Courier News wrestling team previews
BERNARDS
Coach: David Brothers, 9th season
Last year: 6-15 overall, 1-4 (Skyland Valley, 5th)
Key losses: Ben Blaustein (17-12 at 126).
Outlook: Brothers is confident with a strong youth group coming, and several outstanding leaders on the current team, things are looking brighter. Junior Sebastian Sanchez, coming off a great football season, will wrestle at 182 or 195. Senior Carter Gilpin hasn't wrestled since his youth league days, but returns and will be at 285. Freshman 152-pounder Mattias Lopez is showing a lot of promise and could be the Mountaineers' leader in the future.
BOUND BROOK
Coach: Shaun Cleary, third season (42-9)
Last year: 19-6 overall, 5-0 Skyland Valley Division (1st). Group I, District 18, Somerset County champions
Key losses: Nick Limenza (1st Somerset County, 1st district, 1st region, top 12 in NJ, 31-10 at 106); Craig De La Cruz (1st Somerset County, 1st district, 2nd region, state champ, 38-2 at 126); Ryan Doerr (2nd Somerset County, 2nd district, 3rd region, 27-12 at 170); Isaiah Soto (1st district, 1st region, top 12 in NJ, 21-7 at 182); Ronald Picado (1st Somerset County, 1st district, 2nd region, 31-9 at 220); Stephen Johnson (1st Somerset County, 1st district, 1st region, 4th in NJ, 24-3 at 285).
Probable lineup: 106 – Joe Casey (Fr.); 113 – Anthony Lopez (So. 15-21 at 106/113); 120 – Tyler McIntosh (So.) 126 – Garret Beam (Fr.); 132 – Nick Accetta (Sr., 1st Somerset County, 1st district, 2nd region, 25-14 at 138); 138 – Mekhi Lewis (So., 3rd Somerset County, 1st district, 1st region, 7th in NJ, 36-8 at 132); 145 – Stephan Glasgow (So., 1st Somerset County, 1st district, 19-2 at 120); 152 – Sean Glasgow (Sr., 1st district, 2nd region, top 12 in NJ, 9-3 at 145); 160 – Andrew Gombas (Sr., 1st Somerset County, 1st district, 5th/6th region, 21-10 at 152) or George Walton (So.); 170 – Josh Ugalde (Sr., 1st Somerset County, 1st district, 2nd region, 2nd in NJ, 35-3 at 160); 182 – Aaron Saavedra (Sr., 3rd Somerset County, 3rd district, 3rd region, 23-13 at 195); 195 – Abraham Saavedra (Jr., 5/6th region 2013, 8-6 at 182); 220 – Ryan Galdamez (So., 8-9 at 220); 285 – Stephen Wisniewski (Fr.).
Outlook: The Crusaders have a healthy balance of experience with five state qualifiers including two state place winners in Ugalde :(2nd): and Lewis (7th) and a group of talented underclassmen with a great work ethic who will make an immediate impact.
BRIDGEWATER-RARITAN
Coach: Greg Evans, 17th season
Last year: 13-7 co-champions Skyland Conference Delaware Division, 1st tie with Watchung Hills and Hunterdon Central
Key losses: Gianni Calo (1st Region V, 2nd D18, 2nd Somerset County, 33-7 at 120); Jaleen Harrington (4th District 18, Somerset County, 21-6 at 285).
Probable lineup: 113 - Brock Gandarillas (So.); 120 - Casey Hnasko; Mike Jannone (Sr.); 126 - Michael Brodsky (Jr.), EJ Mathewson, 132 - Kyle Adams (Jr., 3rd D18, 3rd 4th Somerset County, 28-9 at 132); 138 - Nick Fulton (3nd D18, 3rd Somerset County, 20-13 at 125), 145 - Tyler Bernero (Sr.), 160 - Van Miller (So., 2nd D18, Somerset County, 25-10 at 152); 170 - Kyle Murphy (Jr., 4th Region V, 2nd D18, 2nd Somerset County, 30-7 at 160); 182 - Devin Pietz (Jr. 19-12 at 170)' 195 - Jacob Raboy (So., 11-13 at 195) or Allen Choy; 220-285: Juan Marin or Kenny Valencia.
Outlook: The Panthers have a very good group of who were several tough losses away from winning individual titles. Murphy and Miller among them. Murphy lost to Bound Brook's state runner-up Joshua Ugalde in overtime in the county final, and fell 3-2 to North Hunterdon's Mike Sicola in the region consolation final. Pietz and Raboy showed much promise in the upper weights. Adams and Fulton also weren't far away from Atlantic City last season. The team had a good off season, attending camps and tournaments. So the Panthers should be a solid.
DELAWARE VALLEY
Coach: Andy Fitz, 9th season
Last year: 21-7
Key losses: Marek Tomanek (3rd D17, 34-6 at 285); Cody Leh (18-13 at 138); Nour Mays (3rd D17, 26-10 at 160), Kody Eichlin (1st D17, 33-3 at 182,), Tyler Smith (17-15 at 120).
Possible lineup: 106-Dylan Uderman (Fr.) 106-CJ Heaps (Fr.) 113-Jake Moore (Jr.) 120-Kyle Refalvy (Jr., 3rd D17 at 106) 120/126-Vito Intili (Jr.) 126-Matt Kolonia (So., 2nd D17 at 113) 132-Ryan Erwin (Sr., 16-9) 138-Connor Mills (So., 4th D17 at 126) 138/145-Rhys Zigich (So.) 145-Tanner McLaughlin (So.) 152-Chase Bauberger (So.) 160-Cory Lightner (Sr., 3rd D17 at 152) 170-Matt Meehan (Jr.) 182-Kyle Schlittler (Jr., 4th D17 at 170) 195-Brock Houser (Sr.) 220-Zach LaDuca (Jr.) Hvy-Matt Powell (Sr.).
Outlook: Numbers are good and the competition for spots is hot in the room. Lightner (23-12) and Schittler (23-10) -- Region V qualifiers - will be the leaders of the upper weights. Kolonia finished 25-12, beaten 3-2 in the district final by Voorhees' Kyle DiNapoli, at District 17. The Terriers might be young, but very likely to continue a strong run of dual meet seasons and a good chance of having another good run in Central Group II.
FRANKLIN
Coach: Dan DiColo, 1st season
Last Year: (7-17) Skyland Conference Record (0-5)
Key Losses: Ralph Normandia (2nd NJSIAA state tournament, Region V, D18, Somerset County, 41-4 at 195); Mike Fagg-Daves (5th state, 1st Region V, D18, Somerset County, 38-4 at 170); Mike Okolo (2nd D18, Somerset County, 26-4 at 220), Jaelin Harvin (2nd D18, 3rd Somerset County 24-5 at 285)
Probable lineup: 106-Massimo Miello (So.), 113-Chase Smith (So.), 120-Tristen Salvagno (Jr.), 126-Devan Sirota (So.), 132-Hunter Black (Fr.); 138-Alec Balestrieri, (So., 10-21 at 132); 145-Ryan Salvagno (So.), 152-Dylan Hoagland (Jr.); 160-Alexis Bodre (Sr., 7-20 at 160); 170-Josh Mack (Jr., 5-26 at 152), 182-Abdul Kanu (Sr.); 195-Abu Kossay (So.); 220-Norman Montenegro (So.); Kewon Orders (Jr.), 285-Bryan Carvajal.
Outlook: Only three seniors and six returning athletes who wrestled varsity last season will make this a rebuilding season for the Warriors. Dan DiColo, who assisted former coach Rick Krieger, takes over with the objective of developing a program.
GOVERNOR LIVINGSTON
Coach: Rick Ortega 2nd season (38-43)
Last Year: 16-10
Key Losses: Joe Colder (3rd D12, 28-10 at 120) Ryan Hoy 27-9 (2nd D12 at 138) Micheal Matarredona (20-16 at 195)
Probable lineup: 106- Jake Pecorelli (Jr.) 113- Nic Mele ( Jr. 18-19, 3rd D12 at 106), 120- Chris Sergio (Sr. 23-16, 3rd D12 at 113), 126 - Andrew Galitelli ( Jr. 3-4 at 120) 132- Austin Senkarick (Jr. 25-12, 4th D12 at 126); 138- Quinn Haddad (Fr.) 145- Nick Deluca (Jr.) 152- Turner Haddad (So. 22-17 3rd D12 at 138), 160- Michael Rhodes (Sr. 11-18 at 152), 170- Sam Burke (Sr. 5-14 at 160) or Jack Blasch (Jr.) 182- Sam Burke (Sr. 5-14 at 160) or Jack Blasch (Jr.) 195- Matt Rothfeld (Jr.) 220- Spencer Marke ( Sr. 13-12) 285- Sean Tomlinson (Sr. 26-6 at 285)
Outlook: The Highlanders had a productive season in Ortega's first year, but they want to do more. They were third at the Matawan Ice Breaker, won the Mountain Lakes Tournament anbd were third at District 12. The Highlanders have talent, would like to see quick contributions from some promising newcomers and leadership from the seniors.
HILLSBOROUGH
Coach: Steve Molinaro, 25th season
Last year: 15-11
HUNTERDON CENTRAL
Coach: Jon Cantagallo-Rohm, 1st year
Last year: 19-7, tied with Bridgewater-Raritan and Watchung Hills for Skyland Conference Delaware title, District 17 champions
Key losses: Gary Dinmore (2nd in state, 1st Region V, D7, 39-3 at 152); Collin Boylan (3rd Region V, 1st D17, 42-6 at 145); Dylan Nace (5th in state, 2nd Region V, 1st D17, 43-4 at 132).
Possible lineup: 106-Hunter Graf (Fr.) 106/113-Bryce Hall (So.) 113-Peter Nace (So., 1st D17, 30-9 at 106). 132-Chris Taylor (So.) 132/138-Kyler Rodriguez (Sr., 18-13 at 120); 138-145-Nick Taylor (Sr., 4trh D17, 17-17 at 138), Kevin Ciresa (Fr.). 145-Hunter Orr (Sr.) 145-Gabino Careaga (Jr.) 145/152-Christian Long (Jr.0 152/160-Sean Delgauer (Sr.) 160/170-Joe Scerbo (Sr., 3rd D17, 31-11 at 170); 170-182-Mike Iodice (Sr.); 170-Brian Bausback (Sr.) 182-195-David Furnato (Sr.), Nestor Crespo (Sr., 3rd D17, 25-12 at 182), Nick Suk (Sr., 1st D17, 26-10 at 195); 220-285-Eric Navarro (Sr.), Andres Navarro (So.), Leo Aquino (Sr.)
Outlook: Nace, Scerbo, Crespo and Suk give the team a good foundation with veterans like Rodriguez and Nick Taylor. Key to dual meet success will be how quickly newcomers in the upper and middle weights perform. Graf and Ciresa are two promising freshmen.
MANVILLE
Coach: Pat Gorbatuk, 8th season (76-90)
Last year: 13-9, Skyland Valley Division (3rd, 3-2).
Key losses: Jack Kuhlman (12-19 at 132); Brandon Hamblin (19-15 at 160).
Probable lineup: 106- Jonathan Ahorrio (So., 3-5 at 106); 113- Brian Kuhlman (Jr., 3rd Region V, 3rd D18, 2nd Somerset County, 34-7 at 106); 120- Bobby Demeter (Jr., 23-11 at 113); 126- Shane Demeter (Fr.)'; 132- Kevin Murillo (Sr., 23-6, 4th SCT, 4th Districts at 120); 138- Milton Teixeira (Sr., 25-6 at 126); 145- TJ Caswell (So., 23-12 at 138); 152- Giorgi Gvaramdze (Jr., 0-1 at 152), Cesar Herrarte (So.); 160- Jeremy Nurnberger (Jr., 24-13, 4th SCT, 4th Districts at 145); 170- Albert Rager (Jr., 3-15 at 160) ; 182- Matt Rogalski (Fr.); 195- Kyle Puza (Sr., 9-14 at 182); 220- Josh Vargas (Jr., 15-16 at 220); 285 - Michael Tyle (Fr.)
Outlook: The Mustangs had a season to build on, winning a first-round Central Group I playoff match and getting a state tournament qualifier in Kuhlman. Gorbatuk said that though the numbers are thin at 19, they will be able to cover all 14 weights at time with a strong freshman class joining 10 returning varsity letter winners. Manville won't be forfeiting as many weights like it has in the past, making them an even better dual meet team.
MIDDLESEX
Coach: Patrick Appello, 7th season (74-76).
Last Year: 16-11 overall, 7-0 Blue Division.
Key Losses: Ryan Paff (2nd GMC, 28-6 at 138); Brandon Bollin (26-13, 5th GMC, 3rd district at 170); Joel Feliciano (14-11 at 113).
Probable lineup: 113 - Tom Dinger (So., 16-16, 4th district at 106); 120 - Charles Zaccardi (So., 8-6 at 106); 126 - Elizbar Papalashvili (Sr., 3-3 at 126) or Carlos Lopez (So.); 132 - Bob Dinger (So., 30-10, 2nd district, 3rd GMC at 126); 138 - Chris Dessino (So., 19-13, 4th district at 120); 145 - Bryan Velasquez (Fr.) or Connor McCrimmon (Fr.); 160 - Jefferson Galeano (Sr.) or Nodari Bedianashvili (Fr.); 170 - Samaad Rawlins (Sr.); 182 - Kevin Ambicki (Jr., 26-10, 4th district, 5th GMC at 182); 195 - Matt Hode (Sr., 24-9, 5th GMC at 195); 220 - Jack Sweeney (Jr., 23-10, 4th district at 220).
Outlook: The defending division champions need to fill vacancies at 106, 152 and 285. A promising group of freshmen complements a nice corps of returning letterwinners. The Blue Jays hope to defend their division crown and qualify for the NJSIAA team tournament.
MONTGOMERY
Coach: Kurt Franey, 4th season (27-43).
Last year: 4-20
Key losses: Anthony Cassar (1st state, 1st Region V, 1st D18, 1st Somerset County, 1st Somerset County, 45-0 at 197); Marty Farricker (4th District 18, 3rd Somerset County, 26-10 at 170)
Probable lineup: 106 – Matthew Lisanti (Fr.); 113 – Jacob Frisch (Jr., 3rd D18, 17-19 at 113); ; 120 – Terence Rohmeyer (Jr., 4th D18 25-11 at 106); 126 – August Rohmeyer (Jr., 3rd in D18, 17-14 at 120); 132 – Zachary Casasar (So.) or Trey Quinlan (So.); 138 – Kyle Marrapodi (So., 9-18 at 126); 145 – Shady Saad (Jr.) or Aidan Dwyer (Jr.); 152 – Josh Isaacs (Sr., 9-21 at 138); 160 – Chris Dameo (Sr.) 170 – Jake Bobal (Sr., 15-9 as So.., at 138); 182 – Alex Doty (Sr., 20-15 at 170); 195 – Anthony Sims (Jr.); 220 - Nico Ipeker (So., 5-20 at 220); 285 - Dylan D'Amore (So.)
Outlook: The mix of a more experienced lineup and manageable conference schedule courtesy of the Skyland Conference realignment bring better dual meet results. Region 5 qualifiers August Rohmeyer (126) and Jacob Frisch (113) look to build on their success last season. Senior Alex Doty (182) looks to improve on his 4th place district finish of a year ago. Jake Bobal (170), who missed last season with a knee injury suffered in football, returns.. Newcomers, Anthony Sims (195) and Dylan D'Amore (285) are welcome additions to the upper weights for the Cougars.
NEW PROVIDENCE
Coach: Gary Bremer, 30th season
Last year: 8-10
Key losses: Joe Joe Cirrocca (25-9) Stephen Bremer (22-12)
Possible lineup: 106 – Owen Smith (Fr.); 113 – Tommy Jankowski (Fr.); 120 – Carmen Boccellari (Sr., 2nd D12, 27-6), Peter Manuella (Jr.); 126 – Zander Fellezola (Jr.), Michael Bottazzi (So.); 132 – Peter Byrnes (Sr.), Michael DeMeo (Fr.); 138 – Tyler Gazaway (Jr., 1st D12, 2nd Region 3, 2-2 at states, 31-7), Bhargav Kharnham (So.), 145 – Chris Reynolds (So.), Chad Burton (Fr.), Joe Crisafi (Fr.); 152 – Daniel Kourakos (Sr., 2nd D12, 28-6) Doug Chacon (So.), Dante Tripicchio (So.); 160 – Connor Morang (So.), Jake Pickton (Jr.); 170 – Philip Johnson (So.) and Andrew Joahim (So.); 182 – Klaudio Bardhoku (Jr.), Brittany Bremer (Jr.); 195 – Jeremy Cabildo (Sr.); 220 – Patrick Morris (Sr, 17-10); 285 – Liam Morris (Sr.);
NORTH HUNTERDON
Coach: Tim Flynn, 7th season
Last year: 18-3
Key losses: Mike Ciavarro (6th state, 2nd Region V, 2nd District 17, 35-9 at 152); Eric Martin (3rd D17, 25-9 at 132); Joe Guzzo (2nd Region 5, 1st D-17, 33-7 at 170)
Possible lineup: 106-113-Paul Robinson (Sr.) 113/120-Andrew Gappas (Fr.), Will Hughes (Fr.) 120-126-Luke Approvato (Sr., 3rd D17, 18-15) 126-Thomas Attansao (Jr.) 126/132-Ryan Pomrinca (Sr., 3rd state, 1st Region V, 1st D17, 37-3 at 126), Matt Mohan (So., 2nd D17 11-7 at 120), Jack Carroll (So.), Tucker Kirchberger (Fr.) 132-Cole Marra (So.). 138/145-Mike Bednar (Sr.), Myles Mohan (Sr); 145/152-Derek Ciavarro (Jr. 3rd D17, 20-13 at 138) 152-160-Brian Smolinski (Jr, 24-8 at 145) 160-170-Mike Sicola (Sr., 3rd Region V, 3rd D17 at 160); 170/182-Wyatt Vrancken (Jr.) 182-Connor Farina (Sr.)182/195-Tyler Gapas (Jr.), Gregg Luberto (Sr.) 195/220-Will Woody (Jr.) 220-John Williams (Jr.) Hvy-Charlie Tordik (So.)
Outlook: The Lions look like the top team in Hunterdon County. They will be led by two-time state tournament place winner and Lehigh University-bound Pomrinca, who is closing in on the North career win record. He beat two-time state champ Craig De La Cruz for the Region V title. He's got a 115-12 career record.
NORTH PLAINFIELD
Coach: Jim Miller, 18th season
Last year: 7-14
Possible lineup: 195-220: J.T. Valley (Sr., 33-6 at 195), 285- Charles Thomas (Sr., 21-8 at 285)
PINGRY
Coach: Marc Faccianni, 12th season
Last year: 5-12 overall, 0-5 (Skyland Valley, 6th)
Key losses: Mitch Suzuki (170), Brandon Preziosi (138/145), Adedire Fakorede (285), Charlie Duryee (113), Michael Slibert (182)
Probable lineup:: 113-Aidan Dillion (Fr), 120 - Bao Pham (Fr.) and Thomas Tarantino (So); 126 - Paul Guagliardo (Jr); 132: Michael James (Jr_); 138-Hunter Conti (Sr); 145 - Frankie Dillon (So) and Kyle Boylan (Sr); 152 - Frankie Dillon (So) and Kyle Boylan (Sr); 170- Ryan Boylan (So) and Stephen Hricko (So); 182 - Brian Miller (Jr.); 195 - Jake Robinson (Jr); 220 - Ryan Salamon (Sr); 285 - Kevin Chow (SR.)
PISCATAWAY
Coach: Bill Pavlak, 3rd season (16-24).
Last Year: 9-10 overall, 2-4 Red Division.
Key Losses: Alan Cruz (2nd district, 24-9 at 220); Jorge Diaz (17-14 at 170); Corey Neiper (12-7 at 160); Matt Oliva (2nd district, 23-13 at 195); Javiair White (1st district, 3rd region, 37-5 at 152).
Probable lineup: 106 - Robert McEvoy (So.); 113 - Erick Valentin (Fr.); 132 - Arcelio Aponte (Sr., 3rd district, 12-17 at 126); 145 - Mike Yeboh (Sr.); 152- Jordan Cooke (Jr., 3rd district, 20-14 at 145); 160 - Michael Petite (Fr.); 170 - Elijah Pitt Goodson (Fr.); Nick Zamdomenego (Jr.); 182 - Sam Rogers (So.); 195-Eti-ini Udott (Sr., 1st district, 4th region 34-5 at 182); 285 - Kyle Mitchell (Fr.).
Outlook: The Chiefs graduated more than 100 individual wins and will be filling many of those weights with first-year varsity starters. Aponte, Cooke and Udott form a solid stretch beginning at 182 pounds. Starters the past three seasons, they will provide leadership for the young Chiefs. McEvoy and Gomero are the only other returning starters at Piscataway. They will be hoping for some immediate help from the 14 freshmen vying for a varsity position.
PLAINFIELD
Head Coach: Will Dodd, 1st season
Last Year: 5-20
Key Losses: Derrick Washington, Kyle Brookens, Diego Rivera
Probable lineup: 106 - Zeih'er Cagle (So.); 113 - Kevin Jagmohan (So.); 120 - Luis Sevilla (Fr.) or Terrell Germany (So.); 126 - Michael Dejesus (Jr.); 132: - William Ramirez (Jr.); 138 - Steven Sanchez (Jr.); 145 - Michael Dias (Jr.); 152 - Neojoe Lughas (Sr.); 160 - Darrius Phillips (So.)/ or Dante Durant (So.); 170 - Anthony Nunez (So.); 182: Rohan Phillip (Sr.) or Eli Edwards (Sr.); 195: Abdus Slater (Sr.) or Kevin Muz (Sr.); 220: Edenilson Ramirez (Sr.) or Nathan Thomas (Jr.); 285 - Antwan Wilson (Sr.)
Outlook: Will Dodd replaces longtime coach Greg Powell, who helped the Cardinals send five wrestlers to the Region 3 tournament last seaosn. Dodd will be assisted by Anton Atterbury. Seniors Neojoe Lughas and Rohan Phillip will be the Cardinal leaders.
RIDGE
Coach: Steve Hendershot, 7th season
Last year: 15-6
Key losses: Vincent Bommier, Nolan Barrett, Ted Caruso, Patrick Jin, Roberto Santiago, Josh Rand, Cort Hotz, Ryan Scherzer
Outlook: Returning Region 5 qualifiers Jack Fleishman, Billy Schmidt, and Austin Oliver are the leader and experience comes with returnrners Connor Scherzer, Victor Castagno, Mo Attie, and Tristan Conway. Newcomers Bo Flournoy, Luke Ganny, and Matt Auletti will get their first varsity experiences at 106, 195, and 285, respectively, and have looked solid in the first scrimmage of the year. Nolan Bianchi and Mike Lavy are two promising sophomores who will give the Red Devils depth in the middle and upper weights.
RUTGERS PREP
Coach: Mike Lamb, 13th season
Last year: 3-12 overall record
Key losses: Diego Miller (138)
Probable lineup: 120 - Yash Daftary, 132 - Michael Sanchez; 138 - Tino Ciatti (Sr.), 145 - Chris Emmet, 152 - Ben Forte, 160 - Brian Cooper, 170 -Ben Coons, 182 - Alex Masella, 195 - Ajeet Seenivasan (Sr.), 220 - Robert Rittenhouse, 285 - Christian Wurzberger (Sr.)
Outlook: Rutgers Prep squad marks its entry into the Skyland Conference this year, looking to improve on the progress made last season. This year's captains, Ajeet Seenivasan (195) and Tino Ciatti (138) are joined by 285-pounder Christian Wurzburger. They are also the team's only three seniors. Lamb hopes that these three and some promising youngsters can make an impact. The Argonauts compete in District 12, and hope to have some place winners.
SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD
Coach: T.J. Gavor, 4th season (55-22)
Last year: 17-11 Union County Conference Watchung Division (3rd).
Key losses: Mike Henderson (17-19 at 285), Dom Natale :(28-11 at 152), Matt Ridge (28-10 at 182) Dany VanBrunt (28-10 at 195)
Probable lineup: 106 - Justin Sidebottom, 113 Nadim Korkmaz/Owen Martin, 120 Jack Cannon/Jashmar Phillippe, 126 Jack Cannon/Jashmar Phillippe, 132 Tommy Cunningham/JT Beirne, 138 Tommy Cunningham/JT Beirne, 145 Brian Lapham, 152 Jeff Leiblich/Sam Wustefeld, 160 Julio Devia, 170 George Ramos, 182 Jalen Bryant, 195 Alex Mirabella, 220 Karl Williams, HWT Rashaad Perry
Outlook: The Raiders hope to be balanced with many veterans throughout the lineup. The big graduation losses hit took a bit the upper weights. The club had a great off-season and are hoping to win another sectional playoff berth.
SOMERVILLE
Coach: Chris Baldino and Rodney Van Ness, 1st season
Last year: 13-10
Key losses: Moumen Akel (25-10 at 138), Dominic Bierwisch (26-11 at 152) Tanner Clark, Travis Hartrum, John McIntyre
Possible lineup 106 - Brock Laggini (Fr.), 113 - Tyler Leeds, (So); 120 - Frank Gesualdo, 126 - Evan Drill (Jr., 2nd Region V, 1st D17, Somerset County, 34-4 at 113); 132 - Luke Prothero (Sr, 14-18 at 126.); 138 - Kevin Minnette (Sr),;' 145 --Carlos Lopez, 152 - Derek Ammerlann (Fr), 160 - Isiah Pendelton (So) and Steve Fallas (So.) and Brayan Jimenez (Fr.), 170 - Alex Bruskin (Sr); 182 - Kyle Diamond (Jr.); 195 --Jairo Tafur, 220 - Hamza Akel, 285 - Christian Wahba
SOUTH PLAINFIELD
Coach: Kevin McCann, 13th season (251-32).
Last year: 22-6 overall, 6-0 Red Division.
Key losses: Lucio Avelar (4th GMC, 1st district, 21-16 at 220); Luigi Gerardi (4th GMC, 2nd district, 24-14 at 195); Ray Jazikoff (1st GMC, 1st district, 2nd region, 35-5 at 145); Collin Lynch (2nd GMC, 1st district, 20-11 at 182); Scott Quiroga (2nd GMC, 1st district, 5th/6th region, 23-8 at 170); Inan Sikel (2nd GMC, 1st district, 2nd region, 35-5 at 152).
Probable lineup: 106 - Joe Heilmann (Fr.); 113 - Jake Giordano (So., 3-1 at 106); 120 - Ryan DuHamel (Jr., 5th GMC, 1st district, 18-17 at 113), Jacob Painton (So., 4-1 at 113) or John Restrepo (Sr.); 126 - Ryan Walsh (Sr., 2nd GMC, 1st district, 3rd region, 30-10 at 120), Josh Stasenko (Jr., 3-0 at 113), Mike Marrero (Fr.), or Brad Guerrero (Fr.); 132 - Jeff Plungis (Jr., 2nd GMC, 2nd District, 21-12 at 106), Kyle Bythell (So., 4th district, 5-7 at 138), Constantino Statiroudis (So.) or Alejandro Garcia (Fr.); 138 - Dan Hedden (Jr., 2nd GMC, 2nd district, 3rd region, 34-9 at 126); 145 - Frank Ferraro (Sr., 14-17 at 132) or Nick Ruzika (Jr.); 152 - Ben Lundy (So., 5-1 at 132), Chris Maszczak (Jr., 5-0 at 120) or Javier Cruz (Sr.); 160 - Jordan Handwerger (Sr., 4th GMC, 2nd district, 5th/6th region, 29-10 at 160) or George Pittenger (Jr.); 170 - Tommy Dunn (Sr., 5-6 at 138) or Nick DiFrancesco (Jr.); 182 - Christian Gonzalez (Jr., 6-11 at 138) or Ryan Marston (So., 3-4 at 152); 195 - John O'Sullivan (Sr., 1-1 at 160), Dion Pender (Jr.) or Tyler Vronka (Fr.); 220 - Dakota Pauls (Sr., 4-4 at 220), Joe Bermudez (Sr.) or Julio Gonzalez (So., 2-0 at 195); 285 - Matt Szeman (Sr., 10-13 at 285).
Outlook: The Tigers return eight starters from a team that ended last season ranked No. 20 in the New Jersey Wrestling Coaches Association final poll. South Plainfield's tremendous tradition and feeder program will keep the Tigers in the mix for another state title. A challenging schedule will have South Plainfield battle-tested. The Tigers are looking to repeat as Red Division, GMC, and District 12 champions. South Plainfield is led by incumbent state qualifiers Dan Hedden and Ryan Walsh. The Tigers are looking for leadership from their seniors, Jordan Handwerger (captain),
VOORHEES
Coach: Eric Hall (fourth season)
Last year: 20-7
Key losses: Cody Ihling (1st D17, 31-7 at 120), Mike Muscatello (2nd D17, 24-7 at 138), Christian Okulicz (3rd D17 , 26-10 at 145), Jordan Juliano (2nd D17, 29-10 at 170), Merritt Francis (3rd D17 at 195)
Possible lineup: 106-Auti Hietoff (So.); 113-Liam Cutri-French (So.) 120-Harley Sacks (Sr., 2nd D17, 25-1 at 106); 126-Kyle DiNapoli (Jr, 3rd Region V, 1st D17, 34-7 at 113) 132-Garrett Birchenough (Jr.) 138-Jack Blunk (Sr.), Clayton Birchenough 145-Devan Thomas (Sr.,4th D17, 14-11) 152-Mike Fernandes (So.) 160-Thomas Riley (Sr., 10-9) 170-Sam Lamport (Sr.), Colton Curtis (So.) 182-Charlie Rodenberger (Jr., 4th D17) 195-Derek Howerth (Jr.) 220-Adam Murcock (So.) 285-Alex Fischetti (Sr., 2-1 at 285)
Outlook: Sacks and DiNapoli are the big guys down low. DiNapoli coul d make a long run. Alex Fischetti returns up at 285 after sufferinga season-ending knee injury. He had just three bouts, but was 29-10 as a sophomore. Sacks was 25-11 and second at districts. DiNapoli is a threat to go real far. Coach Hall has been high on Fernandes, who did very well on the summer circuit.
.WATCHUNG HILLS
Coach: Dan Smith, 20th season (242-144)
Last year: (16-8) overall , (5-1) Skyland division record, (Tri – Champs – (WH / Hunterdon Central / Bridgewater).
Key losses: Mike Magaldo (2nd state, 1st Region 3, 1st D12, 1st Somerset County, 38-2 at 132), Anthony Carbajal (36-8 at 285), Alex Pollera (27-9 at 126), Ernesto Anazco (17-19 at 195); David Mupo (12-11 at 132)
Probable lineup: 106 – Danny Miller (Fr.), 113 – May Meyers (Sr. 33-8 at 120 – Rob Saum (Fr.), 126 – Justin Hayward (Fr.), Nick DiRosa (Sr.), Jake Stasil (Fr.), 132 – Kevin Rojas (Sr.), Nadir Beyah (Jr.), Palmer Ferrara (Jr., 2-3 at 132), 138 – Palmer Ferrara (Jr), Darren Calleo (Jr), 145 – Stephen Tyls (Sr., 16-17 at 145); 152 – Alex Murray (Sr. 37-9 at 138); 160 – Wilson Urgilez (Sr., 9-11 at 160.); 170 – Mike Terpack (Sr., 25-14 at 182), 182 – Ben Gomes (Sr., 22-13 at 170);, 195 – Elvis Samoyoa (Jr.) or Joe Ross (Jr.), 220 – Calvan Davis (So), 285 – Mike Berecheiko (So), Brendan Huang (So.)
Outlook: The Warriors have lost plenty to graduation the past two year, but they shouldn't have to wait long for a turnaround. A solid class of 14 freshmen is a good way to start. The Warriors should be solid up to 195 and then will have limited experience from there. Seniors.Alex Murray and Max Meyers lead the team as returning state qualifiers. Seniors Ben Gomes and Mike Terpack return from 20+ win seasons as well as Wilson Urgilez, a region qualifier. Stephen Tyls is much improved from last season and will be tough for the Warriors. Top incoming frosh are Danny Miller 106, Rob Saum 120 and Justin Hayward and Jake Stasil at 126. Team has been working hard and will continue to improve as the season progresses.
WESTFIELD
Head coach: Glen Kurz, 18th season
Last year: 9-9
Key losses: Matt Barber (6th state tournament, 35-5 at 145), Nick Velez (5th state tournament, 33-5 at 152)
Possible lineup: 106 - Chris Hoerle (So., 12-16 at 106), 113 - Zach Rabinowitz (So., 2-1 at 113); 120-126 -John Fuller (Sr., 24-8 at 113); 132 - Nick Kalimtzis (Sr.,14-15 at 120); 138 - Ben Kwok (Jr., 1-1), Matt Jones (Fr.) and Danny Hoerle (Fr); 145 - Kevin Miller (Sr., 13-9 at 132) 152 - Jack Miller (So. 9-18 at 126); 160 - Jarek Gozdieski (Jr. 21-11 at 160); 170 - Devin Anderson (Jr., 5-19 at 170), 195 - Phil Ricca (So. 1-4 at 182); 220-285 - Cotter Spurlock (Sr., 12-7 at 220)
Outlook: Coach Glen Kurz is very happy with the team's attitude as they prepared for tomorrow night's dual meet opener with Union: "From a team perspective, this is just an awesome group of kids. Everyday they show up. They do what's asked of them as hard as they can. They like to be together. I don't know what our record is going to be, but I can tell you this group is going to be much better than they are right now,'' said the coach