Wrestling preview: A look at the Greater Middlesex Conference
Here are our team previews for Greater Middlesex Conference wrestling teams.
(In alphabetical order)
CARTERET
Coach: Eliias Vega, 2nd Season
Last year: 7-18
Key losses: Jetzeel Huertas (5th GMC, 26-8 at 120), Antonio Martins (6th GMC, 16-9 at 165), Cameron Browne (15-18 at 215)
Probable lineup: 106 – N/A; 113 - Sherman Desouza (Fr.); 120 - Brandon Taveras (Fr.); 126 - Siddiq Qasim (Jr., 10 wins at 138); 132 - La’Brawn Riddick (So., 17-11 at 132) or Gursimar Sidhu (Jr.); 138 - Avian Martinez (Fr.); 144 - Julius Martinez (Jr.); 150 - Elijah Rodrigues (Sr., 11 wins at 150); 157 - Talwinder Singh (Jr.); 165 - Patrick Wisniewski (Jr.); 175 -Wilfredo Villalongo (So.); 190 - Muhammad Abubakar (Sr., 10 wins at 175); 215 - Hasaan Khan (Sr., 15-10 at 190); 285 – Abraheme Lowman (Sr., 4-2 at 285)
Outlook: The Ramblers are off to a great start this year with a record-breaking turnout of student-athletes that joined the team. Carteret began with over 50 wrestlers under second-year coach and former star Eliias Vega. With an almost complete lineup, the Ramblers find themselves with a great mix of upper and lower classmen. They’ll be led by Hasaan Khan, Elijah Rodrigues, Muhammad Abubakar and Siddiq Qasim, all of whom trained hard in the offseason. The Ramblers are looking forward to great improvements after having a winning record in the GMC Blue.
COLONIA
Coach: Daniel Grasso, 21st season
Last year: 10-7
Key losses: Mazen Shatter (190), Anthony de lLuca (285)
Probable lineup: 106 – Cameron Roodenberg (So., GMCT 6th, 11 wins); 113 – Hudson Platt (Fr.); 120 – Joshua Parks (So., GMCT 6th, District 15 3rd, 23-10); 126 – Ibrahim Ghani (Sr.) or Mazen Marghany (So., 10 wins at 113); 132 – Noah Bone (Sr., capt., 5th GMCT, 4th D15, 20-13 at 126); 138 – Anthony Reinoso (Fr.); 144 – Joseph Massimino (Fr.); 150 – Ayaan Aziz (Sr., 14 wins at 132); 157 – Brandon Crespo (So.); 165 – Logan Goncalves (Jr.); 175 – Michael Feliciano (Sr., capt., 5th GMCT, D15 and R4 champ, 26-7 at 165); 190 – Jonah Florczak (Sr.); 215 – Joseph Oyola (Jr.); 285 – Matheus Dacosta (Jr.)
Outlook: The upstart Patriots always seem to give opponents fits and have a couple breakout stars. Last season, Colonia tied for 10th in the GMCT, won 10 matches and saw Mikey Feliciano (33-6) win district and region gold medals. Noah Bone (20-13) and Josh Parks (23-10) will also form the nucleus of the team’s success. Colonia's lineup also features returning starters Aayon Aziz, Logan Goncalves, and Cameron Roodenberg. Colonia is expecting big things from the freshmen class of AJ Reinoso, Joseph Massimino and Hudson Platt, in the lower weights.
EAST BRUNSWICK
Coach: Joe Langel, 5th season
Last year: 16-9
Key losses: Bailey Cuomo (150, captain, region qualifier, GMCT 4th place), Ben Erlich (215, region qualifier)
Probable lineup: 106 - Dominick Lezark (So.); 113 - Rishi Nair (Sr.); 120 – Daniel Montgomery (Jr); 126 – Jake Gujski (So.); 132 – Aedan Samson-Huggins (Sr.); 138 – Arun Barsbai (Jr.); 144 – Nicholas Bierman (Sr.); 150 – George Crostewitz (So.); 157 – Devan Monahan (Jr.); 165 – Amir Magomed-Zade (Sr.); 175 – Tyler Suhan (Jr.); 190 - Yisreal Thomas (Sr.); 215 – Jose Rosade (Jr.); 285 – James Mallon (Sr.)
Outlook: Yes, the names are the same. Last year, the Bears young team earned 16 wins and finished sixth in the GMCT. Now, the bulk of the squad returns and are looking for the upswing to continue. District champion Aedan Samson-Huggins and three other region qualifiers in Dominick Lezark, Jake Gujski and George Crostewitz bring excitement to the East Brunswick room.
EDISON
Coach: Scott Gerba, 3rd season
Last year: 20-4
Key losses: Julian Dawson (126, 1st GMC, 2nd District, 39-5), Steven Vazquez (126/132), Josh Pizzaia (157, 6th GMC, 24-6), Hany Ghazy (190), Abdullah Rizvi (215), Joaquin Cruz (144, 17-12)
Probable lineup: 106 – Sean Eagle (So., 20-10); Caleb Hounakey (Jr.); 113 – Tyler Northern (Fr.); 120 –Matthew Weinbrenner (So.); 126 – Kenneth Rodriquez (Sr.) or Donovan Cruz (Jr.); 132 – Jeremy Negron (So., 24-10) or Jashir Wilkinson (Jr.); 138 – Lucas Almonte (Jr.); 144 – Fernando Avellan (So., 26-8); 150 – Jack Bills (So.) or Caleb Gluchowski (So.); 157 – Justin Duggan (Jr.) or Divie De Los Angelos (Jr.); 165 – Jadon De La Barrera (Sr., 15 wins) or Faris Mamood (Jr.); 175 – Nyekir Eato (Jr., 22-4) or Isiah Lutz (So.); 190 – Ahmad Mustajab (Sr.) or Bryan Cruz (Sr.); 215 – Chris Eagle (Sr., 11 wins); 285 – Saeed Altairi (Sr.) or Cyrus Marmol (Sr.)
Outlook: Edison was one of those breakout teams last season with a 20-4 record and finished 8th in the GMCT out of 24. Although there are key losses, the Eagles return a strong core of wrestlers that should keep the program trending upwards under Scott Gerba. Wrestlers back with 20 wins include Sean Eagle, Jeremy Negron, Fernando Avellana and Nyekir Eato.
HIGHLAND PARK
Coach: Craig Girvan, 13th season
Last year: 2-23
Probable lineup: 106 – Eric Diamondstein (Fr.); 113 – Cameron James (So.); 120 – Raffi Goldberg (So.); 126 – Alain Segura (Jr.); 132 – Matt Adamsczyk-Zapor (So.); 138 – Eugene Yu (Sr.); 144 – Ernie Botteon (Sr., 19-14); 150 – Jacob Quiros Parros (Fr.); 157 – Harrison Clark (Fr.); 165 – Tristan Hazy (Fr.); 175 – Nick Merino (Sr., 10 wins); 190 – Brian Mahoney (Jr.); 215 – Noah Langston-Berlin (Jr.); 285 – Chris Chenard (Jr.) or Christian Gomez (Sr.)
Outlook: Although many wrestlers are young and inexperienced, the Owls will be better with more kids in the program. They’re led by Botteon (19 wins), Merino and Langston-Berlin. The hope is that the wrestlers improve throughout the season and the program gets someone on the podium in the post season. Segura and Yu are two other experienced wrestlers in the room.
J.F. Kennedy
Coach: Matt Creighton, 6th season
Last year: 18-3
Key losses: Giovanni Maglione (2nd GMC, 1st district, 5th region, 35-4 at 132), Mark Roche (4th GMC, 1st District, 5th Region, 29-7 at 138), Derek Cistrelli (22-11 at 126), Yousef Abdelaal (18-6 @ 157), Subtain Ali (20-10 at 165)
Probable lineup: 106 – Cameron Daniels (Jr., 14-9 at 106); 113 – Armani Maglione (Fr.); 120 – Johnathan Barretto (Sr., 8-6) or Aiden Roche (Jr., 16-8); 126 – Alejandro Montalvo (Jr. 20-12, 7/8 GMC, 3rd District); 132 – Naelson Vazques (Fr.); 138 – Peter Chun (Jr.); 144 – Somya Chaniyara (Jr.); 150 – Johnathan Martinez (Sr., 13-7); 157 – Dylan Driz (Jr.); 165 – Shehraj Salman (Fr.); 175 – Matthew Rodrigues (Sr., 9 wins); 190 – Duvell Jones- King (So.) or Justin Vargas (Sr.); 215 – Emmanuel Perez Quijano (Jr. 21-11); 285 – Josh Alencar (Sr.) or Miguel Alvarez (Sr.)
Outlook: After an 18-3 season where the Mustangs won their first division title in 13 years (Blue Division 7-0), the Mustangs look to reload after graduating over half their starting lineup. With still a young core of returning wrestlers, they need to piece their lineup together with some returning wrestlers and select freshmen to make another run at a division title. Alejandro Montalvo, Aiden Roche, Cameron Daniels, Johnathan Barretto, John Martinez and Emmanuel Perez Quijano will look to make a huge jump this year. Eyes have been on freshman Armani Maglione in the preseason, who aims to follow in his brothers Sergio and Giovanni’s footsteps and leave his own legacy at JFK.
J.P. Stevens
Coach: Jim Jacob, 1st season
Last year: 4-18
Key losses: Kwabena Afrifah (transfer, HWT, 5th GMCT, 2nd District 16)
Probable lineup: 106 – Bhuv Rathod (So.) or Casey Wong (Jr., 9-7, girls record 4-4); 113 – Ruby Hyman-Cruz ((Sr., 6-1); 120 –Naman Arora (So.) or Asad Sufyan (Fr.); 126 – Anthony Bonilla (Sr., 8 wins) or Deep Patel (So.) or Raul Ismoil (So.); 132 – Adolfo Malabanan (Jr., 28-5/2nd place East Brunswick Bear Invitational/4th place GMCT/ 4th place District 16); Om Giri (Fr.) or Tanush Chandel (So.) or Jabari Helper (Jr.); 144 – Arjun Jayothish (So.) or Nischav Gurram (So.) or Nathan Mandonca (Fr.) or Keshav Matrey (So.); 157 – Manan Gandhi (Sr.) or Leo Li (Fr.); 165 – Karter Mark (Sr.) or Izaan Mohammed (So.); 175 – Kevin Saboth (Sr., 11 wins); 190 – Joshua Palmer (So.) or Jay’Denn Vazquez-Francillion (Fr.); 215 – N/A; 285 – Feroze Khan (Sr.) or Isaiah Dennis (Jr.)
Outlook: The Hawks are an up and coming team with six returns veterans to lead the way. The flagship wrestler is Adolfo Malabanan (132) who is coming off a breakout sophomore season in which he went 28-5, placed fourth in the GMCT and just missed qualifying for the region tournament. JP also has experience with seniors Anthony Bonilla (126) and Kevin Saboth (175). Jim Jacob takes over as head coach and he knows the North Edison well. He wrestled three years varsity at JP (Class of 1992) and was a district champion and GMCT runner-up. He previously was the JV coach at JP in 2016-17.
METUCHEN
Coach: Nick Zaneto, 1st season
Last year: 12-11
Key losses: Francesco Rossiter (2nd GMC, 2nd District, 3rd Region, 35-7 at 157)
Probable lineup: 106 – Ron Hodes (Fr.); 113 – Aaron Grubman (Jr.); 120 – Ethan Sruya (Jr.); 126 – Nate Decoite (Jr., 3rd place district, 21-11 at 120); 132 – Cole Capraro (So., 7 wins at 126); 138 – Emilio Rossiter (So., 14 wins at 132); 144 – CJ Pareja (Sr., 15 wins at 138); 150 – Danny Ayala (Jr., 16-11 at 144); 157 - Jake Kodilla (Jr.) or Michael Murphy (Sr.); 165 – Pat Moore (Sr.); 175 – Ben Michaliszyn (Jr., 20-13 at 165); 190 – Danny Montemurno (So.); 215 – Michael Montemurno (Jr., 15 wins at 190); 285 – Pharell Maapi (Sr.)
Outlook: The Bulldogs are a young team that graduated Francesco Rossiter, one of the most decorated wrestlers in school history. Now, they will be looking to build from last year’s double-digit win dual meet team with a strong middle in the lineup. Nate DeCoite kicks it off at 126 and Cole Capraro (132), Emilio Rossiter (138), CJ Pareja (144) and Daniel Ayala (150) finish the stretch. Ben Michaliszyn (175, 20 wins) and Michael Montemurno (215, 15 wins) bring balance to the upper weights. The goal of the program is to compete for the Blue Division title after going 5-1 last year and to become a consistent competitor in the Group 1 playoffs.
The program also has some personnel changes. Nick Zaneto, who spent the last five seasons assisting Joe Keagle, takes over as the head coach while Keagle remains on the staff. Zaneto wrestled at Springfield College and is a Metuchen alum and he hopes to connect with the school’s other alums. Additionally, Kevin Coleman jumps on the staff as an assistant after successfully guiding the first year of middle school wrestling in Metuchen. It's already been beneficial as the room has the most wrestlers in the program since 2001.
MIDDLESEX/DUNELLEN
Coach: Ryan Boyd, 6th season
Last year: 10-13
Key losses: RJ Stradling (2nd GMC, 3rd District, 6th Region at 150)
Probable lineup: 106 – TBD; 113 – Jonathan Jimenez (So.) or Aubrey Ramos (Fr.); 120 – Jayden Caraballo (So.); 126 – Dominick McQuone (So., 22-10, 4th District); 132 – Nomar Almonte (Fr.) or Thomas Demaio (Fr.); 138 – Sam Kleiber (Sr., 17-11, 6th GMC) or Cash Posluszny (So.); 144 - Vicktor Arocho (Sr.); 150 – Anthony Carter (Fr.); 157 – Jack Griffin (Jr.); 165 – Dakota Clark (Sr.); 175 – Aben Rojas-Dominguez (Sr., 12 wins); 190 – Julien DeCampos (Jr., 11 wins) or Desmond Condit (Sr.); 220 – Joseph Lawler-McDaniel (So.) or Sean Hughes (So.); 285 – Connor Martin (Sr.) or Dalton Michael (So.)
Outlook: The Blue Jays are looking to continue to grow and build after graduating standout RJ Stradling, a GMCT finalist. Middlesex/Dunellen does have a strong group of young wrestlers who are eager to step up and make an impact. This group has been putting in the work during offseason training and are ready to step up and contribute to the team's success. Keep an eye on Dominick McQuone, who showed potential as a freshman and cranked out 22 wins as a rookie. Senior Sam Kleiber brings three years of experience and leadership to the team. Fellow seniors Dakota Clark and Aben Rojas-Dominguez are also expected to have a strong presence on the team.Jayden Caraballo, Jack Griffin, Julien Decampos and Connor Martin are other wrestlers who have shown great potential and determination in the offseason. As they continue to develop and gain experience, they will be valuable assets to the team. With a mix of experienced and new wrestlers, the team is working hard to develop chemistry and support each other both on and off the mat.
MONROE
Coach: Joe Eurell, 7th season
Last year: 18-12
Key losses: Josh Bouchard (22-9 at 150), Chris Guzzo (3rd District, 17-17 at 190)
Probable lineup: 106 – James Verderami (Fr.); 113 – Cooper Bacon (Fr.) or Alex Hatoff (Fr.); 120 – Nick Cavallo (So., 5th GMC, 1st District, 22-14 at 113); 126 – Anthony Caponegro (So., 3rd District, 23-16 at 126) or Daniel Abraham (Jr.); 132 – Josh Shumsky (Jr., 2nd District, 27-11 at 120); 138 – Matt Shumky (Jr., 5th GMC, 17-14 at 132); 144 – Wyatt Olma (Sr., 3rd GMC, 2nd District, 28-10 at 138); 150 – Luke Pawliczak (Fr.); 157 – Anthony Ramirez (Sr.); 165 – Youseph Abdeljawad (Sr., 5th GMC, 14-7 at 157); 175 – Omar Cholula (Sr., 1st District, 23-15 at 175); 190 – Akbar Rizvi (Sr., 13-13 at 215) or Jayden Badillo (Fr.); 215 – Anthony Marcos (So.); 285 – Josiah Gibson (Sr., 12-14 at 285) or Hayden Cannon (Fr.)
Outlook: The Falcons have gone 102-34 in Joe Eurell’s six seasons. Success this winter should be no exception as Monroe returns nine starters, including five region qualifiers in Nick Cavallo, Josh Shumsky, Anthony Caponegro, Wyatt Olma and Omar Cholula. That experience should play well in tournaments, too, as Monroe looks to crack the Top 5 in the GMCT after finishing seventh last season. The leadership of those two seniors – Olma and Cholula – will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the team's success. Adding to the mix is a group of talented freshmen in James Verderami, Cooper Bacon, Alex Hatoff, Luke Pawliczak, Jayden Badillo and Hayden Cannon. The strength of the lineup lies from 120 through 144.
NEW BRUNSWICK
Coach: Michael Petite, 1st season
Last year: 12-15
Key losses: Yasir Johnson (23-7, first in district, 4th in GMCT)
Probable lineup: 106 – James Rodriguez (Jr.); 113 – Daniel Torres (Jr.) or Luis Perez. (Jr.); 120 – Christopher Gutierrez Cruz (Sr.); 126 – Diego Cortez (Jr.); 132 – Luis Caballero (Jr.); 138 – James Ratajczak (Sr.); 144 – Johnny Velazco Reyes (Jr.); 150 – Edgar Rosales (Jr.); 157 – Irwin Moncada (Jr.) or Carlos Rivera Mozo (Sr.); 165 – William Mendoza (So.); 175 – Yovany Rodriguez (So.); 190 – N/A; 215 – Emanuel Mateo (Jr.); 285 – Edwin Cedillo (Jr.) or Noa De La Rosa (So.)
Outlook: Michael Petite replaces longtime mentor Ben Ostner, who is now at his alma mater Freehold Boro. Petite is a familiar name for area fans as a former star at Piscataway and Buffalo. He should certainly bring excitement to the program. The Zebras look for leadership from seniors like James Ratajczak and returners such as Edwin Cedillo and James Rodriguez. The Zebras are optimistic and ready to improve.
NORTH BRUNSWICK
Coach: David J. Saley, 1st Season
Last year: 6-12
Key losses: Omar Elhomossy (6th GMCT, district champion, 13-3 at 132), William Wilson (GMCT champion, district champion, 2nd region, Top 12 NJ State Championship, 23-3 at 165)
Probable lineup: 106 - Issah Sheriff (Fr.); 113 - Antonio Pizza (Jr.); 120 - Anthony Sosa (Sr.); 126 - Xavier Erazo Hilario (Jr.); 132 - Justin Turgyan (So.); 138 - Joldin Miranda (So., 8 wins at 150); 144 - Jomar Mena (Sr., 3rd District, 23-11 at 157); 150 - Jason Estrada (Jr.); 157 - Sean Cannon (Fr.); 165 - Michael Sanchez Borge (So.); 175 - Borboh Sheriff (Sr.); 190 - Mahmoud Manaem (Jr.); 215 - John Colon (Jr.); 285 – Simeon Gill (Sr.)
Outlook: Things are on the upswing in North Brunswick. David Saley takes over as head coach for the Raiders after assisting last season and is also running the town’s new youth program. Former longtime South Brunswick head coach Bobby Januska is taking over the middle school program as North Brunswick wrestling is being rebuilt from the ground up. The excitement includes the school installing a new wrestling light in January and having a match against Manville on Jan. 19 with all proceeds going to Parkinson’s disease research. Saley knows all about wrestling success. His accolades at Monroe include winning four district titles and he was Top 12 in the state his senior year (2010). He went on to wrestle at Belmont Abbey College and has also been an official.
OLD BRIDGE
Coach: John Post, 5th season
Last year: 19-5
Key losses: Tyler Sagi (157, 42-3, 4th in state), Nicholas Caruso (285, 27-13, RWB2), Rocco Celentano (138, 12 wins), Daniel Hennessey (165, 36-6, SWB2), Brandon Koczon (132, 28-11), Jesse Koczon (126, 36-7, R 5th), Avery Mack (175, 29-8, SWB1), Austin Miller (150, 21-16, D 4th), Robert Orzol (215, 31-10, R 6th)
Probable lineup: 106 – Joseph Nalewajko (So.); 113 – Gavin Young (Fr.); 120 – Logan Roman (Sr., 45-1, state champion at 113); 126 – Dan Ferraro (Jr.); 132 – James Guastella (Jr.); 138 – Griffin Nugent (Fr.); 144 – Aiden Roman (Jr.); 150 – Kevin Hickey (Sr.); 157 – Jake Tenebruso (Jr., 27-16, 2nd D19, 4th R5 at 144); 165 – Dylan Miller (So.); 175 – Gage Gojani (Jr.); 190 – Dominic Paulino (Jr.); 215 – Zach Florio (So.); 285 – Tarik Mohamed-Ali (So.)
Outlook: The Knights graduated a bulk of their starters from last season’s senior-heavy team that entered the state rankings and placed second in the GMCT. Not all is lost. In fact, Old Bridge returns state champion Logan Roman, who bumps from 113 to 120. He’s a great building block as is state qualifier Jake Tenebruso. They also return promising sophomores in JoJo Nalewajko and Zach Florio, while Dylan Miller, Gage Gojani and Dominic Paulino look to make an impact this season.
PERTH AMBOY
Coach: Roberto Morales 6th season
Last year: 2-15
Key losses: None
Probable lineup: 106 – N/A; 113- Xavier Ubaez (So.); 120 – Sabastian Rodriguez (Jr.); 132 – Kelvin Alba (So.); 138 – Jeric Rodriguez (So.); 144 – Jamelle Cockren (Sr.) or Damian Estrada (Jr.); 150 –Alexander Merino (Jr.) or Ricky Henriquez (Fr.); 157 – Jasid DeCastro (Sr.); 165 – Jhoden Souza (So.) or Jonathan Tepoz (So.) or Naseem Bashir (Jr.); 175 – Carlos Rodriguez (Jr.); 190 – Luis Valerio (Sr.), Branden Rodriguez (So.); 285 – Fernando Grande (So.) or Israel Perez (So.) or Daniel Sanchez (So.)
Outlook: Things are looking up for the Panthers. Perth Amboy ended last season with low numbers, but the turnout for this season has been great with 40 boys and 20 girls. Head coach Roberto Morales reports the team is packed with untapped talent and they have hopes that by the season’s end, everyone’s improvement will be evident.
PISCATAWAY
Coach: Dan Smith, 8th season
Last year: 12-11
Key losses: Tyler Bertrand (15-18, 4th District at 165), Jude Adekanye (17-15, 3rd District at 175), Ossie Hilliard (14-4, 4th GMC, 3rd District at 190), Richard Baah (27-7, 2nd GMC, 2nd District at 215); Malachi Wyatt (29-8, 2nd GMC, 2nd District, 6th Region at 285)
Probable lineup: 106 – Syed Bokhari (So., 4-0 at 106); 113 – Messiah Gibbs (So.. 14-11 at 106); 120 – Aiden Wallace-Rodriguez (Jr.); 126 – Marco Meneses (Sr. 18-13 at 113); 132 – Ma’Zyi Jacobs (So., 14-14, 4th District at 126) or Gavin Persaud (So.); 138 – Azayah Annigew (Sr.) or James Bodley (Jr.) or Raymel Garcia Del Rosario (Fr.); 144 – Brian Butler (Sr. 33-6, 2nd GMC, 1st District, 5th Region at 132); 150 – Sean Love (So. 13-9, 3rd District at 138); 157 - Garrett Pech (Sr. 16 wins, 3rd District at 157); 165 – Justin Cherry (Jr.) or Parth Patel (Jr.); 175 – Leonard Breaux (Jr.) or Amar-e Bowers (Fr.); 190 – Leonard Breaux (Jr.) or Lesly Antoine (Sr.); 215 – Lesly Antoine (Sr.) or Owen Farmer (Sr.); 285 – Troy Hutchinson (Sr.) or Vincent Williams (Fr.)
Outlook: The Chiefs look to overcome the loss of senior captains Richard Baah and Malachi Wyatt with a core senior group. Piscataway will now lean on their three senior captains Marco Meneses, Brian Butler and Garrett Pech to help guide the young team throughout the season. Butler returns as the most accomplished wrester after reaching the GMCT finals and capturing a district title. He kicks off a tough middle weights unit that includes sophomore region qualifiers Sean Love and Pech. Meneses finished his junior season with 18 wins and will boost the lower weights. Piscataway will also have three returning sophomores that all posted 13-plus wins last season in Gibbs, Jacobs and Love. Other newcomers looking to make an impact on the lineup include transfer Aiden Wallace-Rodriguez, senior Troy Hutchinson, juniors Justin Cherry and Leonard Breaux, as well as freshmen Amar-e Bowers and Vincent Williams.
SAYREVILLE
Coach: Matthew Van Doren, 1st season
Last year: 16-10
Probable lineup: 106 - N/A; 113 - Jorge Zapata (Fr.); 120 - Robert Fritz (Fr.); 126 - CJ McCrea (Sr., 4th districts, 2nd GMCT, 21-5 at 113); 132 - Logan Skulski (Jr., 4th districts at 120); 138 - Jon Metz (Jr.); 144 - Chris Schmitt (Sr.); 150 - Carmine Galante (So.); 157 - Michael Zaunczkowski (Jr.); 165 - Logan Appleby (Sr.); 175 - Edwin Class (Sr.); 190 - Bryce Bouchard (Jr.); 215 - Sean Sylvester (Jr.); 285 – Connor Walsh (Sr., 2nd districts, 5th regions, 20-5)
Outlook: Sayreville has star power in CJ McCrea (126) and Connor Walsh (285) with nice pieces in between, including a strong junior class. Van Doren, a former wrestler at St. Thomas Aquinas and a Sayreville assistant, takes over for longtime coach Marcus Ivy.
SOUTH BRUNSWICK
Coach: Jay Jairdullo, 1st season
Last year: 7-16
Key losses: Mustafa Oudeh (3rd District, 18-6 at 144/150), Mickey Kurilla (2nd District, 20-5 at 150/157/165)
Probable lineup: 106 – Forfeit; 113 – Mazen Alkilani (So., 8 wins at 106); 120 – Ishaan Kashi (Sr.); 126 – Aytug Tabur (Jr.); 132 – Damon Andon (Jr.); 138 – Yossef Adam (So.) 144 – Garv Sen (Jr., 3rd District, 17-10 at 120/126); 150 – Forfeit; 157 – Forfeit; 165 – Andy Jiang (So.); 175 –Christopher Andon (Sr.) or Anthony Hartz (Jr.); 190 – Dan Inestroza (Sr.) or Husnain Siddiqui (Jr); 215 – Forfeit; 285 – Forfeit
Outlook: The Vikings are expecting big things from junior Garv Sen and looking to get mat experience for the rest of the lineup. Sen was a region qualifier at 120 and is now going up to 144. The program is in good shape with 50 students out for the team and many first-year wrestlers. The Vikings hope to fill some of the vacant weight classes as the season progresses and the new wrestlers gain experience. Jay Jairdullo, who wrestled at North Plainfield, takes over for longtime Vikings coach Robert Januska.
SOUTH PLAINFIELD
Coach: Steve Johnston, 6th season
Last year: 12-6
Key losses: Daniel Borsos (5-2, 175), J.J. Giordano (27-3, 1st GMCT, 144), Daniel Gonzalez-Ross (15-15, 7th/8th GMC, 3rd District 14, 138), Andrew Loniewski (29-9, 1st GMC, 1st District 14, 4th Region 4 at 132), Mark Molinaro (157), Justus Niemeyer (30-10, 2nd GMC, 1st District 14, 4th Region 4, 165), Robert White (8-7, 3rd District 14 at 157), Nicholas Campagna (150, Top 12 in state, transfer)
Probable lineup: 106 – Logan Stoeckel (Fr.); 113 – Alex Pigna (So.) or Ben Wordel (Fr.); 120 – Justin Culver (So., 3rd District 14 at 113); 126: Joseph Stanzione (So., 22-9, 2nd GMC, 1st District 14 at 106); 132 – Anthony Mateo (So.); 138 – Nolan Hook (Sr., 5-3, 3rd District 14 at 144) or Godwill Ofoegbu (So.); 144 – Ryan Balent (Jr.) or Mahmoud Jadallah (Sr.) or Liam Werrlein (Sr.); 150 – Matthew Edwards (Fr.) or Jose Rodriguez (Jr.); 157 – James Bermingham (So.) or Brandon Cordova (Jr.) or Gabriel Enriquez (Jr.) or Rodrigo Enriquez (Jr.) or Joseph Ronzo (So.) or Marcus Saffold (Jr.) or Jeremy Torralba (Sr.); 165 – Joshua Burden (So.) or Alexander Valle-Ramierez (Jr.); 175 – Emanuel Torres (Jr.) or Neil Wands (Fr.); 190 – Jacob Billian (Jr.); 215 – Raheem Abdul (Sr.) or Ryan Blackwell (Fr.); 285 – N/A
Outlook: The Tigers are coming off a solid season where they finished 12-6 and captured a team title at the Morris Knolls Tournament, as well as winning the Central Group 3 title for the eighth-straight year. The Tigers also shined in the individual postseason with 10 Region 4 qualifiers and two finalists. This winter, though, has a different early feel with several newcomers to the varsity lineup. Despite the graduations, South Plainfield is preparing for another good season with an inexperienced group that has been working hard to make up for that inexperience. A tough schedule will have the Tigers prepared, including a dual meet against perennial state power Southern Regional and a trip to the prestigious Sam Cali Invitational. Other challenges include the Henry Boresch Duals (Newton, Governor Livingston, Delsea, North Hunterdon, Wayne Valley, Hanover Park and Paulsboro). These events will have the Tigers battle-tested and ready to make another run at a sectional and group title. Senior captain Nolan Hook, who started last season late after suffering a broken leg during football, finished strong and placed third in District 14 at 144. The Tigers will also look for leadership from fellow senior Mo Jadallah, juniors Jose Rodriguez and Ryan Balent and returning district place-winners Joseph Stanzione and Justin Culver.
SOUTH RIVER
Coach: Brandon Russo, first season
Last year: 3-10
Key losses: Joseph Lepore (132, 16-4)
Probable lineup: 106 – Cody McInerny (Fr.); 113 – Thomas Nielson (So.); 120 – Dylan Soares (Sr.); 126 – Kenny Blue (Fr.); 132 – Fabiel Sanchez (Fr.); 144 – Luswin Monroy (Sr.); 150 – Dylan Zargo (Sr.); 157 – Esteban Martinez (Sr.); 174 – Kevin Pelaez (So.); 175 – Angel Cruz (Fr.); 190 – Filipe Granadiero (So.)
Outlook: The Rams look to continue to get better under first-year head coach Brandon Russo, a former wrestler at Colts Neck and South River’s middle school coach the last two years. He has some talent to work with at practice. The Rams’ flagship wrestler is Thomas Nielson, who placed third in the district at 113 and won 15 matches and Dylan Zargo also had double-digit wins.
SPOTSWOOD
Coach: Kyle Harper, third season
Last year: 11-12
Key losses: Matt Varga (165, 3rd district, 24-9), Billy Schwemmer (175, 18-10)
Probable lineup: 106 - Valerie Cicero (So.); 113 – N/A; 120 - Aidan Rizzuto (Jr.); 126 - Brandon Snyder (So.); 132 - Colton Schmitz (Jr.); 138 - Ryan Legakis (Jr.); 144 - Aadiv Kapada (So.); 150 - Justin Witt (Jr.); 157 - Luke Cole (So.); 165 - Nick Marin (Jr.); 175 - Danny Keelen (So.); 190 - Julian Chirico (So.); 215 - Nate Peck Garcia (Sr.); 285 – Kyle Chigas (Sr.)
Outlook: One could thing about starting a majority of underclassmen – they get older, and better. The Chargers are looking to improve off of their .500 regular season last year with a lineup full of several underclassmen. While still young, there is now a lot of varsity experience throughout the weights. Another plus is a huge turn out with nearly double the wrestlers compared to last season The Chargers will have depth at each weight class and a full JV squad, all pointing to a bright future. Colton Schmitz is back with 10 wins.
ST. JOSEPH
Coach: Michael Carbone, sixth season
Last year: 17-5
Key losses: Giovanni Alejandro (138, 39-4, 2x GMCT champ, 3x district champ, 2nd region, 2nd state), Evan Mendez (150, 25-10, GMCT champ, 2x district champ, 2x region champ), Vince Genna (157, 24-11, 3rd GMCT, district champ, 2x state qualifier), Jake Zargo (165, 15-6, 3 GMCT, district champ), Jake Tulli (285, 32-9, GMCT champ, district champ, 2nd region, 2x state qualifier)
Probable lineup: 106 – Ivan Rego (Fr.) or Julian Arango (So., 3rd GMC, 2nd District, 20-12 at 106); 113 – Nico DeRado (Fr.); 120 – Hunter Edge (Fr.) or Damian Pipitone (Jr., 7/8th GMC, 4-3 at 126); 126 – Damian Pipitone (Jr.) or Zach Beadling (Jr., 1st GMC, 1st District, 6th Region, 26-10 at 120); 132 – Zach Beadling (Jr.) or John Whitacre (Sr., 3rd GMC, 2nd District, 6th Region, 23-15 at 113); 138 – Morgan Schwarz (So., 3rd GMC, 1st District, 3rd Region, SWB3, 33-9 at 126); 144 – Mason Atkins (So., 3rd District, 15-11 at 132) or Ryan Farley (Sr); 150 – Sebastian Blumberg (Jr., 7-5 at 157, 18-6 career record); 157 – Tyler Whitford (So., 2nd GMC, 1st District, 3rd Region, SWB2, 33-9 at 144); 165 – Andrew Bouchard (Jr., 2nd GMC, 2nd District, 20-9 at 175); 175 – Giovanni Spallino (Jr., 7/8th GMC, 12 wins at 215); 190 – Daniel Internoscia (Jr.); 215 – Brian Christie (Sr., 1st GMC, 1st District, 1st Region, SWB2, 34-7 at 190); 285 – Jason Gross (So.) or Paul Dominick (Jr.)
Outlook: The Falcons are fresh off a huge year that saw them win their first GMC Tournament and Red Division titles in school history, as well as a district team title for the second year in a row. If the Falcons want to repeat this performance, they will have some big wrestling shoes to fill throughout their lineup. St. Joes graduated 135 wins, three GMCT champs, four district champions, a region champ and a state finalist (Gio Alejandro). Now, the team has just four seniors – but plenty of talent. Returning GMCT, district and region gold medalist Brian Christie leads the way as he looks to join Nico Calello and Alejandro as the third Falcon in school history with 100 wins. He also has 76 pins in his three seasons. Returning senior and two-time region qualifier John Whitacre expects to move up in weight and round out the lower weights. From there, St. Joe’s will lean on their tested youth as sophomore sensations Morgan Schwarz and Tyler Whitford, a pair of state qualifiers as freshmen, move up a couple weight classes and solidify the middleweights, the strength of the team. Julian Arango, who took top 3 in the GMCT and district, joins the duo, as well as region qualifier Mason Atkins. Junior class breakout candidates include Zachary Beadling, Andrew Bouchard and Sebastian Blumberg. A solid freshman class should add some depth. Always needed in a tough slate that includes Delbarton, Seton Hall Prep, Don Bosco Prep, Delsea, St. Augustine and Monsignor Farrell.
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS
Coach: Nick Tonzola, 33rd season
Last year: 14-10
Key losses: Landon Kearns (41-5 at 150), Alex Pasquale (21-12 at 165)
Probable lineup: 106 – Niko Rivas (Fr.); 113 – Ben DiCocco (Sr., 36-7 at 106); 120 – Atilla Meszeros (So.); 126 – Vincent Gioffre (Sr.); 132 – Jahir Aguilar (Jr., 21-9 at 120); 138 – Reed Kerstetter (Jr., 21-11 at 132); 144 – Liam Zeh (Jr.) or Neh Pina (Fr.); 150 – Sam Villanueva (Sr.) or Phil Palmer (Fr.); 157 – Dylan Piccialo (So.); 165 – Jon Howarth (Jr.) or Dylan Castleton (So.); 175 – Anthony Pasquale (Jr.); 190 – Nazareth Pina (Sr., 31-11 at 190); 215 – Steve Coghan (Sr., 32-9 at 215); 285 – Caden Sternlieb (Jr.)
Outlook: The Trojans placed third in last year’s GMCT and seem primed for another strong finish. While STA has some varsity newcomers, it also has veteran hammers throughout the lineup creating balance. Ben DiCocco (113) leads the way after finishing in the state Top 12 at 106. Up top, Steve Coghan (215) is also back after the state tournament with a third-place region finish. Jahir Aguilar (132), Reed Kerstetter (138) and Nazareth Pina (190) all look to reach plenty of podiums this season. Nick Tonzola has a career record of 339-286-3 in his 33 seasons at the school.
WOODBRIDGE
Coach: Michael Monaco, 6th Season
Last year: 10-10
Key losses: Jimmy Boelhower (7/8 GMCT , 3rd District, 24-12 at 175), Kaelyb Barahona ( 5th GMCT, 23-7 at 215), Xzavier Moe (16 wins at 132)
Probable lineup: 106 – N/A
113 – Colton Quesada (Fr.); 120 – Andrew Roy (Sr., 6th GMCT, 3rd District, 18-18 at 113); 126 – Leo Morales (Jr.); 132 – Angelo Campos (Jr., 16-16 at 120); 138 – Kyle Campos (Fr.); 144 – Chris Whyte (Sr.); 150 – Felix Medina- Rodriguez (Sr., 7/8 GMCT, 23-12 at 150) or Lukas Valentin (Fr.,); 157– Tyler Simkovich (Jr.) or Loui Castaneda (Sr., 10-10 at 157); 165 – Tyler Boelhower (Jr., 4th GMCT, 3rd District, 23-4 at 165); 175 – Logan Minkler ( Jr.); 190 – Mario Carbonaro ( Sr. 6th GMCT, 17-11 at 190); 215 – Emmanuel Medina- Rodriguez (Sr.); 285 – JC Mena- Rodriguez (Jr.)
Outlook: The Barrons graduated three senior captains from last year’s team that combined for 63 wins (Jimmy Boelhower, Barahona, Moe). While that trio will be hard to replace, they left a lasting impact for the younger wrestlers. The Barrons do return numerous wrestlers with some varsity experience. The returners are headlined by two region qualifiers and five GMCT place winners. Tyler Boelhower (50-10 career record) and Andrew Roy each qualified for Region 4. Fellow 20-match winner Felix Medina-Rodriguez will help solidify the middle of the Barrons lineup. Mario Carbonaro also returns for his fourth season and cranked out 17 wins last year. He’ll anchor the upper weights. Angelo Campos had a strong freshman season with a fifth-place GMCT finish. Tyler Simkovich and Loui Castaneda gained valuable experience in their first varsity action last season and fill out the middle weights. Three promising freshmen in Colton Quesada, Kyle Campos, and Lukas Valentin will man the 113, 138 and 150-pound weight classes. Leo Morales (126) returns after an early season injury last year and Chris Whyte (144) also gained valuable experience last season. Varsity newcomer Logan Minkler (175) looks to make an impact. Emmanuel Medina Rodriguez drops from heavyweight to 215. Enter football standout JC Mena Rodriguez solidifying the heavyweight spot.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: NJ wrestling: Greater Middlesex Conference team previews
