Monday, December 17, 2018

Wrestling: Kittatinny at High Point preview, lineups

What: Kittatinny Cougars at High Point Wildcats.

Where: High Point Regional High School, Wantage Twp.

When: Tuesday, 7 p.m.

Records: Kittatinny 0-0; High Point 0-0.

Conference: Northwest Jersey Athletic Freedom Division.

Rankings (Open Mike area): Kittatinny No. 9; High Point No. 4.

Coaches: John Gill (564-180-5, 39th season (13-23-1 vs. HP); John Gardner (346-100-2, 21st season (9-10 vs. Kitt).

Series history: High Point owns a 27-14-1 edge dating to 1976, but has won just two of the previous five matchups. Kittatinny, which has won two in a row in this series, posted a 36-25 win at home in the last matchup two seasons ago, as the teams did not meet last season for the first time -- and for just the second during the regular season -- in series history. The 'Cats last came out on top with a 32-31 win in the North 1, Group 2 quarterfinals in 2015 -- the first postseason match between the longtime rivals. Kittatinny snapped a seven-match skid in the series with a 35-18 win at home in 2013. Prior to that stretch, the Cougars won seven straight from 1999-2005.

Probable lineups (Kittatinny wrestlers listed first with season records in parentheses):

106 -- Fr.  Shane Nelson (2-1) vs. Fr. Clayton Utter (3-0).

113 -- Open vs. Jr. Devon Liebl (3-0).

120 -- Sr. Mike Nelson (1-2) vs. Sr. Devin Flannery (2-0).

126 -- So. Patrick Franco (2-1) vs. Sr. Brandon LaRue (3-0).

132 -- Sr. Nile Mattar (1-2) vs. So. Josh Gervey (2-1).

138 -- Sr. Derek Molfetto (1-2) vs. Jr. Billy Talmadge (3-0).

145 -- Sr. Brian Hanna (2-1) vs. Sr. Nick Auer (1-2).

152 -- Jr. Kyle Raposo (0-2) vs. So. Alex Buchwald (4-1).

160 -- Jr. Gian Knippenberg (0-3) vs. Fr. Brian Soldano (3-0).

170 -- Sr. Blake Dippel (1-2) vs. Jr. PJ Soldano (3-1).

182 -- Sr. Zach Mafaro (0-0) or Jr. Austin Smith (0-1) vs. Sr. Jonathan Morris (2-1).

195 -- Jr. Robert Bruce (3-1) or Z. Mafaro vs. Sr. Grayson Sabo (0-0).

220 -- So. Jackson Crawn (2-1) vs. Sr. Andrew Lewis (0-0).

285 -- Fr. Brycen Mafaro (2-1) vs. So. Chris Hendershot (0-2).

Breakdown: Good to see these teams squaring off again after last season's hiccup in the series. This one doesn't figure to be a nail-biter, but it does have conference implications in the new-look NJAC Freedom Division, which also includes Newton. Kittatinny had been housed in the Colonial Division for several seasons, and that was a big part of why a match with High Point did not come off in 2017-18. Cougars are a bit shorthanded with no one at 113 pounds and junior Jacob Mafaro (220) not officially with the team. The 'Cats rate as heavy favorites behind a strong set of lower weights, and they'll be favored from 106 through 138 (except 132, which we'll call a tossup) and from 152 to 170, as well as 182 or 195, wherever Z. Mafaro doesn't go. That's nine weights, with a strong potential for bonus points in at least six. Kittatinny gets the nod at 145, 220 (slight edge), 285 and whichever weight Z. Mafaro goes, though he didn't compete in the Caldwell Tournament on Saturday. Even at full strength, the Cougars would be hard pressed to keep this close as the 'Cats simply have too much down low.

Prediction: High Point, 43-16.
Posted by Mike Weilamann at 7:01 PM 0 comments

Saturday, December 15, 2018

Wrestling: Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex rankings

We're off and running in the 2018-19 high school wrestling season and we have several interesting dual meets on tap this week.

One of the area's most storied rivalries takes place on Tuesday when Kittatinny travels to High Point for a key Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference Freedom Division matchup at 7 p.m.

It's really a shame this one is so early in the season. The Cougars were without a few starters at the Caldwell Tournament on Saturday, most notably senior Zach Mafaro, who finished sixth in the state tournament last season at 182 pounds, while junior Jacob Mafaro (220) has still not joined the team coming off a fine football season.

Meanwhile, High Point, behind a strong contingent of lower weights, rates as a heavy favorite even with Kittatinny at full strength. We will preview that match here on Monday, as the 'Cats have a huge week with Southern, last season's Group 5 runner-up, slated to make the long trek to Wantage next Saturday.

It was great to see tradition being celebrated on Friday night as Warren Hills rolled to a 44-21 win over North Warren in a match held at the Warren Hills Middle School (the former Washington High School where legendary coach John Goles and his teams made New Jersey history). First-year coach Dave Sbriscia is making a huge effort to get the Blue Streaks alumni and community involved with the storied program, which had fallen off a bit in recent years.

"This is Washington-Warren Hills. We're a wrestling school," Sbriscia said after picking up his first win. "We need to get back to that toughness, and I think we showed that tonight. It was an awesome environment to wrestle in."

Lewis Fernandes on top of the podium at 285 pounds last season.
Warren Hills will host Voorhees on Wednesday night in a matchup that should give the winner a leg up in the new-look Skyland Conference Valley Division race.

The Vikings feature returning state champion Lewis Fernandes at heavyweight, as he bids to become the school's first two-time winner and its all-time leader in victories this season.

The Streaks will also unveil their new mat and an updated banner commemorating the program's seven 100-match winners -- Dave Richmond (124-17 from 2002-06), Max Nauta (123-29 from 2011-15), Ryan Kanewski (110-31 from 1993-97), Andrew Pacheco (105-22 from 2011-15), Matt Valli (105-23 from 2013-17), Sean Smith (101-40 from 2003-07) and Doug Detrick (100-7-1 from 1988-92).
On Friday, one of Hunterdon County's long-running rivalries renews as Hunterdon Central travels to North Hunterdon. The Red Devils are loaded for a run at the Group 5 championship with one of the most balanced lineups around. Coach Jon Cantagallo-Rohm's team will be a tough out this season.

Rounding out the week is Phillipsburg traveling to Newton for an independent matchup at Henry Boresch Memorial Gymnasium. The Braves, who own an 8-7-1 edge in the all-time series, including a 31-27 win early in the 2009-10 season in the last meeting at Newton, gave the Stateliners a scare in a 38-29 loss at P'burg last season in a match that came down to the final two bouts.

Now, onto our first set of area rankings:

1. Hunterdon Central (0-0) -- Red Devils opened the season with a first-place finish at the Caldwell Tournament on Saturday behind six champions -- Brett Ungar (106), Jack Bauer (126), Pasquale Vizzoni (145), Vincent Romaniello (152), Norman Cella (160) and Lukas Bakerian (220). In addition, Colton Washleski (120) and Dan Furmato (170) finished second.

Up next: Franklin at home on Wednesday; at North Hunterdon on Friday; Hillsborough at Middletown North on Saturday.

2. Pope John (4-0) -- Lions impressed in their four wins at the rugged Kingsway Duals -- handing Delbarton a 47-29 loss in the championship match to avenge a 41-29 loss to the Morris County school last season. Coach Mark Piotrowsky's team also rolled to a 50-22 win over St. Joseph-Montvale, while beating Brother Martin (La.) (37-30) and Sun Valley (Pa.) (65-12).

Up next: at Beast of the East Tournament on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 23.

3. Phillipsburg (0-0) -- Stateliners finished fourth in the tough King of the Mountain Tournament, as seniors Travis Jones (second at 132) and Cody Harrison (third at 152) were the highest finishers, while James Day (fifth at 106), Kyle Tino (sixth at 145) and Gage Horvath (sixth at 220) also placed for P'burg.

Up next: at Hillsborough on Wednesday; at Newton on Saturday.
4. High Point (0-0) -- 'Cats crowned six champions in rolling to the team championship at the Colt Classic, as Clayton Utter (106), Devon Liebl (113), Devin Flannery (120), Brandon LaRue (126), Billy Talmadge (138) and Brian Soldano (160) won titles, while Josh Gervey (132) was second. Coach John Gardner's team was without starters -- Grayson Sabo (195) and Andrew Lewis (220).

Up next: Kittatinny at home on Tuesday; Roxbury and Southern at home on Saturday.

5. Newton (0-0) -- Braves finished second behind Mendham in the Battle of the Bay Tournament at Bayonne on Saturday. Senior Wyatt McCarthy claimed the 152-pound title and became the ninth wrestler in program history to reach 100 career wins, while Michael Freda (138) and Luke Fischer (285) also won titles. Danny Cleary (113) and Matthew Rosa (132) were runners-up.

Up next: at Sparta on Tuesday; Hackettstown at home on Thursday; Phillipsburg at home on Saturday.

6. North Hunterdon (0-0) -- Lions, led by champions Frank Diesso (113) and Evan Klimas (138), finished third in the Neptune Classic behind Jackson Memorial and Long Branch. Finishing in third place were Drew Doscher (132), Luke Hanlon (145), Michael Wilson (160) and Lorenzo Becceril (220).

Up next: Ridge at home on Wednesday; Hunterdon Central at home on Friday; Emerson-Park Ridge at Pascack Valley on Saturday.

7. Voorhees (0-0) -- Vikings finished fifth at the Morris Knolls Tournament. Fernandes was the lone champion and registered three pins in a total time of 54 seconds, including an 8-second fall in the opening round. Aidan Taylor (126) and Sam Huff (220) were third-place finishers.

Up next: at Warren Hills on Wednesday; New Providence at home on Friday; Pequannock and Secaucus at Randolph on Saturday.

8. Warren Hills (1-0) -- Blue Streaks followed up a 44-21 win over North Warren on Friday night with a fifth-place finish at the Nottingham Tournament on Saturday. Senior Duro Ajayi won the title at 285 and Nick Hildebrant was second at 160, while Greg Slivka (120) and Logan Nauta (138) were third-place finishers.

Up next: Voorhees at home on Wednesday; Demarest and Mahwah at Cresskill on Saturday.

9. Kittatinny (0-0) -- Cougars, who are a little short-handed to start the season, finished fourth at the Caldwell Tournament. Sophomore Jackson Crawn (220) and freshman Brycen Mafaro (285) were the lone finalists and finished second. Shane Nelson (106) and Brian Hanna (145) placed third. Coach John Gill's team needs four wins to reach 600 as a program.

Up next: at High Point on Tuesday; Kinnelon and Wayne Valley at West Milford; at Wayne Hills on Saturday.
10. Delaware Valley (0-0) -- Terriers finished second in their own Wendy Pandy-Leh Tournament, just one point behind behind Ocean Township. A.J. DeRosa won the 138-pound title and collected his 100th career win, while Gage Crater (132) and Anthony DeRosa (152) also won titles.

Up next: at Hopewell Valley on Tuesday; Somerville at home on Wednesday.
Posted by Mike Weilamann at 11:09 PM 0 comments

Friday, December 14, 2018

Wrestling: Streaks turn back clock, beat Patriots

WASHINGTON -- Warren Hills senior Nick Galka seemed to sum it up best on a night when former Blue Streaks alums were on hand to help celebrate one of New Jersey's most storied programs.

"It was pretty cool," said Galka, whose first-period pin at 220 pounds helped spark the Blue Streaks to a season-opening 44-21 victory over North Warren on Friday at the Middle School gym on the campus of the old Washington High School.

Warren Hills warms up before Friday night's match.
"They wrestled here and they came back to watch me wrestle here. It was a privilege to wrestle in front of those older guys."

Among the notables on hand were former state champion Dan Slack (heavyweight in 1977) and state runner-up John Rhinehart (1969), along with Dave Detrick (three-time district champion from 1965-67) and Rob Rhinehart (district and region champion in 1976).

The victory was the first for rookie head coach and former Warren Hills wrestler Dave Sbriscia, a two-time district champion who has made an effort to get the alumni and the community behind the program. This throwback match was conceived right after he was hired last spring.

"It came about a week after I took the job," said Sbriscia, who also served as an assistant coach at North Warren before coming back to his alma mater. "We wanted to do some kind of Alumni Night. What better than to wrestle in the old Washington High School. The place was packed and we had a lot of community support. That's what we were going for. It was nice [to get that first win].

"This is Washington-Warren Hills. We're a wrestling school. We need to get back to that toughness, and I think we showed that tonight."

North Warren (0-1), which won 13 matches last season, also has a new head coach in Kellen Bradley, a former Kittatinny standout and High Point assistant. The Patriots started off strong by winning the first two bouts with junior Rob Fletcher's 7-2 come-from-behind win at 160, followed by senior Joseph Voitek's pin at 170.

But Warren Hills won the next seven bouts and 10 overall to take command of the independent matchup and give the Streaks, who have won eight in a row against the Patriots and own a 29-4 lead in the all-time series dating to 1975. North Warren's last victory was 38-33 in 2008.

Tyler McCatharn, one of four freshmen in the lineup, started Warren Hills' run with a pin at 182. After a forfeit win at 195, Galka, a state qualifier last season, needed just 1:08 to flatten sophomore Dylan Lobycz for his 73rd career win, and the Streaks were on their way to making it a successful night for their new head coach.

"I think it's great. We needed some good change and he's a great person for the spot," Galka said of Sbriscia. "He's brought a different culture and school spirit. This is the biggest crowd I've wrestled in front of [at a home match]."

Two other freshmen -- Jared Lee (106) and Noah DiNapoli (113) got their first varsity wins, while junior Greg Slivka capped the run with a 9-4 win at 120, losing a major decision by giving up an escape and a takedown in the final 22 seconds. The Streaks also lost tough ones at 132 and 152, bouts in which they were winning at one point.

But junior Logan Nauta, a dangerous mat wrestler, clinched it with a pin at 138 -- reversing Ben Lilly to his back after trailing by a point heading into the second period. Senior Chris Ostir, a two-time region qualifier, followed with a pin at 145.

"We're not a team without flaws. We're a young team with a lot of freshmen and sophomores," Sbriscia said. "But I love their passion, and they work hard. It was nice to see [Nauta and Ostir] get pins. Our goal is to get better every day. It was nice for them to see their hard work pay off."

Warren Hills is back in action on Saturday at the Nottingham Tournament, while North Warren looks to bounce back in the Dover Tournament.

WARREN HILLS 44, NORTH WARREN 21

 160 -- Jr. Rob Fletcher (1-0), NW, d. Jr. Nick Hildebrant (0-1), 7-2.
170 -- Sr. Joseph Voitek (1-0), NW, p. So. Cameron Rothstein (0-1), 3:52.
182 -- Fr. Tyler McCatharn (1-0), WH, p. Sr. Jason Zilderfarb (0-1), 1:23.
195 -- So. Logan Polcari (1-0), WH, forfeit.
220 -- Sr. Nick Galka (1-0), WH, p. So. Dylan Lobycz (0-1), 1:08.
285 -- Sr. Duro Ajayi (1-0), WH, md. Sr. Matthew Luque (0-1), 9-0.
106 -- Fr. Jared Lee (1-0), WH, md. So. Tanner Thatcher (0-1), 9-1.
113 -- Fr. Noah DiNapoli (1-0), WH, d. Fr. Sean Bodine (0-1), 6-0.
120 -- Jr. Greg Slivka (1-0), WH, d. Jr. Justin Gerkhardt (0-1), 9-4.
126 -- So. Alex Davila (1-0), NW, d. Fr. Max Pagano (0-1), 10-5.
132 -- So. Devin Collett (1-0), NW, p. Jr. Nickolas Gorab (0-1), 3:17.
138 -- Jr. Logan Nauta (1-0), WH, p. Jr. Ben Lilly (0-1), 2:46.
145 -- Sr. Chris Ostir (1-0), WH, p. So. Austin Collett (0-1), 1:57.
152 -- Jr. Brandon Casey (1-0), NW, d. Jr. Geir Nemeth (0-1), 7-5.
Records -- North Warren 0-1; Warren Hills 1-0.
Posted by Mike Weilamann at 11:03 PM 0 comments

Thursday, December 13, 2018

Wrestling: HWS schedule for Dec. 14-23

Friday, Dec. 14


(All matches 7 p.m., unless noted)

Independent

North Warren at Warren Hills (Middle School gym)
Phillipsburg at King of the Mountain Tournament, 2 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 15


(All tournaments 9 a.m., unless noted)

Phillipsburg at King of the Mountain Tournament, 10 a.m.
High Point in Colt Classic at Christian Brothers Academy
Hackettstown, Hunterdon Central, Kittatinny at Caldwell Tournament
Newton at Bayonne Invitational
Belvidere, Sparta at Hopatcong Tournament
Lenape Valley, North Warren at Dover Tournament
Wendy Pandy-Leh Tournament at Delaware Valley, 9:45 a.m.
Voorhees. Wallkill Valley at Morris Knolls Tournament
Warren Hills at Nottingham Tournament
North Hunterdon at Neptune Classic

Independent
Pope John at Kingsway Duals, 10 a.m.

Monday, Dec. 17


Independent

Mendham at Belvidere, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 18


(All matches 7 p.m., unless noted)

Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference

Kittatinny at High Point
Newton at Sparta
Boonton at Vernon, 5 p.m.

Independent

Plainfield at North Warren, 6 p.m.
Delaware Valley at Hopewell Valley

Wednesday, Dec. 19


(All matches 7 p.m., unless noted)

Skyland Conference

Somerville at Delaware Valley
Franklin at Hunterdon Central, 6:30 p.m.
Phillipsburg at Hillsborough, 6 p.m.
Voorhees at Warren Hills
Belvidere at Rutgers Prep
Ridge at North Hunterdon

Independent

 Lenape Valley at Clifton, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 20


(All matches 7 p.m., unless noted)

Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference

Hackettstown at Newton
Sparta at Mendham
North Warren at Morris Hills

Independent

 Kittatinny, Kinnelon, Wayne Valley at West Milford, 4 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 21


(All matches 7 p.m., unless noted)

Skyland Conference

Hunterdon Central at North Hunterdon

Independent

 New Providence at Voorhees, 4 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 22


(All matches 9 a.m., unless noted)

Independent

Phillipsburg at Newton, 6 p.m.
Kittatinny at Wayne Hills, 11 a.m.

Tournaments, tri-meets and quads

 Roxbury, Southern at High Point, 10 a.m.
Pope John at Beast of the East Tournament, 8:30 a.m.
Sparta, Don Bosco Prep, Howell at Jackson Memorial
Hunterdon Central, Hillsborough at Middletown North
Voorhees, Pequannock, Secaucus at Randolph
Warren Hills, Demarest, Mahwah at Cresskill
North Hunterdon, Emerson-Park Ridge at Pascack Valley
Mendham, Lacey Township, Orange at Hackettstown, 10 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 23


Pope John at Beast of the East Tournament, 8:30 a.m.
Posted by Mike Weilamann at 1:10 PM 0 comments

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Wrestling: Hunterdon-Warren preview capsules

Belvidere County Seaters

Coach: Dan McIntyre (89-59, eighth season).

2017-18 record: 13-9, 4-1 Skyland Conference Valley Division (T-first).

Returning starters (6): So. Hunter Lensi (17-11, D4) 106-113; Sr. Quinn Melofchik (40-5, D2, R2, S7) 113-120; Sr. Gage Gares (6-22) 138; Sr. Patrick Gulics (6-23) 152; Sr. Hunter Webb (12-17) 160; So. Shane Exley (24-11, D2) 170.
Quinn Melofchik (far left) on the 106-pound podium in AC.

Key losses: Ryan Lensi (21-13, D3) 120; Kristian Panetta (18-17, D3) 126; Zachary Vought (18-12, D2) 182; Ryan Kokawski (26-9, D4) 195; Hunter Smith (17-12, D4) 285.

Key returnees: So. Ty Tiedemann 106; So. Marquise Panetta (4-2) 120-126; Jr. Issak Super 132; Sr. Vasilios Nikolopoulos 152; Jr. Anthony Appleby 152; Sr. Ed Lora 182.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Patrick Horvath 106-113; Fr. Deven Pagach 126; Fr. Michael Gordon 195-220; Jr. Liam Tipton 195-220; So. Carson Grogan 285.

Outlook: County Seaters, who have been the class of their division in recent seasons, will battle for the Mountain Division title (same teams that were in the former Valley Division) as the conference has expanded to four divisions. The program sustained some heavy graduation losses, but Melofchik, a returning state placewinner who will attend the United States Air Force Academy and needs 24 wins to become the school's all-time leader, will anchor what should be a solid group lower weights. Exley had a fine freshman campaign, but there are no returning wrestlers from 182 through 285, so expect some growing pains. In addition, sophomore Justin Kane (15-18, D4) 138 decided not to wrestle this season.

Delaware Valley Terriers
                                                                                                          
Coach: Andy Fitz (190-69, 12th season).

2017-18 record: 10-13, 2-4 Skyland Conference Raritan Division (fifth).

Returning starters (8): Jr. Derek Schepens (8-17) 106; Jr. Gage Crater (27-12, D2) 132; Sr. A.J. DeRosa (37-4, D1, R1) 132-138; So. Corey Crater (10-20, D3) 138-145; Sr. Tommy Schlittler (12-15, D3) 138-145; So. Anthony DeRosa (14-23, D4) 152; Sr. Shawne Ramsby (18-7, D2, R3) 170; Sr. Kyle Carney (12-15, D2) 182-195.

Key losses: CJ Heaps (20-14, D3, R5) 113; Joey DeSapio (23-16, D1) 160; Eli Kalfaian (27-10, D1, R4) 195.

Key returnees: Jr. Chase Christie (2-4) 126; Jr. Shane Reynolds (4-3) 138-145; Sr. TJ Horn (2-7) 145-152; Jr. Andrew Larsen (1-4) 152; Sr. Sam de los Santos (0-6) Sr. Mike Coppola 160; Sr. Liam Miller (0-8) 160; Sr. Brandon Helper (9-17) 170-182; Sr. Anthony DiPaolo 195; Jr. Nick Moose 220; Jr. Ryan Sutter (1-7) 285.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Robert Groogan 106-113; So. Cooper Gill 113-120; So. Ben Brown 120.

Outlook: Terriers, as expected, took a step back last season coming off the program's first Group 2 championship since 1999 under Paul Petro, who is back on the staff as an assistant. Now in North 2, Group 1, the Hunterdon County program will look to get back into the title mix. There are several key returnees, including A.J. DeRosa, who has 98 career wins and was a state qualifier last season, along with Ramsby. Inexperience was a factor last season, so Fitz is hoping a year under their belts and a good offseason will equal more wins this season. Keep an eye on Schepens, Christie and Anthony DeRosa, who all could be primed for breakthrough seasons. This team will compete in the new Valley Division, which includes Bernards, Somerville, Voorhees and Warren Hills.

Hackettstown Tigers

Coach: Frank Rodgers (234-238-4, 16th season of second stint, 22nd overall).

2017-18 record: 13-15, 1-3 NJAC Freedom Division (fourth).

Returning starters (8): Jr. Michael Sullivan (16-19, D4) 120; So. Sam Castner (14-14, D4) 126; Jr. Christian Bremner (6-16) 138; Sr. Zachery Yanoff (14-22, D4) 145; Jr. Garrett Meyer (8-10) 152; Jr. Zebulon Burke (23-15, D3) 160; Jr. Alejandro Castro (15-12, D3) 182; Sr. Dan Olson (19-19, D3) 220.

Key losses: Alex Carida (46-2, D1, R1, S3) 145; Shawn Burke (23-16, D3) 170; Sr. Matt Castro (25-10, D4) 195; Joe Andes (40-3, D1, R1) 285.

Key returnees: So. Matt Bremner (1-2) 195; Jr. Cody Moto (1-1) 285.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Austin Zellars 106; Fr. Matt Finer 106; So. Matt Day 132; Fr. Jack Gordon 170.

Outlook: Tigers lost four key wrestlers to graduation, but there is enough returning to approach the .500 mark again this season. The loss of Matt Castro, who decided not to come out for his senior year, up top hurts what is expected to be a pretty solid group of upper weights, which usually gives teams a chance for success. Burke, Alejandro Castro and Olson were Region 3 qualifiers last season, so they'll be counted on heavily as well.

Hunterdon Central Red Devils

Coach: Jon Cantagallo-Rohm (82-16, fifth season).

2017-18 record: 22-2, 6-0 Skyland Conference Raritan Division (first).

Returning starters (11): So. Brett Ungar (41-2, D1, R1, S6) 106-113; So. Colton Washleski (27-15, D2, R4) 120; Sr. Jack Bauer (27-9, D1, R2) 126; Jr. Anthony Romaniello (22-13, D2) 138; Sr. Pasquale Vizzoni (25-8, D1, R3) 145; Sr. Vincent Romaniello (30-8, D2, R2) 152; So. Norman Cella (16-13, D4) 160; Sr. Dan Furmato (26-12, D2) 170-182; Jr. Kyle Barrett (14-15) 182-195; Jr. Lukas Bakerian (24-10, D4) 220; Sr. Ryan Joyce (16-14, D4) 285.
Brett Ungar (second from right) on the 106-pound podium in AC.

Key losses: Hunter Graf (38-6, D1, R2) 132; Kevin Ciresa (29-10, D2, R5) 152; Angelo Crespo (25-7, D1, R6) 220.

Key returnees: Sr. Nate Schlosser (2-2) 106; Jr. Justin Miller (6-2) 126-132; Jr. Grant Bloch (5-4) 126-132; Sr. Alex Kiledjian 138; Sr. Elidio Perez 145; Sr. Nick Brunetti 160.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Aidan Portnoy 106; Fr. Nick Canonica 113; Fr. Tanner Peake 132; Jr. Brandon Donoghue 195.

Outlook: Red Devils have been riding quite a wave of success and the journey will continue this season. With 11 returning starters and some talented freshmen, expect this group to challenge for section and Group 5 titles. The big offseason news on this front is nemesis Howell, which has won the last two Group 5 championships, returning to the South Jersey section, making Central a heavy favorite to come out of Central Jersey. Ungar, who is returning at 106, will be a state title contender, while Washleski, Bauer, Vizzoni and Vincent Romaniello were qualifiers last season. The upper weights are also a proven contingent. Peake, a New Jersey Grade School League champion, will make an impact as a rookie. This is perhaps the most balanced team in the area and among the top public schools statewide. Will battle Bound Brook for the new-look Delaware Division title.

North Hunterdon Lions

Coach: Chris Hrunka (16-5, second season).

2017-18 record: 16-5, 4-2 Skyland Conference Raritan Division (third).

Returning starters (9): So. Frank Diesso (23-13, D2, R4) 113; Sr. Connor Robinson (29-8, D2, R6) 120; Jr. Drew Doscher (17-12, D3) 132; Jr. Evan Klimas (16-18, D3, R6) 138; Jr. Kyle Anderson (14-15, D4) 152; Sr. Michael Wilson (29-6, D1) 160; Jr. Nate Fossett (24-11, D3) 170; Sr. Lorenzo Becerril (13-10) 220; Sr. Francis Vitelli (9-15, D4) 285

Key losses: Andrew Gapas (37-5, D1, R3, S6) 138; Tucker Kirchberger (33-9, D1, R3) 152; William Hughes (26-7, D1, R3) 160.

Key returnees: So. Connor Quinn (7-2) 126; Sr. Luke Hanlon (5-5) 145; So. James Holder (1-2) 170-182; Sr. Adam Abbas (1-3) 170-182; Jr. Ian Gaburo (4-6) 195.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Nick DeLorenzo 106; Fr. Aaron Wysocki 132; So. Billy Cole 132; So. Kyle Schultz 182.

Outlook: Lions have been benefiting from a strong feeder system, and with nine starters back, this should be another successful campaign. Diesso and Robinson lead a strong group down low, while Fossett anchors an experienced group up top, as this team should have balance with Wilson, a district champ in the middle of the lineup. Hunterdon Central is clearly the team to beat in the county, but North is a solid No. 2. The road to division and section titles will once again go through P'burg, but this should be a fun team to watch. In addition to the Stateliners, the new-look Raritan Division includes Hillsborough, Montgomery and Ridge.

North Warren Patriots

Coach: Kellen Bradley (first season).

2017-18 record: 13-6, 2-1 NJAC Colonial Division (second).

Returning starters (10): So. Tanner Thatcher (7-5) 106; So. Alex Davila (14-11) 113; Jr. Justin Gerkhardt (19-12, D4) 120; So. Devin Collett (11-14) 126; So. Austin Collett (12-12) 138; Sr. Kevin Shaffer (9-5) 145; Jr. Brandon Casey (13-16) 152; Jr. Rob Fletcher (10-15) 160; Sr. Joseph Voitek (11-16) 170; So. Luke Van Horn (8-4) 195.

Key loss: Joey Sprague (27-10, D2, R6) 285.

Key returnees: So. Luke Scarmack (3-2) 132; Jr. Ben Lilly (17-6 in 2016-17) 138; Sr. Jason Zilberfarb (4-2) 182.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Sean Bodine 113; Fr. Michael Castles 152; Jr. Jacob Smith 220; So. Dylan Lobycz 220; Sr. Matthew Luque 285.

Outlook: There is a sense of optimism in Blairstown surrounding the Patriots, who are coming off one of their most successful seasons in quite some time. Bradley, who is regarded as one of the top young coaches in the area, was brought in as an assistant last season and made an immediate impact. He takes over a program that went 34-44 the previous four seasons. The return of Lilly is a plus after he sat out last season following a promising freshman campaign, but senior Ryan Walsh (16-9 at 160) opted to not wrestle this season. This lineup doesn't have a lot of star power, but there are seven wrestlers who posted double-digit wins last season. Expect this group to improve by season's end.

Phillipsburg Stateliners

Coach: Dave Post (129-20, ninth season).

2017-18 record: 17-2, 5-1 Skyland Conference Raritan Division (second), North 2, Group 4 and Group 4 champion.

Returning starters (6): So. Logan Maczko (18-15, D1) 106-113; Sr. Travis Jones (41-6, D1, R1, S7) 126-132; Sr. Kyle Tino (25-11, D1, R2) 138-145; Sr. Cody Harrison (37-5, D1, R1, S4) 145-152; Sr. Austin Roth (22-12, D1, R5) 195; Jr. Cody Cruts (10-12, D4) 285.

Phillipsburg is eyeing its sixth straight Group 4 championship.
Key losses: Cullen Day (31-12, D1, R2) 113; Sr. Jayson Zinsmeister (19-14, D3, transferred to Easton) 145; Brian Meyer (39-3, D1, R1, S2) 152;  Josh Ramos (21-10, D1) 160; Lance Wissing (41-6, D1, R3) 170; Shamyr Brodders (19-16, D3, R5) 195; Patrick Sharpe (21-16, D3) 285.

Key returnees: So. Jason Tino (3-0) 126; Sr. Bryce Parenti (2-1) 126-132; Sr. Luke Hardin (2-6) 132-138; Sr. TJ Abode (3-6) 160; Jr. Jacob Wicks 170-182; So. Gage Horvath 220.

Promising newcomers: Fr. James Day 106; Fr. Joey Innamorato 120; Fr. Nate Zastowny 145; Fr. Matt Donofrio 152; Fr. David Pierson 160-170.

Outlook: Stateliners are coming off another banner season with conference, sectional and state championships. Despite heavy graduation losses, this team will be in the hunt for all three again, while Jones and Harrison are among the state's best at their respective weight classes. The lineup is strong from 106 through 152, but most of the upper weights are relatively inexperienced, though they certainly put in the time this offseason. All of the incoming freshmen made their marks in the youth ranks, with Day, Innamorato and Pierson all winning New Jersey Grade School League titles, while Zastowny and Donofrio were runners-up. The next wave of youth wrestlers will be equally as impressive as the Warren County school looks to continue its dominance in Group 4.

Voorhees Vikings

Coach: Eric Hall (158-56, ninth season).

2017-18 record: 22-9, 2-4 Skyland Conference Raritan Division (T-fourth).

Returning starters (10): So. Josh Rich (18-21, D1) 106; Sr. Aidan Taylor (29-15, D2, R4) 126; Sr. Hunter Rinehart (24-11, D3) 132; Jr. Joe Swiston (12-15, D4) 138; Jr. Garrett Loescher (10-26, D4) 152; Sr. Jacob Baytoff (12-21) 160; Sr. Matt Brandner (21-17, D3) 170; Sr. Charlie Eberle (9-19, D4) 195; Sr. Sam Huff (34-9, D1, R3) 220; Sr. Lewis Fernandes (43-0, D1, R1, S1) 285.
Voorhees looks to repeat as North 2, Group 3 sectional champion.

Key losses: Colby Koshinski (28-14, D2, R5) 113; Scott Fernandes (37-6, D1, R2) 195.

Key returnees: Jr. Joe Delusant 138; Jr. Ben Hemberger (2-9) 145; Jr. Zach Tong (2-4) 182; So. Anthony DiStefano (3-0) 182.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Hunter Cryan 113; So. Dominick Venito 120; Fr. Mike Mosier 145.

Outlook: Vikings surprised a bit last season by capturing the North 2, Group 3 sectional title (the program's 17th championship overall), and with 10 returning starters, including Fernandes, a state champion, this could be another strong campaign. The upper weights are a strength as Huff joined Fernandes in Atlantic City last season, while Brandner was a region qualifier. Fernandes, who has committed to Cornell and needs 30 wins to become the school's all-time leader, looks to become the program's first two-time champion.

Warren Hills Blue Streaks

Coach: Dave Sbriscia (first season).

2017-18 record: 7-13, 1-5 Skyland Conference Raritan Division (T-sixth).

Returning starters (8): Jr. Greg Slivka (15-16, D2) 113; Jr. Logan Nauta (15-12, D4) 138; Sr. Chris Ostir (18-15, D2) 145; Jr. Geir Nemeth (15-17, D4) 145; Jr. Nick Hildebrant (14-17, D2) 160; So. Logan Polcari (4-17) 195; Sr. Nick Galka (25-6, D1, R2) 220; Sr. Duro Ajayi (21-15, D2, R5) 285.

Key losses: Codey O'Rourke (26-10, D2, R4) 126; Kyle Wulff (23-11, D3) 132; Jarod Ostir (28-4, D1, R2) 182.

Key returnees: Jr. Nickolas Gorab (0-4) 132; So. Chad Joyce (0-6) 160; Sr. Merlyn Garcia (1-9) 170.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Jared Lee 106; Fr. Noah DiNapoli 106; Fr. Max Pagano 120; Fr. Stephen Malia 126; So. Beck Nemeth 132; Fr. Owen Frizzell 138; Fr. Caden Crawford 145; Fr. Ryan Galka 145; Fr. Michael Galka 160; So. Cameron Rothstein 160; Sr. Markus Merkl 170; Fr. Tyler McCatharn 182; Jr. Jake Smith 182; Sr. Anthony Rosillo 195.

Outlook: Blue Streaks have a new head coach as Sbriscia takes over for Jarrett Hosbach, who guided the program to a 165-135 mark over the previous 13 seasons. With a high number of freshmen, this could be a team to watch in the future, and it will be interesting to see how they come along, as this lineup does have several veterans, including Nick Galka, a returning state qualifier, who will look to place this season in Atlantic City. Ajayi was a nice surprise as a junior, and he will look to finish up in AC. This team has the potential to make the Valley Division one interesting race with Delaware Valley and Voorhees, as well as competing with the Vikes in a wide open North 2, Group 3 section.
Posted by Mike Weilamann at 6:43 PM 0 comments

Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Wrestling: Sussex County preview capsules

High Point Wildcats

Coach: John Gardner (346-100-2, 21st season).

2017-18 record: 24-1, 4-0 NJAC Freedom Division (first), North 1, Group 2 and Group 2 champion.

Returning starters (7): Jr. Devon Liebl (29-8, D2, R6) 113; Sr. Devin Flannery (14-2, injured; D3, R2 in 2017) 120; Sr. Brandon LaRue (40-7, D1, R4, S6) 126; Jr. Billy Talmadge (36-8, D1, R3) 132; Sr. Jonathan Morris (8-16) 182; Sr. Grayson Sabo (25-12, D3) 195; Sr. Andrew Lewis (19-13, D3) 220.

High Point will be in the hunt for another Group 2 title in 2019.
Key losses: Maverick Liebl (29-7, D4) 126; Shane Kobis (39-8, D1, R3, S7) 138; Trey Osborn (33-10, D2, R4) 152; Robbie Turro (24-15, D3) 160; Thomas Hubmaster (25-10, D4) 285.

Key returnees: So. Josh Gervey (8-9) 120; So. Nick Douma (3-4) 120; Sr. Griffin Sandberg 126; Sr. Ben Intili (3-1) 138; Sr. Nick Auer (2-2) 145; So. Alex Buchwald 152; Sr. Evan Poust 152; Sr. Jacob Carter 152; Sr. Luke Ottens 160; Jr. PJ Soldano (1-3) 170; Jr. Sean Lewis 170; So. Justin Klass 220; So. Chris Hendershot 285.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Clayton Utter 106; Fr. Noah Ripley 138; Fr. Brian Soldano 152.

Outlook: 'Cats are coming off one of the program's finest seasons that culminated with a thrilling 30-25 win over Raritan in the Group 2 title match. With a solid core returning, look for this group to make another deep postseason run. LaRue is the team's lone returning state placewinner and will anchor a strong contingent of lower weights, along with Flannery (missed most of last season with an elbow injury) and Talmadge, who iced the state championship victory. Utter and Brian Soldano, a New Jersey Grade School League champion, are blue-chip rookies, while Sabo leads an experienced group of  upper weights. This will be the team to beat in Sussex County and one to watch statewide, though repeating in Group 2 became tougher with South Plainfield, which won the Group 3 title last season, now in the mix. The teams will meet in the regular season on Jan. 19, as part of High Point's brutal schedule that also includes dual meets against Phillipsburg, Pope John, Delsea, Southern, Kittatinny and Newton.

Hopatcong Chiefs

Coach: Eric Fajerman (125-300-3, 19th season).

2017-18 record: 4-19, 0-3 NJAC Colonial Division (fourth).

Returning starters (7): Jr. Freddie Gonzalez (9-9) 120; So. Frank Mastroeni (25-14, D1, R6) 126; So. Andrew Costa (19-12) 138; Jr. Sean Cranmer (14-19) 145; Jr. Alex Feinberg (12-15, D4) 195; Jr. Jack Certo (6-20) 220; Jr. John Sanchez (5-16) 285.

Key loss: Anthony Mastroeni (43-4, D1, R3) 126.

Key returnee: Sr. Nick DiLeo (1-7) 285.

Promising newcomers: So. Faith Malizzi 106; Jr. Alex Corujo 113; Jr. Claudia Luca 113; Fr. Tommy Feinberg 126; Sr. William Towers 138; Fr. James Feinberg 145; Fr. Mike Mastroeni 152; Sr. Arom Postigo 160; Fr. Kris Tor 160; So. Justin Postigo 170.

Outlook: Chiefs have enjoyed some dual-meet success the past two seasons, despite low numbers,  which continues to be an issue for several area schools. The program has produced just 18 wins over the past seven campaigns, but the good news is there is some flexibility to cover most of the weight classes. Fajerman, who is the program's longest tenured coach, has a nice amount of freshmen to work with, while Frank Mastroeni made some noise in the postseason as a rookie.

Kittatinny Cougars

Coach: John Gill (564-180-5, 39th season).

2017-18 record: 12-11, 3-0 NJAC Colonial Division (first).

Returning starters (7): Sr. Mike Nelson (15-18, D3) 120; So. Patrick Franco (15-21, D3) 126; Sr. Nile Mattar (12-16, D4) 132; Sr. Derek Molfetto (3-3, injured, D2 in 2017) 138; Sr. Brian Hanna (12-19) 145; Sr. Zach Mafaro (35-8, D1, R2, S6) 182; So. Jackson Crawn (18-17, D4) 195-220.

Key losses: Mike Callahan (24-14, D2) 138; Perry Maio (27-14, D2, R6) 145; Calvin Brook (30-10, D1, R2) 152; Shane Smith (21-8, D4) 160; Josh Hiler (26-12, D3) 170.

Key returnees: So. Connor Hanna (2-8) 120; Jr. Gian Knippenberg (1-1) 152-160; Sr. Blake Dippel (3-0) 170; Sr. Austin Smith 182.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Shane Nelson 106; Fr. Steve Dalling 132; Jr. Kyle Raposo 152-160; Fr. Evan Raposo 170; Jr. Robert Bruce 195; Fr. Brycen Mafaro 220.

Outlook: Cougars -- four wins shy of 600 as a program -- are annually one of the top teams in the county and in Group 1 or 2, but they willl start the season with no wrestlers at 113 and 285, while junior 220-pounder Jacob Mafaro (31-5, D1) has not committed to wrestling this season. That leaves another huge hole up top, in addition to a lack of varsity experience at several weights. Shane Nelson is a talented freshman, while Steve Dalling, whose father, Steve, was a two-time state champion under Gill, is a New Jersey Grade School League runner-up. The freshman will also look to crack the lineup, while Zach Mafaro (95 career wins) is among the state's best at 182. Now in the Freedom Division with High Point and Newton, winning conference and North 1, Group 1 sectional titles will be a huge challenge.

Lenape Valley Patriots

Coach: Gary Mikolay (4-16, second season).

2017-18 record: 4-16, 2-2 NJAC Freedom Division (third).

Returning starters (7): Sr. Marcus Bitetto (13-5, D1) 113; Jr. Zach Miller (11-18, D4) 126; Sr. Dominic Falleni (20-13, D2) 132; Jr. Eric Falleni (27-9, D3) 138; Sr. James Haws (17-16, D2) 145; Sr. Matthew Cestone (2-23) 152; Sr. Kalvin Green (10-17) 170-182.

Key losses: Jake Hickey (21-9, D4) 145; Jordan Costanza (12-17, D4) 160; Jr. Ryan Hall (23-12, D3, out for the season with a knee injury) 220; Gabe Jimenez (18-15, D3) 285.

Key returnees: So. Andres Villanueva-Cruz (2-0) 120; So. Tristen Martinelli (1-4) 160; Jr. Kyle Luba 170-182.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Daniel Haws 106; Fr. TJ Morten 106.

Outlook: Patriots, who are also struggling numbers-wise, were dealt a blow with the loss of Hall, who was injured during the football season. Dominic and Eric Falleni, along with James Haws, are a nice trio in the middle, while the lower weights should be in good shape with Bitetto and rookies Daniel Haws and Morten, who were champions in the New Jersey Grade School League. But the upper weights are a huge question mark, and there will likely be some open weights at 195, 220 and 285. This team needs to stay healthy in order to improve on last season's win total.

Newton Braves

Coach: Eric Bollette (224-180-1, 18th season).

2017-18 record: 16-6, 3-1 NJAC Freedom Division (second).

Returning starters (10): So. Nathan Fitt (20-12, D4) 106; So. Danny Cleary (13-15) 113; So. JoJo Lotruglio (22-15, D2) 120; Sr. Matthew Rosa (25-13, D3) 132; Sr. Michael Freda (25-14, D3, R5) 138; Sr. Wyatt McCarthy (39-4, D1, R1, S7) 145; Jr. Trevor Aughenbaugh (10-15) 152; Sr. Nick Brigante (19-15, D4) 170; Sr. Luke Fischer (35-7, D2, R2) 220; Sr. Jimmy Harding (12-7) 220-285.

Newton won the John Goles Invitational team title last season.
Key losses: Jonathon Borgognoni (34-6, D1, R3) 152; Joey DeLuca (27-13, D2, R6) 182; Devin Mager (12-8, D4) 195.

Key returnees: Jr. Mason Leen 106; So. Nick Costa (1-1) 120; Jr. Ryan Sosa 132; Jr. Aidan Bartsch 145; Jr. Julian Sibblies (3-11) 152; Jr. Nick Chavarria 160; Jr. Ryan Kaiser (1-3) 195; Sr. Matt Somers (5-8) 182; So. Jake Tonking 285.

Promising newcomers: Jr. Valerio Sanchez 106; Fr. Dominic Megna 106; So. Aden Sathuthiti 113; Fr. Takeo Sibblies 126; Fr. Colton Lawrence 126; So. Robert Zaremski 132; Fr. Aidan Murtagh 132; Fr. Melkart Abou-Jaoude 138; So. Ryan Pappas 138; Jr. Damian Gummerson (0-2, transfer from Kittatinny) 138; Fr. Jack Young 145; So. Chris McConnell 145; Sr. Alejandro Villegas-Rodriguez 170; Fr. Kevin Rojas 195; Fr. Larry Pittenger 220; Jr. John Ays 285.

Outlook: With 10 returning starters and several others who saw significant varsity time last season, the Braves -- seven wins shy of 800 as a program -- should be among the teams to watch. This group is solid from 106 through 145, including McCarthy, a state placewinner who is sitting on 99 career wins, while the upper weights have plenty of experience. There are a few questions at 152 and 160, as well as some injuries coming off football, but anything short of challenging High Point for conference and North 1, Group 2 sectional titles would be a disappointment.

Pope John Lions

Coach: Mark Piotrowsky (69-27, sixth season).

2017-18 record: 17-2, 4-0 NJAC American Division (first); Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex, Non-Public North B and Non-Public B champion.

Returning starters (6): So. Shane Percelay (28-8, D1, R5) 106-113; Jr. Eddie Ventresca (41-4, D1, R3, S3) 120-126; Jr. Kaya Sement (36-7, D1, R1) 132-138; Jr. Mathew Garcia (25-11, D2) 138-145; Sr. JoJo Aragona (42-2, D1, R1, S3) 138-145; Sr. Robert Garcia (36-7, D1, R2, S4 in 2017) 152-160.

Pope John will be a heavy favorite to repeat in Non-Public B.
Key losses: Jake Rotunda (40-6, D1, R1, S4) 132; Joseph Arbolino (15-12, D3) 152; James Swentzel (16-12, D2) 160; Reece Muldoon (32-7, D2, R4, S7) 182; Jake Brown (26-4, D1, R1, S6) 195; Jack Morelli (21-11, D3) 285.

Key returnees: So. Michel Ritacco (4-2) 126-132; Jr. Cosmo Esposito (3-5) 145; Sr. Anthony Rispoli 160; Jr. Connor Fritsch (9-10) 160-170; Sr. Chase Nugnes 160-170; Jr. Quinn Muldoon 170; Sr. Chris Jhong (9-10) 195; Jr. Cole Zydel (6-8) 220; Sr. Louis "Max" Montana 285; Sr. Nicholas DeSenzo 285.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Kyle Miller 106; Fr. Zachary Hentschel 106; Fr. Angelo Dangelis 113; Fr. Collin Neal 120-126; Fr. Mason Eagan 138; Fr. Jack Stoll 160-170; Fr. Peter Deleportis 182; Sr. Bryan Vargas 195; Fr. Jake Rubin 220.

Outlook: Lions, who return four state qualifiers, including three placewinners, are primed for another run at sectional and state titles after winning their first championships in both since 1994 last season. Aragona, a state finalist two seasons ago and a three-time medal winner, will be a contender for the school's first individual championship since Brian Unkert won at 145 pounds in 1990. Aragona also needs 41 wins to become the county's all-time leader. This group took a hit with graduation, so it will be interesting to see how some of the returnees and newcomers fare this season. The upper weights are also a bit of a question mark, so they will need to come along in order to be successful against some of the top teams on a rugged schedule.

Sparta Spartans

Coach: Frank Battaglia (105-61, eighth season).

2017-18 record: 16-7, 2-2 NJAC American Division (third).

Returning starters (7): Jr. Cooper Stewart (30-6, D3) 113; So. Spencer Stewart (33-7, D2, R5) 113; Sr. Chris Hwang (20-9, D1, R6 in 2017) 132; Jr. Garrett Stewart (34-10, D2, R4) 132; Sr. Carter Sheridan (32-8, D1, R5) 138-145; Sr. Rocco Gignatelli (14-12) 138-145; Sr. Ty Costlow (1-17) 152-160.

Key losses: Kevin Berlin (18-17, D3) 160; Mason Minetti (15-15, D3) 170; Robbie Gennat (40-5, D1, R2, S4) 195.

Key returnees: So. Julian Couto 106; Jr. Devin Belasco (4-10) 120; Jr. David Rubin 120; So. Troy Schmitzer (1-8) 145; Jr. Cassius Battaglia 145; Sr. Sal Ardizzone 145; Jr. Paul Shumlas 145; Jr. James Bates (4-23) 152; Sr. Riley Kennedy 160; Jr. Peter DeFelice 160; Jr. Anthony Lombardo 170-182.

Promising newcomers: Fr. Nick Yanuzzelli 106; So. Pedro Colon 120; Fr. Nick Hwang 120; Fr. Dennis Libman 120; Fr. Chase Geer 126; Fr. Parker Williamson 145; So. Cameron Minetti 170-182; Fr. Paul Gennat 195; So. Jack Pryce 195; Fr. Aidan Belasco 195; Fr. AJ Frantzeskakis 195; Jr. Jeffrey Schweitzer 195; Fr. Peter Cofrancesco 220; Jr. Joey Liotta 220; Fr. Billy Quinn 220.

Outlook: Spartans, now two years removed from the program's first sectional title since 2000, enjoyed another winning campaign last season before falling to eventual North 1, Group 3 champion Pascack Valley. There is enough returning talent in this lineup to make another push in what appears to be a wide open section, but what was once a strength of this group is now a huge question mark with inexperienced upper weights. If the new guys up top come along, this team could again be on the winning end, but it would seem double-digit wins may be a lot to ask.

Vernon Vikings

Coach: Todd Piontkowski (25-71, fourth season overall; second season of second stint).

2017-18 record: 1-20, 0-4 NJAC Freedom Division (fifth).

Returning starters (6): So. Alexander Rifflard (5-3) 120; So. Sage DiGiuseppe (2-18) 138; So. Cooper Pleva (5-13) 145; Jr. Jon Alvarez (12-12) 160; So. Noah Prevliglian (4-7) 160; Sr. Jeremy Kayhart (8-15) 285.

Promising newcomers: So. Ryan Flaherty 113; Fr. Skye Ivancich 113; Jr. Josh Buccieri 138; So. Patrick Schmidt 145; So. Dylan Harris 160; Jr. Joe Martinez 160; Jr. Luke Negrin 182; So. Pedro Rodriguez 220; Sr. J.T. Zimmerman 220; Fr. Shane Saulnier; Fr. Jake Hutchins-Booker.

Outlook: Vikings continue to struggle with low numbers -- 17 total on the roster -- and inexperience, so wins and losses aren't the measuring stick here as the program attempts to stay afloat. The good news is that the middle school has produced some wrestlers and that will be huge if the numbers are to increase in the coming seasons. Alvarez was the team's most successful wrestler as a sophomore, so keep an eye on him.

Wallkill Valley Rangers

Coach: Jeff Churchill (21-67, fourth season; 159-89-3 in 15 seasons from 1989-2003 at Morris Knolls).

2017-18 record: 8-18, 1-2 NJAC Colonial Division (third).

Returning starters (8): Jr. Samantha Larsen (15-11) 120; Jr. Erik Ross (14-12) 126; Jr. Zac Creeden (30-5, D3) 132; Jr. Devin Watson (1-12) 145; So. Gian Accardi (10-13) 152; Sr. Shane Simon (15-16) 170; Jr. Derrick Rotger (4-17) 182; Sr. Zachery Dora (17-15, D4) 285.

Key losses: Zaine Sugar (16-17, D4) 152; Brodie McDonald (15-17, D4) 182.

Key returnee: Jr. Tyler Sanchez (4-0) 120.

Promising newcomer: So. Nick Bongo 126.

Outlook: Rangers, who also have been battling low numbers in recent years, have gone 37-122 over the previous seven seasons. With only 11 on the roster this season, wins will be hard to come by once again, but Churchill said this team will battle despite the forfeits. Creeden is one of the area's top wrestlers, while Larsen will be a state title contender on the girls side at 118 pounds.
Posted by Mike Weilamann at 7:13 PM 0 comments

Monday, December 3, 2018

Jones living out his dream as Warren Hills AD

WASHINGTON TWP. -- You won't have to look hard to find Warren Hills athletic director Mike Jones.

And that's exactly how the first-year AD wants it to be. Whether it be in his office, out on the practice fields, or on the road to sporting events, Jones certainly makes the rounds.

Mike Jones was inducted  into the Blue Streak Wall of Fame in 2018.
"The one thing the students say to me is, 'Mr. Jones, you're so visible," Jones said on Monday during a sit-down interview in his office. "'You're at practices and games, then you're at your desk at night.' The key for me is to be [in the office] during the day and at 2:20 p.m., out [on the field or in the gym] with every sport. And I mean every sport."

Being an AD at times means working long hours and weekends. It can be a seven-day-a-week job. But for Jones, he wouldn't have it any other way. Getting a chance to make a difference in his hometown community, is more than enough reward.

Communication and visibility are the big keys, according to Jones, along with making the facilities accessible to the entire community, and getting the alumni back and involved with the sports programs.

"Those kids [in the youth programs] are going to come here one day, and I want our athletes to be role models for them," Jones said.

Jones, a former star athlete and 1998 graduate of Warren Hills, was hired over the summer to become the school's fifth athletic director since 2010. He has hit the ground running since the start of the fall season in late August, and he is thrilled to be back at his alma mater.

"I'm humbled and blessed to get up day in and day out, and be back here," Jones said. "I'm fortunate [the Board of Education] took a chance on me, and allowed me to come back to my roots."

Jones, 38, a star quarterback for Warren Hills under former head coach and AD Bob Lockhart, who is now an assistant coach at North Hunterdon, had previously served as the chief administrator and an elementary teacher in the Hampton school district from 2001-18. A four-year letterwinner, Jones threw for 1,843 yards -- second most on the Blue Streaks' all-time list -- his senior season in 1997. He still owns the school's career marks of 4,118 yards and 32 touchdowns. Jones, who went on to play two years at Monmouth University, was inducted into the Blue Streak Wall of Fame in May.

"Coach Lockhart was instrumental as a mentor, coach and a father figure," said Jones, who was raised by a single mother. "He instilled discipline within me. He took me on recruiting trips to colleges. He was the toughest coach I ever had. At the time, I didn't realize it, but it got me to where I am today. I owe a lot to Coach Lockhart."

But the football accolades, of which Jones is far too humble to bring up, don't define him. Jones is committed to making Warren Hills a place where everyone feels welcome. His high visibility at sporting events and in general at the school, is by design.

"Everything I do will be for the Warren Hills community, the students and athletes, and to give them as many chances to be successful," Jones said.

Football gave Jones an opportunity to be successful, but as AD, he's all about making every sport successful at Warren Hills.

"The one thing I heard was, 'You're a football guy,'" Jones said. "No. I'm at tennis, field hockey, everywhere."

And Jones sure means everywhere.

During one weekday in late October, Jones made the hour-plus trek to Northern Highlands to watch Warren Hills' 1-0 win in the North 1, Group 3 sectional semifinals. From there, he made another hour-plus commute to Somerville to watch the girls soccer team in a playoff match. Jones capped his marathon day by heading west to Phillipsburg to watch the Blue Streaks' cheerleaders compete.

"It's hard to bottle up my passion and energy for Warren Hills," Jones said.

Jones also makes his presence on social media, where his updates and tweets on the school's Twitter accounts keep fans, parents, students and media members informed of events and happenings at the school, including a recent fundraiser involving the Harlem Wizards basketball team for Project Graduation.

But the long hours and numerous work days, which Jones calls a labor of love, would not be possible without the support of his wife, Danielle, or a tremendous office staff that includes top-notch secretaries Christina Page and Jordan Lackey. Jones also credits superintendent Chip Clymer and principal Chris Kavcak with helping to make his transition from superintendent of a K-8 school to high school athletic director.

One of the many things Jones has done in his short tenure is reintroducing the traditional bonfire before the annual rivalry football game against Hackettstown, as well as the Powder Puff game (senior girls vs. junior girls) this fall. He's also in charge of the high school's numerous clubs, which also keep Jones on his toes.

"It's awesome," Jones said. "The kids are excited about things, and I'm excited for them. It's my passion."
Posted by Mike Weilamann at 4:07 PM 0 comments
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