Wrestling
Year in Review: JSZ’s Top 20 of 2020
The year 2020 was made up of 12 unforgettable months. That sentiment especially rings true for New Jersey’s high school sports community. Jersey Sports Zone’s team of MMJ’s gathered for a year-in-review roundtable, discussing the Top 20 stories we covered this year. Thank you to our loyal audience who followed along with us through one of the most trying years we’ll remember. Happy New Year, and here’s to a happy and healthy 2021! JSZ Top 20 of 2020 Pt. 1 JSZ Top 20 of 2020 Pt. 2 No. 20: The Final Game Before COVID-19 Shutdown Bergen Catholic and St. Peter’s Prep. These two were among the top basketball teams in New Jersey last season, and delivered a double-overtime showdown in the last game JSZ covered in the 2020 winter season. It signaled the near end of the basketball season and the beginning of a long statewide shutdown. No. 19: Gill St. Bernard’s Rules NJ Soccer Scene 2020 was a year to remember for the Knights of Gill St. Bernard’s. All-state striker Micaah Garnette, who delivered 21 goals and 14 assists, was the main catalyst to a 13-0-1 squad that went on to win a Central West Non-Public sectional final against Skyland rival Pingry. The Knights were undoubtedly the top team at the end of the line. No. 18: Leon Jones’ Inspiring Comeback It was a year in which many would have to overcome tough circumstances. For Notre Dame’s Leon Jones, his journey to redemption began before COVID-19. Following a collision against St. Peter’s Prep in a playoff football game, Jones was left paralyzed for almost 48 hours. After regaining feeling in both of his legs, doctors were still unsure if he would be able to walk normally, let alone play sports again. However, midway through the basketball season, Leon Jones not only started his first game as a senior, but Jersey Sports Zone was there to watch him lead his team to victory. No. 17: South Jersey’s Ware & Watson Earn Top Basketball Honors There was no shortage of talent on the high school basketball court last winter, but Camden’s Lance Ware and Mainland’s Kylee Watson proved to be the best of the best. Ware, a Kentucky commit, was the senior leader for a Panthers team that finished the season on a 25-game winning streak. Watson, an Oregon commit, surpassed 2,000 career points in a decorated career for the Mustangs. Ware and Watson earned the JSZ Mr. and Ms. Hoop Zone awards, as the top players in the Garden State. No. 16: Camden Basketball Reigns Supreme in Garden State Hoops Scene It was the most anticipated season for The High in a generation, and the Panthers did not disappoint. Led by fabulous freshman D.J. Wagner, Kentucky commit Lance Ware, and South Carolina commit TaQuan Woodley, Camden went (29-1). The High was without a home gym for the 2019/2020 season, but Panthers fans followed the team all over the state and beyond to watch this special journey. Camden was in great position to win its first state title since 2000, before the coronavirus pandemic put a halt to the postseason. No. 15: Delbarton Wrestling Delivers Historic Year on the Mat When wrestling fans in Morristown – and across the state – look back on the 2019-2020 season, they’ll remember the incredible effort Delbarton put forth to cement themselves as the No. 1 program in New Jersey. It all started with a 42-15 victory over Bergen Catholic in the Non-Public A North semifinals where the Green Wave ended the Crusaders’ 96-match win streak against NJSIAA competition. That began a run of postseason excellence ending in Delbarton’s first state title since 2011. No. 14: CBA, Donohoe are Kings of NJ Ice The Gordon Conference is home to the elite New Jersey hockey programs, yet it was the private school from Monmouth County that slayed numerous Bergen County teams en route to attaining gold at the end of the road. The Colts, who won 20 games, the Gordon Cup and the Non-Public State Final, were led all year long by sophomore goalie John Donohoe. Donohoe went on to win JSZ’s 2020 Player of the Year after making 501 saves in electric fashion. No. 13: Jewel Gonzalez Sets the Standard A pioneer to Stateliner and New Jersey wrestling, Jewel Gonzalez was the face of girls wrestling in New Jersey during her high school career. Coming from one of the most storied and successful wrestling programs in the Garden State in Phillipsburg, Gonzalez won back-to-back girls state wrestling championships in Boardwalk Hall. During her two seasons, Gonzalez amassed an undefeated 30-0 record as she pinned her way through the state tournament as a senior. Gonzalez capped off her state championship the same way many other Stateliners had done before her, by jumping into the ocean. No. 12: JSZ’s “One Shining Moment” As the world shut down due to the Covid-19 pandemic, JSZ set out to commemorate the best of the 2019-20 high school basketball season. With the blessing of the song’s composer, David Barrett, JSZ was able to produce a unique version of the March Madness staple, “One Shining Moment.” No. 11: Scottie Lewis Leads off the Court Rounding out Part 1 of our look back at 2020 is a story that transcended sports. Ranney-alumni Scottie Lewis returned home to Asbury Park to lead a peaceful protest over the summer. It was a day that few would forget as organizers, protesters, and police officers joined together to rally against racial injustice and inequality. No. 10: Abrupt Cancellations of Two High-Profile Games Postponements and cancellations were common during the 2020 football season. The timing of a pair of cancellations stood out late in the season though, as Bergen Catholic-Delbarton was called off just before kickoff, and Williamstown-Ocean City was abandoned at halftime. No. 9: Morristown-Beard Girls Hockey Makes History Girls sports in the Garden State took another important step forward in 2020 with the inaugural state ice hockey championship. Morristown-Beard skated to victory at the Prudential Center in Newark. No. 8: Bosco and Seton Hall Prep Earn Signature Wins It felt like Bergen Catholic would face St. Peter’s with the state’s #1 ranking on the line to close out the year. Don Bosco and Seton Hall Prep had other ideas. The Ironmen stunned the Crusaders, while the Pirates topped the Marauders down the stretch of the season. No. 7: A SportsCenter Top 10 Moment for Manasquan Chris Farinacci beat the buzzer with a sensational goal to lift Manasquan over St. John Vianney. The highlight went national, making the rounds on ESPN. No. 6: Shore Conference and WJFL Pod Playoffs The 2020 football season didn’t feature the traditional playoff format. The Shore Conference and the West Jersey Football League still made it a memorable “postseason” for a handful of top teams, with the creation of playoff pods. Wall and Holy Spirit battled their way to 2020 bragging rights. No. 5: Howard and Peterson Electrify in Atlantic City Robert Howard and Dean Peterson both travelled down to Atlantic City on a mission. The standouts from Bergen Catholic and St. John Vianney captured state titles in impressive fashion at Boardwalk Hall. No. 4: Estime Wins Zoneman & Commits to Irish Audric Estime ran roughshod over opponents in 2020. The St. Joe’s (Montvale) senior earned JSZ’s top football honor, the Zoneman award, and flipped his commitment from Michigan State to Notre Dame. It was an eventful day for Estime, and JSZ was on hand to capture it. No. 3: A JSZ All-Access Unlike Any Other Football teams had extra time to gear up for a unique season, and JSZ tagged along with a handful of squads leading up to opening night. We were able to tell unique stories from the practice fields at Bergen Catholic, Notre Dame, Ocean City and Rumson-Fair Haven, as the teams laid the groundwork on how to play during the COVID-19 pandemic. No. 2: Spring Athletes Were Truly Jersey Strong The COVID-19 pandemic led to the cancellation of the entire spring sports schedule in 2020. It was devastating to thousands of athletes, but especially to the seniors. A handful of those seniors delivered a powerful message as they reflected on their high school careers. No 1: The Last Dance Brought Closure and Hope Although it wasn’t an official NJSIAA event, The Last Dance baseball tournament gave over 200 teams a chance to finally take the field after the cancellation of the spring season. It was a memorable month of July, as Cranford won the title, and all of the teams provided a blueprint on how high school sports could move forward during the darkest of times.
NJSIAA Announces Changes To Winter Sports Season
With COVID-19 cases in New Jersey spiking as the fall quickly turns into winter, the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) has officially made changes to the winter sports season. Competition in all winter sports, which includes basketball, wrestling, ice hockey, indoor track, swimming and bowling were set to begin on Dec. 21. That is now not the case — high school sports will resume after calendars turn over to 2021. Here are the official and final changes, per an NJSIAA news release Thursday morning: Season 2 Ice Hockey will be the first sport to start in the winter. Practices will commence on Dec. 14 and the competition will officially last from Jan. 4, 2021 to Feb. 17. Basketball, Fencing and Bowling can start practicing on Jan. 11 with games set to last from Jan. 26 to March 6. Season 2A Swimming and Winter Track & Field may begin practices on Feb. 1. That season will last from Feb. 16 to March 27. Season 3 The big change here is for wrestling, which has been moved from the winter to the late winter/early spring. Teams can get onto the mats on March 1 for their first practices. The season will last from March 16 to April 24. That same timeline – March 16 to April 24 – will be the same timeline for both gymnastics and girls volleyball. Other News and Notes Gov. Phil Murphy’s Executive Order 196 (which restricts the number of people at indoor events) will go into effect on Nov. 23. Per the NJSIAA, indoor practices and competitions are limited to 10 persons, however, if the number of individuals who are necessary for the practice or competition, such as players, coaches, and referees, is greater than 10 persons, the practice or competition may proceed. If this exception applies, the number of individuals still may not exceed 25 percent of the capacity of the room in which it takes place, or 150 persons, whichever is less. Practically speaking, this means that spectators are prohibited.”There will be no NJSIAA sponsored state postseasons for sports in Seasons 2 and 2A, yet individual conferences can hold their own tournaments.The state athletic association said itself and its member schools are still determining “what may be the best format for post season play,” for Season 3. It’s unknown whether or not there will be an individual wrestling state tournament. Season 3 sports have to conclude no later than April 24, 2021.Bowling is the only sport allowed to have more than two teams in any venue. New Jersey teams are prohibited from playing any out-of-state competition, whether its inside or outside of state lines. Teams will be permitted to play up to three games per week with no more than 15 total during the season.The NJSIAA will announce plans for Season 4 (lacrosse, baseball, softball, outdoor track & field) no later than Dec. 11, 2020.
Top Wrestlers Cosgrove and Troczynski Commit to Penn
Two of New Jersey’s best wrestlers both made their college decisions on Friday. Martin Cosgrove of Camden Catholic and Andy Troczynski of Delbarton both announced commitments to the University of Pennsylvania. I am very excited to announce my commitment to the admissions process to continue my academic and athletic career at the University of Pennsylvania. I am extremely thankful to everyone who has supported and helped me throughout the years. #themovement pic.twitter.com/vgha5rHCil— Martin Cosgrove (@Mcozz36) June 26, 2020 I am extremely excited to announce that I have committed to the admissions process to continue my athletic and academic career at the University of Pennsylvania. Thank you to everyone who has helped me get to where I am today. #themovement pic.twitter.com/zrPRCa4tJz— Andrew Troczynski (@AndrewTroczyns1) June 26, 2020 Cosgrove won the 195-pound state title last season as a sophomore for the Irish. You can watch the highlights here: Troczynski placed second in the state at 145 pounds as a sophomore for the Green Wave last season. Coverage of Camden Catholic is made possible by NJM Insurance.
Jacob Perez-Eli Commits to Iowa State
Jacob Perez-Eli compiled 136 wins during an outstanding career at Paulsboro. Perez-Eli made deep runs at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City twice, wrestling at 138 pounds. He finished second in the state during his junior season, and fifth in the state to cap off his senior campaign. Perez-Eli announced his college decision on Monday, committing to Iowa State. Watch video of Jacob Perez-Eli in action for the Paulsboro Red Raiders here:
Moorestown’s Robert Damerjian Commits to Rutgers
Robert Damerjian made the most of his limited time on the wrestling mat last season. The Moorestown senior missed most of the year with a thumb injury, but returned in time to lead the Quakers to a South Jersey Group 4 final appearance. Damerjian then went on to win the District 26 title (Most Outstanding Wrestler) and the Region 7 title, before finishing fourth in the state at 220 pounds. On Thursday, Damerjian announced he’s committing to wrestle at Rutgers University. next chapter📖. #bookunwritten✍️ #theChop🪓 #bleedred💉 #bloodsweattearsgotmehere pic.twitter.com/JAFtltsbgW— Robert Damerjian 🇦🇲 (@DamerjianRobert) April 23, 2020 Watch highlights of Damerjian’s 2020 season debut. He earned a 17-6 major decision in Moorestown’s South Jersey Group 4 semifinal victory over Highland. Coverage of Moorestown is brought to you by NJM Insurance.
Shore’s Al DeSantis Commits to Rutgers Wrestling
The Rutgers University wrestling program puts a premium on recruiting top Garden State talent and keeping those wrestlers in state. The Scarlet Knights added another recruit to their Class of 2020 group with Shore Regional’s Al DeSantis signed on to join the program. DeSantis finished his high school career with a seventh-place finish at 138 pounds after setting new records as the single-season wins leader and all-time career wins record for the Blue Devils. DeSantis joined JSZ’s Jay Cook for a virtual interview to discuss his commitment to Rutgers and a stellar high school career in West Long Branch.
Watch NJSIAA Girls Wrestling State Championship Finals
Welcome back to A.C., New Jersey wrestling fans! Jersey Sports Zone’s team of MMJ’s has wall-to-wall coverage of every single girls state final as New Jersey will crown champions for only the second year. Stay tuned throughout the night as the highlights come in! 100 Pound Final: Sydney Petzinger (Parsippany) p. Ava Rose (Princeton), 5:00. Sydney Petzinger’s reign atop the 100-pound division continues as she pins Ava Rose in the third period to clinch her second-straight state championship and remain undefeated in her career in girls competition. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights: Coverage of Princeton is brought to you by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates. 107 Pound Final: Johnae Drumright (Trenton) d. Chloe Ayres (Princeton), 4-3 Princeton’s Chloe Ayres wins her second State Title as she downs Johnae Drumright of Trenton Central 4-3. Ayres secured a takedown in the third period to take the lead. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights: Coverage of Princeton is brought to you by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates 114 Pound Final: Kira Pipkins (Bloomfield) d. Katrina Kling (Warren Hills), 6-4 (SV OT) Kira Pipkins might be listed as a freshman, but the Bloomfield 114-pounder certainly looked like she had plenty of experience on the mat. Pipkins beat the regulation buzzer with an escape to force OT and then hit the title-winning shot in the first SV period. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights: 121 Pound Final: Noran Elmahroukey (New Providence) p. Kalli Roskos (Delran) 1:32 128 Pound Final: Stephanie Andrade (Hunterdon Central) p. Avery Meyers (Jackson Memorial) 1:04 Stephanie Andrade came into the State Tournament with high expectations and she did not disappoint. Andrade captured her second State Title with a first period pin in the finals over Avery Myers of Jackson Memorial. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights: Coverage of Jackson Memorial is brought to you by Louro Chiropractic Center. 135 Pound Final: Gabby Miller (Monroe) d. Emma Matera (Delran) 5-4 Emma Matera took a one-point lead into the third period, and then rode out the defending state champion Gabby Miller to win her first state crown. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the higlights: 143 Pound Final: Jordan Katz (Jackson Memorial) d. Alexis Rosano (Overbrook) 9-4 Freshman Alexis Rosano made a statement winning the 143-pound State Championship. Rosano beat Senior Jordan Katz. Her first trip to Atlantic City was successful to say the least! JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights: 151 Pound Final: Jess Johnson (Manalapan) d. Precious Opara (West Orange), 9-2 After winning the state title at 136-pounds a year ago, Jess Johnson conquers a new weight class as she defeats Precious Opara to win the state championship at 151-pounds. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights: 161 Pound Final: Jewel Gonzalez (Phillipsburg) p. Amanda Pace (North Bergen), 4:28 180 Pound Final: Kerly Borbor (New Brunswick) d. Amirah Giorgianni (Mainland) 9-5 (UTB) After falling short of a state title a year ago, Kerly Borbor buckled down to score a thrilling overtime victory. Borbor became the first wrestler in New Brunswick history to win a state championship. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights: 215 Pound Final: Sandra Guerrero (West Orange) d. Joelle Klein (Lower Cape May), 7-0 Undefeated senior Sandra Guerrero had won all of her matches by fall leading up to the state final. It took the full six minutes against Joelle Klein, but that just makes a state title even sweeter for Guererro. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights:
Watch NJSIAA Boys Wrestling State Championship Finals
Welcome back to A.C, New Jersey wrestling fans. Jersey Sports Zone’s team of MMJ’s are on hand for the biggest day of the wrestling season in the Garden State. We’re your one-to shop for video highlights and in-depth breakdowns for every boys state championship match. Stay tuned throughout the night as the highlights come in! Boys State Finals 106 Pound Final: 4- Evan Mougalian (Kinnelon) defeats 2- Anthony Santaniello (Brick Memorial) 3-1 113 Pound Final: 2- Tyler Klinsky (Middletown North) d. 1- Kelly Dunnigan (Don Bosco), 6-3 Tyler Klinsky avenges his only loss of the season and cements his legacy as the winningest wrestler in Middletown North history by bringing home the program’s first state title. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights: Coverage of Middletown North is brought to you by ACI Medical & Dental School. 120 Pound Final: 1- Dean Peterson (St. John Vianney) d. 6- Vincent Santaniello (Brick Memorial) 1-0 126 Pound Final: 3- Robert Howard (Bergen Catholic) d. 4- McKenzie Bell (Kingsway), 12-7 Robbert Howard gave New Jersey wrestling everything he had. The Bergen Catholic senior battled through writing physical and emotional pain all season long, re-centered himself and emerged as a champion yet again inside Boardwalk Hall. Howard, a Penn State commit, finishes his high school career as a two-time state champion. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights: Coverage of Bergen Catholic is brought to you by Rothman Orthopaedics. 132 Pound Final: 1- Joey Olivieri (Hanover Park) d. 2- Dylan Cedeno (Bergen Catholic), 1-0 Joey Olivieri won a state title as a freshman, but had to settle for fourth as a sophomore. The junior gets back to the top of the podium, thanks to a tight win over Dylan Cedeno. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights: 138 Pound Final: 3- Anthony Clark (Delbarton) vs. 12- William Grater (Bergen Catholic) Anthony Clark is no stranger to the highest stage in New Jersey Wrestling. Clark has been in the state finals every season and won state titles as a freshman and sophomore before losing last year. With a 4-0 victory over William Grater, Clarke joined an elite list of people to win States three times in the Garden State. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights: 145 Pound Final: 1- Andy Clark (Collingswood) d. 6- Andrew Troczynski (Delbarton), 8-5 After finishing 4th in the state a year ago at 132 pounds, Andy Clark won a thriller over Andrew Troczinski at 145 to become Collingswood’s first state champion since 1992. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights: 152 Pound Final: 4- Nick Boggiano (Toms River North) d. 6- Aaron Ayzerov (Paramus), 7-3 Nick Boggiano’s five-point move in the second period helped clinch the first state title for a Toms River North wrestler since 2007. The senior finished eighth at 145-pounds a year ago, but this time around he caps off a tremendous 41-1 season with a state championship. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights: 160 Pound Final: 3- Brian Soldano (High Point) d. 1- Dante Stefanelli (Delbarton) 9-0 170 Pound Final: 2- Connor O’Neill (DePaul Catholic) d. 1- Shane Reitsma (Howell), 3-1 Connor O’Neill’s clutch takedown early in the third period proved to be the difference in a matchup between the clear-cut top two wrestlers at 170 pounds this season. With the win, O’Neill avenges a loss earlier this season to Reitsma. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights: 182 Pound Final: 1- John Poznanski (Colonia) p. 2- Luke Rada (Colts Neck), 3:31 ** Named Most Outstanding Wrestler ** Colonia’s John Poznanski put the cap on a perfect season with a second period pin in the state finals. Poznanski, a Rutgers wrestling commit, was the most dominant force throughout the individual postseason tournament. His 40-0 season ended his Most Outstanding Wrestler honors at Boardwalk Hall. However, that’s only half the story, as Poznanski worked through a historic career with only one eye. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights: 195 Pound Final: 3- Martin Cosgrove (Camden Catholic) d. 4- David Szuba (Brick Memorial), 9-7 After finishing third in the state as a freshman, Martin Cosgrove breaks through with a state title as a sophomore. David Szuba nearly forced overtime with a four-point move late, but a stalling call ultimately proved to be the difference. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights: Coverage of Camden Catholic is brought to you by NJM Insurance. 220 Pound Final: 2- P.J. Casale (Delbarton) d. 1- Kyle Jacob (Paramus), 4-2 After a fifth-place finish in the state tournament a year ago, P.J. Casale would not be denied as he takes home his first state championship. The sophomore nearly finished the bout in the second period with a wild four-point move, and rode the momentum to a victory. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights: 285 Pound Final: 7- JT Cornelius (Southern) vs. 13- Jimmy Mullen (St. Joe’s Mont.) Freshman phenom Jimmy Mullen caps off historic State Tournament run with a Gold Medal. Mullen came into the tournament as the 13 seed and battled his way to the finals where he won 7-3 and controlled the entire match. Be on the watch for Mullen for the next few years. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights:
Watch JSZ S.J. Region Girls Wrestling Championship Highlights
The road to Boardwalk Hall continues at Williamstown High School for the Girls NJSIAA South Jersey Region Tournament. Stay tuned all night as the highlights roll in! 100-pounds Princeton’s Ava Rose defeats Allentown’s Jasmine Aizley; 4-2. Coverage of Allentown and Princeton is brought to you by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates. 121-pounds Delran’s Kalli Roskos defeats Lakewood’s Jessica Rivera; 10-6. 135-pounds Delran’s Emma Matera defeats Monroe Township’s Gaby Miller; 3-0. Coverage of Monroe Township is brought to you by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates. 143-pounds Central Regional’s Jayla Hahn defeats Jackson Memorial’s Jordyn Katz; 12-6. Coverage of Jackson Memorial is brought to you by Louro Chiropractic Center. 180-pounds Mainland’s Amirah Giorgianni defeats Jackson Memorial’s Gina Novello; 4-3 (OT). Coverage of Jackson Memorial is brought to you by Louro Chiropractic Center. Other Results 107-pounds: Princeton’s Chloe Ayres defeats Trenton Central’s Johnae Drumright; 9-3. 114-pounds: Pennsauken’s Tatiana Walker defeats Lakewood’s Estefani Cortez; Fall (1:00). 128-pounds: Jackson Memorial’s Avery Meyers defeats Trenton Central’s Karielys Reyes; Fall (1:24). 151-pounds: Manalapan’s Jesse Johnson defeats Eastern’s Rachel Forsman; Fall (0:44). 161-pounds: Kingsway’s Olivia Heyer defeats Lakewood’s Ana Gonzalez; Fall (1:20). 215-pounds: Lower Cape May’s Joelle Klein defeats Rancocas Valley’s Kaila Mungo; 5-3.
Watch JSZ District 32 Wrestling Championship Highlights
For the wrestlers in District 32, the road to Boardwalk Hall begins just a few miles up the road at Absegami High School. Stay tuned as the highlights roll in. 106-Pounds Kingsway’s Brendan Callahan defeats Hammonton’s Max Elton, 8-6 in double overtime. 132-pounds Kingsway’s Jake Gentile defeats Ocean City’s Charley Cossaboone, 10-4. 138-pounds Kingsway’s Finnegan McFadden defeats Hammonton’s Ryan Figueroa, 4-3. 160-pounds Pennsville’s Sean McDade defeats Absegami’s Quinn McLaughlin, 9-7. 170-pounds Absegami’s George Rhodes defeats St. Joseph’s (Hamm.) Alex Giordano, 5-4. Other Results 113-pounds: Clearview’s Ty Whalen defeats Kingsway’s Josh Palmucci; 11-1. 120-pounds: Kingsway’s Joey Miranda defeats Absegami’s John Devlin; 11-3. 126-pounds: Kingsway’s McKenzie Bell defeats Hammonton’s Santino Pontarelli; Fall (4:32). 145-pounds: Kingsway’s Dakota Morris defeats Pennville’s Doyne Friebel; Fall (1:11). 152-pounds: Kingsway’s David DiPietro defeats Clearview’s Cody Scully; 2-1. 182-pounds: Kingsway’s Kevin Pandorf defeats Absegami’s Issac Ingram; 12-4. 195-pounds: Absegami’s Mikal Taylor defeats Kingsway’s Dennis Lee; 3-2. 220-pounds: Hammonton’s Lloyd Kawei defeats Kingsway’s Christian Aiken; 3-2. 285-pounds: Ocean City’s Nick Sannino defeats St. Joseph’s (Hamm.) Bryan Butkus; Fall (3:32).
District 30 Wrestling Champions Crowned at Delsea
It was an absolute pin party in Franklinville, with nine of the 14 finals bouts ending by fall. JSZ has highlights from many of the District 30 finals! 132 pounds: Frank Gabriel (Oakcrest) p. Travis Griffith (Delsea), 1:45 Oakcrest senior Frank Gabriel worked a pin late in the first period to capture a District 30 title. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights: 145 pounds: Tim Spatola (Delsea) p. Nick Flamma (Washington Twp.), 6:21 (OT) Delsea’s Tim Spatola was down 5-1 at one point, but forced overtime with a late takedown. Then the Crusaders senior captured his third district title with a pin in OT. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights: 152 pounds: Jared Schoppe (Delsea) p. Christian Campanaro (Lower Cape May), 3:10 Jared Schoppe continues to impress in his freshman season for Delsea, earning his first district title by fall. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights: 160 pounds: Brayden Castillo (Lower Cape May) 6-4 OT Sudden Victory over Asa Walton (Delsea) Brayden Castillo helped force overtime with a late takedown, before the Caper Tigers sophomore stunned two-time district champion Asa Walton with a sudden victory in OT. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights: 170 pounds: Mike LaRosa (Washington Twp.) p. Justin Dougherty (Delsea), 5:03 Minutemen senior Mike LaRosa was trailing 18-6 with just over a minute left in the bout, when he stunned Justin Dougherty with a pin for the district title. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from a thriller: 195 pounds: Marcus Hebron (Lower Cape May) p. Emiril Mitchell (Winslow Twp.), 1:39 Marcus Hebron pulled off a big move in the first period, turning a takedown into a quick pin for the district crown. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights: 285 pounds: Jack Dunn (Washington Twp.) p. Felix Figueroa (Penns Grove), 5:59 The victory never seemed in doubt, but Jack Dunn didn’t want a decision; he wanted a pin. The Minutemen senior got it with a second to spare for the District 30 title. JSZ Mike Frankel has the highlights: More District 30 Champions 126 pounds: David Flippen (Oakcrest) 138 pounds: Hunter Gandy (Woodstown) | Most Outstanding Wrestler 182 pounds: Connor Batten (Woodstown) 220 pounds: Jamason Taylor (Woodstown) 106 pounds: Hogan Horsey (Oakcrest) 113 pounds: Sean Dever (Egg Harbor Twp.) 120 pounds: Ethan Wilson (Washington Twp.) Team Results Delsea 193 | Washington Twp. 177 | Woodstown 167 Coverage of Washington Township is brought to you by Cooper University Health Care. Coverage of Delsea is brought to you by NJM Insurance.
Watch Sunday 2.16 JSZ State Championship Wrestling Highlights
Jersey Sports Zone is in Toms River for the Wrestling Group Championships. We have in-depth coverage and extended highlights of every single match from Sunday afternoon. Enjoy the coverage — we’ll see you in A.C.! Delbarton 54 St. Augustine Prep 7 | Non-Public A Final For almost a decade the team state title has eluded the Green Wave of Delbarton. After a win over Bergen Catholic en route to a Sectional Championship, Delbarton knew this was their season to regain the title. A sound victory for the Green Wave laid their final claim to the #1 team in New Jersey. Delbarton won 12 out of 14 bouts as Nicholas Nardone won by pin while Anthony Clark and Andrew Tryoczynski won by major decision. Alex Marshall won by major for the Hermits. The highlight of the match came at 195 lbs as it was a #1 vs #2 showdown. Luke Chakonis (1) from Delbarton defeated Mike Misita (2) of St. Augustine 6-4 in Sudden Victory to cap off the win for Delbarton. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights from Toms River: Camden Catholic 51 Pope John XXIII 15 | Non-Public B Final The Fighting Irish are on the top of the mountain in Non-Public B once again after a convincing victory against the Lions. Pope John briefly took the lead after a pin by Eddie Ventresca at 126. However, the Irish got back on track when Danny McKennon picked up a pin at 132 and they would not cede another bout the rest of the way. Bonus points were crucial in this match as Camden Catholic racked up seven pins, including four in the final six bouts. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from Toms River: Coverage of Camden Catholic is brought to you by NJM Insurance. Paulsboro 50 Delaware Valley 9 | Group 1 Final Less than 48 hours after receiving an ICD surgically placed in his chest, Brandon Green was in Toms River to see Paulsboro win a fifth straight state championship and the 33rd mat title in the program’s rich history. Green, the 2019 state champion at 170 lbs. collapsed on February 3rd and saw his career come to an end due to scar tissue around his heart. Paulsboro and the entire wrestling community rallied and Green received a standing ovation and stayed on the bench to root his teammates on. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights and post-match reaction: High Point 38 West Deptford 28 | Group 2 Final High Point has returned to the peak at Group 2. The Wildcats captured their sixth team state title — and third in the last four years — after rolling their way through West Deptford in the final. High Point studs Nick Douma, Josh Gervey and Billy Talmadge all wrestled back-to-back-to-back in the lineup and each delivered bonus points. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from an emotional win: Montville 34 West Essex 33 | Group 3 Final A rematch from earlier in the month that went in favor of the Mustangs would prove to be no different the second time around. Though close, Montville prevailed once again over the Knights. A 7-7 split in the bouts, it was the four pins that set the Mustangs above the Knights. Aaron Kurzer, Brandon Teresa, Noah Fox and Michael Conrad all won by pin for Montville. Carson Barry, Alex Jones, and Samuel Carsillo won by major decision for the Knights in the loss. Montville wins their first ever Group Title. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights from Toms River: North Hunterdon 34 Kingsway 22 | Group 4 Final Does is get any better than perfection? Just ask North Hunterdon. The Lions completed the 20-0 undefeated season Sunday on the heels of yet another rousing performance. The Lions won seven-straight bouts from 170 pounds to 106 pounds to power a comeback win. Sophomore heavyweight Liam Akers clinched the win with a first-period pin via cradle. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights: Southern Regional 38 Manalapan 24 | Group 5 Final Freshman Nick Bennet got a 4-2 sudden victory at 126 pounds that sparked the Rams to a second straight Group 5 state championship. Following Bennet’s comeback victory, Southern had back to back pins from Matt Brielmier and Eddie Hummel to build an insurmountable lead. Robert Woodcock clinched the state title with a pin at 170 pounds. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has all the action from Toms River:
Watch Friday 2.14 JSZ Sectional Championship Wrestling Highlights
The hardware isn’t just handed out; it’s earned. JSZ has coverage of team playoff wrestling sectional finals from all over the state. Delbarton 49 St. Joe’s (Mont.) 15 | Non-Public A North Final Delbarton’s dominant run throughout the state playoffs continued Friday night as the Green Wave won their first sectional title since the 2011 season. Delbarton — the consensus No. 1 ranked team in New Jersey — has outscored its competition 164-17 through three playoff matches. They’ll face St. Augustine in the Non-Public A final Sunday in Toms River. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Morristown: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of all St. Joe’s (Mont.) athletics is brought to you by Rothman Orthopaedics. Watchung Hills 37 Westfield 27 | North 2 Group 5 Final Ethan Colello scored a tech fall at 106 pounds and Dylan Kolakowski clinched the championship with a pin at 113 to give the Warriors a third straight sectional title. Westfield jumped out to a 12-0 lead early but the Warriors got pins from Jack Murray and Gerard Aroneo to take the lead back. Leading 26-21 with three bouts to go, Colello and Kolakowski closed out the victory. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights: Paulsboro 46 Woodstown 19 | South Jersey Group 1 Final The Red Raiders did it for Brandon. Defending 170-pound state champion and Virginia Tech commit Brandon Green has been in the hospital for almost two weeks, and Paulsboro has been rallying to push on through the playoffs. The Red Raiders took down the Wolverines to win their 12th consecutive sectional championship. JSZ’s Mike Frankel the highlights and reaction from an emotional night in Woodstown: West Deptford 39 Haddonfield 21 | South Jersey Group 2 Final The Eagles win back-to-back sectional titles for the first time in program history in a back-and-forth battle against the Bulldogs. West Deptford led early but lost four consecutive bouts and trailed halfway through the match. Cody Thurston (195), Tion Cherry (285), and Justin Monzo-Hull (120) picked up huge pins down the stretch to clinch the title for the Eagles. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from West Deptford: Coverage of Haddonfield is brought to you by NJM Insurance. Southern 36 Howell 30 | South Jersey Group 5 Final The clash of two Shore Conference and New Jersey powerhouses was a blow for blow battle! A 7-7 split in the 14 bouts came down to the last match and freshman Cole Velardi delivered for the Rams. With a pin in the final bout, Velardi secured the win for Southern, they won their third sectional championship in a row and fourteenth all time. Conor Collins, Eddie Hummel, Cole Velardi, Robert Woodcock and JT Cornelius won by fall for the Rams. Paul Jakub won by fall while Nick Cerulli and Shane Rietsma won by tech fall in the loss. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights from Farmingdale:
Watch Wednesday 2.12 JSZ Playoff Wrestling Highlights
The state team wrestling playoffs continue to intensify with sectional semifinal action. JSZ has highlights from several marquee matches! Delbarton 45 Bergen Catholic 12 | Non-Public A North Bergen Catholic’s 96-match win streak over NJSIAA competition came to a screeching halt Wednesday night as the Green Wave pounded the Crusaders from start to finish. Luke Chakonis (220 lbs.) and PJ Casale (285 lbs.) each scored key pins before the turn of the lineup, while Joe Davi (120 lbs.) and Nico Nardone (126 lbs.) notched eye-opening upsets over multi-year state finalists. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights and more from Morristown: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of all Bergen Catholic athletics throughout the 2019-2020 season is brought to you by Rothman Orthopaedics. Moorestown 30 Highland 27 | South Jersey Group 4 After an upset win over #3 Central in the opening round, the sixth-seeded Quakers kept it rolling with a victory over #2 Highland. Rob Damerjian returned from injury to make his season debut, earning a major decision for Moorestown. John Dalmass and Adam Robinson both picked up pins for the Quakers. Jurius Clark won by fall for the Tartans in the loss. Moorestown advances to face top-seeded Kingsway for the South Jersey Group 4 title on Friday night. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Blackwood: Coverage of Moorestown is brought to you by NJM Insurance. Coverage of Highland is made possible by Cooper University Health Care. Rumson-Fair Haven 32 Point Pleasant Boro 31 | Central Jersey Group 2 Michael Ponenti scored a 6-1 decision at 170 pounds in the final match to give Rumson-Fair Haven a one-point win against the #2 seed and a spot in the Central Jersey Group 2 finals against top seed South Plainfield. RFH scored two pins by Shay Addison and Jack Kelly to race out to a 12-0 lead. Point Boro would rally from 15-0 down to take a 22-21 lead on a pin by Jack Thompson. The Brignola twins would ultimately set the stage for Rumson’s win. Max got a pin at 145 pounds and Tyler scored a critical 2-1 OT win at 152 to make it 29-25 RFH. Ty Bailey’s pin gave Point Boro a 31-29 advantage heading into the final match at 170 where Ponenti scored early and controlled the entire six minutes. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from an All-Shore Conference battle: Jersey Sports Zone was at this great match because of ACI Medical & Dental School. ACI supports JSZ’s coverage of Rumson-Fair Haven. One of the top technical schools in NJ, Advantage Career Institute Medical & Dental School in Central New Jersey offers a variety of programs in the in-demand medical and dental industries. Visit ACI.edu to learn more! Phillipsburg 43 Middletown North 20 | North Jersey 2 Group 4 Middletown North got off the bus ready to scrap as they won the first four bouts, three coming by bonus point victories and they jumped out to an early 17-0 lead. The Stateliners slowly chipped away as they won nine of the last ten and eight were in a row. Joe Innamorato got the momentum started as he won by major decision at 132 lbs. The Stateliners also got bonus point wins as Matt Donofrio won by major decision, Nate Zastowny won by tech fall, Jacob Wicks won by pin and Cody Cruts won by pin. Fred Luchs won by pin while Tyler Klinksy and Colin Oden won by major decision in the loss. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights from Phillipsburg: Coverage of tonights match is brought to you by a pair of sponsors ACI Medical and Dental School (Middletown North) and The Garnet Booster Club (Phillipsburg). We thank our sponsors as our work would not be possible without their help and support!
Watch Monday 2.10 JSZ Playoff Wrestling Highlights
The state team wrestling playoffs begin with sectional quarterfinal action! Be sure to check back throughout the night for plenty of pins! Delsea 43 Gateway 19 | South Jersey Group 3 The Crusaders are chasing their 10th consecutive South Jersey title, and they rolled past the Gators to open the playoffs. Travis Griffith, Tim Spatola, Asa Walton and Justin Dougherty all secured pins for Delsea in the victory. Chris Howarth and Tom Goetz both won by fall for Gateway in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Franklinville: Coverage of Delsea is brought to you by NJM Insurance. Long Branch 39 Hightstown 18 | Central Jersey Group 4 Long Branch last won a sectional title in 2018 and looked to rekindle that spark Monday as the Green Wave won nine of 14 bouts to advance in the Central Jersey Group 4 tournament. Upperweight studs Pat O’Dwyer and Tracey Taylor scored decision wins while Dylan Kelleher, Ryan Zimmerman and Ryan Carey each notched pins in the win. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Long Branch: Sponsor Shoutout! Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Long Branch (Rosario Realty) and Hightstown (Princeton Orthopaedic Associates) was brought to you by a pair of loyal JSZ sponsors. Without them, we wouldn’t have been at this match! Jackson Memorial 41 Freehold Boro 18 | Central Jersey Group 4 The returning Central Jersey Group 4 champions got off to a strong start in the sectional quarterfinals with a big win over the Colonials. Jackson won nine of 14 bouts, six of which were bonus point victories with four pins. Brad Galassi, Mike Rauch, Hunter Smith and Kyle Epperly all won by fall for the Jags. Shore Conference champion Nico Messina won by pin for Freehold Boro. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights from Jackson: Our coverage of Freehold Boro (Playa Bowls of Freehold Raceway Mall) and Jackson Memorial (Louro Chiropractic Center) was brought to you by two great sponsors!
Watch JSZ Shore Conference Wrestling Championship Highlights
Red Bank Regional hosted the Shore Conference wrestling championships. Jersey Sports Zone brings you highlights and post-match interviews from all 14 finals. We will post each match throughout Saturday night! 113 pounds (1) Tyler Klinsky, Middletown North defeats (2) Ryan Rosenthal, Toms River North 10-3 Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Middletown North is brought to you by ACI Medical & Dental School. One of the top technical schools in NJ, Advantage Career Institute Medical & Dental School in Central New Jersey offers a variety of programs in the in-demand medical and dental industries. Visit ACI.edu to learn more! 120 pounds (1) Dean Peterson, St. John Vianney defeats (2) Vincent Santaniello, Brick Memorial 5-3 126 pounds (3) Nico Messina, Freehold Boro defeats (5) Thomas O’Keefe, Middletown North 6-4 Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Freehold Boro is brought to you by Playa Bowls in the Freehold Raceway Mall 132 pounds (3) Jack Nies, Ocean Township defeats (1) Michael Conklin, Toms River East 6-4 Sudden Victory 138 pounds (4) Logan Waller, Colts Neck pins (3) Ryan Zimmerman, Long Branch 4:30 *Waller named Most Outstanding Wrestler* Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Long Branch is made possible by Rosario Realty 145 pounds (1) Max Brignola, Rumson-Fair Haven major decision vs. (6) Hunter Konstantoulas, Manalapan 19-7 Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Rumson-Fair Haven is brought to you by ACI Medical & Dental School. One of the top technical schools in NJ, Advantage Career Institute Medical & Dental School in Central New Jersey offers a variety of programs in the in-demand medical and dental industries. Visit ACI.edu to learn more! 152 pounds (1) Nick Boggiano, Toms River North major decision vs. (3) Mike McGhee, Shore Regional 10-0 160 pounds (1) Matt Benedetti, Manalapan defeats (3) Shay Addison, Rumson-Fair Haven 5-1 170 pounds (1) Shane Reitsma (Howell) major decision vs. (6) Hunter Smith, Jackson Memorial 11-3 182 pounds (3) Joe Colon, Brick Memorial defeats (1) Luke Rada, Colts Neck 9-6 195 pounds (1) Kyle Epperly, Jackson Memorial defeats (2) David Szuba, Brick Memorial 10-3 Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Jackson Memorial is made possible thanks to Louro Chiropractic Center 220 pounds (3) Vin Ceglie, Lacey defeats (1) Mike Nakano, Toms River North 6-5 285 pounds (1) Justin Wright, Howell defeats (2) John O’Donnell, Toms River North 3-2 106 pounds (2) Anthony Santaniello, Brick Memorial defeats (1) Evan Tallmadge, Brick Township 1-0
Highland Handles Hammonton in Tri-County Clash
Highland 56 Hammonton 13 The Tartans piled up the bonus points against the Blue Devils in a potential South Jersey Group 4 playoff preview. Tre Seamon, Eli Wilson, Krishon Davis, Matt Hoelke, Brett Buckingham and Jurius Clark all pinned for Highland. Jon Prendergast and Jaheim Armstrong both won by major decision for the Tartans as well. T.J. Ruggeri won by fall for the Blue Devils in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from this Tri-County Conference clash in Blackwood: Coverage of Highland is brought to you by Cooper University Health Care.
Watch Saturday 1.25 JSZ Wrestling Highlights
JSZ was on hand in Phillipsburg for a high-powered match-up between two of New Jersey’s top 20 wrestling programs. Southern 36 Phillipsburg 24 After falling to Toms River North, the Rams had to refocus for their much-anticipated match-up with Phillipsburg. In a dual that saw a 7-7 bout split, it was the bonus points that separated the Rams from the Stateliners. Southern won five of their matches by pin while Phillipsburg could only muster three major decisions. Robert Woodcock, Connor Collins, Eddie Hummel, Matt Brielmeier and Cole Velardi all won by pin for the Rams. James Day, Joe Innamorato, and Jared Kukor won by major for the Stateliners. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights from Phillipsburg: 160: Robert Woodcock (S) over Nate Zastowny (P) (F 4:45) 170: James Palitto (P) over Colin Boero (S) (D 6-0) 182: Jacob Wicks (P) over Stephen Jennings (S) (D 4-0) 195: David Pierson (P) over Ben Loparo (S) (D 3-2) 220: JT Cornelius (S) over Gage Horvath (P) (D 2-0) 285: Jayden Smith (S) over Cody Cruts (P) (D 8-2) 106: Connor Collins (S) over Sean Stasiulaitis (P) (F 2:51) 113: James Day (P) over Pat Iacoves (S) (MD 15-5) 120: Logan Mazcko (P) over Nick Bennet (S) (D 4-2) 126: Joe Innamorato (P) over Jayson Scerbo (S) (MD 11-2) 132: Eddie Hummel (S) over Jason Tino (P) (F 5:35) 138: Matt Brielmeier (S) over Hunter Cleaver (P) (F 1:30) 145: Jared Kukor (P) over Geoffrey Solis (S) (MD 14-4) 152: Cole Velardi (S) over Matt Donofrio (P) (F 1:54)
Williamstown Tops Washington Township on Senior Night
Williamstown 40 Washington Twp. 22 The Braves celebrated Senior Night in style by snapping the Minutemen’s eight match winning streak. After dropping the first bout of the night at 113, Williamstown reeled off four straight victories, including a pin by Michael Davidson at 126, to jump out to a lead that they would not relinquish. Matt Curran and Thomas Sherlock also pick up pins for the Braves. Nick Flamma and Dominic Petracci score pins for the Minutemen in the loss. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from Williamstown: Coverage of Washington Township is brought to you by Cooper University Health Care.
Watch Wednesday 1.22 Wrestling Highlights
JSZ was mat side for two high profile matchups in North and Central Jersey as Bergen Catholic took on St. Joe’s (Mont.) in an anticipated matchup while Brick Memorial traveled to Toms River North for a divisional showdown. Check back tonight for the coverage! Bergen Catholic 36 St. Joe’s (Mont.) 29 One of the most anticipated showdowns in the Big North did not disappoints. Despite trailing at the turn of the lineup, Bergen Catholic rolled to show why they’re the top team in New Jersey and among the very best in America. The Crusaders dominated from 106 pounds to 126 pounds, where they scored three pins and a huge decision win. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Oradell: Match Results 138: Michael Cetta (SJR) over William Grater (MD 9-1) 145: Joseph Zargo (BC) over Michael Dellagatta (Dec 11-5) 152: Alex Strashinsky (BC) over Stefano Sgambellone (Dec 5-4) 160: Nate Camiscioli (BC) over Roberto Padilla (Dec 6-2) 170: AJ Fricchione (SJR) over Justin Onello (Fall 5:59) 182: Jack Farinaro (SJR) over (BC) (For.) 195: John Fiore (BC) over Ja’Naz Williams (Fall 3:59) 220: Michael Toranzo (SJR) over Remy Brancato (Dec 3-1) 285: Jim Mullen (SJR) over Esquire Boyce (Fall 1:15) 106: Aidan Wallace (BC) over Josh Iannone (Fall 2:56) 113: Joseph Cangro (BC) over Joe Manno (Fall 3:59) 120: Nick Kayal (BC) over Mateo Sgambellone (Fall 2:42) 126: Robert Howard (BC) over Alex Almeyda (Dec 7-2) 132: Justin Bierdumpfel (SJR) over Eric Broadie (MD 10-1) Jersey Sports Zone’s continued coverage of all Bergen Catholic and St. Joe’s athletics throughout the 2019-2020 scholastic year is proudly brought to you by Rothman Orthopaedics. Toms River North 45 Brick Memorial 26 The Mariners captured their second straight A-South Divisional title with their win over the Mustangs. Toms River North earned bonus points in each of their eight victories. Mike Nakano and Nick Mancuso won by pin for the Mariners. Anthony Santaniello remained undefeated and won by major decision for the Mustangs while his brother Vincent Santaniello along with Joe Colon won by pin. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights from Toms River: Match Results 195: David Szuba (BM) over James Elias (TRN) (MD 13-4) 220: Mike Nakano (TRN) over Matt Murphy (BM) (F 1:08) 285: John O’Donnell (TRN) FF 106: Anthony Santaniello (BM) over Cole Anderson (TRN) (MD 16-2) 113: Ryan Rosenthal (TRN) FF 120: Vincent Santaniello (BM) over Alex Danelson (TRN) (F 5:32) 126: Michael Richardson (BM) over Jake Rosenthal (TRN) (D 6-0) 132: Michael Cate (BM) over Mark Fedeli (TRN) (D 7-6) 138: Oneil Forbes (TRN) over Victor DiPianta (BM) (MD 17-7) 145: Sergio Borda (TRN) over Nelson DeJesus (BM) (TF 4:20) 152: Nick Boggiano (TRN) FF 160: Matt Spalletta (TRN) FF 170: Joe Colon (BM) over Justin Burkert (TRN) (F :40) 182: Nick Mancuso (TRN) over Rueben Lizardi (BM) (F 1:26)
Watch Tuesday 1.21 JSZ Wrestling Highlights
JSZ hits the mats in the Shore Conference for a pair of big-time matchups — Howell vs. Long Branch and Southern vs. Middletown North. Stay tuned throughout the night for our coverage of all the action! Southern 49 Middletown North 18 Southern did not blink when lining up against a perfect 10-0 Middletown North team. The Rams, who have one of the most complete lineups in the entire state, won 10 out of 14 bouts to score a Shore Conference win over the Lions. Robert Woodcock and Cole Velardi scored two out of the five pins in this match. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Middletown: Sponsor Shoutout! Jersey Sports Zone is excited to have ACI Medical & Dental School join our team and present our Central Jersey Game Balls all year long in addition to allowing us to bring great highlights and features to Rumson-Fair Haven and Middletown North. One of the top technical schools in New Jersey, Advantage Career Institute Medical & Dental School in Central New Jersey offers a variety of programs in the in-demand medical and dental industries. Visit ACI.org to learn more! Match Results 285: JT Cornelius (SORE) over Nico Cerbo (Dec 5-2) 106: Conor Collins (SORE) over Colin Oden (Fall 1:37) 113: Tyler Klinsky (MINO) over Pat Iacoves (TF 23-8 3:53) 120: Fred Luchs (MINO) over Jayson Scerbo (SV-1 3-1) 126: Thomas O`Keefe (MINO) over Nick Bennet (TF 18-3 4:35) 132: Matt Brielmeier (SORE) over Jack Butler (Dec 4-0) 138: Nate Bischoff (SORE) over Rich Wall (Dec 6-2) 145: Eddie Hummel (SORE) over Grant Heller (TF 20-4 3:52) 152: Chris McCarthy (MINO) over Jason Sari (TF 15-0 3:36) 160: Cole Velardi (SORE) over Shaun Sullivan (Fall 1:03) 170: Robert Woodcock (SORE) over Eddie Farrell (Fall 2:24) 182: Ben LoParo (SORE) over Gabriel Lubrano Lavandera (TF 22-7 5:30) 195: Stephen Jennings (SORE) over Jack Lopez (Fall 5:09) 220: Gabe Murray (SORE) over Andrew Kanski (Fall 3:52) Howell 47 Long Branch 23 The Howell Rebels clinched at least a share of the A-North Divisional title with their win over the Green Wave. Howell was powered by 5 pins from Justin Wright, Ethan Liptzin, Colin Bradshaw, Nieko Malone, and Paul Jakub. Shane Rietsma won by technical fall for the Rebels while Ryan Zimmerman won by pin for Long Branch. With a win over Middletown South tomorrow, the Rebels will clinch an outright A-North title. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights from Howell: 170: Shane Rietsma (H) over Deiondre McCulers (LB) (TF 24-9 5:58) 182: Nick Cerulli (H) over Andrew Conklin (LB) (D 7-6) 195: Patrick O’Dwyer (LB) over Hunter Lino (H) (D 8-5) 220: Tracey Taylor (LB) over George Ibram (H) (MD 16-2) 285: Justin Wright (H) over Matthew Giudetti (LB) (F 4:36) 106: Ethan Liptzin (H) over Domenic Demarzo (LB) (F 1:20) 113: Colin Bradshaw (H) over Ignacio Guzman (LB) (F 1:53) 120: Kyle Nase (H) FF 126: Nieko Malone (H) over Logan Smith (LB) (F :27) 132: Joe Conlon (LB) over James McGee (H) (MD 12-2) 138: Isaiah Fenton (H) over Angel Bonnano (LB) (D 5-1) 145: Ryan Zimmerman (LB) over Nick Acque (H) (F 1:03) 152: Ryan Carvey (LB) over Edwin Brew (H) (Injury Def.) 160: Paul Jakub (H) over Jack Friedman (LB) (F 3:53)
Blair Back on Top With No. 1 Overall National Ranking
The annual Wyoming Seminary (PA) vs. Blair Academy match is always high stakes and the 2020 rendition was an instant classic. This battle of the nation’s Top Two teams went down to the wire as Blair secured a 31-24 win to become the new No. 1 overall-ranked high school team in the United States. The Bucs won four of their five last matches from 170 pounds to heavyweight to lock up the win before a raucous capacity crowd at Blair. Wyoming Seminary came into this match with the No. 1 overall team ranking after placing first at the Walsh Jesuit Ironman Tournament. Blair Academy, who was ranked at No. 2 overall, finished second in that same tournament. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the full highlights and post-game interviews: Match Results 106: Marc-Anthony McGowan (BLAC) over Brandon Cannon (WYSE) (Dec 8-5) 113: Brennen Cernus (WYSE) over Mason Stefanelli (BLAC) (Fall 5:18) 120: Ryan Miller (BLAC) over Gregor McNeil (WYSE) (MD 11-3) 126: Trevor Mastrogiovanni (BLAC) over Mark Botello (WYSE) (Fall 2:53) 132: Shane VanNess (BLAC) over Drew Munch (WYSE) (MD 19-5) 138: Beau Bartlett (WYSE) over Louis Colaiocco (BLAC) (Fall 2:33) 145: Lachlan McNeil (WYSE) over Lucas Chittum (BLAC) (Dec 6-3) 152: Connor Kievman (WYSE) over Lorenzo Norman (BLAC) (Dec 8-4) 160: Gabe Arnold (WYSE) over Travis Mastrogiovanni (BLAC) (TB-1 6-2) 170: Thomas Stewart (BLAC) over Andrew Donahue (WYSE) (Dec 5-4) 182: Rylan Rogers (BLAC) over Cole Rees (WYSE) (Dec 3-0) 195: Peyton Craft (BLAC) over Wolfgang Frable (WYSE) (TF 16-1 5:23) 220: Kolby Franklin (WYSE) over Noah Pettigrew (BLAC) (Dec 6-4) 285: Eijah Anthony (BLAC) over Nate Miler (WYSE) (Dec 5-0)
St. Peter’s Shocks St. Joe’s With Walk-Off Pin
St. Peter’s Prep 36 St. Joe’s (Mont.) 35 With the match on the line and needing six team points to win, St. Peter’s Prep 120-pounder Patrick Adams delivered a walk-off pin late in the third period to spark the Marauders’ come-from-behind victory over St. Joe’s (Mont.). The match started at 132 pounds. The Green Knights led 35-15 at the turn of the lineup before St. Peter’s Prep collected 21 consecutive points to score the win. St. Joe’s did not weigh any wrestlers in at 113 pounds and 126 pounds, effectively making the 120-pound bout the deciding factor. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights and post-game reaction from Jersey City: Match Results (Highlighted Bouts in Bold) 106: Angelo Pellicci (St. Peter’s Prep) d. Josh Iannone, 8-2. 113: Donovan Chavis (St. Peter’s Prep) won by forfeit. 120: Patrick Adams (St. Peter’s Prep) p. Joe Manno, 5:22 126: Sean Reindero (St. Peter’s Prep) won by forfeit. 132: Felix Lettini (St. Peter’s Prep) d. Mateo Sgambellone, 7-1. 138: Justin Bierdumpfel (St. Joseph (Mont.)) d. Michael Pestana, 17-0 (TF 3:20). 145: Michael Dellagatta (St. Joseph (Mont.)) d. Connor Cortese, 2-0. 152: Stefano Sgambellone (St. Joseph (Mont.)) d. Alejandro Leon, 4-2. 160: Roger Diaz (St. Peter’s Prep) p. Devin Stapleton, 3:39 170: AJ Fricchione (St. Joseph (Mont.)) p. Daniel Martinez, 2:22 182: Jack Farinaro (St. Joseph (Mont.)) p. Anthony Asante-Danso, 0:24 195: Eduardo Hernandez (St. Peter’s Prep) p. Benjamin Pichardo, 2:45 220: Michael Toranzo (St. Joseph (Mont.)) p. London Robinson, 0:26 285: Jimmy Mullen (St. Joseph (Mont.)) p. Evan Scribner, 1:13 Sponsor Shoutout! Thanks to Rothman Orthopaedics, Jersey Sports Zone was able to be at this heart-pounding match. They will be sponsoring all St. Joe’s (Mont.) athletics for the rest of the 2019-2020 scholastic season.
Woodstown Pins for the Win Against Delsea
Woodstown 36 Delsea 31 In a Tri-County Conference dual that came all the way down to the wire, the Wolverines won a thriller over the Crusaders. Woodstown trailed by one heading into the 132-pound match before Lucas Predergast secured a walk-off pin for the Woodies. Bonus points were the difference as Connor Batten, Jamason Taylor, Chris Gerrity, and Cameron Morgan all won by fall for Woodstown as well. Tim Spatola, Asa Walton and Justin Dougherty all pinned for Delsea in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Franklinville: Coverage of Delsea is made possible by NJM Insurance.