compete in this weekend's tournament, as they are out for the season with injuries -- Devon Gobbo (Delbarton, N.J.) and Jason Luster (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.).

    What: Silvestri Mushrooms presents the 19th annual Beast of the East
    When: Saturday, Dec. 17 and Sunday, Dec. 18
    Where: Bob Carpenter Center, University of Delaware; Newark, Del.

    Schedule:
    Wrestling on Saturday starts at 8:30 a.m. ET on 11 mats with 3 championship and 4 consolation rounds; the round of 16 is projected to start at about 5:30 p.m., and day one should end at around 9:30 p.m.

    Competition on Sunday starts at 9:00 a.m. on 11 mats with the quarterfinals on 6 mats and consolations on 5 mats, a second consolation round will then be wrestled; at approximately 11:30 a.m., the tournament will break down to only 6 mats with the semifinals on 2 of them.

    The consolation semifinals should end at approximately 2:15 p.m., with the finals matches for 1st through 8th place slated to being at 3:15 p.m.

    Tournament Website: http://www.beastwrestling.com

    InterMatWrestle Coverage: During the day on Saturday, and for the quarterfinal and semifinal rounds on Sunday, there will be periodic updates of a live notebook article. The link will be available from the front page of the InterMat site. In addition, high school analyst Josh Lowe will be providing complimentary updates and perspective through his Twitter account (@JLowe_intermat). During the finals, updates will be posted on the Twitter accounts of Josh Lowe, as well as the InterMatWrestle twitter feed (@InterMat). Quarterfinal pairings and team scores will be posted late on Saturday night, with a game story focusing on the championship finals published late Sunday/early Monday on the InterMatWrestle front page. Please also note that commentary and analysis for each weight is based on entry information as of Thursday night.

    Tournament Updates: Check the tournament website periodically for updated brackets. Semi-live updated results will be posted through the NWCA Online program, http://www.nwcaonline.com

    106:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 3 Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), No. 12 Vincenzo Joseph (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.), No. 14 Brent Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.), No. 17 Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.)

    Commentary: Returning champion Darian Cruz is the anchor wrestler of this weight class, and the clear favorite though three other nationally ranked wrestlers reside within the weight class. However, Cruz outplaced these three wrestlers at the Ironman, including head-to-head wins over Joseph and Ozias. It is likely that Cruz and Ozias will meet in a semifinal on Sunday, which would rematch the Ironman quarterfinal that Cruz won by 11-2 major decision. The lower semifinal is likely to feature a pair of Ironman placers in the freshman Joseph and three-time Cadet All-American Fleetwood.

    Top Match on Saturday: State placers Bryce Gentry (Colonial Forge, Va.) and Gabe Gibson (Cox, Va.) taking to the mats in a seven-ten match.

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Tommy Aloi (Forest Park, Va.), a Junior National double All-American; Tyler Casamenti (Bergen Catholic, N.J.), was a Cadet double All-American in 2010; Cadet Greco-Roman All-Americans Tyler Klump (Nazareth, Pa.), Danny Boychuck (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), and Anthony Cefolo (Hanover Park, N.J); along with freshman Travis Vasquez (Delabrton, N.J.), who made the second day of the Super 32.

    Predicting a Finals Match: Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic) over Joseph (Pittsburgh Central Catholic), rematch of a consolation semifinal at the Walsh Ironman won 1-0 by Cruz

    113:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 3 Joey McKenna (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 9 Zeke Moisey (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), No. 15 J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.)

    Commentary: This is a rather deep weight class featuring seven returning or former Beast placers, which is tied for most in the tournament. It also features the defending champion of this weight, Wert, along with 2009 champion at 103 pounds Zach Bridson (Timberlane, N.H.); along with two runners-up from last year in McKenna and Moisey.

    Top seed in this weight class is two-time Cadet Greco-Roman champion McKenna, who was also a National Prep champion last year. He is looking at a quarterfinal match against one of two returning state placers -- Zach Fuentes (Norristown, Pa.) or Tanner Shoap (Chambersburg, Pa.) -- and then a semifinal against either Bridson or two-time state placer Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Ohio). Should McKenna match up against Assad in the semis, it would be a rematch of last week's Ironman semi that he won 4-3.

    All signs in the bottom half point to a Moisey vs. Wert semifinal match, which would be a repeat of last year's final in this weight that Wert won 3-0; however, last week in the consolation semifinals at the Ironman, Moisey won 5-1. Moisey is looking at a quarterfinal date against either state champion Cody Stageberg (Cox, Va.) or Beast placer Zach Ulerick (Middletown, Pa.), while Wert is looking at a possible quarterfinal against either state runner-up Luis Gonzalez (North Bergen, N.J.) or returning Beast placer Jeremy Schwartz (Central Dauphin, Pa.)

    Top Matches on Saturday: Fuentes against Shoap in a battle of returning state placers, along with Zach Bridson (Timberlane, N.H.) and Matt Calcote (Archbishop Rummel, La.) in a match featuring wrestlers that have placed at the Beast.

    Predicting a Finals Match: McKenna (Blair Academy) over Moisey (Bethlehem Catholic)

    120:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 17 P.J. Klee (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    Commentary: By standards of the Beast of the East, this is a thin weight class in that it lacks anchor wrestlers. It is one of only two weight classes with a single nationally ranked wrestler -- all other weights have two or more. The top seed in this weight is FILA Cadet freestyle All-American Klee, who also was a 2010 Cadet freestyle All-American. He is looking at a likely quarterfinal against returning National Prep placer Evan Botwin (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), and then a probable semifinal against returning state placer Ricky Carter (Timber Creek, N.J.).

    Things in the bottom half of the draw are a little less clear with returning Beast placers Kaleb Lemaire (Caesar Rodney, Del.) and Will Mason (Cape Henry Collegiate, Va.) occupying the second and third seeds; Lemaire is a two-time state champion, while Mason is a three-time National Prep placer (champion in 2010). Lemaire is looking at a likely quarterfinal against either state qualifier Corey McQuiston (West Chester Rustin, Pa.) or Beast placer Michael Marino (Garnet Valley, Pa.). Mason is looking at either Anthony Giraldo (North Bergen, N.J.) or Kyle Dulaney (Christiansburg, Va.) in the quarterfinal round.

    Top Matches on Saturday: Carter and Zach Wilhelm (Southern Regional, N.J.) in a battle of state placers from last year; as well as a pair of sophomores in state placer Giraldo and state champion Dulaney.

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Super 32 placer Bryce Killian (Middletown, Pa.)

    Predicting a Finals Match: Klee (Blair Academy) over Lemaire (Caesar Rodney), which happened in the consolation quarterfinals at the Walsh Ironman

    126:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 4 Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.), No. 5 Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.), No. 9 Dominick Malone (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), No. 17 Max Hvolbek (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    Commentary: The four nationally ranked wrestlers and seven returning or previous Beast placers are tied for most of any weight in the tournament, which is indicative of the quality depth that resides in this weight class. The top seed Jeske is a two-time Beast placer, runner-up in 2009, a four-time Super 32 placer, and was runner-up in Junior freestyle this summer. He has the more favorable half of the bracket, with a likely semifinal against whoever emerges from the quarter including Junior freestyle All-American Hvolbek, 2010 state placer Brian Hamann (Jackson Memorial, N.J.), returning placer Micah Hight (Caesar Rodney, Del.), and National Prep runner-up Charlie Saunders (The Hill School, Pa.).

    Though all signs point to a bottom half semi between Dance and Malone, which would be a rematch of last year's Beast semi at 119 pounds won by Dance in the tiebreaker, each wrestler has credible quarterfinal opposition. Dance is looking at a match NHSCA Freshman national champion Clay Walker (Eastside, S.C.), while Malone projects to face former Beast placer Eric Friedman (St. Paul's, Md.), who also is a three-time placer at National Preps and a 2010 Junior freestyle All-American.

    Top Matches on Saturday: Hvolbek, a returning Beast placer and 2010 National Prep runner-up, matches up against; while it's a battle of sophomores between Hight and Saunders.

    Predicting a Finals Match: Jeske (Cox) over Dance (Christiansburg) in a rematch of the third place match at the Walsh Ironman

    132:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 3 Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 7 Randy Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), No. 19 Jeffrey Ott (Belmont Hill, Mass.)

    Commentary: Three-time National Prep champion Grey is seeking to become the first wrestler to ever win four titles at the Beast of the East. However, standing in his way is two-time state runner-up Cruz, who beat Grey last week on his way to an Ironman title, and is twice a state runner-up. Those wrestlers should meet in the tournament final; however, four returning Beast placers will be among those seeking to spoil. Grey is the top seed in the weight class, and is looking at a semifinal date against either two-time state placer Tyson Dippery (Central Dauphin, Pa.) or two-time National Prep placer, and 2010 champion, Ott. The pair of wrestlers placed in last year's Beast, and also met in Fargo, a match that Ott won on the way to a third place finish in Junior freestyle. The bottom half of this draw points to a semifinal match between Cruz and two-time state fourth place finisher Connor Melde (Bergen Catholic, N.J.).

    Top Matches on Saturday: A battle of state runners-up between C.J. Jablonski (Cox) and Dallas Smith (Christiansburg), along with a battle of state champions between Jayce Carr (Union County) and Matt Kibblehouse (Salesanium), as well as a match between National Prep placers Jeffrey Ott (Belmont Hill) and Daniel Sanchez (Georgetown Prep)

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Freshman Patrick Duggan (Cumberland Valley, Pa.), this summer a Cadet freestyle All-American, and NHSCA Junior All-American Brad Royle (Jackson Memorial, N.J.)

    Predicting a Finals Match: Grey (Blair Academy) over Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic)

    138:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 7 Todd Preston (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    Commentary: Along with 120, this is the lone weight to have a single nationally ranked wrestler, and that is returning Beast runner-up Preston, a two-time National Prep champion and Junior freestyle All-American. He is the strong favorite in this weight class, though a semifinal against three-time state champion and returning Beast placer John Fahy (Trinity, Ky.) or two-time state placer Brandon Keller (Timber Creek, N.J.) could post some intrigue. The two seed in this weight class is National Prep champion Chris Yankowich (Germantown Academy, Pa.), who could have an interesting quarterfinal against returning Beast and national Prep placer Alfred Bannister (Bishop McNamara, Md) -- who also was a NHSCA Freshman national champion. The more likely candidate to hit the final from the bottom half is returning Beast placer Shyheim Brown (Central Dauphin, Pa.), also a two-time state and Super 32 placer. Brown is looking at a quarterfinal against returning Beast placer Jason Stephen (Northampton, Pa.).

    Top Matches on Saturday: Derek Arnold (Westfield, Va.) against Santiago Valdez (Robinson, Va.) in a battle of returning state third place finishers; Keller wrestling against returning Beast placer Ross Benzel (Kellam, Va.); and a battle of state placers between Brown and Derek King (Susquehanna Township, Pa.)

    Predicting a Finals Match: Preston (Blair Academy) over Brown (Central Dauphin)

    145:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 6 Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.), No. 9 Matt Cimato (LaSalle, Pa.), No. 12 Dylan Milonas (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    Commentary: There are six excellent wrestlers in this weight class, who could do anything from win this weight class to barely make it onto the placement podium. The two highest returning returning place finishers in this weight are second seed Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.) and third seed Cimato, each finishing fourth last year at the Beast. Those two wrestlers should meet in the bottom semifinal. Clark was a National Prep runner-up and Cadet freestyle All-American, and is looking at a quarterfinal matchup against one of two National Prep placers -- Robert Janis (St. Christopher's, Va.) or Cohl Fulk (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.). Cimato is a two-time Junior freestyle All-American, finished third in the state, and fourth at the Super 32. He is looking at a quarterfinal matchup against two-time National Prep placer Will Switzer (Archbishop Spalding, Md.), who has placed twice at the NHSCA grade level tournament, including a championship as a sophomore.

    Top seed in this weight class is National Prep runner-up Milonas, who was a Cadet freestyle champion this summer and won the Ironman last week. He is looking at a semifinal matchup against either state champion and returning Beast placer Brooks Martino (Robinson, Va.) or state placer and NHSCA Junior national champion Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.). My pick to clear the top half of the draw is Richardson, who was runner-up at the Super 32 in late October.

    Top Matches on Saturday: State champion Stephen Jackson (Caesar Rodney, Del.) faces two-time National Prep placer George Weber (John Carroll, Md.), while 2011 National Prep placer Janis faces 2010 National Prep placer Fulk.

    Unseeded Wrestler to Watch: Two-time state qualifier Mitch Baran (Brecksville, Ohio), who was a match away from placing at the Ironman last week and Beast last year

    Predicting a Finals Match: Richardson (St. Peter's Prep) over Cimato (LaSalle)

    152:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 16 Sal Mastriani (Don Bosco Prep, N.J.), No. 18 Peter Galli (St. Paul's, Md.)

    Commentary: The pair of nationally ranked wrestlers are the top two seeds in this weight, with the top seed being National Prep runner-up (and three-time placer) Galli, who was runner-up at Preseason Nationals in late October and finished fifth in the Beast last year. He is looking at a tough quarterfinal against returning Beast placer Casey Kent (LaSalle, Pa.), who placed third at state in 2010. The other top half quarterfinal is likely to feature some combination of Kevin Johnson (Forest Park, Va.), Tito Onyekweli (DeMatha, Md.), Fracisco Colom (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.), and Russ Parsons (Blair Academy, N.J.) .

    State placer Mastriani anchors the bottom half of the draw as the two seed, and he also placed fourth at the Beast last year. He is looking at a likely quarterfinal against state placer Tyler Manion (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.), while the other quarterfinal on the bottom is likely to feature a pair of state and Super 32 placers in Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) and Garrett Peppelman (Central Dauphin, Pa.). The junior Hammond was second at state last year after placing seventh at National Preps as a freshman, and was a Cadet double All-American this past summer, while Peppelman placed fifth at state as a freshman.

    Top Matches on Saturday: State champion Beau Donahue (Westfield, Va.) matches up against Peppelman; Johnson against Onyekweli; and Colom against Parsons.

    Unseeded Wrestler to Watch: Two-time state qualifier and 2010 Cadet freestyle All-American Wayne Stinson (North Burlington, N.J.)

    Predicting a Finals Match: Mastriani (Don Bosco Prep) over Galli (St. Paul's)

    160:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 9 Jacob Crawford (Millbrook, Va.), No. 11 Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.)

    Commentary: The favorite in this weight class is the top-seeded Crawford, a three-time state champion, NHSCA Junior champion, and a Super 32 champion. His quarterfinal matchup would be against most likely National Prep placer Toby Hague (McDonogh, Md.), who placed at the Ironman last week. The other top half quarterfinal features a match of superlative sophomores in National Prep placer and 2010 Cadet Greco-Roma champion Patrick Coover (Blair Academy, N.J.) and state placer Johnny Sebastian (Blair Academy, N.J.).

    The second seed in this weight is two-time state champion and Super 32 placer Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.), whose projected quarterfinal opponent is the formidable Rusten Barrick (Mechanicsburg, Pa.). The other quarter of the bottom half should feature state placer Brett Harner (Norristown, Pa.) against state champion and Super 32 placer Patrick Davis (Woodbridge, Del.).

    Top Match on Saturday: Two-time Cadet freestyle All-American Hague faces state runner-up Zach Boyles (Smyrna, Del.), where Hague won a 9-7 meeting two weeks ago in the semifinals at the Ray Oliver Invitational.

    Predicting a Finals Match: Crawford (Millbrook) over Epperly (Christiansburg)

    170:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 7 Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), No. 13 Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)

    Commentary: The two nationally ranked wrestlers occupy the top positions in the seedings, with the first seed being two-time Beast placer Morris, who was runner-up last year at the Beast, at the Ironman last week, and at National Preps the last two years. He is looking at a quarterfinal matchup against state champion Tanner Tinsley (Hanover, Va.), and then a semifinal date with either state placer Anthony Pafumi (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.) or National Prep placer Addison Knephsield (Blair Academy, N.J.).

    Second seed in this weight is state placer and Super 32 runner-up Riddick, who projects into a quarterfinal with state placer Austin Coniker (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.). The other quarter of the bottom half features returning Beast placer Shane Springer (Norristown, Pa.), who is a two-time state placer (2010 runner-up) and Disney Duals gold medalist, and National Prep placer Tyler Rill (Mt. St. Joseph, Md.).

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: State runner-up Pierce DeMarreau (Caesar Rodney, Del.)

    Predicting a Finals Match: Morris (Wyoming Seminary) over Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic) in a rematch of a semifinal at last week's Walsh Ironman

    182:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 15 David Reck (Colonial Forge, Va.), No. 11 (at 195) Dallas Winston (Jackson Memorial, N.J.)

    Commentary: After the top three wrestlers in this weight class, there is a significant drop off in the quality of this field. With the top seed, two-time state champion and returning Beast runner-up Scott Gibbons (Archbishop Rummel, La.) is a strong favorite to reach the final. The Junior Greco-Roman All-American is looking at a likely semifinal with either state runner-up Ryan Wolfe (Caravel Academy, Del.) or National Prep placer Michael Mocco (Blair Academy, N.J.).The pair of nationally ranked wrestlers occupy the second and third seed positions. State runner-up and returning Beast placer Winston is the second seed, while Super 32 placer and two-time state placer Reck is the third seed.

    Predicting a Finals Match: Reck (Colonial Forge) over Gibbons (Archbishop Rummel)

    195:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 10 Perry Hills (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.), No. 15 Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    Commentary: There are three returning Beast placers in this weight class, the two nationally ranked wrestlers and Joe Jessen (Millbrook, Va.). Hills is the top seed in this weight having placed third at the Beast and at state; however, he did not compete at the Ironman last week due to an official visit to the University of Maryland, where he has verbally committed to play QB. He is looking at a semifinal match against one of two National Prep placers, Kevin Marvel (McDonogh, Md.) or Dylan Devine (DeMatha, Md.). The second seed is Mattiace, a National Prep placer who won the Ironman last week, while the third seed is Jessen, a state champion and NHSCA Junior placer. However, Jessen was upset in the War on the Shore final last week by Devine. State placer Mike Garrity (Colonial Forge, Va.) could pose a nominal challenge for Jessen in the quarterfinals.

    Predicting a Finals Match: Hills (Pittsburgh Central Catholic) over Mattiace (Blair Academy)

    220:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 2 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.), No. 5 (at 285) John Rizzo (Richland, Pa.), No. 7 A.J. Vizcarrando (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)

    Commentary: Snyder won the Beast and National Preps last year as a freshman, and is the nation's second best wrestler in the Class of 2014. This summer, he was a Cadet freestyle champion, and he won the Ironman last week. He should go unchallenged all the way to the final, the path featuring National Prep placer Harry Mauk (Malvern Prep, Pa.) in the quarters and semifinal opposition coming from National Prep placer Nick Grossi (Germantown Academy, Pa.) or state runner-up Branagh Cohen (Archbishop Rummel, La.). The bottom half of the draw should be much more interesting with two-time state champion Rizzo and National Prep runner-up Vizcarrando occupying the second and third seed positions. Rizzo is looking at a quarterfinal against Ironman placer David Farr (Blair Academy, N.J.), while Vizcarrando -- a Junior Greco-Roma All-American projects to face state placer Brandon Dennison (Pleasant Grove, Utah) in that round.

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Sophomore Zach DeLuca (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.) placed in the Powerade last year before his season ended due to injury.

    Predicting a Finals Match: Snyder (Good Counsel) over Rizzo (Richland)

    285:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 1 Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 16 Avree Robinson (Susquehanna Township, Pa.)

    Commentary: Defending champion Black enters the tournament a strong favorite to repeat having one of the most robust resumes of any wrestler in the nation. He is looking at a semifinal against freshman sensation Michael Johnson, Jr. (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), who placed at the Ironman last week and was a double Cadet All-American this past summer. This assumes Johnson upends fellow Ironman placer, and state runner-up, Jake Pinkston (Robinson, Va.) in the quarterfinal round. The two key names in the bottom half of the draw should meet in the semifinal round -- state champion Robinson, who also placed sixth at state in 2010 and was a NHSCA Junior placer last year, and Junior National freestyle All-American DaQuante Timbers (Freedom, Va.)

    Predicting a Finals Match: Black (Blair Academy) over Robinson (Susquehanna Township)]]>    74018Fri, 16 Dec 2011 07:37:06 +0000    Prep stars Massa, Whitford on journey togetherhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/prep-stars-massa-whitford-on-journey-together-r74015/
    "I'm pretty good at masking my emotions, and Ben is a lot more hyper and outwardly confident," says Massa.

    Massa isn't used to being scored upon, especially by someone smaller than him, and Whitford has just taken him down. Not surprisingly, Massa is not happy.

    Ben Whitford was a Junior National double champion this past summer in Fargo (Photo/Dave Jedlicka, jedicheetah.com)
    Whitford has supreme belief in his own skills.

    "I'm really confident, and sometimes people might mistake that for cockiness, but I don't wrestle as well unless I think I'm going to dominate," he says, but he knows he's about to pay the physical toll of angering the No. 1 recruit in the country.

    All he needs to do is look at the narrowing of Massa's eyes, and the realization that the next "go" won't be very pleasant is obvious. And so the laid back Massa pounds the more emotional Whitford into the mat, works him over a bit, and that's that.

    "He can take me down once in a while, it's good. It keeps me on my toes," says Massa, cracking a smile. "Little guy is quick enough to do it now and then, but it's fun to punish him after he gets that takedown."

    So goes life for the extremely close friends within the walls of the Massa wrestling room in St. Johns, Michigan. It is here that two of the best high school wrestlers in the country have done a large amount of their training.

    Taylor Massa, the nation's No. 1 overall recruit, won the Super 32 Challenge title in October (Photo/Rob Preston)
    Massa, InterMatWrestle's No. 1 overall recruit in the Class of 2012, is undefeated in his prep career. Whitford is the No. 2 overall recruit in the Class of 2013 and has only one blemish on his prep record. They are two of the most decorated high school wrestlers nationally, with nine Fargo titles, five state championships, a Walsh Ironman title, and a Junior World Team spot between them, among their many accolades. And now, for the first time, they will wrestle together on the same high school team. Their excitement is obvious, perhaps more so because it could have easily never happened.

    It all started nearly a decade ago. Massa and Whitford met when Whitford's father, Pat, brought him the 40 minutes from Holt, Mich., to St. Johns, to train with Taylor's father Rodger.

    Rodger Massa is a name that has been synonymous with Michigan wrestling over the past decade, as many Michigan kids seeking out the toughest practices will visit what is now simply referred to as "The Room." The two fathers bonded immediately over their similar styles.

    "There's not a lot of people that have the same philosophy and mindset we have, so Pat and I clicked," says Rodger Massa. "We really preach doing things the right way above winning and losing, and believe if you do that, good things will happen. We wanted our practices real intense, and sometimes when we held them in the school we couldn't do that, so we decided to build The Room about seven years ago."

    L-R: Rodger Massa, Ben Whitford, Pat Whitford, Taylor Massa
    Rodger and Pat began running practices together, and the rest, as they say, is history. Taylor and Ben became close friends because of their similar mindsets regarding wrestling. They wrestled together at national tournaments, where their fathers would be in their respective corners, and they trained together constantly. With Massa being a year older, he served as something of a role model and big brother figure for Whitford.

    "When we were younger, I didn't hang out as much with Taylor, but he was the guy I looked at a lot of the time as far as what I wanted to be like," says Whitford.

    Perhaps the turning point in the friendship of the two young wrestlers came at a difficult moment. Whitford was going into his ninth grade year in St. Johns, and was geared up to join Massa, who had won his first state title as a freshman.

    But that would never come to fruition, as a job opportunity for Pat necessitated the Whitfords move to Illinois. Ben was understanding of the change, knowing he would be getting a good education and joining an up and coming program at Marmion Academy. But at his grandmother's lake house right before he left Michigan, he finally realized what he was going to miss most.

    "Before we moved, I wasn't very emotional about leaving," says Whitford. "But then we said our goodbyes, and when it came to Tay, I got really emotional. We have a bond that's hard to explain, so it was tough."

    The irony is that while the two were close friends, this moment made them realize they were even closer than they thought.

    The news hit the usually even-keeled Massa hard as well.

    "Ben and I have a special connection," says Massa. "It was really hard for me when Ben left because I felt like I was losing a friend, a brother, and a workout partner. When you're around someone that much, they become like part of you."

    But so goes life, and the friends spent the next two years dominating high school wrestling in different states. The two kept in touch, and got to see each other at big tournaments and over the summer. If anyone wondered whether the bond had been weakened at all because of the distance, Pat Whitford tells a story which answers that clearly.

    "Ben went to Junior Duals with Team Illinois and they were wrestling the Michigan guys," says Pat Whitford. "Taylor got taken to his back by a real good Illinois kid, and the whole Illinois bench jumped up, because the best kid in the country just got taken down ... everyone except for Ben, who just sat in his chair, not knowing how to react. You could tell from the look on his face how hard it was for him and where his loyalty was."

    Meanwhile, Massa held out hope that the two friends would be reunited at some point, but that hope was waning earlier this year after he finished up his junior season with a third state title. And so, when he got the news that the Whitfords would be returning to St. Johns in May, his response was atypical for the laid back grappler.

    "When I first heard he was coming back I just got fired up," says Massa. "I just thought 'Wow.' That was the vision I always saw going into high school me and him on a team with all of our great partners around us, building up our program and taking it to the next level. We definitely have a shot to be the best team in the country and we couldn't do it without Whitford by any means."

    In the seven months since Whitford's return, their friendship has only strengthened. Whereas this relationship was once Massa as the big brother and Whitford as the little brother, the dynamic has changed.

    "Since he's been back, I see him more as a best friend," says Massa. "I feel like there's a huge transformation between eighth grade and junior year in terms of maturing and that definitely happened with Ben. It's obvious he's matured a ton since he's been gone and it's another thing that's helped us get closer. I think we both started learning how to self motivate once we got into high school. We have so much in common that we understand each other and have a better connection than most people."

    For Whitford, it is having someone who he truly trusts at his side that makes it special, and it has helped him grow as a person and leader.

    Ben Whitford (Photo/John Sachs, Tech-Fall.com)
    "He understands my situation as well as anyone," says Whitford. "He takes care of me and doesn't think about it ... He just does it. That's the kind of person I've realized I need to be around more because of how rare it is. That's why he's a role model. He's trying to help us achieve our goals as he achieves his. I've learned a lot from him, and so now I try and work with some of the other guys in the room to try and help them like Taylor's helped me."

    It's a credit to both young men that their hypercompetitive nature does not impact their friendship, but in fact helps their development as wrestlers and people.

    "We both have such high goals for ourselves that having someone with the same goals and understanding for how to achieve them is just going to push you," says Massa. "It's good to have someone that can slap you in the face to get you going if you're not working as hard as you need to. But we also love hanging out off the mat and realize that there's more to life than wrestling."

    According to Whitford, whether it is on a micro level -- "I'm always trying to push myself higher than his limits, and that pushes him back, that's why we scrap and go at it sometimes" -- or a macro level -- "Just to see him make the Junior World team pushes me to want to get to that point" -- the motivation to stay on the same level with Massa is obvious.

    Massa relishes the competition, and waxes poetic when asked what a great training partner and friend means to him.

    "You can shoot hoops all day by yourself and get amazing at that," says Massa. "You can throw a ball and become extremely accurate. With wrestling, you can't become good by yourself. You need a good partner. A good partner isn't just a good wrestler, but someone who understands you and knows you and your emotions and what they have to do to help you get through the practice that day. Because you can't have your best practice every day of your life, it just won't happen. So you need to have your partners there that can push you through on those tough days. And you put a little bit of yourself into the other person every practice, and it's how I think wrestlers become so close. You have to trust and believe in the other person if you're going to become great, and that's one thing Ben has helped me with for sure."

    Nothing illustrates how close they are more than the first big national tournament the two went to together after the Whitfords moved back to Michigan, Super 32 Challenge, at the end of October.

    "I was really pumped for that tournament, our first time being back together," recalls Whitford. "I was so excited to watch him wrestle and for me, having him there in my corner made me work that much harder."

    Taylor Massa (Photo/Rob Preston)
    Their bond was never more apparent, as the two helped coach one another with a passion normally reserved for family.

    "The only thing better than winning is having your teammates and best friends win too," says Massa. "You win, and 'good for you' and you feel good, but when you can have other people you care about winning, it makes it that much better. When I'm watching Ben wrestle at Super 32 and coaching him in his corner, you feel like part of you is out there because of all the training we've done together and how hard we've worked."

    They each breezed their way to a title at a tournament where dominance is a rarity. Whitford rolled through the tough 138-pound class with five pins, a technical fall, and a major decision in the finals. Massa was dominated in similar fashion at 170 pounds, winning a major decision in the finals as well, after four pins and a 12-5 decision earlier in the tournament.

    This set up a great season ahead for the St. Johns high school team, just reaffirming how alike their mentalities are.

    "The desire to be the best, I think about it all the time," notes Whitford. "We want to wrestle the best kids. Our mindsets are the same ... We don't care about rankings, we just want to find the other kids around the country who are tough, and we want to be dominant every match, no matter who we wrestle. It brings us closer as friends and training partners because we know the hard work we've put in and the sacrifices we've made to get to this point."

    A lot of stories would end here. Friends and teammates gearing up for a national title run, while appreciating everything they have been through. But for these two friends, the journey is just beginning.

    Ben Whitford and Taylor Massa will be teammates at Michigan
    Instead of this being their final season together, the two will eventually be reunited, as Whitford has given his verbal commitment to the University of Michigan, where he will join the already-signed Massa in Ann Arbor. It was a perfect fit for so many reasons.

    "I've been a big fan of Michigan since I've been a little kid," says Whitford. "When they added the new assistants, that was huge for me because I learned so much from Coach Bormet in Illinois and Coach Pritzlaff is awesome as well. What Coach McFarland and the assistants are building with the program and Regional Training Center is great. Having the senior level guys around is going to help me a lot, I want to make the World Team and Olympics eventually."

    All those reasons would be enough to entice any star wrestler, but his friendship and respect for Massa is among the most important reasons Whitford chose Michigan.

    "Taylor committing was as big as anything," Whitford says. "He's a great role model for me and we've talked a lot about this being a good fit for both of us in college and I couldn't be happier that I get to be with him for the next 5 years."

    When Massa hears the news, he can't conceal a huge grin.

    "It's gonna be great," says Massa. "It's awesome that we're going to have the chance to be together for another few years. I never thought this far ahead -- it was exciting to just know we'd have a year together in high school, and now this. I'm just pumped."

    For Whitford, this is a dream come true.

    "Having the combination of a best friend and a brother is pretty awesome, and that's what he is," says Whitford. "And now I get to watch him wrestle and be with him for the next five years. It doesn't get any better than that."]]>    74015Thu, 15 Dec 2011 07:52:04 +0000    InterMatWrestle releases updated high school rankingshttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/intermatwrestle-releases-updated-high-school-rankings-r74005/Related Link: Fab 50 Team Rankings
    Related Link: Individual Rankings

    With arguably the craziest Walsh Ironman from the standpoint of top-tier national kids colliding (and getting upended), along with other early season developments, it only made sense to update the national rankings at this point. The next updates for team and individual rankings will now come right around the Christmas holiday.

    Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham) is the new No. 1 at 152 pounds after winning the Walsh Ironman (Photo/Rob Preston)
    There are four weights in which a new No. 1 wrestler has been established. Ronnie Bresser (Henley, Ore.) ascends to the top spot at 106 pounds, as the previous No. 1 fell to defeat at the Ironman; Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio) rises up at 126 pounds with victories over three other top five wrestlers at the Ironman; Zane Richards (Carbondale, Ill.) moves up at 132 after the top three wrestlers in the weight class suffered early season losses; while Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), previously ranked No. 2 at 160, is now in the catbird seat at 152 pounds after winning the Ironman.

    From a team standpoint, the top eight remain unchanged, while there are varying changes throughout the rest of the Fab 50. New teams into the rankings include Wantagh, N.Y.; Camden County, Ga.; and Maple Mountain, Utah. Wantagh joins the Fab 50 after a dual meet victory over previously ranked Shenendehowa, N.Y.; while Camden County jumps in after second-place finishes to Brandon, Fla., at two tournaments this month, and finishing ahead of another nationally ranked team in each. Shenendehowa moves out of the rankings, so do Caesar Rodney, Del., and Roseburg, Ore.

    Count of ranked wrestlers by state, with 37 in all having a ranked wrestler:
    38: Pennsylvania (2 ranked No. 1)
    26: Ohio (3)
    23: California
    21: Minnesota, Illinois (2)
    19: Iowa
    16: New Jersey (1)
    14: Michigan (1)
    12: Indiana (2)
    10: Oklahoma
    9: Virginia
    8: Florida
    7: Missouri, New York, Wisconsin (1)
    5: Oregon (1)
    4: Nebraska
    3: Maryland, Texas
    2: Georgia, Idaho, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Washington (1)
    1: Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah

    Count of ranked teams by state:
    5: Pennsylvania
    4: California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma
    3: Iowa, Michigan
    2: Georgia, Missouri, Virginia
    1: Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Maryland, Nebraska, New York, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin]]>    74005Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:32:12 +0000    2011 Walsh Ironman Placement Match Resultshttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-walsh-ironman-placement-match-results-r73983/106:
    1st: No. 4 (at 113) Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.) dec. No. 5 Matthew Kolodzik (Miami Valley School, Ohio), 3-2
    3rd: No. 1 Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) dec. No. 11 (at 113) Johnson Mai (North Torrence, Calif.), 4-2
    5th: Vincenzo Joseph (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.) dec. No. 13 Brent Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.), 6-3
    7th: No. 8 Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.) over Lance Hill (Parkersburg South, W.V.) by forfeit

    113:
    1st: No. 2 Nathan Tomasello (CVCalif., Ohio) dec. No. 5 Joey McKenna (Blair Academy, N.J.), 3-2
    3rd: No. 14 Zeke Moisey (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) dec. Alex Moore (St. Edward, Ohio, 3-2
    5th: No. 7 J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.) dec. Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Ohio), 2-1 tiebreaker
    7th: Cody Stageberg (Cox, Va.) pinned Tanner Shoap (Chambersburg, Pa.)

    120:
    1st: No. 3 George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio) dec. No. 4 Ryan Taylor (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), 11-4
    3rd: Ivan McClay (Massillon, Ohio) dec. Kevon Powell (Montini Catholic, Ill.), 4-2 OT
    5th: No. 16 Godwin Nyama (Brashear, Pa.) dec. P.J. Klee (Blair Academy, N.J.), 5-3
    7th: Kaleb Lemaire (Caesar Rodney, Del.) pinned Calvin Campbell (Lexington, Ohio)

    126:
    1st: No. 8 Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio) pinned No. 1 Jimmy Gulibon (Derry Area, Pa.), 4:19
    3rd: No. 5 (at 132) Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.) dec. No. 3 Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.), 3-2
    5th: No. 9 Dominick Malone (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) dec. No. 5 Nathan Kraisser (Centennial, Md.), 3-1
    7th: No. 19 Max Hvolbek (Blair Academy, N.J.) tech. fall Anthony Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.), 19-2

    132:
    1st: No. 18 (at 126) Randy Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) dec. Edgar Bright (St. Edward, Ohio), 5-2
    3rd: No. 2 Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.) dec. No. 1 Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.), 3-0
    5th: No. 14 Joey Ward (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio) dec. No. 14 (at 138) Brent Fickel (Padua, Ohio), 6-4
    7th: C.J. Jablonski (Cox, Va.) dec. Chris Garcia (Montini Catholic, Ill.), 8-2

    138:
    1st: No. 1 Nate Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio) pinned No. 16 Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.), 4:42
    3rd: No. 5 Todd Preston (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. No. 9 Chase Ferman (Broken Arrow, Okla.), 6-4
    5th: Nick Barber (St. Edward, Ohio) dec. Mitch Newhouse (Massillon Perry, Ohio), 3-2
    7th: Ty White (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) dec. Angelo Amenta (Oregon Clay, Ohio), 5-4

    145:
    1st: Dylan Milonas (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. No. 20 Blake Kastl (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), 5-3 OT
    3rd: No. 9 Zack Dailey (Massillon Perry, Ohio) dec. Jake Faust (Lexington, Ohio), 1-0
    5th: No. 19 Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.) dec. Markus Scheidel (St. Edward, Ohio), 3-1
    7th: Brooks Martino (Robinson, Va.) pinned Cohl Fulk (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)

    152:
    1st: No. 2 (at 160) Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) dec. No. 2 Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.), 2-0
    3rd: Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) dec. Russ Parsons (Blair Academy, N.J.), 8-6
    5th: Dakota Sizemore (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio) dec. Jim Klosz (Holy Name, Ohio), 5-3 OT
    7th: Tyler Manion (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.) over Alex Bergman (Oak Harbor, Ohio) by forfeit

    160:
    1st: No. 3 (at 170) Isaac Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) over No. 4 (at 170) Geordan Speiller (Pine Castle Christian, FL), 5-2
    3rd: Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.) over No. 13 Victor Pereira (Newark Memorial, Calif.), 5-4
    5th: No. 10 (at 170) Dylan Reel (Washington, Ill.) over Jacob Davis (St. Edward, Ohio), 5-3
    7th: Patrick Coover (Blair Academy, N.J.) major dec. Toby Hague (McDonogh, Md.), 9-1

    170:
    1st: No. 8 (at 160) Mark Martin (St. Edward, Ohio) dec. No. 10 (at 160) Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), 2-1
    3rd: No. 20 Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) over Tyler Miles (Christiansburg, Va.) by forfeit
    5th: Addison Knepshield (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. Michael Blum (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio), 4-2
    7th: Austin Coniker (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.) dec. David Gray (CVCalif., Ohio), 6-4

    182:
    1st: No. 3 (at 195) Huston Evans (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) dec. No. 11 Domenic Abounader (St. Edward, Ohio), 3-2
    3rd: B.J. Toal (Troy Christian, Ohio) dec. Michael Mocco (Blair Academy, N.J.), 3-1 OT
    5th: Andrew Krawulski (Collins Hill, GA) over Steven Brogle (Parkersburg South, W.V.) by forfeit
    7th: Aaron Adkins (Akron SVSM, Ohio) dec. Troy Lang (Brecksville, Ohio), 3-1

    195:
    1st: No. 19 Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. Seth Calvert (Broken Arrow, Okla.), 6-1
    3rd: James Suvak (St. Edward, Ohio) dec. Joe Tayse (Massillon Perry, Ohio), 7-4
    5th: Kevin Marvel (McDonogh, Md.) dec. Jerry Thornberry (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio), 2-1
    7th: Josh Lehner (Lexington, Ohio) dec. Josh Alpha (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), 3-0

    220:
    1st: No. 2 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) dec. No. 6 AJ Vizcarrando (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), 3-2
    3rd: No. 11 Matt Meadows (CVCalif., Ohio) dec. Chalmer Freauf (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio), 5-1
    5th: No. 8 Ty Walz (St. Edward, Ohio) dec. David Farr (Blair Academy, N.J.), 10-5
    7th: No. 16 Austin Lobsinger (West Valley, Calif.) pinned Garrett Linton (Rootstown, Ohio)

    285:
    1st: No. 1 Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.) dec. No. 7 Greg Kuhar (St. Edward, Ohio), 3-1
    3rd: No. 12 Mimmo Lytle (Swanton, Ohio) dec. Michael Johnson, Jr. (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), 1-0
    5th: Garrett Gray (Oregon Clay, Ohio) dec. Nino Majoy (Huron, Ohio), 5-3
    7th: Blake Heim (Reynolds, Pa.) dec. Chuck Boddy (Germantown Academy, Pa.), 5-3]]>    73983Sun, 11 Dec 2011 07:56:23 +0000    2011 Walsh Ironman Recaphttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-walsh-ironman-recap-r73982/Related: Placewinners
    Related: Brackets
    Related: Team Standings (Top 10)

    CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio -- Every year, the Walsh Jesuit Ironman is hyped as "the best in-season tournament in America." Well, this year's edition of the Ironman more than lived up to the hype. The intensity, electricity, and competitive atmosphere of Ironman Saturday was surreal to say the least.

    Blair (Photo/Kevin Schlosser, BuckeyeWrestling.com)
    Despite some moments of disappointment, No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J., lived up to its ranking and came home with its 10th Ironman title, and third in the last four years. The Buccaneers had a true team effort placing 13 of their 14 wrestlers inside of the top eight to score 252-1/2 points. "That was impressive," said head coach Jeff Buxton, "I'm proud of our team, things came together but we still have plenty to work on."

    The major moment of concern for Blair came in the semifinal round, when No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio took a temporary hold on the team point lead after a crazy sequence of matches from 126 through 138. In the semifinals at 126, No. 8 Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio) earned a 4-2 victory over No. 5 (at 132) Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.). That came after a 3-1 Heil victory over No. 3 Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.) in the quarterfinal round.

    At 132 pounds, the two top wrestlers in the nation were upset within a five minute span. No. 1 ranked Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.) was upended by No. 18 (at 126) Randy Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) 9-4. Cruz took an early lead in the match, Grey was able to cut the deficit down to 6-4, but Cruz escaped and got a late takedown to close it out. "Grey is real tough," said Cruz, "I've seen him at many events, but never wrestled him before today."

    Making it even worse for Blair, Edgar Bright (St. Edward, Ohio) upset No. 2 Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.) 5-2 in the tiebreaker. In the next weight, at 138, No. 5 Todd Preston (Blair Academy, N.J.) was upended 3-1 on a late takedown by No. 16 Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.) off a crazy scramble.

    However, the Buccaneers were able to recover from that, starting with Dylan Milonas at 145 pounds, who upended No. 9 Zack Dailey (Massillon Perry, Ohio) 7-5 in the tiebreaker on a reversal during the semifinal round. That came after a 1-0 victory over No. 19 Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.) in a quarterfinal battle of National Prep runners-up with a third perod rideout. In the final, Milonas was the first of three Blair champions with a 5-3 overtime victory over No. 20 Blake Kastl (St. Paris Graham, Ohio).

    "My endurance really keeps me going in these close matches," said Milonas. "It's all about the training partners that I have (at Blair, like Grey and Preston, and others) that keep pushing me and keep me going."

    In that semifinal round, Blair was also able to get wins from No. 19 Frank Mattiace at 195 and No. 1 Brooks Black at 285. Those wrestlers also earned championships during the final round.

    Mattiace earned a 6-1 victory against Seth Calvert (Broken Arrow, Okla.) on a five-point move late in the third period of a match that was previously tied 1-1. "Calvert hit a low ankle pick, and I trapped it to a cradle," said Mattiace.

    "Being at Blair has helped me improve a ton, and I give thanks to the coaches for making me ten times a better wrestler," Mattiace added. "Competing nationally has enabled me to improve."

    Black earned a 3-1 victory over No. 7 Greg Kuhar (St. Edward, Ohio) in the championship round on a third period takedown with 45 seconds remaining. That was a fifth victory for Black over Kuhar in as many meetings. Having seen him so many times, "I just have to go and execute the same plan, push the pace, and it will come," Black said. "It feels great to win a second (Ironman) title, I worked hard for it, and am thankful for the coaching (from Buxton and staff)."

    Dean Heil pinned Jimmy Gulibon to win the title at 126 pounds (Photo/Kevin Schlosser, BuckeyeWrestling.com)
    The major individual story of the tournament came from the already mentioned Heil, who followed up the victories earlier in the day over Dance and Jeske with an even bigger statement in the championship final match against No.1 Jimmy Gulibon (Derry Area, Pa.). After trading takedowns in the first two periods, the wrestlers were tied at 3-3. Gulibon then scored an escape off of his choice to start the third period. Countering a Gulibon shot, Heil won the scramble and trapped Gulibon on his back for the fall at the 4:19 mark.

    "I warmed up the same (before each match), I knew my competition, and I wrestled my match (in all three matches)," said Heil in analyzing his run through the Saturday gauntlet at the Ironman. "I was able to overcome some distractions in training (not being able to practice the week before this one due to injury), kept my focus, and knew this was a chance to be No. 1 in America."

    He more than stated his case on Ironman Saturday, and the performance was sufficient to earn Outstanding Wrestler honors. "It's totally amazing, and I fought through a heck of bracket," Heil responded when asked about earning the award.

    Despite that dynamic performance from Heil, St. Edward came up just short in their attempt to upend Blair, as they scored 240-1/2 points. That total for the Eagles was the highest ever accrued by a runner-up team. No. 8 (at 160) Mark Martin gave the Eagles a second titlist with a 2-1 victory over No. 10 (at 160) Eric Morris at 170 pounds. After being ridden out in the second period, and giving up an escape with about thirty seconds remaining, the match-deciding sequence started with about fifteen seconds remaining.

    Martin seized the moment, got in on a double leg attack, and blasted through the space for the match-winning takedown. "I went to what I do best," said Martin, "Morris does a good job staying in position, so I just had to go find an explosive moment to create a gap."

    The Eagles placed eleven wrestlers in all, championships coming from Heil and Martin, with runner-up finishes from Bright, No. 11 Domenic Abounader at 182, and Kuhar.

    Third place in the standings was No. 7 St. Paris Graham, Ohio with 167 points and a trio of champions, which tied Blair for the tournament high. Falcon champions were No. 2 (at 160) Bo Jordan winning at 152, No. 3 (at 170) Isaac Jordan winning at 160, and No. 3 (at 195) Huston Evans winning at 182. They also tied St. Edward with a tournament high five finalists, as No. 4 Ryan Taylor and Kastl were upended at 120 and 145 respectively.

    Bo Jordan upended No. 2 Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.) for his second consecutive Ironman title, by a 2-0 score on a second period takedown from a head-inside single to a dump finish. Facing such a tough opponent, Bo focused on his basic match plan, "Just go out there, do what I do, get the inside position, push the pace, and get in his face."

    In the next weight, his cousin Isaac Jordan followed suit with a 5-2 victory over No. 4 (at 170) Geordan Speiller (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.). Takedowns in the first two periods were key -- they came off a head inside single and a sweep single. This was a bounce-back year for Isaac, after failing to place in last year's Ironman, then sitting out the rest of the regular season due to a hurt hamstring before winning a state title.

    "I feel much better (this year)," Isaac commented, also adding that, "(Bo) is a great partner, and I have many others in the room that also push me."

    Finally getting an Ironman title after finishing second last year, fourth and seventh the years before that, was Evans who upended Abounader by a 3-2 score. The match-deciding takedown came in the third period after multiple attempts fell just short of scoring. "It feels great to get one, since I've been working for this for a long time," said Evans, "I feel great this year, especially not having to cut (much if any) weight."

    Earning second Ironman championships this year were No. 2 Nathan Tomasello (CVCalif., Ohio) and No. 1 Nate Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio) at 113 and 138 pounds respectively. Tomasello had a very rough road to his title having to get off his back in the first period against No. 14 Zeke Moisey (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) and catch up to a 5-0 deficit. Trailing 9-8 late in the match after three takedowns to dent into that lead, Tomasello got the go ahead takedown and pin with one second remaining in the match.

    The championship match against No. 5 Joey McKenna (Blair Academy, N.J.) was no easier, despite Tomasello getting an early takedown. With the score tied 2-2, McKenna rode tough for much of the third period before Tomasello got the escape with about 30 seconds left before fending off a deep McKenna attack towards the edge of the mat inside the last ten seconds.

    "I trust god, and wrestle for his glory," said Tomasello, "Just able to let things go, focus in on the task at hand, and work very hard to be in better shape (than my opponents) to be able to wrestle the full six minutes."

    Skonieczny won a second title in three years at his home tournament with a pin against Matthews at the 4:41 mark. Leading 4-3 after takedowns in the second and third period, Skonieczny was in attempting a third takedown to extend the margin. Matthews tried to scramble through the attempt, but Skonieczny trapped Matthews on his back for a brief moment for the fall from the neutral position.

    "I got a good pace going, hit some good shots," Skonieczny said, "When (Matthews) rolled through, I just stopped it, and got the pin, which was an especially nice feeling."

    Winning additional maiden Ironman titles were No. 4 (at 113) Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.) at 106, No. 2 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) at 220, and Randy Cruz at 132.

    Though ranked as the No. 1 freshman regardless of weight in the country, this was Valencia's first major in-season test. He did more than pass this test, though all three matches on Saturday were one point affairs. The quarterfinal was a 6-5 victory over Vincenzo Joseph (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.), then a 5-4 victory over No. 11 (at 113) Johnson Mai (North Torrence, Calif.) before the 3-2 finals victory over No. 5 Matthew Kolodzik (Miami Valley School, Ohio).

    Key to the Valencia finals victory was a second period takedown, the only one of the match. "The Ironman comes with pressure, but I've been here before over my youth career," said Valencia, "I also have great partners that push me and help prepare me for challenges during the matches."

    Snyder, a sophomore sensation who is ranked No. 2 in that grade, added another notch to his resume with a 3-2 finals victory over No. 6 A.J. Vizcarrando (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.). A first period takedown held up as the key part of the margin, as he was able to replicate his National Prep finals victory over the same opponent.

    "It's been a lot of hard work with some great people and coaches that have enabled me to elevate to that next level (so early in my career)," said Snyder.

    Rounding out the champions was a three-time Ironman champion No. 3 George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio) at 120 pounds. He became just the ninth wrestler to win three Ironman titles; David Taylor (Penn State/St. Paris Graham, Ohio) won four titles, and would make it ten that have won three or more. DiCamillo did so in entertaining fashion, as he made a statement against Ryan Taylor with an 11-4 major decision victory. Keys to the match were a Peterson counter takedown in the first period and five-point reversal to the back in the second period, which made it 7-0.

    Having wrestled Taylor on multiple occasions, including last year's 6-5 Ironman finals victory, DiCamillo knew that he "had to mix it up a bit and keep (Taylor) guessing."

    "It hasn't really sunk in yet," said DiCamillo of winning a third Ironman title, "however, I'm really excited."]]>    73982Sun, 11 Dec 2011 07:30:41 +0000    2011 Walsh Ironman Team Standings (Top 10)https://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-walsh-ironman-team-standings-top-10-r73976/2. No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio 240-1/2
    3. No. 7 St. Paris Graham, Ohio 167
    4. No. 12 Wyoming Seminary, Pa. 128
    5. No. 21 Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio 121-1/2
    6. No. 14 Bethlehem Catholic, Pa. 120
    7. No. 9 Christiansburg, Va. 119
    8. No. 26 Broken Arrow, Okla. 102-1/2
    9. No. 19 Massillon Perry, Ohio 90
    10. No. 32 Collins Hill, Ga. 77

    Other nationally ranked teams: 15. No. 29 Montini Catholic, Ill. 59; 22 (tie). No. 46 McDonogh, Md. 44; 24. No. 25 Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa. 43; 36 (tie). No. 47 Caesar Rodney, Del. 30]]>    73976Sun, 11 Dec 2011 03:34:56 +0000    Walsh Ironman Day 1 Team Standingshttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/walsh-ironman-day-1-team-standings-r73965/Team Standings (Quarterfinalists/Consolation):
    1. No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J. 93-1/2 (11/2)
    2. No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio 92-1/2 (10/2)
    3. No. 21 Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio 71-1/2 (3/6)
    4. No. 7 St. Paris Graham, Ohio 69 (5/5)
    5. No. 26 Broken Arrow, Okla. 67-1/2 (3/4)
    6. No. 12 Wyoming Seminary, Pa. 66 (6/3)
    7. No. 9 Christiansburg, Va. 65 (5/5)
    8. No. 32 Collins Hill, Ga. 64 (2/5)
    9. No. 19 Massillon Perry, Ohio 59-1/2 (5/4)
    10. No. 14 Bethlehem Catholic, Pa. 56 (5/0)
    Other Nationally ranked teams: 14. No. 29 Montini Catholic, Ill. 44 (2/7); 29 (tie) No. 46 McDonogh, Md. (2/1), Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa. 27 (2/1); 33 (tie) No. 47 Caesar Rodney, Del. 24 (1/0)]]>    73965Sat, 10 Dec 2011 02:03:42 +0000    Walsh Ironman Quarterfinal Pairingshttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/walsh-ironman-quarterfinal-pairings-r73964/106:
    No. 11 (at 112) Johnson Mai (North Torrence, CA) vs. No. 14 David Bavery (Massillon Perry, Ohio)
    No. 4 (at 112) Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, CA) vs. Vincenzo Joseph (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.)
    No. 5 Matthew Kolodzik (Miami Valley, Ohio) vs. Brent Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.)
    No. 1 Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) vs. No. 8 Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.)

    113:
    No. 2 Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio) vs. Tanner Shoap (Chambersburg, Pa.)
    No. 14 Zeke Moisey (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) vs. Johnny Jimenez (Marmion Academy, Ill.)
    No. 5 Joey McKenna (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Jordan Laster (Montini Catholic, Ill.)
    No. 7 J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Ohio)

    120:
    No. 3 George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio) vs. Calvin Campbell (Lexington, Ohio)
    Ivan McClay (Massillon, Ohio) vs. Cory Stainbrook (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio)
    No. 16 Godwin Nyama (Brashear, Pa.) vs. Kaleb Lemaire (Caesar Rodney, Del.)
    No. 4 Ryan Taylor (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) vs. Drew Ferguson (Collins Hill, Ga.)

    126:
    No. 1 Jimmy Gulibon (Derry Area, Pa.) vs. Mikey Kostandaras (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio)
    No. 5 Nathan Kraisser (Centennial, Md.) vs. No. 9 Dominick Malone (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)
    No. 5 (at 132) Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.) vs. No. 19 Max Hvolbek (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    No. 3 Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. No. 8 Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio)

    132:
    No. 1 Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. No. 14 Joey Ward (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio)
    No. 18 (at 126) Randy Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) vs. Chris Garcia (Montini Catholic, Ill.)
    No. 7 Kagan Squire (Wadsworth, Ohio) vs. Edgar Bright (St. Edward, Ohio)
    No. 2 Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.) vs. CJ Jablonski (Cox, Va.)

    138:
    No. 1 Nate Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio) vs. Angelo Amenta (Oregon Clay, Ohio)
    Nick Barber (St. Edward, Ohio) vs. Mitch Newhouse (Massillon Perry, Ohio)
    No. 5 Todd Preston (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Chris Yankowich (Germantown Academy, Pa.)
    No. 9 Chase Ferman (Broken Arrow, Okla.) vs. No. 16 Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.)

    145:
    No. 11 (at 152) Joey Lavallee (Reno, Nev.) vs. Jake Faust (Lexington, Ohio)
    No. 20 Blake Kastl (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) vs. Cohl Fulk (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)
    No. 19 Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.) vs. Dylan Milonas (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    No. 9 Zack Dailey (Massillon Perry, Ohio) vs. Zane Zeman (Avon, Ohio)

    152:
    No. 2 (at 160) Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham Graham, Ohio) vs. Alex Bergman (Oak Harbor, Ohio)
    Ross Parsons (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Matt Van Curen (St. Edward, Ohio)
    Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) vs. James Klosz (Holy Name, Ohio)
    No. 2 Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.) vs. Terrell Forbes (St. Benedict's Prep, N.J.)

    160:
    No. 10 (at 170) Dylan Reel (Washington, Ill.) vs. Jacob Davis (St. Edward, Ohio)
    No. 4 (at 170) Geordan Speiller (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.) vs. Patrick Coover (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    No. 3 (at 170) Isaac Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) vs. No. 13 Victor Pereira (Newark Memorial, Calif.)
    Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. Josh Arrendale (Massillon Perry, Ohio)

    170:
    No. 10 (at 160) Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) vs. Austin Coniker (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.)
    No. 20 Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) vs. Tyler Miles (Christiansburg, Va.)
    Addison Kneppshield (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Brock Warren (Broken Arrow, Okla.)
    No. 8 (at 160) Mark Martin (St. Edward, Ohio) vs. David Gray (CVCA, Ohio)

    182:
    No. 3 (at 195) Huston Evans (St. Paris Graham, Ohio) vs. Connor Wasson (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)
    Steven Brogle (Parkersburg South, W. Va.) vs. B.J. Toal (Troy Christian, Ohio)
    No. 11 Domenic Abounader (St. Edward, Ohio) vs. Andrew Krawulski (Collins Hill, Ga.)
    No. 6 Chaz Gresham (Goshen, Ohio) vs. Michael Mocco (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    195:
    Seth Calvert (Broken Arrow, Okla.) vs. Josh Alpha (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)
    Joe Tayse (Massillon Perry, Ohio) vs. James Suvak (St. Edward, Ohio)
    Kevin Marvel (McDonogh, Md.) vs. Josh Lehner (Lexington, Ohio)
    No. 19 Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Jerry Thornberry (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio)

    220:
    No. 8 Ty Walz (St. Edward, Ohio) vs. Ray Stone (Akron SVSM, Ohio)
    No. 6 A.J. Vizcarrando (Wyoming Semianry, Pa.) vs. No. 16 Austin Lobsinger (West Valley, Calif.)
    No. 2 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) vs. Chalmer Freauf (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio)
    No. 11 Matt Meadows (CVCA, Ohio) vs. Garrett Linton (Rootstown, Ohio)

    285:
    No. 1 Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Chuck Boddy (Germantown Academy, Pa.)
    Nino Majoy (Huron, Ohio) vs. Garrett Gray (Oregon Clay, Ohio)
    No. 12 Mimmo Lytle (Swanton, Ohio) vs. Jake Pinkston (Robinson, Va.)
    No. 7 Greg Kuhar (St. Edward, Ohio) vs. Michael Johnson, Jr. (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)]]>    73964Sat, 10 Dec 2011 02:00:37 +0000    2011 Walsh Ironman Running Notebookhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-walsh-ironman-running-notebook-r73956/
    7:10 p.m. ET: Evans (Graham) wins 3-2 over Abounader (St. Edward) first place 3-2. Third went to Toal (Troy Chr., Oh.) 3-1 overtime over Mocco (Blair). Fifth was Krawuslki (Collins Hill, Ga.) by default.

    7:00 p.m. ET: Catch up on things after awards. Mark Martin (St. Edward, Oh.) won 2-1 with a very late double leg against Eric Morris (Wyo Sem., Pa.) for first. Riddick (BECA, Pa.) for third on default. Kneppshield (Blair, N.J.) wins over Blum (Moeller) 4-2 for fifth. Miles (C'Burg, Va.) took fourth.

    6:30 p.m. ET: Bo Jordan (Graham) with a second period takedown to beat Martinez (Lemoore) 2-0 at 152, both went neutral. Sizemore (Moeller, Oh.) beat Klosz (Holy Name, Oh.) 5-3 overtime for fifth. Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) over Parsons (Blair) 8-6 for third.

    6:20 p.m. ET: Three impressive wins for Dylan Milonas (Blair, N.J.) over ranked wrestlers. 5-3 in overtime over Kastl (Graham, Oh.) Third went to Dailey (M. Perry, Oh.) 1-0 over Faust (Lexington, OH.). Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.) won 3-1 over Scheidel (St. Edward, Oh.)

    6:10 p.m. ET: Finals have begun. Nate Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Oh.) with a fall over Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.) - marginal control from neutral. 4-3 lead at the time. Third was Preston (Blair), fifth was Barber (St. Edward).

    3:15 p.m. ET: Greg Kuhar (St. Edward, Oh.) wins 3-2 in the ultimtae tiebreaker over Mimmo Lytle (Swanton, Oh.). Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.) pins Nino Majoy (Huron, Oh.) We'll get a team score update and be done. 7/8 up here, consi semis downstairs.
    St. Edward has 5, Graham has 5, Graham has 4 in the finals. No other school with more than one.

    3:05 p.m. ET: AJ Vizcarrando (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) wins 5-3 with two counter takedowns in the third period over Ty Walz (St. Edward, Oh.). Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) wins 3-2 over Matt Meadows (CVCA, Oh.). Those were the 215 semis. For all the work St. Edward pulled pulled early, Blair is winning 208 to 206-1/2.

    2:55 p.m. ET: Seth Calvert (Broken Arrow, Okla.) beats James Suvak (St. Edward, Oh.) 4-1 ... second period near falls, third period reversal. Frank Mattiace (Blair, N.J.) with a 3-2 win over Kevin Marvel (McDonogh, Md.)

    2:40 p.m. ET: Huston Evans (Graham, Oh.) wins 5-2 over BJ Toal (Troy Christian, Oh.) ... Domenic Abounader (St. Edward, Oh.) wins 7-1 over Michael Mocco (Blair, N.J.). St. Edward plus 19-1/2 over Blair ... both schools have a grappler on the mat here at 195.

    2:30 p.m. ET: Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) wins 4-2 in the ultimate tiebreaker on a reversal over Elliott Riddick (Beth. Catholic, Pa.) after both wrestlers rode out in the :30-:30. Mark Martin (St. Edward) wins 10-2 major over Addison Kneppshield (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    2:20 p.m. ET: Geordan Speiller (Pine Castle Chr., Fla.) wins 9-2 over Jacob Davis (St. Edward, Oh.); Isaac Jordan (Graham, Oh.) wins 4-2 over Zach Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.). 160 semis. 170 has a Eds/Graham head-on, Eds is prohibitively favored and down 5-1/2 now, 11 points plus bonus on the line in this one (also at 182).

    2:10 p.m. ET: Bo Jordan (Graham, Oh.) wins 11-2 over Ross Parsons (Blair, N.J.). Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.) with a big lead and then Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) had Martinez on his back when time run out - Martinez wins 13-9.

    2:00 p.m. ET: Kastl (Graham, Oh.) survives against Faust (Lexington, Oh.) Up 3-1 late, stopped wrestling, Faust hit a duck but evidently Kastl's hands weren't down beyond reaction time. We're going to overtime in Dailey (M. Perry, Oh.) vs. Milonas (Blair, N.J.) with a 5-5 score.
    Milonas gets a reversal in the second :30-:30 countering a merkle after he rode Dailey out in the first portion. 7-5 the final there.

    1:45 p.m. ET: And the afteroon of disaster for Blair continues with Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.) gets the late takedown in a scramble against Preston (Blair, N.J.) - 3-1 final there. Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Oh.) wins 4-2 on a third period takedown against Newhouse (Massillon Perry, Oh.) 138. 145 is now.

    1:40 p.m. ET: St. Eds plus 3-1/2 on Blair. Only going to increase as the upper weights progress on 138 now.

    1:35 p.m. ET: Moments that will live in team race infamy. Randy Cruz (Beth. Catholic, Pa.) wins 9-4 over Grey (Blair, N.J.) in an entertaining. Bright (St. Edward) wins 5-2 in the tiebreaks over Cisneros (Selma, Calif.) No. 1 and No. in America goes down. St. Edward has a TON of MOMENTUM!

    1:15 p.m. ET: 4-2 Heil is the winner on a reversal and near falls in the third. Gulibon wins 10-3 at 126.

    1:10 p.m. ET: Taylor wins 7-3, DiCamillo 1-0 after third period escape on second period rideout. Last year final rematch. Jeske (Cox, Va.) against Heil (St. Edward, Oh.) at 126 ... Gulibon (Derry Area, Pa.) gets the takedown against Kraisser (Centennial, Md.)

    1:05 p.m. ET: Bethlehem Catholic, Pa. kids get shafted at 106 and 113 - 106 for sure, 113 not as sure. DiCamillo (St. Igatius, Ohio) down position in a scoreless match against McClay (Massillon, Oh.). Taylor (Graham, Oh.) gets two near falls to make it 7-3 over Nyama (Brashear, Pa.) with 1:10 left in the match.

    12:55 p.m. ET: Tomasello down 5-0 early comes back to take 10-9 lead late and GET THE PIN!!! McKenna wins 4-3 over Assad. 120 next.

    12:50 p.m. ET: Valencia (SJB, Ca.) hung on for 5-4 win over Mai (N. Torrence, Calif.). Kolodzik (MV School, Oh.) 3-2 win over Cruz (BECA, Pa.) though Cruz got the only takedown. Moisey up 5-3 after a five point move in the second period (Tomasello cut from 5-1 to 5-3). Assad (Brecksville, Oh.) trails McKenna (Blair, N.J.) 4-2 late second period.

    12:30 p.m. ET: Semis about to start - mats 1 and 3 only. Btw, in consolation activity, Brent Fickel (Padua, Oh.) beats Kagan Squire (Wadsworth, Oh.) with a late takedown - Squire will DNP after placing the first three years of his career.

    I'll update semi results on notebook, in match on twitter.

    12:15 p.m. ET: Updated team before semis start: Blair 1st with 146-1/2 (9 semis). St. Edward with 141-1/2 (8 semis). Graham third with 99, Beth. Catholic (Pa.) 80, TIED Broken Arrow, Okla. and Moeller, Ohio 79-1/2. That's the top six. C'Burg, Va. with 79 and Wyo Sem, Pa. with 78, Massillon Perry (Oh.) 72 and Collins Hill, Ga. with 67 round out the top ten.

    12:10 p.m. ET: 285 pounds semis - Black (Blair, N.J.) vs. Majoy (Huron, Ohio), Lytle (Swanton, Ohio) vs. Kuhar (St. Edward, Ohio). Kuhar majors the freshman sensation Johnson, Jr. (Wyo Sem, Pa.) 10-1 in the quarters. Matches to start shortly with 106 and up on two mats in the main gym.

    12:05 p.m. ET: 220 bottom semi - Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) vs. Meadows (CVCA, Ohio). 13-3 major for Snyder, 7-4 decision for Meadows in the quarters.

    12:00 p.m. ET: 195 semis - Calvert (Broken Arrow, Okla.) vs. Suvak (St. Edward, Ohio), Marvel (McDonogh, Md.) vs. Mattiace (Blair, N.J.)

    11:55 a.m. ET: Abounader closed out the win, at 195 Mattiace (Blair) closed out a win. Tayse (Mass Perry, Ohio) v Suvak (St. Edward, Ohio) is scoreless third period. AJ Vizcarrando (Wyo Semi) closes out the 4-3 victory.
    Semi pairings for the last three weights shortly. Abounader did win.

    11:50 a.m. ET: BJ Toal (Troy Christian, Ohio) with a fall at 182, he'll face Evans in the top semi. Abounader (St. Edward, Ohio) leads 3-1 against Krawulski (Collins Hill, Ga.) after two periods for the right to face Mocco (Blair, N.J.) in the bottom semi at 182 after Gresham (Goshen, Ohio) scratched due to injury last night.

    11:45 a.m. ET: Riddick (Beth. Catholic, Pa.) majors 17-8 at 170, faces Morris up top semi. Ty Walz (St. Edward) majors Stone (SVSM, Oh.) 20-7 at 220 - he'll face the winner of the next match on mat one b/n Vizcarrando (Wyo Sem, Pa.) and Lobsinger (West Valley, Calif.). Calvert (Broken Arrow, Okla.) with a fall at 195 over Alpha (Beth. Catholic).

    11:40 a.m. ET: 6:00 finals at the Ironman, as opposed to 6:30 p.m. Evans (Graham) wins 18-5 at 182 against Wasson (Wyo Seminary, Pa.) 170 has two matches up, 220 one, and we have 182 coming up where 182 ended.
    Kneppshield (Blair, N.J.) gets 4-3 win having ridden out the last three-plus minutes of the match, and advances to face Martin in the bottom 170 semi.

    11:35 a.m. ET: Gresham did scratch this morning, injury last night. Michael Mocco (Blair, N.J.) has a free pass to the 182 semis.
    160 top semi is Speiller vs. Davis.

    11:30 a.m. ET: Morris wins 1-0 final. Isaac Jordan gets 4 NF to go up 5-0 over Pereira. Martin (St. Edward, Oh.) up big on Gray (CVCA, Oh.) 9-2 lead second period late. Speiller (PC Christian, Fla.) up 2-1 on Coover (Blair, N.J.) middle second period at 160.
    160 bottom semi is Isaac Jordan v Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.)

    11:25 a.m. ET: Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) won 6-2 at 152, faces Martinez in semis; Parsons v Bo Jordan. Isaac Jordan (Graham, Oh.) almost with a takedown agaisnt Pereira (Newark Memorial, Calif.) after the escape and leads 1-0 after two at 160. Morris (Wyo Seminary, Pa.) and Coniker (Pitt CC, Pa.) tied 0-0 late thrid period - Coniker on top after being ridde in second ... Morris escapes and leads 1-0 at 170.

    11:20 a.m. ET: TWOOOOO for Davis on the counter takedown. Friday upset last year, Saturday upset this year. Van Curen (St. Edward) 4-4 tie with Parsons (Blair, N.J.) third period .. Van Curen stalls, Parsons down. Big head on match.
    Parsons escapes off the stall, hit for a stall with :10 left, Parsons takedown off of Van Curen's force ... Blair wins 7-4 buffers the Eds storm.

    11:15 a.m. ET: Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.) with fall at 152, Bo Jordan (Graham, Ohio) with a major. That's the two and one seed. OVertime at 160 - Reel (Washington, Ill.) vs. Davis (St. Edward, Ohio) 5-5.

    11:10 a.m. ET: 145 - Clark (McDonogh, Md.) trails Milonas (Blair, N.J) 1-0 after two, Clark is down third period. Battle of Nat Prep runners-up from last year. Dailey (Massillon Perry, Oh.) wins by 17-2 tech and advances to semis.
    Milonas 1-0 final, faces Dailey in the semis. Kastl (Graham) about to close out 9-4 victory and faces Faust in the other 145 semi - could be Ohio DII finals preview.

    11:05 a.m. ET: 138 semis - Skonieczny v Newhouse, Preston v Matthews.

    11:00 a.m. ET: Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.) PIN over Ferman (Broken Arrow, Okla.). Faust 7-1. Preston (Blair, N.J.) up 3-0 second period in prep champ battle with Yankowich (Germantown, Pa.). Newhouse (Mass. Perry, Oh.) up 12-7 on Barber (St. Eds, Oh.) late third period.

    10:55 a.m. ET: TIEBREAK ULTIMATE. 3-3 Bright v Squire. Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio) wins at 138. Bright wins with near falls. Tfree 138, one at 145 - Faust (Lexington, Ohio) leads Lavallee (Reno) 2-0 after one #breakthrough?

    10:45 a.m. ET: OVERTIME Malone v Kraisser with 1-1 score ... Kraisser in deep ... TWO and the win!

    10:40 a.m. ET: BIG BIG BIG team race win for Heil, 3-1 over Dance. Grey up 5-3 on Ward minute left third period. Jeske wins it 6-3 over the Blair wrestler. Malone (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) and Kraisser (Centennial, Md.) scoreless after one. Heil v Jeske a semi at 126.
    Grey closes out the 5-3 victory, and is a 4x placer at the Ironman.
    Malone up 1-0 after two against Kraisser.

    10:35 a.m. ET: McClay wins 5-4, faces DiCamillo. Jeske (Cox, Va.) lead Hvolbek 4-2 after two, Heil up 3-1 one minute left. At 132, Grey (Blair, N.J.) leads Ward (Moeller, Oh.) 4-2 late second period.

    10:30 a.m. ET: Ryan Taylor (Graham, Ohio) wins his quarter at 120 by 2-1 score on third period reversal. McClay (Massillon, Ohio) up 4-0 in the other quarter at that weight. Taylor v Nyama semi. McClay's quarter feeds into DiCamillo.
    Jimmy Gulibon (Derry Area, Pa.) closes out victory in quarters at 126, took it to the opponent. Technical fall . Big quarters at 126 in progress ... Heil (St. Edward, Oh.) up 2-0 on Dance (Christiansburg, Va.) end of one, Jeske (Cox, Va.) up on Hvolbek (Blair, N.J.) 2-1 after one as well.

    10:25 a.m. ET: DiCamillo gets a 13-5 major decision. Nyama about to get a woodshed victory here in the quarters over Lemaire (C. Rodney, Del.) ... big time leap here for Nyama this year. 15-0 tech for the wrestler of Nigerian descent, his parents are profs at Pitt. DiCamillo now a 4x Ironman placer.

    10:22 a.m. ET: Assad wins 2-1 on a second stall and escape, upset there over the 7th ranked Wert. Moisey/Jimenez 4-4 third period. DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio) is up 4-1 midway through the second at 120. Nyama (Brashear, PA) up 2-0 midway first period. Moisey gets the takedown to close that out 6-4.

    10:20 a.m. ET: Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio) closes out 6-2 quarterfinal victory at 113. Joey McKenna (Blair, N.J.) closes out 5-2 quarterfinal. Jimenez (Marmion, Ill.) writhing in pain after Moisey called for a penalty point, but up 4-2. Wert (Christiansburg, Va. up 1-0 trying to ride out in the third. Acutally 1-1 now with an Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Ohio) escape

    10:10 a.m. ET: Johnson Mai (N. Torrence, Calif.) wins by a 13-2 score at 106. Darian Cruz (Beth. Catholic, Pa.) wins his quarter 11-2, and will face Matt Kolodzik (Miami Valley, Ohio) in the semis after his 5-0 win. Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.) wins 6-5 and will face Mai in an all Calif. semifinal.

    10:00 a.m. ET: Quarterfinals about to start - 106 first. Check the pairings link. Joseph takedown, 2-0 over Valencia; Mai takedown, 2-0 over Bavery, Cruz takedown, 2-0 over Ozias. Kolodzik takedown, 2-0 over Fleetwood.

    9:20 a.m. ET: Quarterfinals going to start in about 40 minutes here in the main gym on four mtas.

    A couple items to close out Day 1, and help fans follow the first part of Day 2.

    Quarterfinal pairings: http://intermatwrestle.com/articles/9298
    Team Standings: http://intermatwrestle.com/articles/9299

    From a team standings standpoint: Quarterfinal wins are worth five points plus bonus (two for winning, three for guaranteed 6th place). Semifinal wins are worth eleven points plus bonus (two for winning, nine for the jump from 6th to 2nd place).

    Quarterfinal round is also a big round in the No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J. vs. No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio team race. Blair with 11 in the quarters has six quarters that they are favored to win (113, 132, 138, 152, 195, and 285); three in which they are the on paper underdog (126, 160, 182); and two that are swing matches (145, 170). St. Edward has four quarters in which they are favored (170, 182, 220, 285); three in which they are the underdog (138, 152, 160); and three swing matches (126, 132, 195). The lone head-on quarterfinal is at 152 pounds between Russ Parsons (Blair) and Matt Van Curen (St. Edward).

    7:40 p.m. ET: All consolation wrestling now. Winners finish top 16.

    7:35 p.m. ET: 220 Quarterfinal - Walz (St. Edward, Ohio) vs. Stone (Akron SVSM, Ohio), Vizcarrando (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) vs. Lobsinger (West Valley, Calif.); Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.) vs. Freauf (Moeller, Ohio), Linton (Rootstown, Ohio) vs. Meadows (CVCA)

    7:30 p.m. ET: 285 Quarterfinal - Black (Blair, N.J.) vs. Boddy (Germantown Academy, Pa.), Majoy (Huron, Ohio) vs. Gray (Oregon Clay, Ohio); Lytle (Swanton, Ohio) vs. Pinkston (Robinson, Va.), Johnson, Jr. (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) vs. Kuhar (St. Edward, Ohio)

    7:25 p.m. ET: AJ Vizcarrando (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) beats Zach DeLuca (Pittsburgh CC, Pa.) 4-3 with a late takedown in the third period.

    7:15 p.m. ET: 195 Quarterfinal - Calvert (Broken Arrow, Okla.) vs. Alpha (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), Tayse (Massillon Perry, Ohio) vs. Suvak (St. Edward, Ohio); Marvel (McDonogh, Md.) vs. Lehner (Lexington, Ohio), Thornberry (Moeller, Ohio) vs. Mattiace (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    Also have a back-and-forth slug fest here at 220 with Daley (Fort LeBoeuf, Pa.) vs. Stone (Akron SVSM, Ohio) - Stone takes 4-2 lead with :25 left second period.

    7:00 p.m. ET: 182 Quarterfinal - Evans (Graham, Ohio) vs. Wasson (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), Brogle (Parkersburg South, W.Va.) vs. Toal (Troy Christian, Ohio); Abounader (St. Edward, Ohio) vs. Krawulski (Collins Hill, Ga.), Mocco (Blair Academy, N.J.) vs. Gresham (Goshen, Ohio)

    6:55 p.m. ET: 170 Quarterfinal - Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) vs. Coniker (Pittsubrgh Central Catholic, Pa.), Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) vs. Miles (Christiansburg, Va.); Kneppshield (Blair, N.J.) vs. Warren (Broken Arrow, Okla.), Gray (CVCA, Ohio) vs. Martin (St. Edward, Ohio)

    6:50 p.m. ET: 160 Quarterfinal - Reel (Washington, Ill.) vs. Davis (St. Edward, Ohio), Coover (Blair, N.J.) vs. Speiller (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.); Isaac Jordan (Graham, Ohio) vs. Pereira (Newark Memorial, Calif.), Epperly (Christiansburg, Va.) v Arrendale (Massillon Perry, Ohio)

    6:40 p.m. ET: We have our first MEGA UPSET! Josh Arrendale (Massillon Perry, Ohio) beats three-time state champion No. 2 Cody Allala (Hopewell, Va.) 7-4. Arrendale never made the state tournament career to date.

    6:25 p.m. ET: 152 Quarterfinal - Bo Jordan (Graham, Ohio) vs. Bergman (Oak Harbor, Ohio), Parsons (Blair, N.J.) vs. Van Curen (St. Edward, Ohio); Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) vs. Klosz (Holy Name, Ohio), Forbes (St. Benedict's Prep, N.J.) vs. Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.)

    6:20 p.m. ET: Grey (Blair, N.J.) vs. Ward (Moeller, Ohio), Randy Cruz (Beth. Catholic, Pa.) vs. Garcia (Montini Catholic, Pa.); Squire (Wadsworth, Ohio) vs. Bright (St. Edward, Ohio), Jablosnki (Cox, Va.) vs. Cisneros (Selma, Calif.)

    6:15 p.m. ET: Van Curen (St. Edward, Ohio) upsets Nick Babcock (Broomfield, Colo.) 8-7 in a back-and-forth affair at 152, Alex Bergman (Oak Harbor, Ohio) takes out Tyler Manion (Pittsburgh CC, Pa.) in overtime also at 152 in the round of 16.

    6:00 p.m. ET: 145 Quarterfinals - Lavallee (Reno, Nev.) vs. Faust (Lexington, Ohio), Kastl (Graham, Ohio) vs. Fulk (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.); Milonas (Blair, N.J.) vs. Clark (McDonogh, Md.), Zeman (Avon, Ohio) vs. Zack Dailey (Massillon Perry, Ohio)
    Zeman won a 3-1 overtime match over Markus Scheidel (St. Edward, Ohio) despite lost teeth and stitches ... though not as bad a memory as "Bo Jordan destroying me in the state final."

    5:55 p.m. ET: 138 Quarterfinals - Nate Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio) vs. Amenta (Oregon Clay, Ohio), Barber (St. Edward, Ohio) vs. Newhouse (Massillon Perry, Ohio); Preston (Blair, N.J.) vs. Yankovich (Germantown Academy, Pa.), Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.) vs. Ferman (Broken Arrow, Okla.)

    5:50 p.m. ET: 126 Quarterfinals - Gulibon (Derry, Pa.) vs. Kostandaras (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio), Kraisser (Centennial, Md.) vs. Malone (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.); Jeske (Cox, Va.) vs. Hvolbek (Blair, N.J.), Heil (St. Edward, Ohio) vs. Dance (Christiansburg, Va.)

    5:45 p.m. ET: 120 Quarterfinals - DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio) vs. Campbell (Lexington, Ohio), McClay (Massillon, Ohio) vs. Stainbrook (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio); Nyama (Brashear, Pa.) vs. Lemaire (Caesar Rodney, Del.), Ferguson (Collins Hill, Ga.) vs. Taylor (Graham, Ohio).

    5:45 p.m. ET: Max Hvolbek (Blair) with a bar-tilt in the third period to beat Micah Jordan (Graham) 4-2. Weak mat wrestling kills the Falcons there.

    5:25 p.m. ET: Quarterfinals 106 - Mai (N. Torrence, Cal.) vs. Bavery (Massillon Perry, Ohio), Z Valencia (St John Bosco, Cal.) vs. Joseph (PCC, Pa.); Fleetwood v Kolodzik, Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. D. Cruz (BECA, Pa.)

    5:15 p.m. ET: Quarterfinals 113 - Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio) vs. Shoap (Chambersburg, Pa.), Jimenez (Marmion, Ill.) vs. Moisey (BECA, PA.); McKenna (Blair, N.J.) vs. Laster (Montini, Ill.), Assad (Brecksville, Oh.) vs. Wert (Christiansburg, Pa.)

    5:10 p.m. ET: part two ... Amenta (Oregon Clay, Ohio) beats Angelo Silvestro (Marmion Academy, Ill.) 3-1 in the round of 16. Godwin Nyama (Brashear, Pa.) with the major decision over Kevon Powell (Montini Catholic, Ill.). Joseph takes a 4-2 lead there, was up 3-2 and riding hard, Hayes hit for third caution. And that's a final for Vincenzo Joseph.

    5:10 p.m. ET: Kolodzik closes out a 7-4 victory over Russell. He'll have Fleetwood in the Saturday morning quarterfinal round.

    5:05 p.m. ET: Fleetwood beats Simmons 2-1 to avenge Cadet FS loss, tilt in the third to win.

    4:55 p.m. ET: Three huge 106 rd16 matches coming .. Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.) vs. Simmons (Broken Arrow, Okla.); Hayes (Park Hill, Mo.) vs. Joseph (Pitt CC, Pa.); and Kolodzik (Miami Valley, Ohio) vs. Russell (Collins Hill, Ga.)

    4:50 p.m. ET: Colton Adams (Scottsbluff, Neb.) gets pinned with :30 left in the match despite a 4-0 lead against Calvin Campbell (Lexington, Ohio) ... Campbell very good with the big moves.

    4:40 p.m. ET: We've started the join consolation, championship rd16. Upset with 11 Shoap (Chambersburg, Pa.) defeating Millhof (Collins Hill, Ga.) 6-4 at 113 pounds.

    3:40 p.m. ET: From 6-2 down middle third period, Dakota Sizemore (Moeller, Ohio) with the pin over freshman Myles Martin (McDonogh, Md.) at 152.

    3:25 p.m. ET: Broken Arrow, Okla. with the lead now!

    3:15 p.m. ET: Order restored, Blair in the lead. Cisneros (Selma) with the tech.

    3:08 p.m. ET: Big statement win for Ross Parsons (Blair) against solid frosh Paden Bailey (Broken Arrow, Okla.) 15-2.

    2:50 p.m. ET: Edgar Bright (St. Edward, Ohio) on the mats against Ryan Skonieczny (Akron SVSM, Ohio) - first period was scoreless ... final is 11-1 Bright, huge third period for the Eagle junior.

    2:38 p.m. ET: Couple results here, Godwin Nyama (Brashear, Pa.) beats PJ Klee (Blair) 2-0; Dominick Malone (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) wins 7-2 over Anthony Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.).

    2:20 p.m. ET: Big early match here between Zane Heller (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) and Micah Jordan (Graham, Ohio). 3-0 lead for Jordan here early second period though on mat 4.

    2:10 p.m. ET: Lance Hill (Park. South, W. Va.) with the 2-1 win over Jordan Kutler (Blair Academy, N.J.). Also, Junior free runner-up Tommy Pawleksi (Montini Catholic, Ill.) loses by fall to Vincenzo Joseph (Pittsburgh CC, Pa.). First round at 106.

    2:00 p.m. ET: Take a picture of the board Fort LeBoeuf fans, you guys are in FIRST PLACE!

    1:35 p.m. ET: Wheeling back to round of 32 matches, starting with Johnson Mai (North Torrance, Calif.) at 106 pounds on mat four. Other mats should follow shortly hereafter. Bout numbers in the 360's and higher.

    1:26 p.m. ET: Overtime here between No. 11 seed George Fisher (Marmion, IL) and Clay Archer (Broken Arrow, OK) ... 6-6 score. Archer knocks him off 8-6 in the tiebreakers with a reversal.

    1:05 p.m. ET: Gulibon with a fall. Darian Cruz (Beth Catholic, PA) with a fall. Two No. 1 wrestlers in America already wrestling, both with falls.

    1:02 p.m. ET: Wrestling has started, Jimmy Gulibon (Derry Area, PA) got the first takedown in front of us at the head table. Pigtail matches here involving weights with more than 32 wrestlers in them. Then round of 32 in all weights.

    12:58 p.m. ET: About to get started here!! Still need a bracket in my hand, and access to the bout board.

    11:50 a.m. ET: Looking live at the main gym of the Walsh Ironman. About 70 minutes away from action.]]>    73956Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:28:49 +0000    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers at Walsh Ironmanhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/nationally-ranked-wrestlers-at-walsh-ironman-r73959/Nationally Ranked Teams

    No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J.
    No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio
    No. 7 St. Paris Graham, Ohio
    No. 9 Christiansburg, Va.
    No. 12 Wyoming Seminary, Pa.
    No. 14 Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.
    No. 19 Massillon Perry, Ohio
    No. 21 Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio
    No. 25 Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.
    No. 26 Broken Arrow, Okla.
    No. 29 Montini Catholic, Ill.
    No. 32 Collins Hill, Ga.
    No. 46 McDonogh, Md.
    No. 47 Caesar Rodney, Del.

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers

    106:
    No. 1 Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)
    No. 4 (at 112) Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.)
    No. 11 (at 112) Johnson Mai (North Torrence, Calif.)
    No. 5 Matthew Kolodzik (Miami Valley School, Ohio)
    No. 6 Sean Russell (Collins Hill, Ga.)
    No. 8 Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.)
    No. 9 KeShawn Hayes (Park Hill, Mo.)
    No. 11 Markus Simmons (Broken Arrow, Okla.)
    No. 13 Brent Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.)
    No. 14 David Bavery (Massillon Perry, Ohio)

    113:
    No. 2 Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio)
    No. 5 Joey McKenna (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    No. 7 J.R. Wert (Christiansburg, Va.)
    No. 14 Zeke Moisey (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)
    No. 19 Johnny Jimenez (Marmion Academy, Ill.)

    120:
    No. 3 George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio)
    No. 4 Ryan Taylor (St. Paris Graham, Ohio)
    No. 16 Godwin Nyama (Brashear, Pa.)
    No. 17 Colton Adams (Scottsbluff, Neb.)

    126:
    No. 1 Jimmy Gulibon (Derry Area, Pa.)
    No. 5 (at 132) Bradon Jeske (Cox, Va.)
    No. 3 Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.)
    No. 5 Nathan Kraisser (Centennial, Md.)
    No. 8 Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio)
    No. 9 Dominick Malone (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)
    No. 19 Max Hvolbek (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    132:
    No. 1 Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    No. 2 Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.)
    No. 7 Kagan Squire (Wadsworth, Ohio)
    No. 14 Joey Ward (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio)
    No. 14 (at 138) Brent Fickel (Padua, Ohio)
    No. 18 (at 126) Randy Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)

    138:
    No. 1 Nate Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio)
    No. 5 Todd Preston (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    No. 9 Chase Ferman (Broken Arrow, Okla.)
    No. 16 Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.)

    145:
    No. 11 (at 152) Joey Lavallee (Reno, Nevada)
    No. 9 Zack Dailey (Massillon Perry, Ohio)
    No. 19 Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.)
    No. 20 Blake Kastl (St. Paris Graham, Ohio)

    152:
    No. 2 (at 160) Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio)
    No. 2 Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.)

    160:
    No. 2 (at 170) Cody Allala (Hopewell, Va.)
    No. 3 Isaac Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio)
    No. 4 Geordan Speiller (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.)
    No. 10 (at 170) Dylan Reel (Washington, Ill.)
    No. 13 Victor Pereira (Newark Memorial, Calif.)

    170:
    No. 8 (at 160) Mark Martin (St. Edward, Ohio)
    No. 10 (at 160) Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)
    No. 20 Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)

    182:
    No. 3 (at 195) Huston Evans (St. Paris Graham, Ohio)
    No. 6 Chaz Gresham (Goshen, Ohio)
    No. 11 Domenic Abounader (St. Edward, Ohio)

    195:
    No. 19 Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    220:
    No. 2 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.)
    No. 6 A.J. Vizcarrando (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)
    No. 8 Ty Walz (St. Edward, Ohio)
    No. 11 Matt Meadows (CVCA, Ohio)
    No. 16 Austin Lobsinger (West Valley, Calif.)

    285:
    No. 1 Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    No. 7 Greg Kuhar (St. Edward, Ohio)
    No. 12 Mimmo Lyttle (Swanton, Ohio)

    Nationally Ranked Scratches:
    No. 18 (106) Austin Assad (Brecksville, Ohio)
    No. 20 (126) Jake Smith (Newark Memorial, Calif.)
    No. 10 (138) Case Garrison (St. Paris Graham, Ohio)
    No. 14 (160) Jason Luster (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.)
    No. 13 (195) Perry Hills (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.)
    No. 2 (285) Doug Vollaro (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.)
    No. 4 (285) Nick Tavanello (Wadsworth, Ohio)

    Ranked in InterMatWrestle Top 100 Seniors:
    120: No. 37 DiCamillo, No. 49 Taylor
    126: No. 3 Gulibon, No. 32 Kraisser, No. 45 Malone
    132: No. 4 Grey, No. 6 Cisneros, No. 30 Squire, No. 83 Ward
    138: No. 8 Skonieczny, No. 36 Preston, No. 74 Ferman
    145: No. 86 Dailey
    160: No. 39 Allala, No. 41 Isaac Jordan, No. 51 Speiller, No. 95 Reel, No. 98 Pereira
    170: No. 52 Martin
    182: No. 25 Evans, No. 42 Gresham
    220: No. 88 Vizcarrando
    285: No. 66 Kuhar

    Ranked in InterMatWrestle Top 50 Juniors:
    113: No. 38 Tomasello
    126: No. 4 Jeske, No. 10 Dance, No. 16 Heil
    132: No. 28 Edgar Bright (St. Edward, Ohio)
    138: No. 35 Matthews
    145: No. 18 Lavallee
    152: No. 1 Bo Jordan, No. 5 Martinez
    170: No. 17 Morris
    182: No. 19 Abounader
    285: No. 3 Black

    Ranked in InterMatWrestle Top 50 Sophomores:
    113: No. 9 McKenna, No. 23 Moisey, No. 47 Jimenez
    120: No. 22 Adams, No. 27 PJ Klee (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    126: No. 19 Micah Jordan (St. Paris Graham)
    145: No. 7 Clark, No. 12 Dylan Milonas (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 26 Tanner Bailey (Broken Arrow, Okla.)
    160: No. 15 Patrick Coover (Blair Academy, N.J.)
    220: No. 2 Snyder

    Ranked in InterMatWrestle Top 25 Freshmen:
    106: No. 1 Zahid Valencia, No. 5 Kolodzik, No. 8 Hayes, No. 13 Simmons
    126: No. 7 Anthony Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.)
    152: No. 20 Paden Bailey (Broken Arrow, Okla.)
    285: No. 2 Michael Johnson, Jr. (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)]]>    73959Thu, 08 Dec 2011 06:08:31 +0000    2011 Walsh Ironman Previewhttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-walsh-ironman-preview-r73958/
    What: The 18th Walsh Ironman
    Where: Walsh Jesuit High School -- Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
    When: Friday, Dec. 9 and Saturday, Dec. 10

    Schedule: Preliminary rounds (up to the quarterfinals) start at 1:00 p.m. ET on Friday afternoon, Saturday morning wrestling starts at 10:00 a.m. with the quarterfinals, the semifinals will follow, as will all consolation matches including those for seventh place, matches for first, third, and fifth will be wrestled Saturday evening starting at 6:30 p.m.

    Tournament Website: http://www.walshironman.com

    Special Honoree: Bobby Douglas will be honored as the Ironman Legacy Award winner this year. Douglas was a long-time head coach at Arizona State and Iowa State, and served as a coach on four different United States Olympic squads. As a wrestler, he represented the United States in two Olympic Games, was an Ohio state champion in 1959 and 1961, and was runner-up in the 1963 NCAA Division I championships.

    InterMat Coverage: InterMat will be providing a live updating notebook of all three sessions, available from the InterMat home page, as well as a social media presence on twitter (@JLowe_intermat). In addition, a wrap-up will be provided on Friday night, with a finals game story to be published on late Saturday night/early part of Sunday.

    Please note: Commentary and analysis is based on seeding information as of 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday night. Any changes in terms of participants or seedings may make some aspects of the content immaterial.

    106:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 1 Darian Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), No. 4 (at 112) Zahid Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.), No. 11 (at 112) Johnson Mai (North Torrence, Calif.), No. 5 Matthew Kolodzik (Miami Valley School, Ohio), No. 6 Sean Russell (Collins Hill, Georgia), No. 8 Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.), No. 9 KeShawn Hayes (Park Hill, Mo.), No. 11 Markus Simmons (Broken Arrow, Okla.), No. 13 Brent Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.), No. 14 David Bavery (Massillon Perry, Ohio)

    Commentary: Arguably the deepest and toughest weight of the whole Walsh Ironman is the opening weight class. By the number of nationally ranked wrestlers it is for sure the toughest with ten in all. Though the distribution of nationally ranked wrestlers is four to the top half and six to the bottom, there is relatively balance. The top quarter of the draw features state champion and Junior double finalist Mai, state runner-up David Bavery (Massillon Perry, Ohio), and 2010 Cadet freestyle All-American and Ironman placer Armando Torres (Elyria, Ohio). The second quarter includes Junior freestyle runner-up Tommy Pawleski (Montini Catholic, Ill.), a Cadet freestyle All-American in freshman sensation Hayes, state champion and Junior double All-American Drew Romero (Broomfield, Colo.), as well as the nation's number one pound-for-pound freshman in Valencia.

    At present the third quarter is absolutely loaded with four nationally ranked wrestlers, three of whom placed at the Super 32 (three-time Cadet All-American Fleetwood, state champion Russell, and Cadet freestyle All-American Kolodzik). Also in this quarter is another freshman star in Simmons. Finally, the bottom quarter of the draw includes returning Ironman runner-up and Cadet double All-American Cruz as well as Super 32 and FloNationals placer Ozias.

    Look for semifinal matchups to place Mai against Valencia in a battle of old against young from the Golden State, and Cruz against Kolodzik in a rematch from Fargo.

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Vincenzo Joseph (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.), Danny Boychuck (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.)

    Friday Matches to Watch: How about two that would involve a pair of nationally ranked wrestlers going up against one another -- Fleetwood vs. Simmons and Russell vs. Kolodzik, both of them comprising the third quarter of the draw.

    Finals Prediction: Zahid Valencia over Darian Cruz

    113:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 2 Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio), No. 5 Joey McKenna (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 7 JR Wert (Christiansburg, Va.), No. 14 Zeke Moisey (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), No. 19 Johnny Jimenez (Marmion Academy, Ill.)

    Commentary: Junior freestyle champion Tomasello is the top seed in this weight class, and seeks to repeat at the Walsh Ironman after winning last year's 103 pound weight class. Standing in his way in the top half of the draw is likely to be a quarterfinal match against NHSCA freshman champion Ryan Millhof (Collins Hill, Georgia) and then a semifinal date against one of two nationally ranked sophomores who placed at the Ironman last year as freshmen -- Jimenez or Moisey. The bottom half of the draw is more clearly a two person battle between two-time Cadet Greco-Roman champion McKenna, who also won National Preps this past year, and Beast of the East champion Wert who placed fourth in this weight class last year. State runner-up and FloNationals placer Aaron Assad (Brecksville, Ohio) also resides in Wert's quarter bracket.

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Jordan Laster (Montini Catholic, Ill.), Alex Moore (St. Edward, Ohio), Ian Moritz (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.)

    Friday Match to Watch: A battle of state champions, as Jimenez would face off against Cody Stageberg (Cox, Va.) in a four vs. thirteen match.

    Finals Prediction: Nathan Tomasello over Joey McKenna

    120:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 3 George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio), No. 4 Ryan Taylor (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), No. 16 Godwin Nyama (Brashear, Pa.), No. 17 Colton Adams (Scottsbluff, Neb.)

    Commentary: By standards of the Walsh Ironman in a lower-weight, this is a pretty clear final. All signs point to a rematch between DiCamillo and Taylor, who met in an awesome finals match last year at 112 pounds -- one that DiCamillo won with a last second takedown. DiCamillo is looking at a quarterfinal match against either two-time state runner-up Calvin Campbell (Lexington, Ohio) or Cadet freestyle All-American and two-time Preseason Nationals champion Colton Adams (Scottsbluff, Neb.). Then, the likely semifinal would be a rematch of the FloNationals final from this past year against Cody Stainbrook (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio). Stainbrook placed fifth at the Ironman last year, with a win over Evan Botwin (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.) in that consolation match -- and opponent he could see in the quarterfinal round this year.

    Taylor is looking at a likely quarterfinal match against two-time state finalist, and 2010 NHSCA Sophomore champion Drew Ferguson-Mitchell (Collins Hill, Georgia). The other quarter of that bottom half is a total cluster of balance featuring Powell, Nyama, Lemaire, and Goodwin, the lone nationally ranked wrestler being Nyama, who took seventh at state this past year.

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: P.J. Klee (Blair Academy, N.J.), who could place a wrench in the dynamic of the bracket flow above, but is not likely to spoil the DiCamillo vs. Taylor final.

    Friday Matches to Watch: How about both round of 16 matches in the third quarter of the draw -- FloNationals and Super 32 placer Nyama battling two-time state finalist and 2009 Ironman placer Kevon Powell (Montini Catholic, Ill.) as well as another Super 32 placer Jacob Goodwin (Bishop Lynch, Texas) doing battle with two-time state champion Kaleb Lemaire (Caesar Rodney, Del.).

    Finals Prediction: George DiCamillo over Ryan Taylor, a rematch of last year's championship match at 112 pounds

    126:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 1 Jimmy Gulibon (Derry Area, Pa.), No. 5 (at 132) Bradon Jeske (Cox, Va.), No. 3 Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.), No. 5 Nathan Kraisser (Centennial, Md.), No. 8 Dean Heil (St. Edward, Ohio), No. 9 Dominick Malone (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), No. 19 Max Hvolbek (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    Commentary: Even though there are only seven nationally ranked wrestlers in this weight class, the top end quality present in this weight class -- as well as the strength of the non-seeds -- gives this weight significant argument for being the toughest in all the tournament. This weight class has four wrestlers that have appeared in an Ironman final during their career.

    The top seed is defending champion Gulibon, who is also a three-time state and Powerade champion. He should be rather unfettered heading into the semifinals. The quarterfinal opponent, based on seeds, would be a returning Ironman placer and state champion in either David Jeffrey (Parkersburg South, West Va.) or Micah Hight (Caesar Rodney, Del.).

    Seeded fourth is Malone, a National Prep champion and runner-up to Gulibon in last year's Ironman. However, he is looking at a quarterfinal match against three-time state champion Nathan Kraisser (Centennial, Md.), who was a Junior National double All-American this past summer and scored a win over Malone in the Mount Mat Madness finals last January.

    The third seed in this weight class is last year's runner-up at 130 Jeske, who was a Junior freestyle runner-up this past summer and a Cadet double finalist (freestyle champion) the summer before. He is looking at a quarterfinal match against either Hvolbek or Jordan, which should be an intriguing one to watch.

    Finally, the second seed in this weight is Junior freestyle champion Dance, a three-time Super 32 finalist (runner-up the last two years). He has wrestled Gulibon very tough in their last two meetings, the epic semifinal at the Ironman last year that Gulibon won in the ultimate tiebreaker and a similar Gulibon victory in the Powerade final. However, Dance projects to face two-time state champion Heil in the quarterfinals this year, Heil was an Ironman runner-up in 2009, and beat Dance in the semifinals at the FloNationals this past April on the way to his championship.

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Anthony Valencia (St. John Bosco, Calif.), Zane Heller (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), Dylan Good (Brecksville, Ohio), Mikey Konstandaras (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio)

    Friday Match to Watch: A matchup involving wrestlers from two of the nation's preeminent programs, as Junior freestyle All-American, and two-time Ironman placer, Hvolbek matches up against sophomore sensation, and 2011 state champion, Micah Jordan (St. Paris Graham).

    Finals Prediction: Jimmy Gulibon over Brandon Jeske

    132:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 1 Mark Grey (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 2 Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.), No. 7 Kagan Squire (Wadsworth, Ohio), No. 14 Joey Ward (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio), No. 14 (at 138) Brent Fickel (Padua, Ohio), No. 18 (at 126) Randy Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)

    Commentary: Like the weight before, this also has lots of top-end talent with six nationally ranked wrestlers, however, the quality of depth in the lower seeds and non-seeds pales in comparison. The simplistic analysis here is to suggest this as a two horse race between Grey and Cisneros, neither of whom has ever won the Ironman. Despite never winning the Ironman (twice a runner-up), Grey has a very robust wrestling resume with three National Prep titles, three Beast of the East titles (seeking to become the first to ever win four at the Beast), and a whole book of successes in USA Wrestling events. Likewise Cisneros, second and third in his two Ironman appearances, has a c.v. that includes two Super 32 championships and three California state titles (seeking to become only the second four-time state champ ever). However, it's never as easy as expected.

    Looking through Grey's path from the top line of the draw, it includes a projected quarterfinal against returning Ironman placer Ward, who took Cisneros right to the bitter wire in a semifinal at the Super 32 before losing 4-3 and taking third place. Ward was a state champion, Junior Greco-Roman All-American, and Ironman placer this past calendar year. All of that assumes Ward gets past two-time state runner-up Dallas Smith (Christiansburg, Va.) in the round of 16. Then, a semifinal against either Fickel or Randy Cruz looms in front. Fickel is a three-time state placer, and has twice placed at the Ironman and Super 32, while Cruz is twice a state runner-up, placed fourth at the Super 32 after falling short in an epic semifinal against Joey Dance, and placed at both the Ironman and Beast last year.

    Cisneros is looking at a quarterfinal against returning Ironman placer Chris Caton (Northside Christian Academy, North Carolina), a returning Ironman placer, who also placed at National Preps and was a NHSCA Junior Nationals runner-up. In the semifinal, Cisneros is looking at either facing Squire or Edgar Bright (St. Edward, Ohio). Squire has placed at the Ironman three times in his career, and is twice a state runner-up. Last year, he lost twice to Cisneros in placing fourth at the Ironman, however, both were by razor thin margins. Bright is a two-time state placer, finishing second this past year, and was a Cadet freestyle champion this past summer.
    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Xavi Ramos (McDonogh, Md.), Clay Archer (Broken Arrow, Okla.), Ryan Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio)

    Friday Match to Watch: Cadet freestyle champion Bright matches up against state champion George Fisher (Marmion Academy, Ill.), which is a rematch of a three period match in Fargo that Bright won by fall.

    Finals Prediction: Mark Grey over Alex Cisneros in the battle of Cornell recruits.

    138:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 1 Nate Skonieczny (Walsh Jesuit, Ohio), No. 5 Todd Preston (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 9 Chase Ferman (Broken Arrow, Okla.), No. 16 Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.)

    Commentary: Skonieczny seeks a second Ironman title to go with the one he got at 130 pounds in 2009. Last year, he ran a rigorous gauntlet to take third place, though he lost by a single point to Hunter Stieber (the tournament's Outstanding Wrestler) in the semfinal round. He also added a state title and FloNationals title to his resume during the last year. At present, his half of the draw is rather manageable with the likely quarterfinal coming against either Junior freestyle All-American Angelo Silvestro (Marmion Academy, Ill.) or state and Ironman placer Angelo Amenta (Oregon Clay, Ohio). His semifinal opponent would most likely be returning Ironman placer and 2010 state runner-up Mitch Newhouse (Massillon Perry, Ohio), though state champion Tyler Nation (Scottsbluff, Neb.) or state placer Nick Barber (St. Edward, Ohio) would like to disagree.

    After last year, Skonieczny earned a bracketing break, and he got one as the bottom half of the draw is much more challenging with the three other nationally ranked wrestlers residing in it. Two-time Junior National All-American Ferman, a state champion who placed fourth in the Ironman last year, is the second seed in this weight class. His challenges start with a pesky quarterfinal against either state runner-up Matthews or Reno TOC champion Shayne Tucker (Bella Vista, Calif.) The projected semifinal is then against two-time National Prep champion and Junior freestyle seventh-place finisher Preston - who is the second seed, and seeks to improve upon sixth and fourth-place finishes from the last two Ironman tournaments.

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Santiago Valdez (Robinson, Va.)

    Friday Match to Watch: Two-time Super 32 placer, NHSCA grade-level champion, and state placer Matthews clashes with Reno TOC champ, state placer, and 2009 Super 32 placer Tucker.

    Finals Prediction: Nate Skonieczny over Todd Preston

    145:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 11 (at 152) Joey Lavallee (Reno, Nev.), No. 9 Zack Dailey (Massillon Perry, Ohio), No. 19 Jack Clark (McDonogh, Md.), No. 20 Blake Kastl (St. Paris Graham, Ohio)

    Commentary: Though there are four nationally ranked wrestlers present in this weight class, none would be characterized as a true anchor. However, that is more than compensated by the balance that is present -- both in terms of seeds and non-seeds. The top seed in this weight is Lavallee, a Junior freestyle All-American who is also a two-time state champion and won a FILA Cadet freestyle title this past April in Akron. He faces a legitimate quarterfinal against either state runner-up Zane Zeman (Avon, Ohio) or state champion Brooks Martino (Robinson, Va.) -- a pair of wrestlers that fell one match short of placement in the Super 32 held six weeks ago. The other quarter bracket of the top half is anchored by two-time California state placer Kastl, who also placed fourth at the NHSCA Junior Nationals.

    Sophomore sensations Clark and Milonas reside in the third quarter of this weight class, and each was a National Prep runner-up last year. This summer, Clark was third in Cadet freestyle at 140, while Milonas was champion at 145 pounds. The bottom quarter is anchored by state champion Dailey, who also placed at the Ironman and in Junior freestyle this past year. He is joined by two-time state placer Jake Faust (Lexington, Ohio), who is off a virtuoso performance at the Super 32 where he placed third with an impressive list of quality wins.

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Mitch Baran (Brecksville, Ohio), Xavier Montalvo (Montini Catholic, Ill.), Dean Meyer (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio)

    Friday Match to Watch: It's a projected matchup of Cadet freestyle All-Americans in National Prep runner-up Clark and state placer Markus Scheidel (St. Edward, Ohio).

    Finals Prediction: Joey Lavallee over Zack Dailey

    152:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 2 (at 160) Bo Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), No. 2 Isaiah Martinez (Lemoore, Calif.)

    Commentary: There's no need to pretend about things here, this is a two person weight class, and a colossal one at that with two of the nation's top juniors anchoring the field. Bo Jordan is a two-time state champion, defending Ironman champion, and is ranked No. 1 in the class of 2013. On the other hand, Martinez is a two-time state placer, winning state this past year, with a strong off-season resume that includes Cadet double All-American status in 2010, and a FloNationals runner-up finish along with a NUWAY Vegas title this year. The other two projected semifinalists by seed are Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) and three-time state placer Nick Babcock (Broomfield, Colo.).

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Paden Bailey (Broken Arrow, Okla.)

    Friday Match to Watch: State runner-up and Cadet National double All-American Hammond is projected to wrestle sophomore Dakota Sizemore (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio), a state qualifier last year who was named Outstading Wrestler of the Community Division at the Disney Duals.

    Finals Prediction: Bo Jordan over Isaiah Martinez

    160:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 2 Cody Allala (Hopewell, Va.), No. 3 Isaac Jordan (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), No. 4 Geordan Speiller (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.), No. 10 (at 170) Dylan Reel (Washington, Ill.), No. 13 Victor Pereira (Newark Memorial, Calif.)

    Commentary: Though the depth in this weight class is questionable by Ironman standards, there is a very impressive top group of wrestlers that include five of the nation's top 100 prospects from the Class of 2012. The top seed in this weight class is two-time state champion Reel, who earned All-American honors in both styles at the Junior Nationals and was a Preseason Nationals champion after falling short of a state title this past year. Additionally, he was a Junior Greco-Roman champion in 2010. He should be challenged starting in the quarterfinals by Jacob Davis (St. Edward, Ohio), a state placer last year who burst onto the scene with a giant upset over Isaac Jordan on Ironman Friday last year. In the other quarter of the top half is a fellow “Greco head” in two-time state champion Speiller, who beat Reel in Fargo this year on the way to a Junior Greco-Roman championship. Speiller was is also a two-time state champion, FloNationals champion, finished third at the Super 32 this year, and took fifth in last year's Ironman. He's looking at a likely quarterfinal 2010 Cadet Greco-Roman champion Patrick Coover (Blair Academy, N.J.), who placed fifth at National Preps and sixth in last year's Ironman.

    The bottom half of the draw is where one can find the other three nationally ranked wrestlers. It starts with third seed Isaac Jordan, a two-time state champion who failed to place at last year's Ironman while competing despite an injury that kept him out the rest of the regular season. This spring, without much freestyle experience, he won the Central Regional title over Zach Brunson and Justin Koethe. He is looking at a likely quarterfinal against returning Ironman placer and state runner-up Pereira, who placed fourth at the recently completed Super 32. The second seed in this weight is returning Ironman placer, and three-time state champion, Allala who finished as runner-up at the Super 32 this year. He's looking at a likely quarterfinal against fellow Va.n Zach Epperly (Christiansburg).

    Friday Match to Watch: Two-time state champion and 2011 Super 32 placer Epperly matches up with state runner-up Zach Boyles (Smyrna, Del.).

    Finals Prediction: Cody Allala over Geordan Speiller

    170:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 8 (at 160) Mark Martin (St. Edward, Ohio), No. 10 (at 160) Eric Morris (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), No. 20 Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)

    Commentary: Starting somewhat this weight, and into the next two weights, the implications of adding an additional upperweight class rear its head -- namely there is less depth than in past year. In the way the seeds play out, the number two seed Martin has the edge over top seeded Morris. After winning his first state title in March, Martin added a FILA Junior freestyle title and Junior freestyle All-American finish to the resume this off-season, and he should be relatively unchallenged heading into the final, with only a likely semifinal against either Ironman and National Prep placer Addison Knepshield (Blair Academy, N.J.) standing in his way. On the other hand, Morris is looking at a likely quarterfinal against state placer Austin Coniker (Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa.) before a likely semifinal date with state placer and Super 32 runner-up Riddick.

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: Michael Blum (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio)

    Friday Match to Watch: Coniker matches up against State runner-up Pierce DeMarreau (Caesar Rodney, Del.).

    Finals Prediction: Mark Martin over Eric Morris to avenge a loss from last year's consolation semifinal round

    182:
    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 3 (at 195) Huston Evans (St. Paris Graham, Ohio), No. 6 Chaz Gresham (Goshen, Ohio), No. 11 Domenic Abounader (St. Edward, Ohio)

    Commentary: This year's top seed Evans was a very impressive runner-up in last year's tournament, with a semifinal win over the formidable Alex Utley before wrestling a valliant match against Morgan McIntosh, who would be named InterMat's High School Wrestler of the Year at season's end, in losing by just a 2-1 score. In looking through the path to the final, there is no one that should be within a major decision of the Virginia Tech bound Evans. The other half of the draw is similarly lopsided, however, it involves two key figures -- state champions Gresham and Abounader. Gresham took fourth at the Ironman, suffering defeats to both McIntosh and Evans, before winning a state title in March, and he has added a Disney Duals gold medal and Super 32 third-place finish to the resume in the interim. Abounader missed last year's Ironman due to his role on a state title football team. After winning state, Abounader finished third in freestyle at both the FILA Cadet Nationals and Cadet Nationals.

    Finals Prediction: Huston Evans over Chaz Gresham in a rubber match of sorts, Evans beat Gresham in the district finals last year, while Gresham exacted revenge in the state final.

    195:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 19 Frank Mattiace (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    Commentary: In the average tournament, this is a very solid weight class, and one of much intrigue. However, in the Ironman, this is clearly the tournament's weakest weight class. It has the double whammy of lacking anchors and depth. The lone ranked wrestler is the second seed Mattiace, who finished third at National Preps and had an excellent off-season despite failing to All-American at both the FILA Cadet Nationals and Junior Nationals in freestyle. Looking through his draw, the projected quarterfinal is against state placer Jerry Thornberry (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio), and the semifinal would be against Ironman and National Prep placer Kevin Marvel (McDonogh, Md.). The top seed in this weight is state champion Seth Calvert (Broken Arrow, Okla.), who is looking at a projected semifinal against one of two state placers - James Suvak (St. Edward, Ohio) or Joe Tayse (Massillon Perry, Ohio). Suvak beat Tayse in the consolation semifinals this past year at state, and is a two-time NHSCA grade level All-American.

    Finals Prediction: Frank Mattiace over James Suvak

    220:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 2 Kyle Snyder (Good Counsel, Md.), No. 6 AJ Vizcarrando (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), No. 8 Ty Walz (St. Edward, Ohio), No. 11 Matt Meadows (CVCA, Ohio), No. 16 Austin Lobsinger (West Valley, Calif.)

    Commentary: Despite being an upperweight, this is a very solid weight class, as it both has high caliber kids in the top of the weight and some solid depth through the rest of it. Even though the top five seeds are the five best wrestlers in the weight, the seeding order does not reflect the rankings. The top seed in the tournament is state runner-up Walz, who finished fifth at the Ironman last year and had a highly accomplished off-season with runner-up finishes at NHSCA Junior Nationals and FILA Cadet freestyle to go with a seventh-place finish in Junior freestyle. He's looking at a likely quarterfinal against one of two state placers Ray Stone (Akron SVSM, Ohio) or Evan Daley (Fort LeBoeuf, Pa.), and then a semifinal date with either Lobsinger or Vizcarrando. Lobsinger was a state runner-up, who placed fourth at the NHSCA Junior Nationals, while Vizcarrando was runner-up at National Preps and placed sixth in Junior Greco-Roman.

    The bottom half of the draw is anchored by the second seed Snyder, a sophomore sensation that won three major tournaments last year as a freshman at 215 pounds -- Beast of the East, Mount Mat Madness, and National Preps. This summer, the second ranked sophomore in the nation was a double Cadet National finalist, winning a title in freestyle. Life won't be easy for him at the Ironman with a pair of solid fellow sophomores in Cadet Greco All-American Edgar Ruano (Montini Catholic, Ill.) and state placer Chalmer Freauf (Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio) in his quarter bracket. However, one should expect Snyder to pass the challenge with flying colors on the way to a semifinal match against FloNationals runner-up Meadows, who placed seventh at the Ironman last year and third at state. Meadows is coming off a dual meet victory over Walz last week, and is looking at a likely quarterfinal match against state placer Garrett Linton (Rootstown, Ohio), who was a Disney Duals gold medalist this summer and placed third at the Super 32.

    Unseeded Wrestlers to Watch: David Farr (Blair Academy, N.J.)

    Friday Match to Watch: A battle of wrestlers that placed sixth in the state last year, as Super 32 runner-up Stone matches up against Daley.

    Finals Prediction: Kyle Snyder over AJ Vizcarrando in a rematch of this past year's National Prep final.

    285:

    Nationally Ranked Wrestlers: No. 1 Brooks Black (Blair Academy, N.J.), No. 7 Greg Kuhar (St. Edward, Ohio), No. 12 Mimmo Lyttle (Swanton, Ohio)

    Commentary: The absence of No. 2 Doug Vollaro and No. 4 Nick Tavanello from this weight class removes some of the respected luster, and turns this into a Black against the Ohio undercard. Black is the clear favorite to win a second consecutive Ironman title, adding to a rich resume that in the last year alone includes a Beast of the East title, National Prep title, FILA Cadet freestyle title, and Junior National double All-American honors. The next chunk of this field is four wrestlers from the Buckeye State that aspire to wrestle on the raised platform at the Schott on the first Saturday of March in the state final. Kuhar and Lytle are the second and third seeds in this weight class.

    Kuhar did not compete in the Ironman last year, since he was part of a state title-winning football team -- he's going to Northwestern on a football scholarship as a defensive tackle, but he did place seventh in the 2009 Ironman. Additionally, he is a two-time state placer, finishing second last year. Lytle is a three-time state placer in the small-school division, winning his initial state championship last year. The other wrestler to note in the bottom half is freshman sensation Michael Johnson, Jr. (Wyoming Seminary, Pa.), who would hit Kuhar in the quarterfinal round based on the seedings. Johnson, Jr. was a double All-American at the Cadet Nationals last summer, and is ranked second in all the Class of 2015.

    Majoy is the fifth seed in this weight class, and placed third in the small-school division last year before taking fourth at the NHSCA Junior Nationals. He is looking at a likely quarterfinal date with Junior Greco-Roman All-American Garrett Gray (Oregon Clay, Ohio) -- also a state placer -- before a semifinal collision with Black.

    Finals Prediction: Brooks Black over Greg Kuhar]]>    73958Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:49:44 +0000    A look at key high school wrestling events in 2011-12https://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/a-look-at-key-high-school-wrestling-events-in-2011-12-r73850/
    Dec. 2-3

    Cougar Invitational
    Venue: Tampa Convention Center (Tampa, Fla.)
    Top Teams: No. 4 Brandon, Fla., No. 25 Collins Hill, Ga., Camden County, Ga., and Osceola, Fla.

    Dec. 3

    Blazer Invitational Tournament
    Venue: Gardner-Edgerton High School (Gardner, Kan.)
    Top Teams: No. 14 Iowa City West, Iowa, No. 22 Southeast Polk, Iowa, and Skutt Catholic, Neb.

    Dec. 9-10

    Mid-America Nationals
    Venue: Tulsa Union High School (Tulsa, Okla.)
    Top Teams: No. 17 Allen, Texas, No. 20 Tulsa Union, Oka., No. 35 Tuttle, Okla., and Collinsville, Okla.

    Walsh Ironman
    Venue: Walsh Jesuit High School (Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio)
    Top Teams: No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J., No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio, No. 7 St. Paris Graham, Ohio, No. 9 Christiansburg, Va., No. 12 Wyoming Seminary, Pa., No. 15 Bethlehem Catholic, Pa., No. 19 Massillon Perry, Ohio, No. 21 Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio, No. 25 Collins Hill, Ga., No. 26 Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa., No. 27 Broken Arrow, Okla., No. 30 Montini Catholic, Ill., No. 31 Caesar Rodney, Del.

    Dec. 16-17

    Kansas City Wrestling Classic
    Venue: Hale Arena (Kansas City, Mo.)
    Top Teams: No. 10 Bettendorf, Iowa, No. 17 Allen, Texas, No. 25 Collins Hill, Ga., No. 29 Kearney, Mo., No. 35 Tuttle, Okla., No. 41 Blue Springs, Mo., Collinsville, Okla., and Park Hill, Mo.

    Minnesota Christmas Tournament
    Venue: UCR Regional Sports Center (Minn.)
    Top Teams: No. 6 Apple Valley, Minn., No. 8 Simley, Minn., No. 39 St. Michael-Albertville, Minn., No. 42 Kasson-Mantorville, Minn., Scott West, Minn., West Fargo, N.D., and Hastings, Minn.

    Reno Tournament of Champions
    Venue: Reno Sparks Convention Center (Reno, Nev.)
    Top Teams: No. 18 Bakersfield, Calif., No. 20 Tulsa Union, Okla., No. 33 Poway, Calif., No. 37 Columbia, Idaho, No. 47 Roseburg, Oregon, No. 50 Maple Mountain, Utah, Centennial, Idaho, De La Salle, Calif., Easton, Pa., and Gilroy, Calif.

    Dec. 17-18

    Beast of the East
    Venue: Bob Carpenter Center (Newark, Del.)
    Top Teams: No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J., No. 9 Christiansburg, Va., No. 12 Wyoming Seminary, Pa., No. 15 Bethlehem Catholic, Pa., No. 26 Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa., No. 28 Central Dauphin, Pa., No. 31 Caesar Rodney, Del., No. 36 Timber Creek, N.J., No. 38 Bergen Catholic, N.J., and No. 44 Colonial Forge, Va.

    Dec. 21

    Kyle Maynard Duals
    Venue: Collins Hill High School (Suwanee, Ga.)
    Top Teams: No. 4 Brandon, Fla., No. 25 Collins Hill, Ga., Osceola, Fla., and Baylor School, Tenn.

    Dec. 22-23

    Al Dvorak Memorial Invitational
    Venue: Harlem High School (Machesney Park, Ill.)
    Top Teams: No. 14 Iowa City West, Iowa, No. 30 Montini Catholic, Ill., No. 32 Oak Park River Forest, Ill., No. 34 Glenbard North, Ill., Machensey Park Harlem, Ill., Marist, Ill., and Marmion Academy, Ill.

    Dec. 29-30

    POWERade Christmas Wrestling Tournament
    Venue: Canon-McMillan High School (Canonsburg, Pa.)
    Top Teams: No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J., No. 13 Canon McMillan, Pa., No. 25 Collins Hill, Ga., No. 26 Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Pa., No. 28 Central Dauphin, Pa., and Walsh Jesuit, Ohio

    Dec. 30-31

    The Clash X National High School Wrestling Duals
    Venue: UCR Regional Sports Center (Rochester, Minn.)
    Top Teams: No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio, No. 4 Brandon, Fla., No. 5 Clovis, Calif., No. 6 Apple Valley, Minn., No. 7 St. Paris Graham, Ohio, No. 8 Simley, Minn., No. 9 Christiansburg, Va., No. 21 Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio, No. 24 Carl Sandburg, Ill., No. 39 St. Michael-Albertville, Minn., No. 42 Kasson-Mantorville, Minn., No. 44 Colonial Forge, Va., and No. 49 Vacaville, Calif.

    Jan. 6-7

    Cheesehead Invitational
    Venue: Kaukauna High School (Kaukauna, Wis.)
    Top Teams: No. 6 Apple Valley, Minn., No. 8 Simley, Minn., No. 10 Bettendorf, Iowa, No. 17 Allen, Texas, No. 22 Southeast Polk, Iowa, No. 25 Collins Hill, Ga., No. 30 Montini Catholic, Ill., and Waverly-Shell Rock, Iowa

    Doc Buchanan Invitational
    Venue: Clovis High School (Clovis, Calif.)
    Top Teams: No. 5 Clovis, Calif., No. 18 Bakersfield, Calif., No. 33 Poway, Calif., No. 47 Roseburg, Calif., No. 49 Vacaville, Calif., De La Salle, Calif., and Gilroy, Calif.

    Jan. 7

    No. 34 Glenbard North, Ill. at No. 24 Carl Sandburg, Ill.
    Venue: Carl Sandburg High School (Orland Park, Ill.)

    Jan. 8

    OHSWCA Duals (Division I)
    Venue: Wadsworth High School (Wadsworth, Ohio)
    Teams: No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio, No. 19 Massillon Perry, Ohio. No. 21 Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio, Wadsworth, Ohio, and four other teams

    Jan. 12

    No. 10 Bettendorf, Iowa at No. 46 Davenport Assumption, Iowa
    Venue: Davenport Assumption High School (Davenport, Iowa)

    Jan. 13-14

    Escape the Rock Wrestling Tournament
    Venue: Council Rock South High School (Holland, Pa.)
    Top Teams: No. 15 Bethlehem Catholic, Pa., No. 44 Colonial Forge, Va., Council Rock South, Pa., Delbarton, N.J., and Fort LeBoeuf, Pa.

    Temecula Valley Invitational Tournament
    Venue: Temecula Valley High School (Temecula, Calif.)
    Top Teams: No. 5 Clovis, Calif., No. 18 Bakersfield, Calif., No. 33 Poway, Calif., De La Salle, Calif., Gilroy, Calif., and Pine Creek, Colo.

    Virginia Duals
    Venue: Hampton Coliseum (Hampton, Va.)
    Top Teams (Unofficial): No. 9 Christiansburg, Va., No. 13 Canon McMillan, Pa., No. 31 Caesar Rodney, Del., No. 36 Timber Creek, N.J., No. 43 South Plainfield, N.J., and McDonogh, Md.

    Jan. 14

    Iowa City West Quad
    Venue: Iowa City West High School (Iowa City, Iowa)
    Teams: No. 6 Apple Valley, Minn., No. 14 Iowa City West, Iowa, No. 32 Oak Park River Forest, Ill., and Marmion Academy, Ill.

    Detroit Catholic Central Super Duals
    Venue: Detroit Catholic Central High School (Novi, Mich.)
    Teams: No. 3 St. Johns, Mich., No. 11 Detroit Catholic Central, Mich., No. 30 Montini Catholic, Ill., and four other teams

    NHSCA Wrestling Festival
    Venue: Pleasant Valley High School (Brodheadsville, Pa.)
    Top Teams: No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J., No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio, and No. 38 Bergen Catholic, N.J.

    Jan. 21

    Detroit Catholic Central Triangular
    Venue: Detroit Catholic Central High School (Novi, Mich.)
    Top Teams: No. 21 Cincinnati Moeller, Ohio, No. 45 Lowell, Mich., No. 11 Detroit Catholic Central, Mich.

    No. 7 St. Paris Graham, Ohio at No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio
    Venue: St. Edward High School (Lakewood, Ohio)

    NHSCA Final Four of Wrestling
    Venue: Easton Area Middle School (Easton, Pa.)
    Top Teams (Unofficial): No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J. and No. 25 Collins Hill, Ga., among others

    Jan. 28

    No. 44 Colonial Forge, Va. at No. 9 Christiansburg, Va.
    Venue: Christiansburg High School (Christiansburg, Va.)

    St. Edward Double Dual
    Venue: St. Edward High School (Lakewood, Ohio)
    Teams: No. 2 St. Edward, Ohio, No. 3 St. Johns, Mich., and No. 11 Detroit Catholic Central, Mich.

    Feb. 2

    No. 20 Tulsa Union, Okla. at No. 27 Broken Arrow, Okla.
    Venue: Tiger Field House (Broken Arrow, Okla.)

    Feb. 4

    No. 1 Blair Academy, N.J. at No. 7 Graham, Ohio
    Venue: Graham High School (St. Paris, Ohio)

    Feb. 10

    No. 39 St. Michael-Albertville, Minn. at No. 8 Simley, Minn.
    Venue: Simley High School (Inver Grove Heights, Minn.)

    Below is a listing of the dates for all individual bracket and dual meet state championships across America for the coming season.

    Individual Bracket State Tournaments
    Dec. 9-10 -- Alaska (123A)
    Feb. 3-4 -- Alaska (4A)
    Feb. 9-11 -- Arizona
    Feb. 10-11 -- Arkansas, Louisiana, Montana
    Feb. 15-18 -- Utah
    Feb. 16-18 -- Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Tennessee
    Feb. 17-18 -- Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Virginia, Washington
    Feb. 23-25 -- Kansas, National Preps, North Carolina, West Virginia, Wisconsin
    Feb. 24-25 --Delaware, Idaho, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Wyoming
    March 1-3 -- Michigan, Ohio
    March 2-3 -- California, Hawaii, Maryland, Minnesota, New England (Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont)
    March 2-4 -- N.J.
    March 8-10 -- Pennsylvania

    Dual Meet State Tournaments
    Jan. 13-14 -- Georgia
    Feb. 3-4 -- Tennessee
    Feb. 7, 10, and 11 -- Pennsylvania
    Feb. 11 -- Maryland, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina
    Feb. 12 -- New Jersey
    Feb. 15 -- Delaware, Iowa
    Feb. 16 -- North Dakota
    Feb. 24-25 -- Michigan
    Feb. 25 -- Illinois, Indiana
    March 1 -- Minnesota
    March 2-3 -- Wisconsin]]>    73850Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:09:10 +0000    2011 Super 32 Challenge Recaphttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/2011-super-32-challenge-recap-r73709/Related Link: Brackets

    GREENSBORO, N.C. -- There was lots of hype about the 2011 Super 32 Challenge, and upon reflection, it was justified, as the competition was phenomenal. There were some dominating performances, and many tightly contested matches, during the championship finals. The first five matches of the finals were decided by a one score or less margin.

    Wrestling in the championship round opened at 106 pounds, where two of the nation's top freshmen hit the mats. No. 9-ranked Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.) upended No. 2-ranked Matthew Kolodzik (Miami Valley School, Ohio) using a late third period escape to eke out a 3-2 victory, after the wrestlers traded takedowns in the first two periods. The second match saw yet another Buckeye State wrestler suffer a defeat, when Jarred Brooks (Warsaw, Indiana) used a first period takedown to secure a 3-2 victory over Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio). The result relegated Tomasello to a second straight Super 32 runner-up finish.

    At 120 pounds, yet another Ohio native fell to defeat, when Ryan Diehl (Trinity, Pa.) defeated FloNationals champion George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio), 4-2. The wrestlers traded takedowns in the first two periods, while Diehl used escapes in the second and third periods and excellent defense of multiple shots by DiCamillo to procure the victory.

    Anthony Ashnault defeated Joey Dance to win his second straight Super 32 Challenge title (Photo/Rob Preston)
    The much-hyped 126-pound weight class had a championship match which was reflective of that hype. Two of the nation's best juniors, both of whom are two-time state champions and had a Super 32 championship on the resume prior to this year, wrestled an action packed final that was not decided until the final horn. No. 20 Anthony Ashnault (South Plainfield, N.J.) won a second consecutive title with the 4-3 victory over No. 14 Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.). Dance opened a 3-0 second period lead after an escape and a takedown midway through that period. Ashnault scored an escape in the second period -- and another escape early in the third period -- to set up the rip-roaring finish in which he scored a very late takedown, and prevented Dance from getting an escape right at the end. The result relegated Dance to a second straight runner-up finish after winning a title in 2009.

    Ashnault was the lone defending champion to repeat, but at 132 pounds, Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.) joined him as a returning champion to win another Super 32 title. Cisneros added to his 2008 championship belt with a tiebreaker rideout victory over Devon Jackson (Yorktown, Indiana). The match was tied at 2-2 in regulation and at the end of overtime, and was one in which Cisneros was in deep on multiple attacks, but excellent defense by Jackson kept him in the match.

    After five tightly-contested matches, the 138 pound weight class title match between talented juniors had a clear domination. Ben Whitford (St. Johns, Mich.) -- ranked No. 2 in that class -- capped off a two day show of domination with a 13-3 major decision over Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.). His other six matches involved five pins and a 19-3 technical fall. Whitford's teammate, Taylor Massa -- the No. 1 ranked senior in the country -- was similarly dominant at 170 pounds. In the final, he upended Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) with a 16-6 major decision. In his other five matches, Massa earned four pins along with a convncing 12-5 decision.

    The other blowout of the finals came at 220 pounds, where Thomas Haines (Solanco, Pa.) earned a 13-0 major decision over Ray Stone (Akron SVSM, Ohio). Haines scored five point moves on takedown to the back in the first and second periods to cap off a dominant showing.

    In a battle of 2011 NHSCA Junior Nationals champions, Jacob Crawford (Millbrook, Va.) upended Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.), 4-2, at 145 pounds. After giving up the first takedown, and almost getting turned, Crawford -- a runner-up in the event in 2008 -- answered back strong with an escape and takedown of his own in the first period. After riding Richardson out in the second period, Crawford finished off the scoring with a third period escape.

    Another pair of NHSCA grade level champions met in the 152-pound final, as sophomore Josh Llopez (La Plata, Md.) upended Nick Kee (Scotland, N.C.), 5-4. Llopez scored a pair of takedowns in the second period to open up a 5-1 lead, and despite giving up a third period escape and late takedown to Kee, had done the damage necessary to secure the championship.

    After a sophomore won the title at 152 pounds, it was another sophomore winning the title at 160 pounds. No. 1-ranked in that grade, Chance Marsteller (Kennard Dale, Pa.) lived up to his robust resume and reputation with a thorough 5-2 victory over Cody Allala (Hopewell, Va.) in the final. Marsteller used takedowns in the first and third periods to secure the victory.

    A pair of seniors went after the championship at 182 pounds, as Tim Dudley (Irmo, S.C.) upset defending champion Brandon Griffin (Sprague, Ore.), 8-1, in the final. Dudley scored a first period takedown, then the wrestlers traded escapes in the second and third period to make it 3-1; finally late in the third period, Dudley scored a takedown, and then secured a turn at the end of the match to separate the margin.

    A duo of juniors met in the 195-pound final, as Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area, Pa.) beat Brooks Climmons (Pope, Ga.) 2-1 in the tiebreaker. The wrestlers traded escapes in regulation, but could not score other points during regulation or overtime. Since McCutcheon escaped first, in the second period, he chose the down position in the tiebreaker and scored the winning escape.

    Finally, a pair of Florida seniors did battle at 285 pounds, where No. 14 Doug Vollaro (Pine Castle Christian) defeated No. 98 John Dreggors (Springstead) on the strength of a third period takedown after the wrestlers had traded escapes to be tied at 1-1.

    Finals Results:
    106: Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.) dec. Matthew Kolodzik (Miami Valley School, Ohio), 3-2
    113: Jarred Brooks (Warsaw, Ind.) dec. Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio), 3-2
    120: Ryan Diehl (Trinity, Pa.) dec. George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio), 4-2
    126: Anthony Ashnault (South Plainfield, N.J.) dec. Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.), 4-3
    132: Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.) dec. Devon Jackson (Yorktown, Ind.), 2-2 TB
    138: Ben Whitford (St. John's, Michigan) maj. dec. Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.), 13-3
    145: Jacob Crawford (Millbrook, Va.) dec. Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.), 4-2
    152: Josh Llopez (La Plata, Md.) dec. Nick Kee (Scotland, N.C.), 5-4
    160: Chance Marsteller (Kennard Dale, Pa.) dec. Cody Allala (Hopewell, Va.), 5-2
    170: Taylor Massa (St. John's, Mich.) maj. dec. Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), 16-6
    182: Tim Dudley (Irmo, S.C.) dec. Brandon Griffin (Sprague, Ore.), 8-1
    195: Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area, Pa.) dec. Brooks Climmons (Pope, Ga.), 2-1 TB
    220: Thomas Haines (Solanco, Pa.) maj. dec. Ray Stone (Akron SVSM, Ohio), 13-0
    285: Doug Vollaro (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.) dec. John Dreggors (Springstead, Fla.), 3-1]]>    73709Sun, 30 Oct 2011 23:14:10 +0000    Super 32 Challenge Finals Resultshttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/super-32-challenge-finals-results-r73708/113: Jarred Brooks (Warsaw, Ind.) dec. Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio), 3-2
    120: Ryan Diehl (Trinity, Pa.) dec. George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio), 4-2
    126: Anthony Ashnault (South Plainfield, N.J.) dec. Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.), 4-3
    132: Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.) dec. Devon Jackson (Yorktown, Ind.), 2-2 TB
    138: Ben Whitford (St. Johns, Mich.) maj. dec. Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.), 13-3
    145: Jacob Crawford (Millbrook, Va.) dec. Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.), 4-2
    152: Josh Llopez (La Plata, Md.) dec. Nick Kee (Scotland, N.C.), 5-4
    160: Chance Marsteller (Kennard Dale, Pa.) dec. Cody Allala (Hopewell, Va.), 5-2
    170: Taylor Massa (St. Johns, Mich.) maj. dec. Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), 16-6
    182: Timothy Dudley (Irmo, S.C.) dec. Brandon Griffin (Sprague, Ore.), 6-0
    195: Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area, Pa.) dec. Brooks Climmons (Pope, Ga.), 2-1 TB
    220: Thomas Haines (Solanco, Pa.) maj. dec. Ray Stone (Akron SVSM, Ohio), 13-0
    285: Doug Vollaro (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.) dec. John Dreggors (Springstead, Fla.), 3-1]]>    73708Sun, 30 Oct 2011 18:38:35 +0000    Finals matchups set at 2011 Super 32 Challengehttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/finals-matchups-set-at-2011-super-32-challenge-r73707/Flowrestling.com.

    106: Matthew Kolodzik (Miami Valley School, Ohio) vs. Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.)
    113: Jarred Brooks (Warsaw, Ind.) vs. Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio)
    120: George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio) vs. Ryan Diehl (Trinity, Pa.)
    126: Anthony Ashnault (South Plainfield, N.J.) vs. Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.)
    132: Devon Jackson (Yorktown, Ind.) vs. Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.)
    138: Ben Whitford (St. Johns, Mich.) vs. Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.)
    145: Jacob Crawford (Millbrook, Va.) vs. Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.)
    152: Josh Llopez (La Plata, Md.) vs. Nick Kee (Scotland, N.C.)
    160: Cody Allala (Hopewell, Va.) vs. Chance Marsteller (Kennard Dale, Pa.)
    170: Taylor Massa (St. Johns, Mich.) vs. Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)
    182: Timothy Dudley (Irmo, S.C.) vs. Brandon Griffin (Sprague, Ore.)
    195: Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area, Pa.) vs. Brooks Climmons (Pope, Ga.)
    220: Ray Stone (Akron SVSM, Ohio) vs. Thomas Haines (Solanco, Pa.)
    285: Doug Vollaro (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.) vs. John Dreggors (Springstead, Fla.)]]>    73707Sun, 30 Oct 2011 16:36:06 +0000    Super 32 Challenge semifinal matchups sethttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/super-32-challenge-semifinal-matchups-set-r73706/Semifinal Matchups:

    106:
    Ryan Millhof (Collins Hill, Ga.) vs. Matthew Kolodzik (Miami Valley School, Ohio)
    Luke Pletcher (Greater Latrobe, Pa.) vs. Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.)

    113:
    Sam Krivus (Hempfield, Pa.) vs. Jarred Brooks (Warsaw, Ind.)
    Billy Rappo (Council Rock South, Pa.) vs. Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio)

    120:
    George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio) vs. Eric Montoya (Volcano Vista, N.M.)
    Vito Pasone (Meyers, Pa.) vs. Ryan Diehl (Trinity, Pa.)

    126:
    Zain Retherford (Benton, Pa.) vs. Anthony Ashnault (South Plainfield, N.J.)
    Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. Randy Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.)

    132:
    Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.) vs. Devon Jackson (Yorktown, Ind.)
    Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.) vs. Joey Ward (Moeller, Ohio)

    138:
    Tony DeAngelo (Southern Alamance, N.C.) vs. Ben Whitford (St. Johns, Mich.)
    Mike Hess (Jensen Beach, Fla.) vs. Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.)

    145:
    Solomon Chisko (Canon McMillan, Pa.) vs. Jacob Crawford (Millbrook, Va.)
    Matt Cimato (LaSalle, Pa.) vs. Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.)

    152:
    John Keck (Shoreham-Wading River, N.Y.) vs. Josh Llopez (La Plata, Md.)
    Nick Kee (Scotland, N.C.) vs. Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.)

    160:
    Geno Morelli (DuBois, Pa.) vs. Cody Allala (Hopewell, Va.)
    Geordan Speiller (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.) vs. Chance Marsteller (Kennard Dale, Pa.)

    170:
    Taylor Massa (St. Johns, Mich.) vs. Brandon O'Neill (Clear Fork, Ohio)
    Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) vs. Jacob Taylor (Bald Eagle Area, Pa.)

    182:
    Timothy Dudley (Irmo, S.C.) vs David Reck (Colonial Forge, Va.)
    Cody Wiercioch (Canon McMillan, Pa.) vs. Brandon Griffin (Sprague, Ore.)

    195:
    Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area, Pa.) vs. Mitch Sliga (Fishers, Ind.)
    Aaron Rowe (Indian River, Va.) vs. Brooks Climmons (Pope, Ga.)

    220:
    Ray Stone (Akron SVSM, Ohio) vs. Mark Mongell (St. Francis, Ga.)
    Garrett Linton (Rootstown, Ohio) vs. Thomas Haines (Solanco, Pa.)

    285:
    Doug Vollaro (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.) vs. Greg Moray (Steubenville, Ohio) or Mike Kosoy (Olympic Heights, Fla.)
    Terrance Jean-Jacques (Haverhill, Mass.) vs. John Dreggors (Springstead, Fla.)]]>    73706Sun, 30 Oct 2011 15:14:58 +0000    Super 32 Challenge quarterfinal matchups sethttps://intermatwrestle.com/articles.html/high-school/super-32-challenge-quarterfinal-matchups-set-r73702/
    Quarterfinal Matchups:

    106:
    Coy Ozias (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. Ryan Millhof (Collins Hill, Ga.), Brent Fleetwood (Smyrna, Del.) vs. Matthew Kolodzik (Miami Valley School, Ohio); Luke Pletcher (Greater Latrobe, Pa.) vs. Sean Russell (Collins Hill, Ga.), Michael Kemerer (Franklin Regional, Pa.) vs. Dylan Lucas (Brandon, Fla.)

    113:
    Sam Krivus (Hempfield, Pa.) vs. Cassidy Oshiro (Maryknoll, Hawaii), Jarred Brooks (Warsaw, Ind.) vs. Zac Hall (St. Johns, Mich.); JR Wert (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. Billy Rappo (Council Rock South, Pa.), James Flint (Brandon, Fla.) vs. Nathan Tomasello (CVCA, Ohio)

    120:
    George DiCamillo (St. Ignatius, Ohio) vs. Dustin Rook (Big Spring, Pa.), Jake Goodwin (Bishop Lynch, Texas) vs. Eric Montoya (Volcano Vista, N.M.); Vito Pasone (Meyers, Pa.) vs. Bryce Killian (Middletown, Pa.), Brock Ervin (Union County, Ky.) vs. Ryan Diehl (Trinity, Pa.)

    126:
    Jake Smith (Newark Memorial, Calif.) vs. Zain Retherford (Benton, Pa.), Ken Bade (Detroit Catholic Central, Mich.) vs. Anthony Ashnault (South Plainfield, N.J.); Joey Dance (Christiansburg, Va.) vs. Eric Devos (Waverly-Shell Rock, Iowa), Randy Cruz (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.) vs. Maverick Passaro (Eastport South Manor, N.Y.)

    132:
    Brandon Jeske (Cox, Va.) vs. Neal Molloy (Danville, Ind.), Devon Jackson (Yorktown, Ind.) vs. Laike Garder (Biglerville, Pa.); Alex Cisneros (Selma, Calif.) vs. Nick Mauriello (Happauge, N.Y.), Joey Ward (Moeller, Ohio) vs. Jamel Hudson (St. Anthony's, N.Y.)

    138:
    John Fahy (Trinity, Ky.) vs. Tony DeAngelo (Southern Alamance, N.C.), Corey Stasenko (South Plainfield, N.J.) vs. Ben Whitford (St. Johns, Mich.); Connor Melde (Bergen Catholic, N.J.) vs. Mike Hess (Jensen Beach, Fla.), Steve Spearman (Erie McDowell, Pa.) vs. Austin Matthews (Reynolds, Pa.)

    145:
    Connor Mullins (New Castle, Ind.) vs. Solomon Chisko (Canon McMillan, Pa.), Sam Schwartzapfel (Hauppauge, N.Y.) vs. Jacob Crawford (Millbrook, Va.); Matt Cimato (LaSalle, Pa.) vs. Joe Moon (Southern Alamance, N.C.), Ty Lydic (Greater Latrobe, Pa.) vs. Alenick Richardson (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.)

    152:
    John Keck (Shoreham-Wading River, N.Y.) vs. Garrett Peppelman (Central Dauphin, Pa.), Josh Llopez (La Plata, Md.) vs. Zane Zeman (Avon, Ohio); Francisco Colom (St. Peter's Prep, N.J.) vs. Nick Kee (Scotland, N.C.), Garrett Hammond (Chambersburg, Pa.) vs. Peter Renda (Brandywine Hts., Pa.)

    160:
    Jordan Wohlfert (St. Johns, Mich.) vs. Geno Morelli (DuBois, Pa.), Ty Walter (Mifflinburg, Pa.) vs. Cody Allala (Hopewell, Va.); Geordan Speiller (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.) vs. Devon Gobbo (Delbarton, N.J.), Victor Pereira (Newark Memorial, Calif.) vs. Chance Marsteller (Kennard Dale, Pa.)

    170:
    Taylor Massa (St. Johns, Mich.) vs. Chip Ness (Buford, Ga.), Parker Vonegidy (Piedmont, N.C.) vs. Brandon O'Neill (Clear Fork, Ohio); Tyler Rill (Mt. St. Joseph, Md.) vs. Elliott Riddick (Bethlehem Catholic, Pa.), Austin Wenzlaff (Md.) vs. Jacob Taylor (Bald Eagle Area, Pa.)

    182:
    Timothy Dudley (Irmo, S.C.) vs. Jarred Lux (North Allegheny, Pa.), David Reck (Colonial Forge, Va.) vs. Jordan Thomas (Greenville, Mich.); Cody Wiercioch (Canon McMillan, Pa.) vs. Kevin Beazley (Detroit Catholic Central, Mich.), Jesse Doyle (Wheatmore, N.C.) vs. Brandon Griffin (Sprague, Ore.)

    195:
    Matt McCutcheon (Kiski Area, Pa.) vs. Joe Jessen (Millbrook, Va.), Mitch Sliga (Fishers, Ind.) vs. Troy Mercer (Rockwall Heath, Texas); Aaron Rowe (Indian River, Va.) vs. Payne Hayden (St. Johns, Mich.), Brooks Climmons (Pope, Ga.) vs. Austyn Hayes (Phoenix, N.Y.)

    220:
    Ray Stone (Akron SVSM, Ohio) vs. Justin Williams (Skyline, Va.), Chuckie Kerkesner (Cypress Lake, Fla.) vs. Mark Mongell (St. Francis, Ga.); Garrett Linton (Rootstown, Ohio) vs. Trevor Stevens (Pope, Ga.), Brendan Darrow (Trinity, Ky.) vs. Thomas Haines (Solanco, Pa.)

    285:
    Jesse Webb (Mt. Anthony Union, Vt.) vs. Doug Vollaro (Pine Castle Christian, Fla.), Greg Moray (Steubenville, Ohio) vs. Mike Kosoy (Olympic Heights, Fla.); Terrance Jean-Jacques (Haverhill, Mass.) vs. Zachary Carmin (Collins Hill, Ga.), Caleb Denny (Moeller, Ohio) vs. John Dreggors (Springstead, Fla.)]]>    73702Sun, 30 Oct 2011 05:09:37 +0000