Wrestling: Streaks, Vikes miss boat in rivalry match

The high school wrestling season kicks off in earnest this weekend with a myriad of tournaments -- most of which are well out of the tri-county area.

One can only wonder -- with quite a bit of amazement -- why Warren Hills and Voorhees are traveling all the way to South Jersey to wrestle what would have been a highly attractive dual meet in these parts. Saturday's match is part of what's become an annual quad with Clearview and Egg Harbor.

This event was held at Voorhees last season, so one can sort of overlook the fact that last year's match involving two storied local programs was buried in a quad. At least the local fans had an easy ride to go and watch it. And what a barnburner -- a 31-31 tie on the scoreboard, won by the Vikes on the eighth criteria (most first points scored).

This one will be missed by a large contingent that otherwise could have packed one of the local gyms. It's sad, and quite absurd, that this match -- which figures to be highly competitive -- will be contested some 140 miles and over 2 hours away and on one of only two Saturdays left before Christmas. It's the first time in 37 meetings that neither Voorhees or Warren Hills will host it.

Warren Hills coach Jarrett Hosbach contends that the South Jersey teams came up here last year and will travel to Washington next year. He also wants to wrestle a pair of Group 4 schools that would land his squad a ton of power points. I have zero problem with that aspect of it.

What I, and quite a few other fans and coaches I've talked to, do have a BIG problem with is the fact that this match is not a featured solo event on the schedule. Holding this one so far away -- on an opening day with really not much on the local side -- is a travesty for a sport that needs these kinds of matches to keep fans' interest. Schedule this one for a later date, if need be.

It really would have been great to see this wrestled on Saturday night, where almost all of the locals are competing out of town. We are losing too much of the traditional rivalries in sports -- football in the Hunterdon, Warren and Sussex areas has become a joke with schools playing far away teams and no one in the stands to watch. Instead of Warren Hills vs. Hunterdon Central or High Point vs. Lenape Valley, we are getting Warren Hills vs. Linden and High Point vs. Montville. Makes ZERO sense.

I mean, is anyone even paying attention to all of this?

Hopefully, this won't ever happen again in wrestling. It's just another reason why I detest all of these triangular and quad meets, which are absolutely killing wrestling. I've accepted these are now part of the sport, for travel reasons mainly, but I certainly can't buy it when two longtime rivals wrestle way out of town.

I like my local matches to be just that -- local.

Note: Voorhees leads the all-time series, 24-12, dating to 1976. Vikings have won three of the last four and five of seven. Warren Hills' last win was, 37-27, in 2010.

Here's this weekend's schedule (area teams only):

Friday

North Hunterdon and Phillipsburg at King of the Mountain Tournament

Saturday

North Hunterdon and Phillipsburg at King of the Mountain Tournament

Hackettstown, Kittatinny and Hunterdon Central at Caldwell Tournament

Belvidere and Sparta at Hopatcong Tournament

Newton at Mount Olive Tournament

Delaware Valley at Princeton's Garden State Classic

High Point at Christian Brothers Academy's Colt Classic

Lenape Valley and North Warren at Dover Tournament

Voorhees, Warren Hills and Clearview at Egg Harbor quad

Pope John and Vernon at Wallkill Valley tri-meet

Wrestling: New NJAC and Skyland alignments

As revealed here last spring, the conference divisional alignments for wrestling in both the Northwest Jersey Athletic and Skyland conferences have some new looks this season.

The major changes involve North Warren, which bolted the Skyland Conference for residence in the NJAC, and Phillipsburg in the Skyland.

The Patriots are now part of the NJAC Freedom Division, which also features Jefferson, formerly housed in the American Division.

P'burg, the reigning Delaware Division champion, shifts over to the Raritan Division, joining locals Delaware Valley, North Hunterdon, Voorhees and Warren Hills.

Here are the alignments in both conferences involving the area schools:

NJAC

Freedom Division

Hackettstown

Hopatcong

Jefferson

Kittatinny

Lenape Valley

Newton

North Warren

Wallkill Valley

American Division

High Point

Montville

Morris Hills

Morris Knolls

Mount Olive

Pope John

Sparta

Vernon

Skyland Conference

Delaware Division

Bridgewater-Raritan

Franklin

Hillsborough

Hunterdon Central

Ridge

Watchung Hills

Raritan Division

Delaware Valley

Montgomery

North Hunterdon

Phillipsburg

Somerville

Voorhees

Warren Hills

Valley Division

Belvidere

Bernards

Bound Brook

Manville

North Plainfield

Pingry

Wrestling: HWS matches to mark on the calendar

It won't be long now. Wrestling season in New Jersey is just days away.

With that in mind, let's take a quick look at what should be the biggest regular-season matches to watch in all all three counties. Listed by dates (earliest to latest).

Phillipsburg at North Hunterdon on Dec. 19 -- Good one early as the Stateliners look to establish themselves as the team to beat in the area, as well as the North 2, Group 4 section. North coaches Tim Flynn and Jason Hawk are former Stateliner standouts, so that always adds a little twist. Both teams will find out a lot about themselves early on. P'burg has questions up top where North is strong, but can the Lions hold their own down low and in the middle? 'Liners won both meetings last season (33-25 regular season and 34-21 in the sectional semifinals).

Kittatinny at Lenape Valley, Dec. 19 -- This very well could decide the winner of the NJAC Freedom Division title early on. Cougars are pretty solid up and down the lineup with state qualifiers Kieran Gerrity (170) and Jake Brook (182), along with region qualifiers Tom Murphy (138), Nick Romyns (145), David Popek (152-160), Garrett Armstrong (195) and Dylan Wunder (220). Patriots return super sophomores Peter Lipari (126) and Glenn Haines (132), along with tough senior Matt Benvenuto (138).

High Point, Timber Creek, Howell at Warren Hills, Dec. 22 -- Should be a fun day with some great action in Washington with this powerhouse quad. High Point is a favorite to win Group 2 honors this season, while Timber Creek and Warren Hills are two of the best teams in Group 3. Wildcats, according to sources, got everyone certified at their desired weights, while the Blue Streaks may not be settled in due to several wrestlers playing football until this past weekend. Some of the top wrestlers from Region 1 on display with HP sophomores Mike Derin (126-132) and Jason Gaccione (145), along with junior Kyle Stoll (195). WH features region finalists Max Nauta (113-120) and Joe Kratochvil (132). WH coach Jarrett Hosbach enters the season nine victories shy of 100 for his coaching career.

Hunterdon Central at Voorhees, Dec. 22 -- Good Hunterdon County showdown featuring two schools and programs that have had some great battles over the years. Vikings coach Eric Hall is making no bones about the fact that his team wants to do something it hasn't done since 1996, when his dad, Bob, was the coach -- sweep all three in-county meetings with Central, Delaware Valley and North Hunterdon. Voorhees enior Jadaen Bernstein (170) is one of the top wrestlers in the state, while Central features state runner-up Gary Dinmore (138). Vikes are also four wins shy of 500 as a program.

High Point at Kittatinny, Jan. 4 -- What a way to ring in the New Year, as these longtime county rivals renew their bitter feud. It's our version of the Hatfields vs. the McCoys. Cougars are still stinging from last year's 32-12 loss in Wantage. HP leads the series, 25-11-1, and enters the season riding a 51-match win streak against county opponents since a 39-18 loss to Kittatinny on Jan. 22, 2005. 'Cats coach John Gardner is 7-7 against the Cougars -- winning the last seven meetings. Legendary Cougars coach John Gill is 10-21-1 in the series. Neither school has won more than seven in a row since the series began in 1976.

Delaware Valley at Voorhees, Jan. 4 -- This has all the makings of another Hunterdon dandy. Terriers and coach Andy Fitz always have this one circled on the calendar and a win would do a lot for a team that has its share of questions and inexperience. Senior Mike Pongracz (126) is not among the questions as he's primed for a state title run this season. Potentially, this one could feature two state finalists as the Vikes' Jadaen Bernstein (170) looks to get back there after finishing second in his sophomore campaign.

Hunterdon Central at North Hunterdon, Jan. 4 -- Man, three big ones on the same night (see above). Couldn't we have spread these out? Nonetheless, this could be the match of the year in Hunterdon County, as the Red Devils look to avenge a pair of losses to the Lions last season -- 28-24 and 33-26. If Dinmore drops to 132, Central's lineup becomes a lot more formidable. North features some good young talent, most notably sophomore Ryan Pomrinca (seventh in the state at 113 last season).

Voorhees at North Hunterdon, Jan. 9 -- Always a fun time when these two sister schools tangle on the mat. Vikings prevailed, 38-26, last season so you know the Lions will be out for revenge. Just to clue you all in, there's a pretty intense rivalry between the coaches in this one as well. North is pretty tough up top and so is Voorhees, which presents some matchup problems.  

Warren Hills at Phillipsburg, Jan. 17 -- I hesitate calling this a rivalry since the Blue Streaks haven't beaten the 'Liners since 1990. And Warren Hills, which assumes the role of P'burg in its series with Easton, won't be favored this year. Regardless, this one always gets the passionate fans on both sides buzzing, despite the records. Warren Hills coach Jarrett Hosbach is a former P'burg wrestler, so you know he'd love to get a win in this series. It would also make him pretty popular in Washington.

North Hunterdon at Warren Hills, Jan. 23 -- We have three former P'burg wrestlers coaching in this one with North's Tim Flynn and Jason Hawk going against Warren Hills' Jarrett Hosbach. This longtime rivalry never materialized last season due to weather and skin disease. This one is in the middle of a tough stretch for the Blue Streaks with Del Val (Jan. 16) and P'burg (Jan. 17) preceding it.

Kittatinny at Phillipsburg, Jan. 31 -- Credit the Cougars for making sure this one's been on their schedule annually since 1994, the only Sussex school to do so. P'burg leads, 11-6, and has won the last two meetings and five of six. Kittatinny's last win was 41-34 at home in 2010, and the series is even, 5-5, since '03. This one is at The Pit, which has been a tough venue for coach John Gill's teams over the years -- even when they've been favored.

South Plainfield at Phillipsburg, Feb. 6 -- The regular season in these parts ends with a bang as these state powerhouses collide in the week before the sectionals -- thank you Lady GaGa, who has since cancelled her date in AC that first weekend in March. The Tigers, who will be ranked No. 1 in the state to start the season, are 0-2 against the Stateliners -- losing sectional finals matches at The Pit in 2004 (43-18) and 2009 (34-21). Get your tickets early for part III.

Wrestling: Sussex preview capsules

High Point Wildcats

Coach: John Gardner (248-69-2, 15th season).

2011-12 record: 16-6, 7-0 NJAC American Division and North 1, Group 2 champions.

Returning starters (11): Jr. Chris Auer (12-10) 126; Sr. Connor McHugh (10-6, D4) 126; So. Mike Derin (32-6, D1) 132; Sr. Collin Grimm (10-11, D2) 138; So. Jason Gaccione (26-6, D1) 145; Jr. Tommy Hooker (11-20, D4) 152; Jr. Antonio Porraspita (11-17) 170; Jr. Drew Bye (12-13, D4) 182; Jr. Kyle Stoll (28-7, D1, R3) 195; Jr. Gunther Wassong (15-11, D3) 220-285; Jr. Bobby McDonnell (10-6) 220-285.

Key losses: John Torppey (19-13, D2); Alec Alvino (20-13, D4); Benjamin Mendiburu (10-5, D2); Kevin Pettenger (19-12, D1); Chris Epperly (9-17, D4).

Key returnees: So. Dom Gallo (16-9) 113; Jr. Colby Brands 138; Jr. Brett Picher 138-145; Jr. Brien Alvino 145-152; Sr. Moses Yasin 160.

Promising newcomers: So. Trevor Risdon 106; So. Leo Haines 113; Fr. Jared Kobis 120; So. Ryan Cullen 132; Jr. Chris Campbell 285.

Outlook: Wildcats are still a force in the county and statewide after finishing with 16 wins a year ago, despite losing several of the program's greatest wrestlers, including four state champs in 2011. This year's group has balance up and down the lineup, with super talented sophomores Gallo, Derin and Gaccione, and junior Stoll anchoring a solid group of upper weights. McDonnell showed real promise last year before a season-ending injury. Expect this bunch to be the favorites for a Group 2 championship after last season's run to the semifinals.

Hopatcong Chiefs

Coach: Eric Fajerman (110-170-3, 13th season).

2011-12 record: 3-19, 1-4 NJAC Freedom Division (fifth).

Returning starters (7): So. Joe Aumann (9-11) 106; Sr. Joey Spaziani (21-11, D1) 120; Jr. Victor Cotto (9-17) 132; Sr. A.J. Bongiovanni (22-9, D4) 145; Jr. Tommy Donnelly 170; Jr. Troy Bongiovanni (13-18, D4) 182;  Sr. Victor Burgos (D4) 285.

Key losses: Joe Cruz (31-5, D1, R1); Aric Webster (11-19, D4).

Key returnees: So. Joey Ioffredo (8-7) 113; Sr. Eric Hughes 138.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Robert Guerra 126; Jr. Adam Kiely 152; Jr. Danny Cappiello 160; Jr. Randall Candelaria 195; Fr. Christian Burgos 220; So. Brian Franklin 220.

Outlook: Chiefs have struggled in recent years as far as dual meets are concerned. Lack of bodies has contributed to that, as Fajerman lost seven wrestlers for unnamed reasons who would have been back this season. Regardless, Spaziani and A.J. Bongiovanni are two of the top wrestlers in District 2, while Burgos is solid at 285. Wins will be tough to come by, but this team should have some individual success along the way.

Kittatinny Cougars

Coach: John Gill (465-146-5, 33rd season).

2011-12 record: 16-5, 5-0 NJAC Freedom Division champion, Group 1 runner-up.

Returning starters (11): Jr. Christian Silva (18-15, D4) 113; Jr. Kevin Jelinek (3-8) 126-132; So. Tom Murphy (21-17, D2) 138; Jr. Nick Romyns (27-10, D1, R4) 145; Sr. Dave Popek (22-15, D2) 152-160; So. Brandon Olsen (10-19) 152-160; Jr. Kieran Gerrity (31-10, D1, R3) 170; Jr. Garrett Armstrong (20-12, D3) 182-195; Sr. Jake Brook (25-14, D2, R3) 182-195; Jr. Dylan Wunder (27-9, D2) 195-220; Jr. Tom Smith (9-17) 285.

Key losses: James Elphick (18-3, D1, R3); Clarke Moynihan (37-4, D1, R1, S4); Jacob Drelich (22-12, D2).

Key returnees: Jr. Nick West (6-10, D2-2011) 120-126; Sr. Zac Zgola 132; Sr. Justin Sibblies 132; Sr. Rich "Connor" Zandarski 145-152.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Jake Van Wingerden 106; Fr. Adam Reffi 106; Fr. Nick Klinger 113-120; Fr. Austin Scrivani 126-132; Jr. Liam Hinks 285.

Outlook: Cougars nearly pulled off a shocker against Bound Brook in the Group 1 semifinals last year and are expected to challenge for state honors once again. Those teams will likely knock heads early at North Warren's Patriot Duals, so that will be a can't miss affair in Blairstown on Jan. 5. Murphy, Romyns, Gerrity, Brook and Wunder are all expected to make a run to Atlantic City at the end of the season, while Popek and Armstrong are solid contributors. Time will tell if this team is the best in Sussex. That will be determined when it hosts High Point on Jan. 4.

Lenape Valley Patriots

Coach: Doug Vetter (148-114-1, 12th season).

2011-12 record: 12-12, 4-1 NJAC Freedom Division (second).

Returning starters (9): So. Peter Lipari (30-4, D4) 126; So. Glenn Haines (33-7, D2, R2) 132; Sr. Matt Benvenuto (33-6, D1, R4) 138; Jr. Dominic LaBell (15-13) 145-152; So. Joe LaBell (16-18) 160; So. D.J. Barrett (15-18) 170; Sr. Kristian Barrett (16-11) 195; Sr. Dante James (13-16, D4) 220; Sr. Bobby Sperling (11-8, D3) 285.

Key losses: Chris Olivo (15-9, D3); Andrew LaBell (18-14, D2).

Key returnees: Jr. Alberto Montalva (6-13) 113; Sr. Michael Naranjo 145; Sr. Logan Merkey 152; Sr. Mike Chletsos 182; Sr. Billy Underwood 182; Sr. Rob Thomas 220.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Zach Merkey 106; Fr. Aaron Merkey 113; Fr. Aaron Arzon 120; Jr. Adam Chavarria 126; Fr. Dorian Hernandez 145; Fr. Dylon Frazier 152; Fr. Brayan Rodriguez 152; Fr. Sam Palumbo 160; Fr. Nick Seck 160; Fr. David Ottoson 170; Fr. Scott Prior 170; Fr. Ralph Hall 182.

Outlook: Patriots struggled a bit last season in the dual-meet portion, but a solid group of youngsters and proven seniors will look to change that this winter. Lipari and Haines had excellent freshman campaigns, while Benvenuto is among the top wrestlers in the county. A good group from the youth ranks should blend in nicely. Vetter has to love 11 freshmen on the roster. This is a team to watch and should be solid No. 2, along with Jefferson, behind Kittatinny in the division.

Newton Braves

Coach: Eric Bollette (153-111-1, 12th season).

2011-12 record: 6-21, 2-3 NJAC Freedom Division (fourth).

Returning starters (6): Sr. Jason VanDerGroef (6-11) 126-132; Jr. Michael Larsen (10-14) 126-132; Sr. Julio Maidana 152; Jr. Garrett Richards 170; Sr. Josh Sibblies (12-5) 182; So. Gus Protogeropoulos (6-17) 195.

Key losses: Ashley Iliff (13-9); Steven Churchill (35-2, D1); Logan Morales (17-14); Jake Connelly (41-2, D1, R1).

Key returnees: So. Trevor Morales (4-9) 106; So. Ryan Brigante 113; So. Robert Reese (3-7) 138; Jr. Jeremie Lerch 152; So. Benjamin Sibblies 160.

Promising newcomers: So. Eddie Medina 120; Sr. Bryan Velez 145; Fr. Brian Zakrzewski 145; Fr. Tyler Pittenger 195; Fr. Ethan Reczka 220; Sr. Brandon Alemany 285.

Outlook: This season sort of starts off where last year ended as talented junior Niko Grello (20-19, D3) is out for the season with a knee injury. Injuries decimated this team a year ago, as Josh Sibblies sustained another season-ending knee injury. When healthy, he's one of the top wrestlers in the area. This is a relatively green group, but this excellent coaching staff always gets the most out of its wrestlers. This year will most certainly be a challenge.

Pope John Lions

Coach: Bob Stewart (first season).

2011-12 record: 5-15, 2-5 NJAC American Division (T-fifth).

Returning starters (7): Jr. Austin Sisco (18-17, D3) 113; So. Liam Sax (3-15) 132; Jr. Billy Van Dyke (8-16) 145; Sr. Anthony Gignatelli (11-14) 152; So. Deriam Guridy (11-9, D3) 170; Sr. Steve Adrianzen (3-11) 182; Jr. Noa Merritt (15-15, D3) 285.

Key losses: C.J. Sarao (13-10, D3); James Bohn (13-10); Joe Emering (25-9, D1).

Key returnees: So. Dominic Koert (5-0) 106; Jr. Tyler Mastrogiovanni 132; Sr. Bruce Bott 145; So. Hunter Guzzo (2-11, D4) 160.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Caleb Lewie-Cepero 113-120; Jr. Zeke Lewie-Cepero (10-18, transfer from Vernon) 113-120; So. Nick Esposito 126; So. Anthony Azzaritti 132; Fr. Billy Koenig 138; So. Richard Peterson 160; Jr. Isaiah Bryant (1-7, D4, transfer from Jefferson) 220.

Outlook: Lions have a new coach in Stewart, who replaces Bill Koch, who was unceremoniously dismissed after going 43-63 in five seasons. But a key addition coaching-wise is assistant Mark Piotrowsky, a former standout at Jefferson when the Falcons were among the top teams in the nation. Sisco and Merritt are coming off solid seasons, while the additions of the Lewie-Cepero brothers (transfers from Vernon) and Koening (a Newton product) should help round out the lineup. Also on board is Bryant, who wrestled in the Region 1 Tournament when High Point's Gunny Wassong was unable to compete. Expect a few more wins this season in a tough county.

Sparta Spartans

Coach: Frank Battaglia (8-17, second season).

2011-12 record: 8-17, 0-7 NJAC American Division (eighth).

Returning starters (6): So. Sierra Blasone (8-20) 106; Sr. Jack Velella (18-16, D4) 120; So. Ian Burke (25-8, D3) 126; So. Walker Schmitzer (9-9) 138; Sr. Joe Whitney (2-16) 195-220; Sr. Carlos Goncalves (6-14) 285.

Key losses: Nick Johnson (13-9); Ben Muller (19-12); Alex Muller (20-13, D4).

Key returnees: Jr. Matt Schiumo; So. Connor Lore 160-170; Sr. Ryan May 182; So. Gavin Lally 195; Jr. Zach Kayal 220.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Andrew Legge 106; Fr. Grant Gerndt 106; Fr. Garrett Gerndt 106; So. John Uczkowski 138-145; Fr. Al Falco 160.

Outlook: Spartans enjoyed moderate success last season, both on the dual and individual levels. Burke is one of the top wrestlers in the county and enjoyed a fine rookie campaign. Velella also placed in the top four at District 3, as the team ended a two-year drought of zero wrestlers advancing on the first night. Battaglia likes the direction of a program that had struggled with low numbers. With about a dozen incoming freshmen, it appears things are looking up for a history-rich program. Wins in a rugged division will still be hard to come by.

Vernon Vikings

Coach: Bill Cooper (second stint).

2011-12 record: 11-14, 2-5 NJAC American Division (T-fifth).

Returning starters (6): So. Sultan Destani (10-18) 120; Sr. Sami Destani (4-10, D4) 132-145; Sr. Jake Levy (10-19) 145-152; Sr. Ryan Ward (22-10, D2) 152-160; Sr. Peter Granata; (4-20) 160-170; Jr. Jesse Cornwell (17-8) 195-220.

Key losses: Kevin Gocklin (24-7, D2); Tyler Walker (20-9); Zack Levy (22-11, D2); Dave Tlatelpa (25-5, D1) 220, Jon Gemeinhardt (29-4, D1).

Key returnees: Jr. Jerrian Arroyo 132-138; Jr. Pat Thompson 195-220.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Hugh Gardner 106; Fr. Mike Campos 113; Fr. Cole Nagle 120-126; Fr. Tim VanLenten 132-138; Sr. Anthony Torres 195-220; Jr. Bobby Chavez 220-285.

Outlook: Vikings took a major hit with the graduation of five 20-match winners from last season -- including four district finalists. But the good news is the return of Ward, a District 3 runner-up who should benefit from the presence of former Kittatinny standout Tyler Branham, now an assistant coach under Cooper. Cornwell gives the team a reliable body up top, but the lack of balance will hurt in the more competitive duals on the schedule.

Wallkill Valley Rangers

Coach: Adam Vazquez (1-23, second season).

2011-12 record: 1-23, 0-5 NJAC Freedom Division (sixth).

Returning starters (9): So. Sean Siek (15-16) 126; Sr. Joe Hocking (24-11, D3) 132; Sr. Steve Siek (12-19) 138; Sr. Jim Lodema (18-10, D3) 138; So. Patrick Endrikat (1-12) 152; Jr. Andrew Reed (7-16) 160; Jr. Tylar Creeden (1-13) 170; Jr. Nick James-McLean (14-14, D3) 182; Sr. Alex Reiman (4-10) 195.

Key returnees: So. Brandon Barnet (3-9) 126; Sr. Sean Carosella 152; Sr. Joe Figueroa (2-2) 285.

Promising newcomers: Fr. William Hurt 106; So. Dan Tomzick 220.

Outlook: Rangers struggled with numbers a year ago and that's expected to be the case once again. Hocking and Lodema are as good a 1-2 punch as any in the area, while the Siek brothers are capable of improving on their wins totals. James-McLean, a pleasant surprise last year, has yet to be cleared from a neck injury sustained in football. His return will be especially important for a team trying to find its way in a tough county.

Wrestling: Hunterdon-Warren preview capsules

Belvidere County Seaters

Coach: Dan McIntyre (14-10, second season).

2011-12 record: 14-10, 4-1 Skyland Conference Valley Division (second).

Returning starters (11): So. Matt Hambacher 120-126; Jr. Kenny Morgan 120-126; Sr. Aaron Castner (13-19, D4-2011) 132; Jr. Tyler Dombrosky (10-8) 138; Sr. Jesse Thorsen (22-7, D2-2011) 145; So. Kenny Kane (10-17) 152; So. Ryan Stephen 160; Sr. Tyler Toth 170; Sr. Evan Bray (34-5, D1, R1) 182; Sr. J.B. Lawson (35-8, D2, R3) 220; Sr. Ryan Appleby (31-8, D3) 285.

Key losses: Dylan Thorsen (37-4, D1, R2); Nathan Dow (33-6, D2, R4).

Key returnees: Sr. Zafer Deyer 126; So. Logan Ciraky 132; So. Rene Sousa 152.

Promising newcomers: So. James Smith 106; So. Ture Leahey 113; So. Javan Viola 113; Fr. Robert Panetta 126; Fr. Dylan Tice 132; Fr. Josh Pershpalaj 138; Sr. Keith Mason 138; Fr. Kevon Hartley 138; So. Brett Hoffmaster 145; Sr. Chris Caballero 145; Jr. Ben Pershpalaj 152; Sr. Dylan Zelus 152; Sr. Dave Brewer 152; So. David Harris 160; Sr. Reid McClanahan 170; Sr. Mike Farrell 195; So. Aidan Nelson 195.

Outlook: County Seaters lost their top two wrestlers and two of the best to ever wear a Belvidere singlet -- Dylan Thorsen and Dow -- but return plenty of varsity experience, including Region 1 champion Bray and district medal winners Lawson and Appleby. They make a formidable trio up top. The return of Jesse Thorsen, who has missed most of two seasons in his career with injuries, also is a bonus. The success of this team hinges on the contributions down below from the lighter weights. Expect this group to contend for a return trip to the North 2, Group 1 final.

Delaware Valley Terriers

Coach: Andy Fitz (88-28, sixth season).

2011-12 record: 14-4, 4-1 Skyland Conference Raritan Division champion (T-first).

Returning starters (9): Jr. Michael Adam (9-18) 120; Sr. Chris Marra (9-18) 120-126; Sr. Mike Pongracz (38-4, D2, R3, S5) 126; Sr. Matt Gilmore (23-10, D1, R4) 132; Sr. Alex Niemann (10-12, D4) 152, Jr. Kody Eichlin (20-8) 170; Jr. Luke Zehnbauer (20-10, D3) 170-182; Jr. Andrew Bloom 195-220; Jr. Brian Baehr (11-16) 220-285.

Key losses: Derek Zehnbauer (34-4, D1, R3); Will Van Doren (31-6, D1, R1, S8); Forrest Wooden (26-5, D1, R2).

Key returnees: So. Ryan Erwin 120-126; Jr. Austin McLaughlin (1-7) 138; Jr. Holden Baker (5-5) 145; Jr. Codey Leh 145; So. Cory Lightner 145-152; Jr. Nour Mays 160; Sr. Ryan Metz 182-195; Jr. Marek Tomanek 285.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Jake Moore 106; Fr. Vito Intili 106-113; Fr. Kyle Refalvy 106-113.

Outlook: Terriers always seem to be in the mix in Central Jersey, Group 2 and this year should be no exception. Pongracz, a two-time state medalist who is closing on the school and Hunterdon-Warren record for wins at 113-14, needs 30 to pass Dan Kelly (142) atop the list. He is coming off a big summer and will be in the hunt for a title in AC. Gilmore, Eichlin and Zehnbauer are solid wrestlers. The loss of Tomanek, who broke his wrist playing football and is expected to miss eight weeks, hurts from the onset. Fitz likens him to state qualifier Forrest Wooden. The lighter weights need to hold their own for this team to have a chance at winning the program's first sectional title since 2006.

Hackettstown Tigers

Coach: Frank Rodgers (167-149-4, 10th season of second stint, 17th overall).

2011-12 record: 5-15, 3-2 NJAC Freedom Division (third).

Returning starters (9): Jr. Tony Figueroy (11-16) 113-120; Jr. Matt Nicotra (4-13) 126; Jr. Khilian Bernard 126; Jr. Igor Bykov 132; Sr. Brandon Rothman (16-10) 138; Sr. Tyler Kozimor (27-13, D2, R1) 145-152; Sr. Eddie Dulio 152-160; Sr. Bruce Gurnowski 195; So. Theodore Gurnowski 220.

Key losses: Ismail Saleh (21-7).

Key returnees: Sr. Chris Steffan 132; Jr. Rafael Garcia 160.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Joe Renne 120; Fr. Anthony Carida 132; So. Ian Ballantyne 160-170; Sr. Chris Lynch 182; Sr. Miguel Garcia 220.

Outlook: Tigers are coming off a sub-par campaign after a tremendous run of talent came and went the previous few seasons. Consider the rebuilding phase still in the process as only Kozimor and Rothman are proven winners. Kozimor got on a roll late last season and won a loaded weight in Region 1. Baby steps for this group as a team as it hopes to take advantage of an off-year in the Freedom Division. Improving on last season's win total is a realistic goal.

Hunterdon Central Red Devils

Coach: Steve Gibble (311-111, 22nd season).

2011-12 record: 15-7, 3-3 Skyland Conference Delaware Division (fourth).

Returning starters (10): So. Kyler Rodriguez (12-17, D4) 106; Jr. Dylan Nace (31-5, D2) 126; Jr. Gary Dinmore (28-8, D1, R1, S2) 138; Sr. Tim Higginson (1-3) 145; Jr. Collin Boylan (16-13, D3) 145; So. Joe Scerbo (12-7) 152; Sr. Dylan Cote (11-16, D4) 152; Sr. Tyler Cote (23-10, D2) 160; Sr. David Fenton (25-12, D2) 170; So. Nestor Crespo (11-16) 182.

Key losses: Ryan Larkin (23-9, D2, R4); Tom Scerbo (22-13, D3); Hunter Greer (13-15, D3); Jason Auricchio (18-15, D3).

Key returnees: Jr. Matt Zampetti 113; So. Nick Taylor 120; Jr. Matt Suydam 120; Sr. Paul Rallis 182; Jr. Dan Hausman 195; Sr. Gabe Barba 220; Sr. Matt Whale 285.

Promising newcomers: Sr. John Mondoro 132; Sr. Colton Hoff 132; So. Leo Acquino 195; Sr. Austin Sheaf 195.

Outlook: Red Devils return 10 starters and look solid throughout the middle of the lineup. Problem is, that's where there's a logjam with four wrestlers in the 145-152 range. Ideally, with Dinmore down at 132, they would all fit in. Remains to be seen if that's the case. Rodriguez is back at 106 and is reportedly coming off a good summer. If Central can limit points in the lower weights and a few upper classes, this team will be very tough to deal with in dual meets. Going to be some real battles in county with North Hunterdon, Voorhees and Delaware Valley.

North Hunterdon Lions

Coach: Tim Flynn (43-21, fourth season).

2011-12 record: 17-5, 4-2 Skyland Conference Delaware Division (third).

Returning starters (10): So. Ryan Pomrinca (39-5, D3, R2, S7) 120; Sr. Matt Moncourtois (28-10, D1) 120-126; Jr. Eric Martin (15-18, D4) 126-132; Jr. Mike Ciavarro (28-9, D2) 145-152; So. Michael Sicola (6-12) 138-145; Sr. Brandon Loftus (12-19) 170; Sr. Liam Korbul (39-5, D1, R2, S7) 182-195; Sr. Dan Pepe (31-9, D2, R4) 195-220; Sr. Brad Straight 220-285; Jr. Anthony Buygi 285.

Key losses: Matt Doscher (19-17, D3); Beau Vrancken (32-4, D1, R2); Joe Ragsdale (30-10, D2, R4).

Key returnees: Jr. Joe Guzzo 160.

Promising newcomers: So. Paul Robinson 106; So. Luke Approvato 106; Fr. Derek Ciavarro 113; Jr. Jim Hughes 138; Fr. Brian Smolinsky 138; Sr. Brendan Balzano 152.

Outlook: Lions are coming off a fine campaign and looking to build off that momentum with the return of 10 starters. Moncourtois and Pomrinca (seventh in the state at 113 last year) anchor the light weights, while Korbul and Pepe give the Annandale-based school strength up top where other teams are sorely lacking. Keep an eye on freshmen Ciavarro and Smolinsky. Depth is an issue, so avoiding injuries is crucial. This group could be the class of Hunterdon County and is expected to challenge for division and sectional honors in a rugged North 2, Group 4 bracket.

North Warren Patriots

Coach: Matt Parzero (23-17, third season).

2011-12 record: 14-7, 3-2 Skyland Conference Valley Division (third).

Returning starters (7): So. Gino Fluri (6-16) 106-113; Jr. Matt Ritchie (21-10, D4) 120; Sr. Mason Ryzoff (18-11, D4) 138; Jr. Jack Norgard (8-13) 145; Jr. Johnny Hayes (15-10) 152; So. Will O'Connell (8-11) 220; Sr. Chris Longyhore (22-8, D4) 285.

Key losses: Michael Staufenberger (27-9, D3); Dillon Torppey (14-14); Dan Hauck (24-7, D1).

Key returnees: So. Zach Jones 106-113; Jr. Devon Lyons 126; Jr. Brian Turner 132; Jr. Greg Galante (4-7, D4) 195.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Anthony Duardo 138; Jr. Nico Fluri 145; So. Jack Butromovich 152; Jr. Alex Hladick 160; Sr. Vincent Rucereto 170; Jr. Scott Palmer 182.

Outlook: Patriots, who had a nice run last year, move over from the Skyland Conference to the NJAC this season. Ritchie, a former district champion, and Longyhore will lead the way, along with Ryzoff, as North tries to overcome the losses of region qualifier Staufenberger and district champion Hauck. If this team can minimize bonus points it should be able to finish in the upper half of the division and be around the same win total as last year.

Phillipsburg Stateliners

Coach: Dave Post (29-9, third season).

2011-12 record: 16-3, 6-0 Skyland Conference Delaware Division champion (first).

Returning starters (7): Sr. Zach Fisher (28-11, D1) 113; So. Steve Friedman (21-16, D1) 120; Sr. Anthony Johnson (15-12, D3, R2) 132; So. Max Elling (25-12, D2, R3) 138; Sr. Andrew Kaluzny (16-14, D1, R4) 145; So. Jimmy Schuitema (31-12, D3, R3) 152; Jr. Jake Kocsis (19-12, D4) 160.

Key losses: V.J. Delmonico (28-13, D1, R3); Joe Moyer (20-18, D3); Devin Grade (17-15, D4); Shaun Maloy (22-12, D2); Derek Pierson (13-10, D2, R4); Brandon Hull (37-3, D1, R1, S1); Anthony Pare (34-8, D1, R3).

Key returnees: Jr. Garrett Wolfinger 138; Jr. Broderick Bupivi 170; Sr. Kyle Kinney 195; Sr. Jarrett Williams 285.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Brandon Paetzell 106; Fr. DJ Wissing 120; So. Corey Zinsmeister 126 (transfer from Easton, Pa.); So. Donald Agans 132; So. Yan Ondele 170; So. Joe Maso 182; So. Tim Hinkle 220.

Outlook: Stateliners are coming off a banner year -- stunning Brick Memorial behind Fisher's big win in the final bout to claim the Group 4 championship. Half of that team is gone, including Brandon Hull, the school's first state champion since 1996. But the cupboard, as usual, is far from bare. Fisher, who sustained a major hand injury prior to the Region 1 Tournament, will anchor a fine group of light weights, along with district champion Friedman. Paetzell is an accomplished youth wrestler and bears watching, along with sophomore state qualifiers Elling and Schuitema. Solid lineup from 106-160. If the upper weights prove reliable, and that's key, there's no reason this team can't repeat in Toms River.

Voorhees Vikings

Coach: Eric Hall (44-9, third season).

2011-12 record: 22-4, 5-1 Skyland Conference Raritan Division (T-first).

Returning starters (8): Jr. Cody Ihling (21-13, D2) 113; Jr. Thomas Bieshke (21-11) 126; Sr. Tyler Yarnell (18-16, D2) 132; Jr. Christian Okulicz (20-14, D4) 138; Jr. Jordan Juliano (9-11) 160, Sr. Jadaen Bernstein (39-3, D1, R1, S7) 170; Sr. Nick Ruggiero (28-10, D2) 182; Sr. Kyle Levy (13-14) 195.

Key losses: Walter Gonsiewski (22-10, D3); Ronnie Honickel (37-5, D1, R3); Steven Baker (20-12); Chet Stivers (20-11); Max Lamport (24-10, D3).

Key returnees: So. Thomas Riley 126; Jr. Mike Muscatello 138; Jr. William Gonsiewski 145; Sr. Josh Hausler 152; Jr. Conner Heft 152; Jr. Taz Salvetti 170; Sr. Emilio Guevara 220; So. Alex Fischetti 285.

Promising newcomers: So. Harley Sacks 106; Jr. Dylan Raposo 106; So. Jon Blunk 106; Fr. Kyle DiNapoli 106; Fr. Garrett Birchenough 120; Jr. Merritt Francis 285.

Outlook: Lots of excitement surrounding this program as Hall enters his third season at the helm of his alma mater. The Vikes have plenty of returning talent, including district finalists Yarnell and Ruggiero. Senior Jadaen Bernstein, a two-time state medal winner and finalist in 2011, is among the top wrestlers in the state and enters the season seven wins shy of 100. This group should be pretty balanced and that is key for success in the area. Among the goals is to go deeper in the sectionals after a first-round exit last year and to beat all Hunterdon County opponents, according to Hall.

Warren Hills Blue Streaks

Coach: Jarrett Hosbach (91-74, eighth season).

2011-12 record: 14-6, 2-3 Skyland Conference Raritan Division (fourth).

Returning starters (10): So. Max Nauta (33-8, D2, R2) 113-120; Jr. Tai Adetula (22-5) 126; Sr. Joe Kratochvil (24-14, D1, R2) 132; Jr. Justin Pidoto (4-4, D3-2011) 138; Sr. Kevin Bundschuh (7-10) 145; Jr. Nate Detrick (10-10) 152; Jr. Ryan Ostir (9-13, D4) 170; Jr. Ryan Witner (10-16, D3) 195; So. Andrew Pacheco (9-5) 285.

Key losses: Chris Greenwald (17-5); KC Wanamaker (19-8); Ryker Kern (15-11, D3); Dan Smith (26-6, D3).

Key returnees: So. Austin Pidoto 106; So. Christian Wanamaker 106; So. John Fluck (8-8, D3) 113-120; Jr. Evan Butka (6-9) 160; Jr. Steve Cleaver (4-5) 182; Sr. Tyler Bridygham (2-7) 220.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Carsen Johnson 106; Jr. Bassem Ramadan 120; Fr. Shane Deemer 138; Fr. Anthony Roessner 145; So. Anthony Casciano 160; So. Will Turner 160; Fr. Kurt Nemeth 170.

Outlook: Blue Streaks are a program on the rise as the fruit from a loaded youth program is starting to take shape on the high school scene. Nauta had one of the best freshman campaigns in school history with appearances in the district and region finals, while Kratochvil stunned everyone with his district title and region runner-up finish. Because the football team is playing so late into the year, expect the upper weights to take time rounding into form. As a result, you might not see the team's best lineup for a few weeks. Overall, this is a very solid team that unfortunately will see state power South Plainfield down the road in the same North 2, Group 3 section.

Wrestling: HWS active victories leaders

Minimum 50 wins
Wrestler	School	Record	Year
Mike Pongracz	Delaware Valley	113-14	Senior
Jadaen Bernstein	Voorhees	93-18	Senior
Matt Benvenuto	Lenape Valley	81-31	Senior
Tyler Kozimor	Hackettstown	73-31	Senior
Liam Korbul	North Hunterdon	73-33	Senior
Evan Bray	Belvidere	71-31	Senior
J.B. Lawson	Belvidere	66-38	Senior
Dylan Nace	Hunterdon Central	61-12	Junior
Matt Moncourtois	North Hunterdon	61-27	Senior
A.J. Bongiovanni	Hopatcong	61-37	Senior
Joe Hocking	Wallkill Valley	60-43	Senior
Gary Dinmore	Hunterdon Central	59-11	Junior
Kieran Gerrity	Kittatinny	56-22	Junior
Zach Fisher	Phillipsburg	56-28	Senior
Mason Ryzoff	North Warren	55-35	Senior
Ryan Ward	Vernon	53-34	Senior
Jesse Thorsen	Belvidere	52-20	Senior
Matt Gilmore	Delaware Valley	52-20	Senior
Nick Romyns	Kittatinny	52-22	Junior
David Popek	Kittatinny	52-44	Senior
Brandon Rothman	Hackettstown	50-41	Senior
Jim Lodema	Wallkill Valley	50-41	Senior

Field hockey: Final HWS team rankings

As we close the curtain on another field hockey season, let's take a look at the final Open Mike rankings for the 2012 season.

Players, get yourselves into club programs. After watching South Jersey dominate once again in the state finals on Sunday, it's imperative if we are to have any championship teams up our way.

Have a great offseason and see you next fall.

1. Warren Hills (22-3) -- Blue Streaks won their 10th sectional championship and lost to a very tough Ocean City team in the Group 3 final. Senior forward Niki Miller closed the books on a stellar career with 61 goals and 57 assists. Her 25 goals this season were third-most on the school's single-season list, while the all-time assists leader shattered the previous single-season mark of 18 with 29 assists this season. The UMass recruit also set a single-season points record with 79, while ranking second in career goals and points. The Streaks also matched the 2011 team for most wins. Sophomores Nikki Profita and Sydney Muntone each scored 19 goals.

2. Voorhees (13-5-1) -- Vikings made a valiant run to the North 2, Group 2 semifinals -- falling 2-1 to top-seeded Rumson, which won the title and lost in OT to West Essex in the Group 2 semis. Freshman midfielder Kathryn Roncoroni finished with a team-high 12 goals and scored against Rumson. Voorhees also captured its 10th county championship -- beating Warren Hills, 2-0, in the semifinals and High Point, 1-0, in the title game for its second Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex title.

3. High Point (18-4-1) -- Wildcats stormed their way to the North 1, Group 3 sectional semifinals as the No. 5 seed -- knocking off No. 4 Ramsey and No. 1 Lakeland before falling, 4-1, to West Essex in the title game. It was the third straight year that coach Bev Keur's team fell in the final. Despite heavy graduation losses, the 'Cats claimed their third straight NJAC American Division title and will enter 2013 riding a 39-game divisional win streak. Senior midfielder Darby Smith, who is heading to UConn, capped her fine career as the school's all-time goals and points leader. She was second in the HWS area with 27 goals in 2012.

4. Hunterdon Central (13-9) -- Red Devils ended their season with a 4-0 loss to Bridgewater-Raritan, the eight-time Group 4 runner-up, in the North 2, Group 4 sectional semifinals. Coach Jenn Sponzo's team reached the Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex semifinals -- falling 1-0 to High Point. Forward Kendall Nickel led the team in scoring with 16 goals and six assists. Central posted two postseason wins -- beating Manalapan, 4-0, and West Windsor-South, 4-1. Nickel scored three goals and had two assists in those wins.

5. Phillipsburg (10-10) -- The Stateliners were stunned, 2-0, by Ridge in the opening round of the North 1, Group 4 playoffs after beating the Red Devils, 2-1, earlier in the season. Coach Jen Paulus' team played Hunterdon Central tough in two losses this season -- 2-0 and 2-1 -- and scored a 1-0 win over Morristown, the top seed in the North 1, Group 3 playoffs. Senior forward Katie Decker (seven goals) was named the team's offensive MVP, while senior back Renee Custodio earned defensive honors. Senior midfielder Molly Zgoda led the 'Liners with 10 assists.

6. Wallkill Valley (13-6-2) -- Rangers really came on late in the year, winning six in a row before an 8-0 loss to West Essex in the North 1, Group 2 quarterfinals. Coach Irene Chernati's team beat High Point, 1-0, during that win streak and Westwood, 1-0, in the sectional playoffs. Senior goalie Emily Stukenborg anchored a defense that produced 12 shutouts. No team in the area played as many tight games, as Wallkill had 11 end in 1-0 scores -- winning nine. In all, 14 of the Rangers' games were decided by one goal.

7. South Hunterdon (15-6-1) -- Eagles claimed a share of the Skyland Conference Valley Division title with Bernards, splitting a pair of meetings this season. Forward Kaycee Zelkovsky was the HWS area's long 30-goal scorer this season and helped the Hunterdon County school reach the North 2, Group 1 semifinals where it lost to state power Oak Knoll, 7-0, the Group 1 champion. South, which had two postseason wins, also played High Point tough in a 2-1 loss in the Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex quarterfinals.

8. Pope John (11-6-2) -- Lions surprised in coach Gina DiMaio's first season at the helm. After a 1-3-2 start, PJ won 10 of 13, losing only to Montville, Warren Hills (Group 3 runner-up) and Parsippany (NJAC Freedom Division champion). Forward Rachel Spetz led the team with 12 goals and nine assists. Along the way, the Lions knocked off DiMaio's former program at Hackettstown, 2-1, in the HWS first round, and avenged a 3-1 loss to Morris Knolls with a 2-1 win on Oct. 9. The Lions also won a state playoff game -- beating River Dell, 3-0, in the North 1, Group 2 draw.

9. Belvidere (9-7-1) -- County Seaters closed out their season with a 4-0 loss to Mountain Lakes in the North 1, Group 1 playoffs and a 4-1 loss to Bernards in the regular-season finale. After a 3-3-1 start, coach Kristin Gaitan's team won six of seven, losing, 1-0, to High Point in that stretch in the opening round of the Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex Tournament. Forward Nicole DeHerde led the team in scoring with nine goals and five assists.

10. Newton (10-8) -- Braves saw their season end in tough fashion with a 4-1 loss at home to Jefferson in the North 1, Group 2 playoffs. The teams split two previous meetings, with Newton winning, 3-1, three days earlier in an NJAC Freedom Division contest. The loss of senior forward Melanie Rudio with a knee injury early in the campaign did not help the Braves' cause. Stephanie Mocerino (12 goals) and midfielder Katherine Kellenberger (nine assists) helped pick up the slack for coach Lisa Becthel's team.