Wrestling previews: A look at the area Skyland Conference and UCC
Here are our wrestling team previews for the Courier News coverage area of Somerset County, Hunterdon County and parts of Union (Governor Livingston, New Providence, Scotch Plains-Fanwood, Westfield).
SOMERSET COUNTY
BERNARDS
Coach: David Brothers, 18th season
Last year: 15-4
Key losses: Terrence Hanratty (215, injured)
Probable lineup: 106 – Ben Eich (Fr.); 113 – Owen Baird (Jr.) or Junior Chilquinga (Jr.); 120 – Anthony Casceres (Jr.); 126 – Blake Dakin (So.); 132 – Ivan Cabrera (So.); 138 – Marcello Bonomo (Jr.); 144 – Nick Villani (Sr., 31-5); 150 – Charlie Hunnewell (Sr., 19-7 at 138); 157 – Jake Caldwell (Sr., 24-4 at 144); 165 – Patrick Carlisle (Fr.) or Matthew Vasquez (Fr.); 175 – Evan Donahue (Sr.) or Patrick Carlisle (Fr.) or Mathew Vasquez (Fr.); 190 – David Brothers (Sr., 19-9 at 165); 215 – Chase Caponigro (Fr.); 285 – Rob Benegas (So.)
Outlook: Bernards returns a veteran team that includes stars from other sports who have a winning mentality. Throw in some talented freshmen, and the Mountaineers hope to come close to last year’s 15-win season and get five or so wrestlers to the region tournament and to place in Top 4 in Somerset County. Nick Villani (Franklin and Marshall commit) leads the way after going 31-5 and reaching the blood round at the state tournament. Jake Caldwell (Babson for lacrosse) and David Brothers (Wagner for lacrosse) were standouts on the Mountaineers sectional champion football team and Charlie Hunnewell is also playing college lacrosse (LIU).
BOUND BROOK
Coach: Manny Kakas, 2nd season
Last year: 2-20
Key losses: Sean Markey (2nd SCT, 2nd district, 2nd region, top 12 in state, 17-9 at 120),
Jeremiah Perez (3rd district, 17-12 at 165)
Probable lineup: 106 – James Soria (Fr); 113 – N/A; 120 – Cater Aries (Fr.), Lennix Horsburgh (Sr., 1st Girls Region, Girls state runner up, 4-9 boys, 23-2 girls); 126 – Ethan Delacruz (Fr.), Tyler Courtney (So.), Kylie Gianotto (So.); 132 – Justin Silva (Fr.), Kadien Maldano (Fr.), John Perez (So.); 138 – Jake Markey (So., 4th SCT, 17-13), William Shallop (Fr.), Brian Baustia (Sr.); 144 – Josh Sanchez (Jr.); 150 – Tyler Hays (Sr., 3-2, 4th district in 2021-22); 157 – Raymond Konkle (Jr.); 165 – Kwabena Morgan (So.); 175 – N/A; 190 – NA; 215 – N/A; 285 – Daniel Steller (Sr., 4th district), Vinny Wisneski (Fr.), Abeal Mohmand (Fr.)
Outlook: Bound Brook will once again be a young squad with a mix of experienced wrestlers in the lineup. They’re still trying to improve on the numbers in the program and will have a handful of forfeits. Head coach Manny Kakas reports the team had a productive offseason and looks to improve on last season’s 2-20 record and to qualify for team sectionals. Jake Markey, Tyler Hays and Daniel Steller bring experience to the Crusaders' lineup. In addition, Lennix Horsburgh should see action in the lineup as she goes for her fourth girls region title with hopes of heading back to the state championship match at Boardwalk Hall.
BRIDGEWATER-RARITAN
Coach: Kyle Murphy, third season
Last year: 17-5
Key losses: Danny Smith (132, State Qualifier), Michael Marsigliano (126, Region Qualifier), Casey Spina (128, Region Qualifier), Nick Heuner (165, Region Qualifier), Steven Shimko (175, Region Qualifier), Christian Gallegos (190, Region Qualifier)
Probable lineup: 106 – Lucas Pelc (So., district 4th); 113 – Drew Adell (So.); 120 – Brady Hnasko (Sr.); 126 – Logan Levine (Jr., 27-8 at 120, district 2nd, 50-17 career record); 132 – Matt Diaz (Sr.); 138 – Matthew McCann (Fr.); 144 – Oscar Kilgallon (Jr.); 150 – Matt DiEduardo (Jr., SCT 3rd at 144, 20-10); 157 – Dane Sorensen (Sr., 31-7, district 3rd at 150); 165 – Anthony Colacino (Sr.); 175 – Lerrod Smalls (Jr.); 190 – Joseph Franco (Sr.); 215 – Trent Levash (Fr.); 285 – Gabe Medina (So.)
Outlook: While the Panthers graduated half a dozen key wrestlers from last year’s 17-win campaign, there’s a lot of excitement within the program. They’re hopeful that a combination of underclassman (five freshmen and sophomores are expected to start) and a deep senior class will result in plenty of hand raises. Logan Levine (Jr.) leads the way with 50 wins over his first two seasons. The Panthers also have an all-star coaching staff besides alum Murphy, a two-time state placewinner. Former South Plainfield coach and state champion Kevin McCann is on the staff, as is Raymond Jazikoff (South Plainfield, NYU).
FRANKLIN
Coach: Chris McEvoy, 18th season
Last year: 14-10
Key losses: Jayden Moore ( 120, 3rd District 17), Johan Aguilar (126, 2nd District 17), Malik Reid (165, 3rd District 17, Region 5 4th and state qualifier)
Probable lineup: 106 – Vidhu Venkatesh (So.); 113 – Victor Perez Alvarado (So.); 120 – Alex Holt (So.); 126 – Antonio Ore (Sr.); 132 – Justin Terrell-Howard (So.); 138 – James Chavez (So.), Joe Suriel (Sr.), 144 – Caleb Flores (Jr.); 150 – Solomon Pasteur (Jr.); 157 – Isaiah Tyson (Jr.); 165 – N/A; 175 – Jason Peters (So.); 190 – Maxim Kuznetsov (Sr.), Saadiq Taylor (So.); 215 – N/A; 285 – Evan Hartel (So., 3rd in District 17, 19-14)
Outlook: The Warriors have 40 wrestlers in the room on a daily basis with a nice nucleus of experience to go along with the young wrestlers vying for varsity spots. Eight sophomores may crack the lineup and help field a full lineup, which will keep Franklin competitive throughout the season. The Warriors have had some great heavyweights and sophomore Evan Hartel is following in that tradition. He won 19 matches as a freshman at 285 and qualified for the region.
HILLSBOROUGH
Coach: Rhys Weinberger, third season
Last year: 24-4
Key losses: Jack Miller (165, at TCNJ, 1st in SCT, 2nd in District, 35-6); Christian Quandt (HWT, at Springfield College, 2nd in SCT, 1st in District, 3rd in Region, SWB4, 39-7); Joey Witcoski (190, football at Wagner College, 1st in SCT, 1st in District, 2nd in Region, SWB3, 39-5); Chris Spinelli (132, 2nd in District, 28-11); Peter Quandt (175, 4th in SCT, 1st in District, 24-15); Alex Villa (138, 16-18)
Probable lineup: 106 – Logan McDermid (Jr., 3rd in SCT, 3rd in District, 3rd in Region 5, SWB2, 38-9 at 106); 113 – Tommy Kester (So., 1st in SCT, 3rd in District, 24-9 at 113); 120 – Anthony Mayo (So.); 126 – Corey Iannucci (Jr., 2nd in SCT, 3rd in District, 25-13 at 126); 132 – Zach Iannucci (Jr., 2nd in District, 23-13 at 120); 138 – Owen Miller (Fr.); 144 – Brett Lockburner (Sr., 4th in District, 16 wins at 144); 150 – Tyler Margelis (Sr.); 157 – Kevin Hoefele (Sr.); 165 – Matt Miller (Jr., 4th in SCT, 4th in District, 24-16 at 150); 175 – Anthony Franzoso (Jr.); 190 – Giuseppe Cicciari (Jr., 4th in District, 16 wins at 157); 215 – Matt Jones (Sr., committed to Shippensburg University, 2nd in SCT, 2nd in District, 3rd in Region, SWB2, 30-6 at 215); 285 – Nick Duarte (So.)
Outlook: Can Hillsborough make it a three-peat? The Raiders graduated a chunk of talent, but return enough star power to again be in the mix as the county’s top team and make a run for a sectional title. Hillsborough has captured the last two Somerset County Tournaments titles and went 24-4 last year, including key dual wins over Bridgewater-Raritan and Watchung Hills. Ridge is also expected to provide a challenge. The Raiders have their largest roster in some time with nearly 50 wrestlers and three girls for the school’s first girls team. The balanced lineup includes two returning state qualifiers and three region qualifiers. Hillsborough’s strength in 2022-23 was its heavy hammers in the upper weights. Now that shifts, as the lower weights bring the experience with four wrestlers with at least 20 wins in Logan McDermid (106), Tommy Kester (113), Corey Iannucci (126) and Zach Iannucci (132). Matt Jones (215) brings a presence to the top of the lineup after going 30-6 last season.
IMMACULATA
Coach: Rodney Van Ness
Last year: First year program
Probable lineup: 106 – Lucas Loffredo (So.); 113 – Derek Sutphen (Fr.); 120 – Ryan Goldstein (Fr.); 126 – Mason Tettambel (Fr.); 132 – Nate Keller (Fr.); 138 – Nick Parisi (So.); 144 – Ethan Weiner (Jr.); 150 – Tyler Oram (Sr.); 157 – Alex Natale-Papera (So.); 165 – Nicolas Stokes (So.); 175 – Vito Marcogoliese (So.); 190 – Adam Bowles (Sr., South Plainfield transfer, district champ, region finalist at 175, 19-14); 215 – Trevor Hawkins-Dailey (Jr.); 285 – Michael Urena (So.)
Outlook: The name Rodney Van Ness is immediately recognizable to area wrestling fans. He won a state medal for Somerville in 1992 and is one of Rutgers most winningest wrestlers (2x NCAA qualifier). He coached at Somerville for 23 years. Now, he moves two minutes in town to take over as the first head coach at Immaculata. The Spartans are opening with 27 kids on the roster, although many of them have little experience on the mat. South Plainfield senior transfer and region finalist Adam Bowles leads the way. The team is also anchored by senior Tyler Oram. Immaculata may surprise as they should field a full lineup thanks to its football program filling in the upper weights.
MANVILLE
Coach: David Markowitch, 1st season
Last year: 22-3
Key losses: Geoffrey Mathis (3rd Somerset County, 2nd District, 28-6 at 190), Brandon Rivera (26-8 at 126), Danny Wildgoose (27-6 at 165), Nolan Antonio (18-15 at 113), Marvin Valverde-Bonilla (17-8 at 215), Tyler Lozier (15-10 at 157), Jayson Hernandez (13-21 at 150)
Probable lineup: 106 – Cris Villalobos (Fr.) or Brandyn Rajpaul (Fr.); 113 – Kevin Camacho (Fr.) or Dominik Wojtach (So.); 120 – Anthony Drake (Jr., 4th District, 19-13 at 120); 126 – Justin Petti (Sr., 26-7 at 106); 132 – Andrew Meza (Fr.); 138 – Isaiah Bennett (So., 23-10 at 126); 144 – Steven Urena (So.); 150 – Hector Dominguez (Sr.); 157 – Brian Fisher (Jr.); 165 – Lucas Velando (Sr., 4th Somerset County, 2nd District, 27-6 at 157); 175 – Rich Freitag (Sr.) or Evan Canica (So.); 190 – Trip Freitag (Jr., 1st Somerset County, 25-7 at 175); 215 – German Corea (Jr.) or Jesse Harodetsky (So.); 285 – German Corea (Jr.) or Jesse Harodetsky (So.)
Outlook: The Mustangs open the 2023-24 season with a new head coach and a bevy of new faces in the lineup. Not only will the Mustangs have to replace a strong departing class that featured seven seniors, but they also replace longtime skipper Pat Gorbatuk. Gorbatuk, now the school’s athletic director, led the most successful stretch in program history. Manville simply fielded complete lineups and competed for division titles and team sectional berths every winter. Manville fans shouldn't fret, David Markowitch is quite familiar with the program. He was an assistant under Gorbatuk for the past 12 seasons and graduated from Manville in 1999. Markowitch went on to wrestle at Lycoming College. He also took over for Gorbatuk as the Mustangs head football coach this past season. On the mat, the young Mustangs brought in a large group from their middle school program and will feature as many as eight new faces in the lineup. The expectations, though, remain the same as the group hopes to qualify for the Central Group 1 playoffs. Trip Freitag (190) is back after having a memorable run to the SCT championship at 175 as the No. 5 seed. Lucas Velando also returns after reaching the regions with a 2nd District 17 finish.
MONTGOMERY
Coach: Jay Stuart, 3rd season
Last year: 6-19
Key losses: Lucas Allen (1st SCT, 3rd district, 5th region, 31-5 at 215), Elhadji Diara (23-9 at 175), Konstantin Clark (14 wins at 144)
Probable lineup: 106 – Gavin Fong (So., 3rd Dessino Tournament, 10-8 at 106); 113 – Tamar Reza (Sr.); 120 – Oliver King (So.) or Austin Perez (Jr.); 126 – Nick Reyes (Jr., 15 wins at 126); 132 – Walcott Gesira (So.); 138 – Josh Malek (Jr.); 144 – Jax Obe (Jr., 2nd Somerset County Tournament, 1st Dessino Tournament, 10-1 at 138); 150 – Shabbir Ali (Sr.) or Davlat Azimov (Jr.); 157 – Greg Heden (Fr.) or Azimov; 165 – Elior Mezhericher (Fr.); 175 – John Lawler (Sr.); 190 – Austin Allen (Jr., 1st Mike Dessino Invitational, 12 wins at 157/165); 215 – Lucas Clark (Sr., 9 wins at 190/215); 285 – Jack Dowling (Fr.)
Outlook: While Montogmery is in a rebuilding phase with only five seniors on the team (two are first-year wrestlers), the numbers are strong with 35 members on the team. With almost 20 freshmen/sophomores, the Cougars look to improve in the coming seasons under Stuart, a former state champion at Piscataway. Jax Obe was off to a strong start last season and reached the SCT final, but injury cut his season short. Nick Reyes, Austin Allen and Gavin Fong all look to have solid seasons.
PINGRY
Coach: Keith Karsen, 5th season
Last year: 8-13
Key losses: Jason Weaver (157, 28-7, SCT 3rd, District 3rd), Reilly Cavanaugh (215, 30-7, SCT 3rd, District 2nd), Nic Sendon (190, District 4th, four-year starter), Adekunle Fakorede (285, 21-11, SCT 4th, four-year starter)
Probable lineup: 106 – Evan Murnick (Fr.) or Colin Flood (Fr.); 113 – Jack Abramson (Fr.); 120 – Matteo Littman (Sr., 28-9, District 3rd, Region 5th); 126 – Max Ventura (So., 20-12, SCT 4th); 132 – Sam Nkansah (So., 7 wins); 138 – James Gray (So.); 144 – Michael Webster (Fr.) or Diego Galvan (Jr.) or Gabe Raykin (So.); 150 - Charles Levine (Sr., 26-10, SCT 2nd, District 3rd); 157 – Finn Cavanaugh (So., 8 wins); 165 – Anthony Truncale (So.); 175 – Julian Zassenhaus (So.); 190 – Austin Mau (So.); 215 – Sebastian Salvatore (Sr.); 285 – Brian Fahey (Jr.) or Alex Curtis (Fr.)
Outlook: The Big Blue expect to flex a young team after graduating 12 starters over the last two seasons, including seven last year. Pingry will rely on the senior leadership of Matteo Littman (28-9) and Charles Levine (26-10) to guide the young team. At times, they may be starting freshmen and sophomores in 12 of the 14 weight classes. The young group is led by freshman Jack Abramson, who was the youth state runner-up and has placed in multiple national tournaments. The sophomores have shown tremendous improvement from last season and with the seniors and development of its freshmen, Pingry hopes to surprise some teams this winter.
RIDGE
Coach: Roy Dragon, third season
Last year: 19-11
Key losses: Ryan Turner (190, 2nd SCT, 2nd D14), Tim Kolshorn (138, 1st SCT, 1st D14, 3rd R4), TJ Reynolds (150)
Probable lineup: 106 – Tanner Connelly (So., SCT 2nd, D14 2nd, 24-11); 113 – Owen O’Leary (So., SCT 3rd, D14 2nd, 21-16); 120 – Matt Cash (Jr.); 120 – Cal Reynolds (So.) ; 126 – Lenny Paolillo (So., 10-5); 132 – Gavin Duran (Jr., SCT 4th, D14 1st, R4 3rd, 34-9); 138 – Will Corbett (Jr., 13 wins); 144 – Ryan Yang (So., 4-3, D14 2nd); 150 – Ryan Engle (So., SCT 3rd, D14 3rd, R4 6th, 33-10); 157 – Liam Thoma (Jr., D14 2nd, 18-16); 165 – JT Kim (So.); 165 – Joe Samaan (Sr., 9 wins); 175 – Kevin Taylor (Sr., SCT 3rd, D14 2nd, R4 6th, 27-13); 190 – Nate Engdahl (So., 10 wins) or Sam Ginn (Jr.) or Alex Muntyan (Sr., 11 wins); 220 – Anthony Valera (So.) ; 285 – Chris Oliver (Sr., D14 1st, R4 4th, 31-1) or Ray Kuper (Sr.)
Outlook: The Red Devils had a breakthrough season with several underclassmen contributing. Ridge scored the most points in District 14 and finished third in the SCT. Now, they look to build off of last season with 10 of 12 returning region qualifiers. Last year’s lineup featured eight freshmen, who they expect to continue to grow into solid wrestlers with extra experience. The Red Devils will be in the mix for the program’s first SCT and sectional titles in over 30 years.
RUTGERS PREP
Coach: Mike Lamb, 22nd season
Last year: 1-18
Key losses: None
Probable lineup: 106 – Rohan Muni (Fr.); 113 – Kaisan Edmonds (Fr.); 120 – Justin Storipan (So.); 126 – Zach Burden (Sr., 12 wins at 120); 132 – Liam Glick (So.); 138 – Jimmy Hamlette (Fr.); 144 – Divneel Singh (Sr.); 150 – Vivaan Rochlani (Sr.); 157 – Jaden Mendez (Sr., 19-10 at 157); 165 – Payce Lamb (Sr., 17-6 at 165); 175 – Evan Bekos (Jr.); 190 – Krish Patel (Sr.) or Sherwin Jiang (Jr.); 215 – Matteo Stryshak (Sr.); 285 – Suchir Bathini (So.)
Outlook: The Argonauts bring back five senior starters from last year’s lineup along with four other starters and have added 10 new wrestlers. They start the season filling every weight class and hope to can be competitive in their Skyland division with a full lineup. Zach Burden, Jaden Mendez and Payce Lamb each return with double-digit wins. Veteran coach Mike Lamb noted,”This is a great group of kids who have worked hard in the off-season. I can’t wait to see them on the mat this year.”
SOMERVILLE
Coach: Matt Bloom, first season
Last year: 11-16
Key losses: Joe Aldrich (120, 1st Somerset County, 2nd Districts, Region 7/8th, 1x state qualifier 2022), Lucas Marchese (144, 1st Somerset County, 2nd districts, Region 4th at
Probable lineup: 106 – Luke Metrovsky (So.); 113 – no wrestler; 120 – Valarie Maldonado (Sr., 2nd States, 34-3, girls accolades); 126 – Aidyn Herrera (Fr.); 132 – Jason Daleo (Sr. 19-18); 138 – Mathias Gonzalez (Fr.); 144 – George Dalrymple (Jr.) or Cody Diamond (So.); 150 – Brady Closterman (Fr.); 157 – Ryan Closterman (Sr. 27-6, 1st Somerset County OW, 2nd Districts, Region 7/8th; ); 165 – Anthony Mayers (Sr. 22-12, District 3rd, Region 7/8th); 175 – Fabian Acuna (Sr. 33-10, Somerset County 3rd, District 3rd, Region 5th); 190 – Sean O’Neil (So.); 215 – Giovanni Ippolito (Jr.); 285 – Correll Morris (Fr.)
Outlook: The Pioneers are led by four core seniors in Jason Daleo, Ryan Closterman, Anthony Mayers and Fabian Acuna, who each had double-digit wins last season. Closterman was the Outstanding Wrestler in the SCT for his victory at 157. For more star power, girls state runner-up Valarie Maldonado is at 120. Luke Metrovsky is looking to improve from last year after gaining 12 pounds and growing into a full 106 pounder. Key freshmen Aidyn Herrera, Brady Closterman and Mathias Gonzalez are expected to be strong contributors this season. Matt Bloom, also Somerville’s head football coach, returns as the head coach and Nick Accetta remains on staff as an assistant.
WATCHUNG HILLS
Coach: Jim Huff, 6th season (co-head coach), Mike Magaldo, 1st season (co-head coach)
Last year: 15-7
Key losses: Lorenzo Percario (138, 3rd County 3rd District), Christian Calvo (150, 1st County), Harry Liu (157, 2nd County, 2nd District, 6th Region) Hunter Seubert (285, 1st County, 1st District, 1st Region)
Probable lineup: 106 – Jacob Richardson (Fr.), or Gabby Giacone (Fr.); 113 – Anthony DiAndrea (So., 1st County, 1st District, 3rd Region, 7th State at 106); 120 – Cam Kolakowski (Jr., 3rd County, 4th District); 120 – Vincent Glynos (Jr.); 126 – Michael Samayoa (Jr., 3rd District); 132 – Max Shaferman (Jr); 138 – Jordan Bash (Sr., 2nd County, 2nd District, 6th Region); 144 – Nick Valenti (Jr.); 150 – Ryan Higgins (Jr.); 165 – Cody Pritzlaff (So., 4th County, 4th District); 157/165 – Artun Kirgezmis (So.); 165/175 – Pat Coleman (Jr.); 190 – Alejandro Dilone (Jr.); 215 – Joey Richardson (Jr.); 215 – Dylan Meng (Jr.); 215 – Jake Carfaro (Jr.); 285 – Kenny Ferrari (Jr.)
Outlook: Despite some graduation losses, Watchung Hills will remain one of the county’s best teams. The Warriors graduated three state qualifiers and a 25-win wrestler (Hunter Seubert) from last year's team and will look to some underclassmen to fill that void. The young Warriors are led by state place winner Anthony DiAndrea, who went 42-4 last year while placing 7th at 106. Cam Kolakowski, Nick Valenti, Cody Pritzlaff and Jordan Bash all look to take the next step this year for the warriors. Newcomer Jacob Richardson seeks to make an immediate impact in the lineup. The Warriors will have a lot of new faces in the lineup this year with just five seniors on the roster. Head coach Jim Huff, who has gone 70-28 in his five seasons, is now sharing the duties with Mike Magaldo, a Warriors state champion in 2012.
HUNTERDON COUNTY
DELAWARE VALLEY
Coach: Andy Fitz, 17th season
Last year: 18-3
Key losses: Owen Kucharski (106, 5th region), Brayden Schnieder (144, 4th district), Chris Colasurdo (150,, 4th region), Garett Tettemer (165, 2nd region)
Probable lineup: 106 – Justin Rosato (Fr.) or Tristan Fawthrop (So.); 113 – Lucas Beyers (Jr.); 120 –Jacob Taylor (Sr., 28-9, 55-25 career, 2nd region); 126 – Jaden Perez (Jr., 30-4, 46-15 career, 5th region); 126 – Tye Falkenstein (So.); 132 – Matt Roche (Sr., 35-12, 37-16 career, 8th in state); 132 – Russell Prouty (Sr.); 138 – Michael Hasson (So.) or Jared Leeds (Sr.); 144 – Jackson Bush (Jr., 29-12, 43-26 career, 4th region); 150 – Ben Levy (Sr., 27-7, 53-21 career, 6th region); 157 – Mitch Sutter (Sr., 12-6); 165 – Luke Sinkiewicz (Jr.); 165 – Dylan McEwan (Sr.); 175 – Kevin Roman (Sr., 19-14, 4th district) or Auggie Savacool (Sr., 11 win); 190 – Anderson Olcott (Sr., 29-9, 58-27 career, 2nd region) or Evan Newman (Sr.); 215 – Brian Nicholson (Jr.); 285 – Kyle Cooke (Sr., 10 wins)
Outlook: Veteran coach Andy Fitz, who has a 266-95 career record in his 16 years, noted, “Overall, there is certainly a lot of enthusiasm with our program right now.” Indeed, the Terriers return a loaded team with a strong feeder system. There’s no rebuilding season after winning the last two NJSIAA Group 1 titles. Just a do it again mantra. Delaware Valley has over 20 seniors and as much experience as the program has had in a long time. That includes four state qualifiers in Taylor, Roche, Bush and Olcott, as well as two additional region place winners in Perez and Levy. Also back with double-digit wins are Sutter, Roman, Savacool and Cooke. In all, they have 58 boys who signed up and Del Val will have its first girls team, along with 125 wrestlers in the youth programs. As Fitz said, “It’s a fun time for the program.”
HUNTERDON CENTRAL
Coach: Jon Cantagallo-Rohm, 10th season
Last year: 17-4
Key losses: Peter Plesh (113), Henry Wilkinson (150, 2nd D17), Bennett Cayero (215/285), Patrick Kaczmarek (190, 3rd D17)
Probable lineup: 113 – Ryan Sherlock (Sr., 24-11, 4th R5); 120 – Anthony Rossi (Sr., 35-6, SWB3); 126 – Jace Brownlie (So.); 132 – Ahmed Hussain (Sr.); 138 – Evan Thompson (Sr., 16-8); 144 – Will Cella (Sr., 25-7); 150 – Rhett Washleski (So., 32-5, 1st D17 and R5, SWB3) or Noah White (Sr.); 157 – Eddie Klein (Sr.) or Owen Hall (Sr.); 150/157 – Grant Thompson (So.); 165 – Jakob Saus (Sr., 19-14); 175 – Jackson Call (Sr.); 190 – Thomas Brunetti (Sr., 29-7, 2022 state qualifier); 215 – Ryan Seemon (Sr.) or John Walther (Sr.); 285 – Tyler Suk (Jr.)
Outlook: This is just your typical loaded Hunterdon Central team. The Red Devils return an experienced lineup with 13 seniors who saw varsity mat time last season. Throw in Rhett Washleski, who had a breakout freshman season, and Hunterdon Central seems primed for another run at a sectional title. Leading the way are returning state qualifiers Ryan Sherlock (SWB2), Anthony Rossi (3xQualifier, SWB4), Will Cella (SWB2), Rhett Washleski (SWB3) and Thomas Brunetti (SWB2-2021). Evan Thompson and Jakob Saus, both finished sixth in the region and will be pushing for their first trips to Atlantic City. Seniors Ahmed Hussain, Jackson Call and Ryan Seeman solidify the lineup, while Jace Brownlie, Grant Thompson, Tyler Suk, Eddie Klein, Owne Hall and Noah White also bring varsity experience.
NORTH HUNTERDON
Coach: David Bell, first season
Last year: 15-5
Key losses: Logan Wadle (106, state champion), Daniel DeLusant (144, state qualifier), Alex Uryniak (190, 5th state), Brendan Raley (215, 4th state)
Probable lineup: 106 – Reid Buzby (So.) or Cayden Wadle (Fr.) or Liam Mackinnon (Fr.); 113 – Joseph Celentano (Jr., 27-13) or Ian English (Fr.); 120 – Aiden Yarussi (Fr.); 126 – Kiren Raley (Fr.); 132 – Shane Wysocki (Sr., 15 wins); 138 – Grant Goldan (Sr.); 144 – Nick Desimone (So.) or Dylan McGuiness (Fr.) or David Schlosser (Jr.) or Lucas Holbrook (Sr.); 150 – Vincenzo Darrow (Jr.) or Bobby Washington (Jr.); 157 – Evan Kinney (So., 14 wins); 165 – Josh Jouhbert (Jr., 13 wins); 175 – Brian Wilson (Sr., 22-13); 190 – David Christie (So.); 215 – Owen Dandeo (So.); 285 – Andrew Desimone (So.)
Outlook: North Hunterdon had so many of the same names return over the last few seasons, it was easy to type in a preseason outlook. Now, the Lions have graduated a haul of stars from last year’s Group 4 championship team, including state champion Logan Wadle and two other state placewinners. Enter the next generation of Lions, as well as head coach David Bell, who takes over for Chris Hrunka. Bell, who wrestled at Wood-Ridge and Slippery Rock, is of course the ultra-successful former head coach at Bergen Catholic. Three seniors lead the way in Grant Goldan, Brian Wilson and Shane Wysocki. North Hunterdon has a mix of talented freshmen and returning underclassmen with a year of experience. There are also plenty of North Hunterdon ties on staff that includes former Lions in Todd Preston, Andrew Gapas and Ricky Frondorf.
VOORHEES
Coach: Ricky Kurtz, 4th season
Last year: 19-10
Key losses: Jack Mosier (215, 3rd district, 5th region, 31-12), Tyler Kinney (injury, 26-13 at 175)
Probable lineup: 106 - Tyler Ondovik (Fr.); 113 - Johnny D’Andrea (Fr.); 120 - Christian Bollette (So., 2nd district, 26-13 at 106); 126 - Joey Gardner (So., 11-5 at 106); 132 - Peter Galladay (So.); 138 - Jaxon Garner (Fr.); 144 - Ben Suzuki (Sr.); 150 - Charlie Cole (Fr.); 157 – TBD; 165 - Logan Wiecoreck (Sr., 2nd district, 2nd region, 38-4 at 157); 175 - Travis Cryan (Sr., 11 wins at 150); 190 - Trevor Zabroski (Sr., 22-12 at 165); 215 - Zak Bergmann (Jr., 5-1 at 215); 285 – Cameron Baumann (Sr., 1st district, 3rd region, 38-4 at 285)
Outlook: The Vikings put out a balanced team with six wrestlers having double-digit wins from a year ago. Logan Wiecoreck and Cameron Baumann lead the way and are in the mix to reach 100 career wins this season. Christian Bollette and Joey Gardner each had strong freshmen years in 2022-23, while Travis Cryan and Trevor Zabroski bring senior mat experience.
UNION COUNTY
GOVERNOR LIVINGSTON
Coach: Matt Liberato, first season
Last year: 17-4
Key losses: Dante Gioia (150) and Jack Huss (132)
Outlook: The Highlanders have been on the upswing the last two seasons, going a combined 34-7. In last year’s historic campaign, GL won North 2 Group 2 for its first sectional title since 1981 and reached its first Group 2 final. They have some key losses, but a nucleus is back to keep GL among the state’s best. Christian Sabatino (113), Henrique Ribeiro (126), Joseph Dasti (150), Jake Kreisberg (157), Cristian Gioia (165) and Nathan Faxon (215) are all mainstays who are back. Matt Liberato, a former star at Hanover Park, takes over for veteran skipper Rick Ortega. He is now the head coach at A.L. Johnson.
NEW PROVIDENCE
Coach: Arlen Mase, third season
Last year: 6-20
Key losses: N/A
Probable lineup: 106 – Ethan Gallo (Fr.) or Daniel Zambrotta (Fr.); 113 - Henry DeRosa (Fr.); 120 - Luke Palschakov (So.) ; 126 - Michael Zambrotta (Fr.) or Maksim Savin (So.); 132 - Nathan Mooney (Fr.) or Trevor Fornuff (So.); 138 - Yehia Abdelrahman (Jr.); 144 - Braeden Valley (So.); 150 - Antonio Gallo (Jr.); 157 - Lucas Tallone (So.) or Matthew Sheeran (Jr.); 165 - Michael Petses (So.); 175 - Henry Capasso (So.); 190 – N/A; 215 – N/A; 285 – Cameron Sheeran (Sr.)
Outlook: One good thing about having a young team is that the youngsters will gain varsity experience, and fast, laying a foundation for the future. The Pioneers are full of freshmen and sophomores looking to crack the lineup. The three juniors have experience in Yehia Abdelrahman, Antonio Gallo and Matthew Sheeran. Braeden Valley is the flagship wrestler after placing second in the district and winning 28 matches.
SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD
Coach: Marc Fabiano, 9th season
Last year: 15-7
Key losses: Vincent Amato (138), Michael Brennan (138)
Probable lineup: 106 - Dan McCardle (So.) or Logan Weiss (So.); 113 - Justin Ellazar (So.); 120 - Sam Lindell (So.); 126 - Tristan Sirmans (Jr.); 132 - Sal Diaco (Jr.); 138 - Anthony Aponte (Jr.) or Ben Filler (Jr.); 144 - Ben Filler (Jr.); 150 - Michael Estevez (Sr.); 157 - Michael Cantwell (Jr.); 165 - Aadi Kenwar (Sr.) or Jake Lukko (Jr.) or Ethan Phillips (Fr.); 175 - Derek Vazquez (Jr.) or Jaden Redd (Jr.); 190 - John Boyle (So.); 215 - Thomas Dowling (So.) or Luke Hahn (Jr.) or Jerry Mundle (Jr.); 285 - Shane Hickey (Jr.) or Paul Boyle (So.)
Outlook: The Raiders once again had a strong season with 15 wins. Now, they return a core group of wrestlers in Paul Boyle, Sal Diaco, Ryan Ricci, John Boyle, Michael Cantwell, Michael Estevez and Tristan Sirmans. Additionally, freshman Ethan Phillips looks to make his mark. The Raiders hope the depth and improvement could lead them to place top 3 in the Union County Tournament, the district tournament and to qualify for the team sectional tournament. SPF is 124-67 in Fabiano’s eight season at his alma mater.
WESTFIELD
Coach: Glen Kurz, 25th season
Last year: 21-5
Key losses: Brandon Ribero (1st Union County, 2nd District, 4th region at 120); Ethan Composto (1st Union County, 2nd district, 2nd region at 138); Aidan Harper (4th Union County, 4th district at 144); Richard DeRick (3rd Union County, 3rd district, 5th region at 150); Michael Murphy (1st Union County, 1st district, 1st region, 5th NJSIAA at 165); Luke Vaccaro (2nd Union County, 4th district at 175); Sergio Cabrera (3rd Union County, 3rd district at 215); Cary Prichett (3rd Union County at 285)
Probable lineup: 106 - Daniel Berardi (So., 21 wins 4th district) or Jake Conti (Fr.); 113 - Berardi or Conti or Josh Semler (So.); 120 - Max Rotter (Sr., 19 wins, 2nd district); 126 - Lukas Surgent (So.); 132 - Luke Sluberski (So.); 138 - Dylan Sontz (Jr., 15 wins); 144 - Seth Bekker (Jr.) or Elias Wood (So.); 150 - Robert DeRick (Fr.); 157 - Gavin Dwyer (Jr.) or Matt Zheng (Jr.); 165 - Jack McDermott (Jr.); 175 - Ben Diziki (Jr.) or Nik Speronza (So.) or Duncan Callow (So.); 190 - Jake Zemsky (So., 15 wins, 3rd district); 215 - Noah Neimiera (Sr.) or Leo Saltzstein (Sr.); 285 – Pravid Bhatla (So.)
Outlook: Sometimes, you just have a large “key losses” section. Westfield coach Glen Kurz in his 25th season noted this is the least experienced team that they’ve put on the mat in years. However, the expectations don’t change. They expect the Blue Devils to be in shape, push the pace and to be committed to the program. That was evident by a solid summer. The returning varsity wrestlers should be better led by region qualifiers Max Rotter and Jake Zemsky. Daniel Berardi, Dylan Sontz, Luke Sluberski, and Jack McDermott all have varsity experience and will provide additional leadership. Some varsity newcomers who will get better as the season goes on includes freshmen Jake Conti and Robert DeRick.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: NJ Wrestling previews: A look at the area Skyland Conference and UCC
