Wrestling: What's on tap for HWS in 2025-26?

As we close the book on another high school wrestling season, let's take an all-too-early look at what may be in store for the Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex area in 2025-26.

Hunterdon hotspot

North captured the program's 7th state team title

The 2024-25 season was a banner year for Hunterdon County team-wise as North Hunterdon (Group 4) and Delaware Valley (Group 1) won state championships. It's the second time in three seasons (North and Del Val also did it in 2023) the county captured two titles. It's only happened on five other occasions (1982, '84, '85, '87 and '89) since the tournaments began in '82.

North Hunterdon (17-6), ranked No. 12 in the final New Jersey Wrestling Writers Top 20 and No. 11 in the Coaches Association Top 25, enjoyed its biggest turnaround in over 40 years after finishing 7-13 in coach Dave Bell's first season at the helm in 2023-24. The Lions went from 7-5 in 1982-83 to 17-2 and a Group 3 title the next season under Fred Pierro.

Bell's charges should be primed for another championship run and the area's No. 1 ranking next season with nine returning starters, including four state qualifiers in sophomore Cayden Wadle (32-11 at 106 pounds), freshman Owen Fol (25-20 at 113), junior Reid Buzby (32-12 at 126) and sophomore Aidan Yarussi (38-7 at 132), who is 68-20 overall and lost in the Blood Round in Atlantic City. Sophomore Kieran Raley (22-19 at 138) and junior Owen Dandeo (23-12), both region qualifiers, were over the 20-win mark. The Lions should also be motivated by being shut out on the podium with no medals among their six qualifiers. 

Title contenders

P'burg beat MO twice, including the N1, G4 final

Group 4 will once again be the most intriguing -- Southern (G5), Delsea (G3), Rumson-Fair Haven (G2) and Del Val (G1) will all be prohibitive title favorites -- as North, Mount Olive and Phillipsburg should be the preseason pecking order. P'burg will lean heavily on four returning state qualifiers -- Zack Swingle (30-11 at 106), Anthony Pettinelli (33-9 at 113), Owen Garriques (31-12 at 132) and Gavin Geleta (34-9 at 150), who lost in the Blood Round in AC.

Delaware Valley (19-3) loses three key seniors in Jaden Perez (39-5, seventh in the state at 126), as well as Jackson Bush (36-6 at 150) and Luke Sinkewicz (33-8 at 157), but the Terriers bring back plenty of talent to make another run. Michael Hasson (29-10 at 138), a region fifth-place finisher and state qualifier Sebastian Dobak (22-10 at 144) are among seven key juniors returning next season.

High Point, which won the North 1, Group 2 sectional title and dropped a 38-30 decision to Caldwell in the Group 2 semifinals, brings back eight starters, including two state qualifiers in sophomore Carter Drouin (28-15 at 120) and Gavin "Big Country" Mericle (34-7 at 285). Juniors Jayden Ruplall (23-15 at 165 and fifth in Region 1), Giovoughni Dureny (20-13 at 175 and sixth in Region 1) and Jack Kithcart (23-17 at 190 and fifth in Region 1) return to anchor a good group of upper weights. Keep an eye on Kaleb DeFalco (2-0 at 190-215), who head coach Billy Smith was high on before the freshman sustained a season-ending injury.

Also in Group 2, Hackettstown returns 11 sophomores, including state qualifier Joseph Rowinski (32-11 at 106-113), an HWS Tournament champion at 106.

Primed placers

Hunterdon Central junior Rhett Washleski has plenty ahead of him after a seventh-place state finish at 150 pounds. Washleski (41-5) joined his brother, Colton, as medalists for the Red Devils and will enter next season needing 33 wins to surpass program leader Hunter Graf (143-29 from 2014-18) and 45 to eclipse the county record held by North Hunterdon's Ryan Pomrinca (155-13 from 2011-15). 

While those win totals are goals, Washleski, a three-time district and two-time region and HWS Tournament champion, is eyeing a much bigger prize.

Washleski (far right) also eyes a rare 3rd HWS title

"Nothing means more than getting [back down to AC] and accomplishing my dreams of winning states," said Washleski, who is the area's active wins leader at 111-15 overall.

Central (4-19), which won its fewest dual meets and endured only the second losing campaign (12-13 in 2005-06) in the program's 69 seasons, finished on cool note as Washleski and junior Emma Peake (fifth place at 120 in girls states) joined their siblings as medalists for the Red Devils. Colton Washleski, now at Rider, was fourth at 160 in 2021 and sixth at 145 in '20, while Tanner Peake, now at Davidson, was a two-time placer (fourth at 157 in '22 and sixth at 152 in '21).

Warren Hills junior Augie Szamreta got rolling at the right time and finished eighth at 113 pounds -- the highest placewinner in the first three weight classes for the Blue Streaks since Ryan Kanewski (fifth-sixth at 119 in 1995). At 92-28 overall, Szamreta looks to become the 12th member of the school's century club, along with district champ and state qualifier Davey Rhinehart, who is 89-23 for his career.

"It's definitely going to help me a lot [next season] because I'll have more confidence," Szamreta said of making a potential third trip to AC in 2026. "I know that I've been in these situations before and I want to keep advancing even farther. I want to be higher than eighth place next year."

Public vs. Non-Public

The debate rages on with each passing season. The gap is clearly widening, so it was nice to see some public school boys wrestlers in the HWS area on the podium at Boardwalk Hall, including Kittatinny senior Ethan Dalling, who was the highest finisher (fifth at 175) outside of our three senior finalists -- Phillipsburg's Gavin Hawk and Pope John's Carson Walsh (138) and Donny Almeyda (144). 

Dalling (2nd from right) is headed to Bucknell

Legendary Cougars coach John Gill, who hasn't had a state finalist since 2009 and only eight medalists in the last 16 years since, was beaming after Dalling became the third in his immediate family to place. His father, Steve, was a three-time state finalist (champion in 1990 and '91), while older brother, Steven, placed eighth at 152 pounds in 2021. 

"It's so hard to do," Gill said of getting a wrestler on the podium as only 47 of 112 medalists and eight of 28 finalists were from public schools. "The talent just goes to those special places. It's nice to see a few weights broke though [with public school wrestlers]. It's hard. 

"I appreciate the fifth place. I'm jumping for joy. You should be looking for first or second. Fifth is really hard to come by. I'll take every one I can."

Pope John junior Dalton Weber, a two-time placewinner, is the only returning area medalist. He was eighth at 132 after a third-place finish in 2024. The HWS area had 14 in the boys state quarters -- the fewest since 2014 -- and earned nine medals overall. Weber's 95 wins rank him behind only Washleski entering next season. Szamreta and Sparta junior Ryan Hrenenko (91) are next, followed by Rhinehart, Voorhees junior Christian Bollette (86), Geleta (74) and North Warren junior Conor Hallowich (72). Phillipsburg junior Massimo Gonzalez and Yarussi are at 68, with Buzby (67), Vernon junior True DiGiuseppe (65), Mericle (63), Rowinski (61) and Pettinelli (60) rounding out those with at least 60 victories.

My 2 cents

The powers that be need to seriously take a long hard look at district and regional alignments for next season and beyond. Clearly, public schools are unhappy and at a huge disadvantage going up against All-Star teams from the private ranks. Putting the Non-Publics in one or possibly two regions -- giving them a fair number of state bids from each much like the NCAAs -- is floating around as one possibility moving forward. 

Fourteen of 38 HWS state qualifiers were in R1

I know we've addressed the other issue of fan interest, or a severe lack thereof, but when Phillipsburg fans' attention spans in Region 1 at West Milford were seen waning, it would be great to see a better balance with regards to geography. Remember the old days when a region contained familiar schools and wrestlers, and you had a rooting interest. It just isn't the same when you're from these parts and wrestlers from Bergen or Passaic counties you've never heard of are going at it. Boring.
   

The state tournament mix of boys and girls is great in theory, but the guys' Blood Round session is not getting the attention it richly deserves. That's one of the best sessions and too important to get lost in the shuffle with girls semifinals and wrestlebacks mixed in later on among those critical placement bouts. Maybe it's time to run each tournament as its own, much like Pennsylvania does with Class AAA and AA in Hershey. At the very least, hold the Blood Round at 5 p.m. on Friday just prior to the boys semis. Also, do we really need the Parade of Champions? Seems unnecessary when we see them all on the podium anyway. By the way, what happened to the quarter turns?

Wrestling: HWS history makers galore in girls states

ATLANTIC CITY -- It was one of those seasons to remember for Newton-Kittatinny's girls wrestling team. Though an individual gold medal was not to be, the Braves had cause to celebrate three on the podium.

Junior Eva Barry and senior Paige DeCaro were runners-up at their respective weight classes, while sophomore Stella Ramos was a fourth-place finisher in the seventh Girls State Championships on Saturday afternoon at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.

Barry will enter her senior season at 90-14 overall

Barry (34-2) suffered her second straight finals loss in dropping a 12-6 decision to St. Thomas Aquinas senior Saniyah Queen at 138 pounds, while DeCaro (38-3), who was third in Region 1, fell, 7-1, to Paterson Kennedy senior Solaris Paul at 165 pounds. Barry, a two-time North 1 region finalist and champion in 2025, was second at this weight in '24. 

"It's definitely good motivation [for 2025-26] to take second place two years in a row," said Barry, who was looking to become the Braves' 83rd state champion overall and first on the female side. Assistant coach Andy Iliff was their last title winner -- back-to-back in 1986-87.

In all, 13 girls from the Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex area earned medals, including High Point sophomore Ella Poalillo (152) and freshman Elle Changaris (114), who gave High Point two female winners in one tournament for the first time in program history. Poalillo is the first Wildcat -- boy or girl -- to start their career with two state titles. Barry and DeCaro gave the Braves two finalists for the first time since 1971 (Doug Crawn won at heavyweight and Larry Lambert was second at 136). Liliana Zaku-Ramos (126 in 2023) is the only other finalist on the girls' side. 

Can't find winning groove

Barry was never able to get on track in her finals matchup against Queen, a four-time medalist and runner-up in 2023, who converted the opening takedown with a merkle for a 3-1 first-period lead. 

Queen (32-2) added another takedown in the second period and two more in the third, as Barry, who racked up 31 pins this season, managed five escapes and never got a chance to be in the offensive position after taking bottom to start the second period. 

"I just didn't get in my groove, didn't find my rhythm," said Barry, who logged two takedowns and four back points in a 10-8 win over Julia Fongaro of Boonton in the semifinals after pinning her in the North 1 Region finals. "My offense wasn't there ... couldn't get to it. I felt good going into [the final], she just kept shutting down my moves."

Newton-Kittatinny, which graduates nine seniors, finished 13-2 overall and was the No. 2 team in the state behind Jackson Memorial, which handed the Braves a 36-33 loss in the team championships on Feb. 16. Barry will take it upon herself to help lead the next wave of female wrestlers at her school.

"I love my team," Barry said. "It's very supportive. We will all do some recruiting [to get other girls out for the sport] and be a role model for the new girls."

DeCaro had high praise for her teammate.

"She's my best friend ever," DeCaro said. "She's one of the best people to be around and she is one of the best athletes. She's the hardest trainer I've ever met so just being in the [practice] room with her pushes you and motivates you. She's such a kind person that it just makes this whole sport amazing."

Lehigh next stop

DeCaro, who was making her first state finals appearance, also could not get her offense going against Paul (23-1), a two-time third-place finisher and first champ for her school. Paul took a 3-0 lead into the third period after a reversal and added a third-period takedown to ice it. DeCaro nearly stopped Paul in her tracks with a headlock attempt early in the third, but could not finish the move.

Ramos, Barry, DeCaro share an AC moment

"I know Solaris has a whole story and she had such a drive today," said DeCaro, who finishes up at 79-17 overall. "Although I did, too, I think. I just couldn't get the things I needed to get and she capitalized on [her moves]."

DeCaro, who was deeply disappointed with how her final season ended personally, will now look to start another chapter at Lehigh University in the fall. The Mountain Hawks hosted their first official dual in February in their bid to become a Division I program.

"It definitely motivates me in college to do the best I can," DeCaro said.

Like Barry, DeCaro was proud of what they accomplished as a team on the high school level. It's the second time the Braves produced three placewinners in one state tournament as Kailin Lee (fifth at 165) and Gianna Simeone (eighth at 107) joined Zaku-Ramos on the podium in 2023.

"I'm super excited to see where our team goes," DeCaro said. "We're a co-op team so I hope we stay together as long as possible. I just really hope that this sport itself continues to grow."

Back points

Kisselbach (3rd from left) on the podium

Phillipsburg freshman Ellie Kisselbach is only the second Phillipsburg girl to medal with a fourth-place finish at 114 pounds. She joined two-time state champion Jewel Gonzalez (161 pounds in 2019 and '20), who blazed a trail for the Stateliner females. Kisselbach (32-6), whose father, Brad, was a P'burg wrestler and current youth coach, suffered her second loss of the tournament to Gloucester City senior Kloi Tighe -- 4-3 in the bronze medal matchup. Tighe had pinned Kisselbach, who was winning at one point in the rematch, in the quarterfinals.

Sparta junior Paige Weiss earned her third medal with a fourth-place finish at 120 pounds -- dropping an 11-4 decision to Roselle Park's Lucia Ranieri. Weiss (15-6), a former champ at 100 pounds in 2023 and fourth at 114 last year, is the only female to place for the Spartans and is their only three-time medalist for boys or girls. Mark Preston (first at 129 in 1975, second at 122 in '74), John Place (first in '83 and third at 188 in '82) and Steve Swentzel (eighth at 125 in 2001 and 130 in '02) are the Sussex County school's only other multiple placers.

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Delaware Valley produced its first two state placewinners as freshman Lydia Bagley (100) and Emmy Hotz (235) each finished seventh. Bagley (27-7), who secured the program's first medal with a win in the first round of consolations, is a wrestling legacy. Her father, Justin, is one of only four to win four district titles at North Hunterdon (1996-99) and was a member of three sectional championship teams.

Vernon also had two medalists -- giving the program eight overall -- in seniors Caitlin Hart (fifth at 225) and Rowan Waite (seventh at 185). Hart capped her fine career as the Vikings' only four-time placewinner -- finishing fifth (2022), third ('23) and fourth ('24) at 185 pounds in three previous appearances.

Qualitieri and Bagley (far right) on the podium

Lenape Valley sophomore Angelina Qualitieri (fifth at 100) became the first female medalist at her school, while Hunterdon Central junior Emma Peake (fifth at 120) joined her brother, Tanner, as placewinners for the Red Devils. Emma Peake (28-4) is the sixth girl overall to medal at Central and first since Paisley Fox (fourth at 138) and Evelyn Andrade (fifth at 107) did it in 2022. Tanner was a two-time medalist (fourth at 157 in '22 and sixth at 152 in '21).
 

Championships

152 -- So. Ella Poalillo (35-0), High Point, p. So. Thea Rowland (26-2), Middletown South, 3:17.

165 -- Sr. Solaris Paul (24-1), Paterson Kennedy, d. Sr. Paige DeCaro (35-3), Newton-Kittatinny, 7-1.

185 -- Sr. Shaelie Young (30-3), Gateway-Woodbury, p. Jr. Jade Hahn (26-2), Central Regional, 4:41.

235 -- Sr. Caroline Biegel (10-3), DePaul, md. Jr. Saharia Quamina (28-4), Bloomfield, 9-1.

100 -- Jr. Francesca Gusfa (17-1), Ridgewood, d. Jr. Madison Rucci (42-2), Jackson Memorial, 11-5.

107 -- So. Gabriella Conte (15-1), Hanover Park, tf. Jr. Princessstorm Woody (21-1), Trenton Central, 16-0, 3:49.

114 -- Fr. Elle Changaris (37-1), High Point, d. Jr. Kylie Gudewitz (36-1), Howell, 19-14.

120 -- Jr. Reagan Roxas (33-0), Kingsway, d. So. Jocelyn Danbe (20-3), River Dell, 7-4.

126 -- Sr. Jada Pichardo (32-0), Pennsauken, d. Sr. Alexa Cilliotta (22-3), Montville, 1-0.

132 -- So. Lamiah Berry (24-5), Absegami, p. Fr. Lily Massenzio (19-1), DePaul, 2:39.

138 -- Sr. Saniyah Queen (32-2), St. Thomas Aquinas, d. Jr. Eva Barry (31-2), Newton-Kittatinny, 12-6.

145 -- Jr. Olivia Georges (18-0), DePaul, p. Sr. Sonia Balwas (20-5), Paramus, 3:08.

Outstanding Wrestler Award -- Gabriella Conte, Hanover Park.

Coach of the Year Award -- Eric Bollette, Newton-Kittatinny.

Third-place consolations

100 -- So. Emelly Diaz Santos (33-4), Morris Hills, p. Jr. Nola Allen (29-6), Marlboro, :13.

107 -- Jr. Ava Bonilla (32-4), Jackson Memorial, p. Sr. Gianna Bonaccorso (20-3), Fair Lawn, 2:31.

114 -- Sr. Kloi Tighe (31-2), Gloucester City, d. Fr. Ellie Kisselbach (32-6), Phillipsburg, 6-3.

120 -- Fr. Lucia Ranieri (33-3), Roselle Park, d. Jr. Paige Weiss (15-6), Sparta, 11-4.

126 -- Jr. Cami Bird (31-4), Egg Harbor, p. Jr. Briana Dugo (32-8), Jackson Memorial, 3:15.

132 -- Jr. Leanna Noel (35-7), Bloomfield, d. Sr. Belle Konopka (35-3), Seneca, 3-0.

138 -- Jr. Mariana Puzycki (26-3), Bayonne, p. Sr. Julia Fongaro (30-5), Boonton, 1:46.

145 -- Jr. Gianna Lopez (17-6), Cherry Hill East, d. Sr. Samantha Goworek (13-4), Indian Hills, 9-4.

152 -- Sr. Samira Kupa (29-9), Boonton, p. So. Stella Ramos (32-5), Newton-Kittatinny, :43.

165 -- Jr. Liliana Alicea (33-4), Central Regional, p. Sr. Ari Tyson (21-4), Cherry Hill West, 3:33.

185 -- Sr. Daniela Palacios (22-2), Lakewood, p. Sr. Paris Ford (29-6), Rancocas Valley, 4:14.

235 -- Sr. Antonia Federici (27-4), Gateway-Woodbury, p. Jr. Giovanna Farrell-Byers (29-10), Howell, 2:30.

Fifth-place consolations

100 -- So. Angelina Qualitieri (34-4), Lenape Valley, p. Jr. Emma Acampora (31-4), Rancocas Valley, 3:06.

107 -- Fr. Adrianna DiGregorio (31-3), Williamstown, md. Sr. Aubree Butler (33-7), Rancocas Valley, 10-0.

114 -- Jr. Marlowe Donato (30-9), Jackson Memorial, d. Jr. Madison Blumenthal (21-5), Bordentown-Florence, 4-1.

120 -- Jr. Emma Peake (28-4), Hunterdon Central, p. Fr. Sophia Holmes (30-11), Clayton-Glassboro, 1:11.

126 -- Sr. Madelyn McLaughlin (31-11), Bloomfield, d. So. Polina Shardakova-Scorzafava (32-10), Kinnelon, 4-2.

132 -- So. Sophia Massefski (26-7), Montville, d. Jr. Sophia Klecha (21-5), Pequannock, 5-0.

138 -- Sr. Danna Ramirez (23-6), Ocean City, p. Sr. Gabrielle Roberts (32-8), North Brunswick, 4:37.

145 -- Jr. Charlize Schlam (16-8), Point Pleasant Boro, md. Sr. Adriana Haskin (27-16), Rahway, 12-1.

152 -- Jr. Anshul Kumar (36-9), Somerville, d. Jr. Abbigale Dudley (30-4), Rancocas Valley, 3-0.

165 -- Sr. Kamila Castro (13-6), Ridgewood, p. Fr. Jeveah Turner (29-7), Rancocas Valley, 5:19.

185 -- Fr. Brianna Sandoval (31-3), Bound Brook, p. Sr. Kiana Alvarez (19-3), Elmwood Park, 1:49.

235 -- Sr. Caitlin Hart (31-4), Vernon, p. Sr. Yasmin Garcia (14-5), Rahway, 3:33.

Seventh-place consolations

100 -- Fr. Lydia Bagley (27-7), Delaware Valley, tf. Sr. Elizabeth Avila (26-10), Brick Township, 22-5, 4:19.

107 -- So. Gabriela Giacone (27-9), Watchung Hills, forfeit, So. Olivia Mitchell (31-5), East Brunswick.

114 -- Fr. Sheyna Cruz (26-6), Paulsboro, md. So. Jaliyah Richards (23-11), Scotch Plains-Fanwood, 12-1.

120 -- Fr. Samirah Duron (24-9), Egg Harbor, d. So. Jada Figueroa (34-7), Jackson Memorial, 5-3.

126 -- Jr. Molly Smyth (21-5), Mount Olive, p. Fr. Melanie Hernandez (19-6), Plainfield, 3:12.

132 -- Sr. Eudora Pamphile (27-5), Trenton Central, forfeit, Sr. Eva Altamirano (9-1), South Plainfield. 

138 -- So. Ecrin Haliloglu (28-8), Delran, d. Sr. Aydible Mejia (11-7), Elizabeth, 7-1.

145 -- Sr. Caelum Ritzdorf (19-9), Metuchen, p. Jr. Natalia Rusin (24-10), Middletown South, :43.

152 -- Jr. Alexus Paden (31-8), Clayton-Glassboro, p. So. Eliza Toth (20-11), Point Pleasant Boro, 5:18.

165 -- Jr. Sofia Sousa (30-7), Old Bridge, forfeit, Sr. Emily Breen (16-3), Point Pleasant Boro.

185 -- Sr. Rowan Waite (25-10), Vernon, d. Sr. Carina Rivera (23-11), Nutley, 4-3.

235 -- So. Emmy Hotz (20-4), Delaware Valley, p. Sr. Rahkai Degrasse (24-9), North Brunswick, 1:42.

Wrestling: Perez, Washleski, Szamreta rally in AC

ATLANTIC CITY -- Delaware Valley senior Jaden Perez knew he was destined for bigger things. That's why he made up his mind after two missed opportunities to not waste another moment.

Perez fashioned quite a fine high school career and put his name alongside some of the Terriers' elite by capturing a second medal in the 92nd State Wrestling Championships on Saturday afternoon at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.

Perez rolled to a 16-6 major in the pre-quarters

With a seventh-place finish at 126 pounds, Perez (39-5), who was fifth as a junior, is only the eighth multiple medalist for tradition-rich Del Val and the first since Mike Pongracz (fifth place at this same weight class in 2012 and '13).

"I definitely came a long way," said Perez, whose freshman campaign ended in the first round of regions followed by a fifth-place finish and just missing a trip to AC as a sophomore. 

Perez was nearly joined on the podium by teammates Jackson Bush (150) and Luke Sinkewicz (157), who both fell one win shy with losses in the always gut-wrenching Blood Round. In all, nine from the Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex area placed, including Hunterdon Central junior Rhett Washleski (seventh at 150), the only other wrestler from the county to medal.

"I always felt like I was good enough [to place in states]," said Perez (124-23), who ranks sixth in career wins at Del Val and 18th overall on the county list. "I just think I wasn't working hard enough. Once I took that [final] loss my freshman, then my sophomore year as well, that really pushed me. I think that's why I came back so much harder my junior year, placing fifth [in the state], and then ultimately just kept going."

Perez (far right) is Del Val's 45th placewinner

That he did. Perez won a pair of district titles and a Region 5 championship in 2024 before Watchung Hills ace Anthony DiAndrea upended the Drexel-bound Perez's bid to repeat this season. DiAndrea (39-3), a three-time state placewinner who earned a bronze in '25, accounted for three of Perez's losses this season -- 3-2 in a dual meet on Jan. 21, 8-4 in the District 15 finals on Feb. 22 and 4-1 in the Region 4 title bout the following weekend. A fourth meeting in the state semifinals never materialized as Perez dropped a 5-0 decision to Bergen Catholic's Nathan Braun, a two-time runner-up.
 

"It's definitely not what I came here to do, but it's better than nothing," said Perez, who went 2-1 in the wrestlebacks, including his career finale that resulted in a 15-0 technical fall of Point Pleasant Boro's Joseph DeAngelo, who he beat twice in AC, for seventh place. "I'm sure I'll be replaying the matches I lost in my head for awhile, but it's behind me. I've got college now and I'm super excited. When I get [to Drexel], I'll definitely be chasing that national title."

Perez, a three-time county finalist and champ this season, helped lead Delaware Valley to four section and three Group 1 titles during his tenure, including a 47-16 win over Hanover Park in this season's state championship match. Though his individual season didn't end with state gold, Perez has plenty to be proud of.

"It's always been a goal," Perez said of joining the list of Del Val greats. "I definitely wanted to be in that [state] final match and have that light on me, but it's definitely super cool and something that I'm going to take with me the rest of my life."

Family affair

Washleski wasn't about to fall short a third time in Atlantic City as Central's lone boys qualifier bounced back from a quarterfinal loss to go 2-1 in the wrestlebacks and finish seventh with a 4-1 win over Bergen Catholic's Sowzraca Tsay. 

Washleski is Central's 103rd placewinner

"My goal is always to win, but God has a plan and sometimes it doesn't work out," said Washleski, whose older brother, Colton, was a two-time placer for the Red Devils (fourth at 160 in 2021 and sixth at 145 in '20). "You just have to get the next best thing. I'm sad that I didn't get the next best thing, but I [finished seventh] so I'm proud of that."

Washleski (41-5) once again saw his run in AC upended by Michael Craft of Camden Catholic, who prevailed, 6-1, in their quarterfinal clash. Craft ended Washleski's season with a pin in the third consolation round in '23, while his brother, Austin Craft, sent the Red Devil home without a medal with a fall in the same spot in '24. Michael Craft was fourth this season.

"It definitely will fuel me," Washleski said of not attaining his ultimate goal of gold. "I'm really proud of what my brother did and all that he accomplished and is still accomplishing [at Rider], but it does light a little fire in my belly to place higher [next season]."

Washleski, who can join Anthony Rossi as Central's only three-time county winners in 2026, is also chasing some prestigious program history. The two-time region champion and third this season is 111-15 overall, just 32 wins shy of Hunter Graf's school mark of 143, which ranks third all-time in the county. 

"It means a lot [to get the wins mark], but nothing means more than getting [back] down here and accomplishing my dreams of winning states," Washleski said. "That's my goal next year and I think I can do that so I'm excited for that and ready."

'Really cool'

Warren Hills junior Augie Szamreta got hot at the right time and made an inspired run through the wrestlebacks to finish eighth at 113 pounds. Szamreta (37-7) also became the Blue Streaks' first placewinner in the three lightest weight classes in 30 years. 

 

Szamreta sits at 92-28 overall after 3 seasons

"It was fun. It was a good time," Szamreta said. "Obviously the goal was to come here and place, but I really just wanted to get a couple of wins and keep rolling, do the best I can, and go out there and wrestle hard every match."

Mission accomplished. After an 18-9 loss in the Round of 16, Szamreta reeled off three straight wins in blasting through the Blood Round, including an impressive 18-4 major of Williamstown's Tyler Hildebrandt to secure a medal -- the first for the Streaks down low since Ryan Kanewski was a fifth-sixth (they didn't wrestle for it at that time) at 119 pounds in 1995. Hills assistant coach Marty White was a state champion at 130 in '91. 

"I feel like that's really cool," said Szamreta, who said he looked up to Justin Colaluce, the program's last state champ (1997-98), and was thrilled to join him on the medal list. "I know a bunch of [those former medalists] and they've all talked to me about wrestling and stuff like that so it makes me really happy. [Colaluce] coached me [on the youth level]. He's a great coach showed me so much stuff."

Back points

Pope John, which sent an area-best six to Atlantic City, brought home three medals as seniors Carson Walsh (138) and Donny Almeyda (144) lost their state final matches, while junior Dalton Weber (132) picked up his second medal with an eighth-place finish after taking third as a sophomore. The classy Walsh capped one of the finest careers in our area with a fourth medal, but a second straight title bout loss will most certainly motivate him on the Division I level at the University of Pittsburgh. Almeyda, a three-time placewinner (fourth twice at St. Joseph-Montvale) is head to Penn, where Kittatinny great Matt Valenti is an associate head coach.

Kittatinny senior Ethan Dalling (fifth at 175) is the only other Sussex County wrestler to place. He's heading to Bucknell University after making some family and Cougar history.

Only Washleski (111) and Weber (95) will enter next season with more wins than Szamreta, who needs eight to join Hills' century club. Classmate Davey Rhinehart, who went 1-2 at 126 pounds in his first AC appearance, sits at 89. Sparta junior Ryan Hrenenko, who qualified at 132, is nine shy of 100.

Hawk is headed to Princeton University

Phillipsburg seniors Luke Geleta (seventh at 144) and Gavin Hawk (157) were the only Stateliners to medal on the boys' side, but keep an eye on junior Gavin Geleta (150), who fell in the Blood Round, next season. Ellie Kisselbach (fourth at 114) became just the second P'burg female to medal, joining two-time champ Jewel Gonzalez (2019-20). Hawk joined Maury Mascari (1967-68), Mike Rossetti (1973-74) and Brandon Paetzell (2014, '16) as the only two-time runners-up for the 'Liners.

The HWS area, which had 38 qualifiers, went 14-10 in the second round of wrestlebacks, 6-8 in the third and 6-5 in the Blood Round. North Hunterdon sophomore Aidan Yarussi and Warren Hills senior Tyler Redfield -- both at 132 pounds-- were among those to fall one win shy of a medal. Redfield, who handed Yarussi a 6-4 loss in the prelims, was pinned by Weber in 3:22.

Region 3 led the way with 21 medalists, while Region 7 checked in next with 16 placewinners. Region 6 was next with 15, followed by Region 5 and 8 with 14 apiece. Region 1 had 13 and Region 2 had 12. Region 4 was last with seven and the only one with zero state finalists. Region 3 led with eight finalists, followed by Region 2 with six. Region 7 had four, while Region 1 and 6 each had three. Region 5 and 8 had two apiece. Regions 2, 3 and 7 all had three state champs, while Region 5 and 6 had two apiece. Region 8 had one, while Regions 1 and 4 had none. 

Wrestling: Family 1st as Dalling adds to Kitt legacy

ATLANTIC CITY -- Kittatinny senior Ethan Dalling would have preferred to just skip ahead of those opening state tournament matchups. They didn't go well for the most part, but his remarkable ability to bounce back was the catalyst for becoming the third member of his immediate family to medal.

Dalling also made legendary Cougars coach John Gill awfully proud by capping his fine career with a fifth-place finish at 175 pounds in the 92nd State Wrestling Championships on Saturday afternoon at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. He was among nine placewinners overall for the Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex area.

Dalling (2nd from right) is Kittatinny's 49th placewinner

"First matches [of the day here] haven't been great, said Dalling (41-5), who scored a narrow 2-0 decision over Delbarton's Jesse DeNegri in Thursday's prelims before being tech-falled by two-time runner-up Jordan Chapman of Cranford to start off Friday morning in the quarterfinals. "I come back, though, right after I lose, every match."

Indeed. Dalling rebounded from a 10-3 loss to Brock Oizerowitz of Christian Brothers Academy in Saturday morning's consolation semifinals to deck Anthony Verdi of St. Peter's Prep in 4:30 to earn a fifth-place medal. Dalling, who hadn't been past the third round of wrestlebacks in his three previous AC appearances, joined his father, Steve, a three-time state finalist and champion in 1990 and '91, and older brother, Steven, who placed eighth at 152 pounds in 2021, as placewinners for Gill and the Cougars.

"It feels great since all three of us placed," said Dalling, who also avenged one of his regular-season losses by pinning St. Benedict's Prep star Temuulen Mendbileg in the fifth round of wrestlebacks. "It sucked not to place last year, I had a really bad [state] tournament, lost to the 32 seed [3-0 to Benjamin Garcia of Don Bosco Prep at 165 pounds] in the Round of 16. Horrible. I was completely out of it. I knew this was the year I had to place."

Gill, who just wrapped up his 47th season (45 as head coach) at the Sussex County school, wore a huge smile as he talked about Ethan's accomplishments with pride having promised Steve, the first of his eight state champs and 48 medalists who as Gills says, "Put Kittatinny on the wrestling map," to not retire until both of his kids came through the program.

Gill and the team celebrate 700 in the N1, G1 semis

"Father and sons," said Gill, who has no intention of stepping down anytime soon and is set to enter next season 32 wins shy of 700 after guiding the program to its 700th win in 2024-25. 

"Family staying where they grew up and bring the next set of kids up. It is fun. [Steve] could have gone anywhere else -- even then [in the late 1980s], people were switching schools. It's quite flattering and honorable that he trusts me enough. I don't take it for granted. It's very special. 

"I was at their parents' wedding so maybe I'll be at the kids' wedding some time. As an educator it's a good feeling."

Ethan Dalling, who will continue his wrestling career at Bucknell University in the fall, is one of only six, including his dad, to win four district titles for Kittatinny. A three-time region runner-up, he also finished sixth on the school's career wins list at 136-26 -- behind leader Tom Spellman (149), Will Livingston, Derek Valenti and Troy Hernandez (all with 145), and Zach Mafaro (137).

Dalling, a HWS Tournament champ this season, hopes that being the first Kittatinny state medalist since his brother and Jackson Crawn (fourth at 220 in 2021) will help inspire others coming up through the program to keep adding on to the list after producing only five medal winners since 2016. Derek Valenti has the distinction of being the eighth and last champion in 2008, while Hernandez, a runner-up the following year, is the last finalist.

"It's great because Steven was a part of that last group," Dalling said of ending the latest state drought. "Sussex County in general has had a couple of bad years [at states] so hopefully this can get our team going again and get these kids wrestling in the offseason."

Third-place consolations

106 -- Fr. Sean Kenny (32-6), Christian Brothers Academy, d. So. Santino DiMatteo (32-9), Brick Memorial, 4-2.

113 -- Jr. Carmine Sipper (44-5), Caldwell, d. Jr. Anthony Mason (39-6), Southern, 1-0.

120 -- Fr. Tommy Marchetti (33-8), Delbarton, d. So. Richard DeLorenzo II (27-4), Toms River East, 7-5.

126 -- Jr. Anthony DiAndrea (39-3), Watchung Hills, d. Jr. Colton Hagerty (37-8), Washington Township, 3-2.

132 -- Sr. Vincent Paino (33-4), St. Joseph-Montvale, d. Jr. Giovanni Schinina (28-6), St. Peter's Prep, 4-0.

138 -- Sr. Chase Quenault (33-10), Delbarton, d. Jr. Chase Hansen (43-2), Lower Cape May, 5-2.

144 -- So. Sonny Amato (45-2), Rumson-Fair Haven, d. Jr. Anthony Depaul (34-9), St. Augustine, 6-0.

150 -- So. Jackson Weller (42-4), Delran, d. Jr. Michael Craft (36-6), Camden Catholic, 3-1.

157 -- Jr. Kage Jones (39-6), Camden Catholic, d. Sr. Maxwell Nevlin (35-8), St. Peter's Prep, 7-3.

165 -- Jr. Santino Rodriguez (36-6), Don Bosco Prep, d. So. Jake Clayton (41-3), Point Pleasant Boro, 4-0.

175 -- So. Brock Oizerowitz (26-7), Christian Brothers Academy, d. Jr. Jaden Simpson (35-7), 8-2.

190 -- So. Tanner Hodgins (37-8), Howell, d. Jr. Carl Betz (36-4), Delbarton, 6-4.

215 -- Jr. Salvatore Marchese (42-5), Delsea, d. Jr. Nicolas Gonzalez (37-6), Mount Olive, 5-3.

285 -- Jr. Mateo Vinciguerra (43-3), Woodstown, d. Sr. Benjamin Shue (35-8), Bergen Catholic, 8-5.

Fifth-place consolations

106 -- So. Peter Terranova (34-8), Delbarton, d. So. Luke Johnston (38-8), Howell, 7-0.

113 -- Jr. Michael Daly (35-10), Cranford, d. Sr. Zachary Belverio (37-3), Johnson, 10-4.

120 -- Sr. Aundre Hill (40-8), Paulsboro, p. Jr. Joseph Rizzuto (33-9), DePaul, 3:23.

126 -- Jr. Joaquin Duque (41-8), Rumson Fair-Haven, p. Jr. Salvatore Borrometi (35-10), St. Peter's Prep, 1:39.

132 -- Jr. Robert Duffy (28-10), Christian Brothers Academy, forfeit, Sr. Patrick O'Keefe (38-6), St. John Vianney.

138 -- Sr. Adrian DeJesus (16-5), St. Joseph-Montvale, d. Sr. Scottie Sari (37-10), Southern, 7-0.

144 -- Sr. Jake Zaltsman (37-5), St. John Vianney, d. Fr. Nicholas Schwartz (26-17), Delbarton, 6-2.

150 -- Sr. Dezmond Lenaghan (26-7), St. John Vianney, md. Jr. Joseph Ruiz (31-11), St. Peter's Prep, 13-0.

157 -- Jr. Sean Love (36-4), Piscataway, forfeit, Jr. Morgan Schwarz (37-7), St. Joseph-Metuchen.

165 -- Jr. Tyler Whitford (36-6), St. Joseph-Metuchen, d. Sr. Cole Stangle (29-9), St. John Vianney, 4-1.

175 -- Sr. Ethan Dalling (41-5), Kittatinny, p. Jr. Anthony Verdi (35-10), St. Peter's Prep, 4:30.

190 -- Jr. Alexander Reyes (41-6), Holmdel, forfeit, Sr. Kaleb Jackson (25-7), St. Joseph-Montvale.

215 -- So. Anthony Jackson (34-2), Paul VI-Haddonfield, p. Jr. Tyler Palumbo (18-10), Christian Brothers Academy, 2:33.

285 -- Sr. James Lynch (38-5), Toms River East, p. Sr. Ben Szuba (38-9), Brick Memorial, 2:42.

Seventh-place consolations

106 -- Fr. Cade Collins (40-10), Southern, md. Fr. Matthew Mulligan (29-9), 10-2.

113 -- Sr. Dom Digiacomo (19-3), Camden Catholic, md. Jr. Augie Szamreta (37-7), Warren Hills, 13-4. 

120 -- Sr. Anthony Pellegrino (23-7), Seton Hall Prep, md. Sr. James McGinty (35-7), Parsippany Hills, 13-2.

126 -- Sr. Jaden Perez (39-5), Delaware Valley, tf. Sr. Joseph DeAngelo (16-3), Point Pleasant Boro, 15-0, 4:59.

132 -- Sr. Jackson Slotnick (25-3), Williamstown, d. Jr. Dalton Weber (26-6), Pope John, 5-2.

138 -- Fr. Gideon Gonzalez (33-7), Bergen Catholic, d. Jr. Armani McCann (21-5), Jackson Liberty, 7-1.

144 -- Sr. Luke Geleta (40-3), Phillipsburg, d. Jr. Seach Hibler (23-7), Paramus Catholic, 10-9.

150 -- Jr. Rhett Washleski (41-5), Hunterdon Central, d. Jr. Sowzrawca Tsay (25-11), Bergen Catholic, 4-1. 

157 -- So. Ryan Gavrish (31-11), St. John Vianney, forfeit, Jr. Trevor Jones (32-9), Delbarton.

165 -- Sr. Jordan Ayyash (30-6), Jackson Liberty, d. Sr. Cristian Gioia (40-6), Governor Livingston, 4-2.

175 -- Sr. Temuulen Mendbileg (40-5), St. Benedict's Prep, d. Sr. Genti Idrizi (26-13), 13-6. 

190 -- Jr. Nevin Mattessich (36-5), Don Bosco Prep, p. Jr. Jake Zemsky (38-5), Westfield, 2:43.

215 -- Sr. Nathan Faxon (41-3), Governor Livingston, forfeit, Jr. Rocco Salerno (26-3), Seton Hall Prep.

285 -- Jr. Thomas Borgia (43-3), West Morris, md. Sr. Clifford Dirkes (36-5), Ocean City, 9-1.

'I love P'burg': Geleta, Hawk among 'Liner greats

ATLANTIC CITY -- It probably won't sink in right away, but when Phillipsburg seniors Luke Geleta and Gavin Hawk take a moment to reflect on what they were able to accomplish over four years on the high school mats, it should be with a tremendous sense of pride.

Though neither achieved their ultimate goal of winning an individual state title, Geleta and Hawk will forever be linked as two of the most successful Stateliners to ever don a Garnet and Grey singlet. The Nos. 1 and 2 career leaders for wins also earned their second state medals on Day 3 of the 92nd State Championships at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. 

Hawk is P'burg's 62nd state finalist (Tom Smith/Shore Sports Insider)

"We haven't really talked about it because we still had more to come for both of us," said Geleta (40-3), who finished seventh at 144 pounds with a 10-9 decision over Paramus Catholic's Seach Hibler, a 2024 runner-up. "Now that [it's over], we'll definitely be talking about it and looking back at just how awesome it was that we could accomplish those great things."

The list is a lengthy one. 

Hawk (40-2), who fell in the Blood Round in 2022 and '23, suffered his second straight state finals loss -- 3-2 to Southern's Wyatt Stout in the ultimate tiebreaker at 157 pounds -- ending the Stateliner's 32-match win streak dating to a 16-4 loss to two-time PIAA Class AAA state champion and Virginia Tech commit Collin Gaj of Quakertown in the Bethlehem Holiday Classic finals on Dec. 29. The Princeton University recruit was looking to become Phillipsburg's 34th champion and first since Brandon Hull won at 220 pounds in 2012.

After trading escapes in regulation, Hawk and Stout went into overtime. Stout, a Penn recruit, whose father, John, is a former Southern head coach, needed just five seconds to escape in the first 30-second rideout, while Hawk got out in just four in the second session. Since he had scored the first point, Hawk opted to take bottom in the ultimate. He appeared to be on the verge of getting out with 19 seconds left, but a questionable potentially dangerous call halted action with Stout briefly throwing in a leg as they both stood up. Stout sealed the win with a couple of strong mat returns in the closing seconds.

Geleta (far right) is among 154 state placers for P'burg

For Geleta, his performance came with a customary sense of satisfaction after falling here in the Blood Round as a junior coming off a sixth-place finish in 2023. It also capped a stellar career, which included three district and county titles, as well as joining Hawk as a Region 1 champ this season after three straight runner-up finishes. Geleta and Hawk also joined former state champion and head coach Bob Jiorle (1968-71) as the only 'Liners to appear in four region finals. 

"It feels great to be [back] on the podium, but I didn't achieve my goal," Geleta said, just shortly after winning his final high school bout on Saturday afternoon. "After four years, I'm beyond satisfied with my career and [I thank] my coaches and teammates for supporting me.

"For the next level, I'll be training even harder considering I didn't get my goal [of a high school state title]."

Hawk, a two-time region champion and OW this season, is among only nine to win four district titles for P'burg and became the school's first to win four Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex Tournament titles earlier this season. Geleta is the only other 'Liner and one of just 10 in the tri-county area to win at least three.

Geleta, who lists Columbia and Binghamton among his college choices, finished second on the P'burg wins list at 142-28, while Hawk, who also holds the pins record with 93, sits on top at 150-21, passing former state runner-up Brian Meyer (131-35), who set the previous program mark in 2018. Hawk is also Warren County's career leader and ranks third behind Ryan Pomrinca of North Hunterdon (155) and Lewis Fernandes (153) on the H-W list. Geleta is seventh in the group and tied with Hackettstown's Alex Carida for third all-time in Warren County, behind Belvidere's Quinn Melofchik (147).

Hawk and Geleta after winning Region 1 titles

With 292 career wins, seven district and county titles, three region and four state medals, Geleta and Hawk rank right up there among the all-timers at New Jersey's most storied wrestling program. But most importantly, they are two of the most humble and respectful young men you will ever come across.

"We pushed each other every day, working on being better wrestlers and better people, too," Geleta said. "Iron sharpens iron and that's what we've been doing the last four years. The results have shown."

The numbers don't lie. Phillipsburg will certainly miss two of its favorite sons, who helped lead the 'Liners, who finished No. 13 in the final NJWWA Top 20, to an overall mark of 66-9 the past four seasons, along with four Skyland Conference and sectional titles, and four state championship appearances, including a Group 5 title in 2022.

"The town of Phillipsburg is like no other," Geleta said. "You wrestle at Phillipsburg, you play football at Phillipsburg, every sport is a big deal. You have so many people supporting you, which shows in the results we've had in the past how every many years. It's awesome being in an environment like that ... always a packed crowd, all of our friends in the [student] section cheering us on. I love P'burg."

Championships

113 -- So. Cameron Sontz (39-0), Delbarton, d. Jr. Charles Esposito (36-9), St. Joseph-Montvale, 4-2.

120 -- So. Paul Kenny (33-2), Christian Brothers Academy, d. Jr. Johnathon McGinty (34-6), St. Joseph-Montvale, 1-0.

126 -- Sr. Anthony Knox (37-0), St. John Vianney, md. Jr. Nathan Braun (23-7), Bergen Catholic, 18-4.

132 -- Jr. Sammy Spaulding (41-3), Camden Catholic, d. So. Ryan DeGeorge (32-10), Delbarton, 9-6 SV. 

138 -- Sr. Caedyn Ricciardi (30-1), St. Peter's Prep, p. Sr. Carson Walsh (36-3), Pope John, :57.

144 -- Sr. Blase Mele (31-2), Princeton, d. Sr. Donny Almeyda (20-1), Pope John, 7-1.

150 -- Jr. Jayden James (43-0), Delbarton, p. Sr. Jamar Dixon Jr. (38-4), Delsea, 1:50.

157 -- Sr. Wyatt Stout (38-2), Southern, d. Sr. Gavin Hawk (40-2), Phillipsburg, 3-2 UTB.

165 -- Sr. Alessio Perentin (42-1), Delbarton, md. Sr. AJ Falcone (32-6), Christian Brothers Academy, 12-3.

175 -- Sr. Ryan Burton (40-1), St. Joseph-Montvale, md. Sr. Jordan Chapman (39-5), Cranford, 20-6.

190 -- Sr. Harvey Ludington (41-0), Brick Memorial, d. Sr. Vincenzo LaValle (42-4), Hanover Park, 7-3.

215 -- Sr. Anthony Harris (18-0), St. Joseph-Montvale, tf. Jr. Dante DeLuca (30-1), Don Bosco Prep, 21-5, 3:54.

285 -- Sr. Rocco Dellagata (32-0), St. John Vianney, d. Jr. Cristian Alvarez (33-3), St. Joseph-Montvale, 7-1.

106 -- Fr. JoJo Burke (37-3), St. Joseph-Montvale, d. So. Killian Coluccio (32-2), Lacey, 4-3.

Outstanding Wrestler (Donald Ringler Award) -- Ryan Burton, St. Joseph-Montvale.

Coach of the Year -- Sean Romano, Caldwell.

Third-place consolations

106 -- Fr. Sean Kenny (32-6), Christian Brothers Academy, d. So. Santino DiMatteo (32-9), Brick Memorial, 4-2.

113 -- Jr. Carmine Sipper (44-5), Caldwell, d. Jr. Anthony Mason (39-6), Southern, 1-0.

120 -- Fr. Tommy Marchetti (33-8), Delbarton, d. So. Richard DeLorenzo II (27-4), Toms River East, 7-5.

126 -- Jr. Anthony DiAndrea (39-3), Watchung Hills, d. Jr. Colton Hagerty (37-8), Washington Township, 3-2.

132 -- Sr. Vincent Paino (33-4), St. Joseph-Montvale, d. Jr. Giovanni Schinina (28-6), St. Peter's Prep, 4-0.

138 -- Sr. Chase Quenault (33-10), Delbarton, d. Jr. Chase Hansen (43-2), Lower Cape May, 5-2.

144 -- So. Sonny Amato (45-2), Rumson-Fair Haven, d. Jr. Anthony Depaul (34-9), St. Augustine, 6-0.

150 -- So. Jackson Weller (42-4), Delran, d. Jr. Michael Craft (36-6), Camden Catholic, 3-1.

157 -- Jr. Kage Jones (39-6), Camden Catholic, d. Sr. Maxwell Nevlin (35-8), St. Peter's Prep, 7-3.

165 -- Jr. Santino Rodriguez (36-6), Don Bosco Prep, d. So. Jake Clayton (41-3), Point Pleasant Boro, 4-0.

175 -- So. Brock Oizerowitz (26-7), Christian Brothers Academy, d. Jr. Jaden Simpson (35-7), 8-2.

190 -- So. Tanner Hodgins (37-8), Howell, d. Jr. Carl Betz (36-4), Delbarton, 6-4.

215 -- Jr. Salvatore Marchese (42-5), Delsea, d. Jr. Nicolas Gonzalez (37-6), Mount Olive, 5-3.

285 -- Jr. Mateo Vinciguerra (43-3), Woodstown, d. Sr. Benjamin Shue (35-8), Bergen Catholic, 8-5.

Fifth-place consolations

106 -- So. Peter Terranova (34-8), Delbarton, d. So. Luke Johnston (38-8), Howell, 7-0.

113 -- Jr. Michael Daly (35-10), Cranford, d. Sr. Zachary Belverio (37-3), Johnson, 10-4.

120 -- Sr. Aundre Hill (40-8), Paulsboro, p. Jr. Joseph Rizzuto (33-9), DePaul, 3:23.

126 -- Jr. Joaquin Duque (41-8), Rumson Fair-Haven, p. Jr. Salvatore Borrometi (35-10), St. Peter's Prep, 1:39.

132 -- Jr. Robert Duffy (28-10), Christian Brothers Academy, forfeit, Sr. Patrick O'Keefe (38-6), St. John Vianney.

138 -- Sr. Adrian DeJesus (16-5), St. Joseph-Montvale, d. Sr. Scottie Sari (37-10), Southern, 7-0.

144 -- Sr. Jake Zaltsman (37-5), St. John Vianney, d. Fr. Nicholas Schwartz (26-17), Delbarton, 6-2.

150 -- Sr. Dezmond Lenaghan (26-7), St. John Vianney, md. Jr. Joseph Ruiz (31-11), St. Peter's Prep, 13-0.

157 -- Jr. Sean Love (36-4), Piscataway, forfeit, Jr. Morgan Schwarz (37-7), St. Joseph-Metuchen.

165 -- Jr. Tyler Whitford (36-6), St. Joseph-Metuchen, d. Sr. Cole Stangle (29-9), St. John Vianney, 4-1.

175 -- Sr. Ethan Dalling (41-5), Kittatinny, p. Jr. Anthony Verdi (35-10), St. Peter's Prep, 4:30.

190 -- Jr. Alexander Reyes (41-6), Holmdel, forfeit, Sr. Kaleb Jackson (25-7), St. Joseph-Montvale.

215 -- So. Anthony Jackson (34-2), Paul VI-Haddonfield, p. Jr. Tyler Palumbo (18-10), Christian Brothers Academy, 2:33.

285 -- Sr. James Lynch (38-5), Toms River East, p. Sr. Ben Szuba (38-9), Brick Memorial, 2:42.

Seventh-place consolations

106 -- Fr. Cade Collins (40-10), Southern, md. Fr. Matthew Mulligan (29-9), 10-2.

113 -- Sr. Dom Digiacomo (19-3), Camden Catholic, md. Jr. Augie Szamreta (37-7), Warren Hills, 13-4. 

120 -- Sr. Anthony Pellegrino (23-7), Seton Hall Prep, md. Sr. James McGinty (35-7), Parsippany Hills, 13-2.

126 -- Sr. Jaden Perez (39-5), Delaware Valley, tf. Sr. Joseph DeAngelo (16-3), Point Pleasant Boro, 15-0, 4:59.

132 -- Sr. Jackson Slotnick (25-3), Williamstown, d. Jr. Dalton Weber (26-6), Pope John, 5-2.

138 -- Fr. Gideon Gonzalez (33-7), Bergen Catholic, d. Jr. Armani McCann (21-5), Jackson Liberty, 7-1.

144 -- Sr. Luke Geleta (40-3), Phillipsburg, d. Jr. Seach Hibler (23-7), Paramus Catholic, 10-9.

150 -- Jr. Rhett Washleski (41-5), Hunterdon Central, d. Jr. Sowzrawca Tsay (25-11), Bergen Catholic, 4-1. 

157 -- So. Ryan Gavrish (31-11), St. John Vianney, forfeit, Jr. Trevor Jones (32-9), Delbarton.

165 -- Sr. Jordan Ayyash (30-6), Jackson Liberty, d. Sr. Cristian Gioia (40-6), Governor Livingston, 4-2.

175 -- Sr. Temuulen Mendbileg (40-5), St. Benedict's Prep, d. Sr. Genti Idrizi (26-13), 13-6. 

190 -- Jr. Nevin Mattessich (36-5), Don Bosco Prep, p. Jr. Jake Zemsky (38-5), Westfield, 2:43.

215 -- Sr. Nathan Faxon (41-3), Governor Livingston, forfeit, Jr. Rocco Salerno (26-3), Seton Hall Prep.

285 -- Jr. Thomas Borgia (43-3), West Morris, md. Sr. Clifford Dirkes (36-5), Ocean City, 9-1.

Wrestling: Poalillo raises bar as HP's 2x girls champ

ATLANTIC CITY -- As the face of High Point girls wrestling, sensational sophomore Ella Poalillo is gladly bearing the responsibility to help forge the same tradition as its storied boys program. 

Safe to say that there is no one more capable of doing so as Poalillo continues to inspire teammates and make a case as New Jersey's top pound-for-pound female wrestler by becoming the Wildcats' and Sussex County's first two-time champion in the seventh annual Girls State Tournament on Saturday afternoon at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. 

Poalillo (2nd from back left) and Changaris (3rd from bottom left) with all the champs

Poalillo (35-0) capped one of the most dominant seasons for any lady wrestler in the Garden State by decking Middletown South's Thea Rowland, who was seeking her second straight title, with a nasty arm bar in 3:17 to win the title at 152 pounds.

"It feels pretty good," said Poalillo, who is the only High Point wrestler to win titles in their first two high school seasons and one of two 2024 champs to repeat along with Hanover Park OW Gabriella Conte at 107. "I'm really excited for the years to come."

High Point freshman phenom Elle Changaris won her first title and also derailed another 2024 champ in their bid to repeat with a wild 19-14 decision over Howell's Kylie Gudewitz at 114 pounds. The two titles for one team in a single state tournament are also new program and county marks. Sussex had four finalists for the first time as well with Newton-Kittatinny stars Eva Barry (138), a two-time runner-up, and Paige DeCaro (165) falling short in their bids to become the first female winners for their school.

In all, the Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex area took home 13 state medals on the girls' side, including five others from Sussex County -- Angelina Qualitieri of Lenape Valley (fifth at 100), Paige Weiss of Sparta (fourth at 120), Stella Ramos of Newton-Kittatinny (fourth at 152) and Vernon's Rowan Waite (seventh at 185) and Caitlin Hart (fifth at 235). 

Delaware Valley's Lydia Bagley (seventh at 100) and Emmy Hotz (seventh at 235), Hunterdon Central's Emma Peake (fifth at 120) and Phillipsburg's Ellie Kisselbach (fourth at 114) were first-time placers.

Poalillo improved to 64-3 in her career

Poalillo, who started the quest to become High Point's first four-time champion with her title win at 138 pounds (3-1 over Barry) last season, had little trouble repeating against a clearly overmatched Rowland (26-2). Poalillo led, 3-1, after converting a first-period takedown and went to work on top in the second after a reversal -- turning her opponent twice with savage arm bars and eventually securing a fall.

"My go-to [move]," Poalillo said of the pinning combo. "I've been drilling it the whole season and I'm really excited to do it in the state finals match."

There isn't much that Poalillo, a Beast of the East and two-time North 1 region champ, hasn't done in an impressive two-year career. This season, she tallied 27 pins, four technical falls and one major decision to go with three forfeits. Only one bout -- a 12-1 victory in the HWS Tournament finals over Ramos -- went the full six minutes, while Poalillo logged two pins and one tech in three state tournament wins. 

"I kind of like the pressure that's on me," Poalillo said of being one of the biggest title favorites. "I haven't had [an offensive] point scored on me all year, so I feel like I have to keep that reputation. I'm really excited to have a chance for [two more state titles] the next two years."

Changaris earned HP's 15th girls state medal since 2019

Poalillo aspires to bigger things after high school, especially in freestyle, which is the competitive system used in the women's collegiate ranks. She hopes it will one day be implemented across the high school ranks.

"[I plan to] keep training in freestyle, it's a lot more exciting," Poalillo said of her offseason regimen. "I wish [high school girls wrestling] was freestyle, it's my strong suit actually. I would love to see all these girls wrestling freestyle. It [will offer] so many better opportunities and help them in college."

High Point coach John Gardner, who just wrapped up his first full season on the girls' side, is hoping the individual success of his biggest star, can also help build a consistent winner from a team standpoint.

"[Poalillo] is a positive force and very much a wrestler/coach in the [practice] room," said Gardner, who's been on the bench for 14 of the school's 17 individual state titles (four girls), while also winning a state gold at 189 pounds in 1990.

"She's a smart girl who understands what we're trying to do. I think individually, she has some very lofty goals, but I think she realizes that we can have a pretty good program, too, if kids just keep believing in the process."  

With her goal of winning four state gold medals halfway complete, Poalillo is eager for the opportunity next season to join Wildcat boys greats Nick Francavilla (2009-11) and Brian Soldano (2020-22) as the program's only three-time winners.

"It's a little overwhelming now, but I'm really excited to continue, and continue to grow and come back next year," Poalillo said. "I love wrestling in Atlantic City and I'm so glad they brought the girls back here [after a three-year hiatus at Phillipsburg High School from 2021-23]. I'm proud to be a part of the girls wrestling community."

Championships

152 -- So. Ella Poalillo (35-0), High Point, p. So. Thea Rowland (26-2), Middletown South, 3:17.

165 -- Sr. Solaris Paul (24-1), Paterson Kennedy, d. Sr. Paige DeCaro (35-3), Newton-Kittatinny, 7-1.

185 -- Sr. Shaelie Young (30-3), Gateway-Woodbury, p. Jr. Jade Hahn (26-2), Central Regional, 4:41.

235 -- Sr. Caroline Biegel (10-3), DePaul, md. Jr. Saharia Quamina (28-4), Bloomfield, 9-1.

100 -- Jr. Francesca Gusfa (17-1), Ridgewood, d. Jr. Madison Rucci (42-2), Jackson Memorial, 11-5.

107 -- So. Gabriella Conte (15-1), Hanover Park, tf. Jr. Princessstorm Woody (21-1), Trenton Central, 16-0, 3:49.

114 -- Fr. Elle Changaris (37-1), High Point, d. Jr. Kylie Gudewitz (36-1), Howell, 19-14.

120 -- Jr. Reagan Roxas (33-0), Kingsway, d. So. Jocelyn Danbe (20-3), River Dell, 7-4.

126 -- Sr. Jada Pichardo (32-0), Pennsauken, d. Sr. Alexa Cilliotta (22-3), Montville, 1-0.

132 -- So. Lamiah Berry (24-5), Absegami, p. Fr. Lily Massenzio (19-1), DePaul, 2:39.

138 -- Sr. Saniyah Queen (32-2), St. Thomas Aquinas, d. Jr. Eva Barry (31-2), Newton-Kittatinny, 12-6.

145 -- Jr. Olivia Georges (18-0), DePaul, p. Sr. Sonia Balwas (20-5), Paramus, 3:08.

Outstanding Wrestler Award -- Gabriella Conte, Hanover Park.

Coach of the Year Award -- Eric Bollette, Newton-Kittatinny.

Wrestling: 'Cats 'wild' about Changaris' 1st state title

ATLANTIC CITY -- High Point freshman Elle Changaris wouldn't have it any other way. The crazier a match is the better in her mind. Who can argue with the end result? 

True to form, Changaris won a 19-14 thriller over returning Howell champion Kylie Gudewitz to capture the 114-pound title in one of the most entertaining bouts of all time in the New Jersey Girls State Tournament on Saturday afternoon at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.

Changaris earned HP's 15th state medal overall

"I wanted it to be wild," said Changaris (37-1), who finished her rookie season with a 30-match win streak after being pinned by Calli Gilchrist of Choate Rosemary Hall in the Girls Beast of the East finals on Dec. 20. "I wanted to put her down and I sort of did, I guess. I knew it wasn't going to be as easy as my matches from [during the season]. I knew if I continued to work hard and put my mind to it, and don't think about it too hard. Just do it."

High Point pulled off a program and Sussex County first on the girls' side with two winners in a single state tournament as sophomore sensation Ella Poalillo started off the finals by pinning Middletown South's Thea Rowland with a vicious arm bar in 3:17 to become the Wildcats' first two-time female champ. Noelle Gaffney won the first of four gold medals (165 pounds in 2022) for the 'Cats, while Sparta's Paige Weiss (100 pounds in '23) is the only other female Sussex wrestler to win a state title.  

Changaris (37-1), a North 1 region champ, visualized adding her name to a list that includes 13 boys championships, including girls head coach John Gardner (189 pounds in 1990), when first arriving at the high school.

"I'm so excited for my name to be right there," Changaris said. "Since I first came to high school and walked past that wall [outside the gym] where all the plaques are, I knew my name was going to be on there. Now, it's going to be there."

Changaris came out blazing with a five-point move to put Gudewitz (36-1), who won at this weight class in 2024, in an early first-period hole. Up 7-0 in the third, Changaris hit a headlock for seven more and was on the verge of a technical fall when Gudewitz reversed Changaris to her back and cut the gap to 14-7. An escape for Changaris and a takedown for Gudewitz made it 15-10, as Changaris got two more reversals in the third to help seal the win.

"I knew there was a chance she could come [back] because I don't always wrestle the third period," Changaris said when asked why she opted to go for big moves despite a commanding lead. "It's very rare that I do. My breathing, my wind is not fit for three periods, yet."

Changaris and Poalillo (2nd and 4th from right) with the other champs

That's understandable considering that Changaris went the full six minutes for only the second time this season and first in nearly three months (7-3 win at the Beast of the East). In all, she racked up 29 pins, five technical falls and two regular decisions to go with two forfeit victories.

"I knew if I had the mindset of I'm going to win ... I'm going to win," Changaris said. "I came out on top and it feels awesome."

Poalillo, who could stake a claim as the best pound-for-pound wrestler in the girls tournament, became a role model for Changaris, who credits her teammate for helping to make her title dream a reality.

"During the season, I was trying to focus on myself and not look to other people," Changaris said. "We were the only ones [who qualified for High Point] and we shared a [hotel] room. When we first got to the room, I realized this was real and I wanted to be like her, and use her freshman year as an example for myself. 

"She helped me through almost everything -- directions on where to go and how it is [being in AC], and what's going to happen. I think if I didn't have her here, it would have been way more stressful."

Wrestling has its share of sacrifices, none greater perhaps than refraining from indulging on favorite foods. So what else does one do after satisfying a hunger on the mats? 

"I think I'm going to go eat a cheeseburger," she said. "The weight cut was worth every minute of me standing on that podium and wrestling in that match."

Championships

152 -- So. Ella Poalillo (35-0), High Point, p. So. Thea Rowland (26-2), Middletown South, 3:17.

165 -- Sr. Solaris Paul (24-1), Paterson Kennedy, d. Sr. Paige DeCaro (35-3), Newton-Kittatinny, 7-1.

185 -- Sr. Shaelie Young (30-3), Gateway-Woodbury, p. Jr. Jade Hahn (26-2), Central Regional, 4:41.

235 -- Sr. Caroline Biegel (10-3), DePaul, md. Jr. Saharia Quamina (28-4), Bloomfield, 9-1.

100 -- Jr. Francesca Gusfa (17-1), Ridgewood, d. Jr. Madison Rucci (42-2), Jackson Memorial, 11-5.

107 -- So. Gabriella Conte (15-1), Hanover Park, tf. Jr. Princessstorm Woody (21-1), Trenton Central, 16-0, 3:49.

114 -- Fr. Elle Changaris (37-1), High Point, d. Jr. Kylie Gudewitz (36-1), Howell, 19-14.

120 -- Jr. Reagan Roxas (33-0), Kingsway, d. So. Jocelyn Danbe (20-3), River Dell, 7-4.

126 -- Sr. Jada Pichardo (32-0), Pennsauken, d. Sr. Alexa Cilliotta (22-3), Montville, 1-0.

132 -- So. Lamiah Berry (24-5), Absegami, p. Fr. Lily Massenzio (19-1), DePaul, 2:39.

138 -- Sr. Saniyah Queen (32-2), St. Thomas Aquinas, d. Jr. Eva Barry (31-2), Newton-Kittatinny, 12-6.

145 -- Jr. Olivia Georges (18-0), DePaul, p. Sr. Sonia Balwas (20-5), Paramus, 3:08.

Outstanding Wrestler Award -- Gabriella Conte, Hanover Park.

Coach of the Year Award -- Eric Bollette, Newton-Kittatinny.