Since he became Pottsville’s wrestling coach in the spring of 2013, Gary Keener has been building the foundation of something special.
• Hundreds of hours teaching technique and training at their own year-round mat club.
• Hundreds of miles traveling to compete in Freestyle and Greco-Roman tournaments.
• Improving facilities, inspiring more athletes to go out for wrestling and getting the school excited about the sport. In other words, building a culture of dedication and a work ethic that eventually can make Pottsville a wrestling school.
The only way to beat the Lehigh Valley powers is to join them. That means training year-round, building numbers in your practice room and creating a pipeline that funnels fundamentally sound young wrestlers into the varsity program.
Last season, Keener started to see some of that work pay off. The Tide improved from 5-12 to 12-8, won the team title at the season-opening Bloomsburg DKI Tournament and defeated Pleasant Valley to advance to the District 11 Duals Class AAA quarterfinals.
“It’s nice to be relevant,’’ Keener said.
This season, Keener’s third at the helm, Pottsville wants to break though other barriers to compete with — and start to beat — some of the tougher teams on its schedule. That includes challenging for the Schuylkill League Division I and league tournament titles.
“They’re real excited ... but it’s an uphill battle,’’ Keener said. “We still have a lot of work to do.’’
On a roster of 30, Pottsville returns 10 wrestlers, many of whom dedicated themselves to the sport in the offseason.
Start with senior Luke Gardner (37-6), a Penn State University recruit who is an established team leader.
Continue with junior Richie Bentz (30-15), a two-time regional qualifier.
Add junior Ryan Green (25-18), senior Nathan Cromyak (28-14), senior Kolby Kleckner (24-15) and sophomore Cole Painter (24-17), guys Pottsville hopes can take their game to the next level.
Also looking to contribute are junior Romeo Eaddy (24-18 at Hamburg), freshman Nick Onea (a Fargo All-American and District 11 junior high fifth-place finisher) and freshman Braden Goodman (8th at JH districts).
“We’ve had some success, but we try to keep everybody grounded,’’ Keener said. “If there’s injury or sickness, it’s next man up.
“That’s what happens with great teams,’’ he added. “We’re just trying to get there.’’
Two teams have new coaches this season.
At Blue Mountain, Jim Trusky begins his second stint with the Eagles after spending much of the past decade as a referee. During his first stint, from 2000-03, his teams went 38-15, 19-2 in Division I. A social studies/history teacher in the district, he guided five different guys to six state berths; five times they came home with medals.
“I was very fortunate to be around a great group of kids,’’ Trusky said of that time.
“You learn a lot when you’re an official,’’ he added. “... You’re up close, you see the coaches, you see the wrestlers. It was good for me to stay involved in some capacity.’’
At Columbia-Montour Vo-Tech, Jimmy Getkin gets his first head coaching assignment. A former wrestler and 1983 CMVT graduate, Getkin has about 20 years of experience coaching in the Danville program.
Division I
This is going to get good.
A case can be made for Blue Mountain, Lehighton, North Schuylkill and Pottsville as the favorite to win the division championship. Panther Valley could be a factor, too.
How it will play out is anyone’s guess.
“The league is going to be competitive,’’ Trusky said. “I think all those teams are going to be able to score points.’’
Blue Mountain is one of those teams. The Eagles return six wrestlers who won at least 25 matches last season. Anchoring the lineup will be seniors Hunter Blankenhorn (28-11), Lucas Forbes (32-8), Devon Krammes (33-15) and Kirk Dougherty (29-12), junior Erech Noecker (33-5) and sophomore Josh Mason (25-6). Krammes made the deepest run on the team, finishing fifth at regionals, falling one win short of qualifying for states.
For the third straight season, no local Class AAA wrestlers advanced to the PIAA Championships.
The Eagles return eight starters, but it’s unclear if they can fill every weight.
“I always wanted to give back to the school,’’ Trusky said of returning to coaching. “Blue Mountain has done so much for me as a teacher and a coach in the past. I wanted to give back. It’s a good time to get back involved.’’
North Schuylkill graduated two greats in seventh-place state medalist Alek Hummel (45-3) and state qualifier Nate Gadinski (42-6).
They’ll be missed, but the Spartans return plenty of talent. Seniors Shane McGrath (22-8), C.J. Steinhilber (28-15) and Dane Tarantelli (30-12) and juniors Owen Boyer (29-11), Mason Madden-Edwards (32-12), Joe Alexander (22-18) and Brady Mickatavage (28-12) provide a solid group to build around.
Junior Jeno Schicatano, a junior high district champion in 2014, is ready to step in for Gadinski at 285.
“We should have a solid dual-meet team,’’ North Schuylkill coach Chris Edwards said. “With 10 lettermen returning from last year and a mix of experienced newcomers, we hope to challenge for a Schuylkill League Division I title.’’
Lehighton returns almost everybody from last year’s 12-win team. Now is the time for their talented boys to become a factor in the league like the boys’ soccer and football teams did.
State seventh-place medalist Connor Frey (38-6) is headed to Old Dominion next season. Senior Zach Kemmerer (29-11) has committed to Sacred Heart.
Seniors Tegan Durishin (32-11), Tyler Cann (22-11) and Wyatt Clements and sophomore Nate Kemmerer (25-12) are back as well. Zach Kemmerer, Durishin and Cann made regionals.
The odd thing is that the Indians went just 1-6 in Division I duals last season.
“We have found that the competition in this league is very strong, and you’re wrestling quality opponents every single match,’’ Lehighton coach Dan Williams said.
“This is a culminating year for many of our wrestlers. ... The hard work that our guys put in all year long shows their dedication to having one of the best seasons we’ve seen around here in a few years.’’
Panther Valley returns two state qualifiers in Darren Goida (31-15) and Ali Capobianco (32-20) and a regional qualifier in Dylan Moyer (29-15) — all seniors.
The Panthers also have a deep sophomore group that includes Tanner Kennedy (28-20), Hunter Kennedy (25-19) and Xander Scolutis-Kern.
“We are talented, but we have a few big holes,’’ Panther Valley coach Tim Robb said.
Tri-Valley graduated a great senior class of Caleb Bordner, Hunter Harner, Anthony Snyder and Kyle Stephen that helped make the Dawgs a state-ranked team.
In addition, sophomore Dan Scheib (34-14), an eighth-place medalist at states, suffered a serious knee injury during football season. He’s out for most, if not all, of the season.
Those losses represent a lot of wins and bonus points to replace.
As usual, the Dawgs have some elite individuals, but perhaps not enough depth to push toward the top of the division. Junior Sam Hepler (38-8) and senior Chase Schaeffer (36-11) have made multiple trips to states.
Freshman Kolt Schaeffer (1st at JH districts) and sophomore Josh Kroh (4th at JH districts) should be in the mix for the Dawgs.
Pine Grove has just two seniors on a roster of 24 as the Cardinals look to build a foundation. Senior Joshua Phillippy and freshman Dillon Kintzel (3rd at JH districts) are among those to watch.
Tamaqua continues its rebuilding project with improved numbers. Junior Tanner McHugh (35-8) qualified for regionals last season and represented Pennsylvania on the national Freestyle and Greco-Roman team.
(Rosters, as provided by coaches, are listed by name, 2014-15 record if applicable, grade and projected weight for the 2015-16 season.)
Blue Mountain
Head coach: Jim Trusky (11th season, 1st since 2002-03)
Last year: 18-2, 7-0 D-I. Division I champion, Schuylkill League Tournament team champion, District 11 Duals Class AAA semifinalist
Returnees: Hunter Blankenhorn (28-11), sr., 126-138; Lucas Forbes (32-8), sr., 145-160; Devon Krammes (33-15), sr., 170-182; Kirk Dougherty (29-12), sr., 285; Erech Noecker (33-5), jr., 220; Thomas Seaman, jr., 195-220; Nick Nye, jr., 170-182; Trevor Ochs, jr., 106-120; Josh Mason (25-6), soph., 106-120; Chase Sincavage, soph., 126-138; Ben McQuillen, soph., 126-138; Nate Stine, soph., 170-182
Newcomers: Seth James, jr., 145-160; Alex Zimmerman, jr., 170-182; Calvin Robinson, soph., 126-138; Patrick Seefeldt, soph., 126-138; Wyatt Kahler, soph., 145-160; Trevor Peters, soph., 145-160; Lucas Schoener, soph., 145-160; Brennan Poslosky, soph., 145-160; Austin Carlson, soph., 170-182; Dominic Krammes, soph., 195-220; Justin Shade, fr., 106-120
Outlook: Jim Trusky begins his second stint as Eagles coach light on lightweights. The rest of the lineup, though, is quality and experienced. Expect Blue Mountain to be a factor in the division and at the league tournament. Favorite until somebody proves otherwise.
Lehighton
Head coach: Dan Williams (6th season)
Last year: 12-9, 1-6 D-I. District 11 Duals Class AA qualifier
Returnees: Zach Kemmerer (29-11), sr., 126; Tegan Durishin (32-11), sr., 145; Cody Semmel, sr., 145; Tyler Cann (22-11), sr., 170; Erik Skrincosky, sr., 182; Connor Frey (38-6), sr., 195; Wyatt Clements, sr., 220; Alexander Smith, sr., 285; Antonio Lorenzo, jr., 120; Grant Wetzel, jr., 138; Dylan Schock, jr., 160; Nate Kemmerer (25-12), soph., 106; Cody Scherer, soph., 152
Newcomers: Logan Berger, sr., 220; Josh Hess, jr., 132; Tyler Schock, soph., 145; David Citro, soph., 220; Alex Hinkle, soph., 220; Logan Pagotto, fr., 113; Chris Whiteman, fr., 132; Christian Rodriguez, fr., 160; Jack Zimmerman, soph., 170; Will Smith, fr., 182
Outlook: With 12 returning starters, look for senior-laden Indians to take a big step forward this season. Eight had winning records, and five placed at districts a year ago. Division dark horse.
North Schuylkill
Head coach: Chris Edwards (4th season)
Last year: 18-5, 4-3 D-I. District 11 Duals Class AA semifinalist
Returnees: Shane McGrath (22-8), sr., 132-138; Drew Grove, sr., 145-152; C.J. Steinhilber (28-15), sr., 195; Michael Damiter, sr., 220-285; Dane Tarantelli (30-12), sr., 220-285; Owen Boyer (29-11), jr., 113-120; Mason Madden-Edwards (32-12), jr., 126-132; Joe Alexander (22-18), jr., 152-160; Brady Mickatavage (28-12), jr., 182; Corbin Kessler, soph., 138-145; Craig Fisher, soph., 170-182
Newcomers: Chris Burke, jr., 182-195; Jeno Schicatano, jr., 285; Morgan Beaver, soph., 106-113; Will Whalen, soph., 106-113; Justyn DeAngelo, soph., 152-160; Will Armstead, soph., 195-220; Gavin Locke, fr., 106-113; Damien Deihm, fr., 106-113; Logan Deats, fr., 132-138
Outlook: Graduated two stars in Alek Hummel and Nate Gadinski, but Spartans return seven wrestlers who won at least 22 bouts last season. The challenge now is for these guys to go from good to very good — or outstanding. Look for Spartans to be in mix for division and league honors.
Panther Valley
Head coach: Tim Robb (23rd season)
Last year: 10-10, 3-4 D-I. District 11 Duals Class AA quarterfinalist
Returnees: Darren Goida (31-15), sr., 132; Ali Capobianco (32-20), sr., 152; Dylan Moyer (29-15), sr., 195; Colin Haydt, jr.. 152; Justin Ogozalek, soph., 126; Tanner Kennedy (28-20), soph., 138; Hunter Kennedy (25-19), soph., 145; Xander Scolutis-Kern, soph., 160; Noah Berk, soph., 160; Hunter Kerestes, soph., 182
Newcomers: Noah Easterly, jr., 220; Miguel Santiago, soph., 113; Alex Candelario, soph., 138; Dillon Kibler, soph., 138; Justin Rodriguez, soph., 220; Julian Calibri, soph., 170-182; Kyle Rusnock, fr., 120; Colby Newton, fr., 132; Derek Beckham, fr., 152; Aaron Eidem, fr., 285
Outlook: Panthers return two state qualifiers and another who came within one win of Hershey. That’s just the seniors. The real depth, talent and potential is in the sophomore class. If they progress as expected, team should have winning season and become more of a factor in division race.
Pine Grove
Head coach: Jack Drey (8th season)
Last year: 11-10, 2-5 D-I
Returnees: James Gately, sr., 126; Josh Phillippy (20-17), sr., 182; Jesse LeVan, jr., 145; Marcus Kassab, jr., 152; Carson Rittenbaugh, jr., 182; Michael Stewart, jr., 220; E.J. Herb, jr., 285; Zach Leffler, jr., 285; Jacob Rossi, soph., 126; Hunter Kinsey, soph., 126; Chad Zimmerman, soph., 138; Dustin Carlin, soph., 152; Gavin Miller, soph., 160; Austin Ney, soph., 220
Newcomers: Tyrese Armstead, soph., 106; Anthony Wenrich, fr., 138; Dillon Kintzel, fr., 138; Devin Artz, fr., 145; Eric Shadle, fr., 160; Nick Lukacsina, fr., 170; Peyton Nuske, fr., 170; Josh Kreiser, fr., 182; Vinny LePre, fr., 285; Dekota Callazo, fr., 285
Outlook: Cardinals have a lot of guys with varsity experience and a lot of freshmen. What they don’t have are enough lightweights or any star returnees. Returning varsity wrestlers must step up a level, and some freshmen must contribute right away.
Pottsville
Head coach: Gary Keener (3rd season)
Last year: 12-8, 5-2 D-I. District 11 Duals Class AAA quarterfinalist
Returnees: Luke Gardner (37-6), sr., 138-145; Nathan Cromyak (28-14), sr., 145-152; Kolby Kleckner (24-15), sr., 182-195; Cyle Hinson, sr., 195-220; Ryan Green (25-18), jr., 113; Richie Bentz (30-15), jr., 126-132; Jaquan Smith, jr., 138-145; Brian Martin, soph., 152; Cole Painter (24-17), soph., 160; Mike Saint Juste, soph., 220-285
Newcomers: Mitch Robison, sr., 285; Romeo Eaddy (24-18 at Hamburg), jr., 120; Nick Ondeck, jr., 138-145; Kory Kleckner, jr., 182-195, Ryan Kalinich, jr., 182-195; Darion Jacoby, jr., 182-195; Jarren Werbacher, soph., 145-152; Kolby Williams, soph., 120-126; Nick Onea, fr., 106; Gavin Holley, fr., 106; Zach Haslam, fr., 113; Louie Yeich, fr., 113; Elizabeth Gardner, fr., 113-120; Noah George, fr., 120; Michael Pierce, fr., 120-126; Braden Goodman, fr., 132-138; Mike Zawaski, fr., 145-152; Cullen McCabe, fr., 152; Tym Nevadomsky, fr., 170; Jayeson Fessler, fr., 182-195
Outlook: Bright. Now in his third season, Keener has built the Tide back to respectability. Now comes the hard part — breaking through and climbing the ladder among the super-strong big schools of the Lehigh Valley. Contender for division and league tournament titles.
Tamaqua
Head coach: Jon Mashack (4th season)
Last year: 0-22, 0-7 D-I
Returnees: Ty Hinkle, sr., 138-145; Tanner McHugh (35-8), jr., 126-132; Chance Szabo, jr., 182; Brandon Mader, soph., 113; Jordan Smith, soph., 138-145
Newcomers: Michael Frederick, sr., 160-170; Alec Roseland, jr., 132-138; Ryan Morgans, jr., 195-220; Noah Griffin, soph., 160-170; Cody Balliet, fr., 106-113; Khalid Holland, fr.; Brandon Eberts, fr., 132-138; Jin Choi, fr., 195-220
Outlook: Rebuilding process continues for young squad with just two seniors. Improved numbers is a step in the right direction.
Tri-Valley
Co-head coaches: Dave Boltz (13th season) and Ty Rothermel (13th season)
Last year: 15-4, 6-1 D-I. District 11 Duals Class AA third place, District 11 Class AA Tournament 2nd place, Southeast Regional Class AA Tournament 2nd place (tie), PIAA Class AA Championships, 20th place (tie)
Returnees: Chase Schaeffer (36-11), sr., 152-160; Sam Hepler (38-8), jr., 132-138; Dan Scheib (34-14), soph., 220
Newcomers: Zach Mace, sr., 138; Deven Schwalm, sr., 285; Zak Testerman, jr., 138-145; Trevor Miller, soph., 170; Josh Kroh, soph., 220-285; Braxton Zerbe, soph., 132-138; Logan Schwalm, fr., 106; Aaron Heffron, fr., 145-152; Kolt Schaeffer, fr., 170-182
Outlook: Graduated outstanding senior class that included two state placewinners and another state qualifier. That, plus loss of Scheib to injury, is impossible to replace.
Division II
Williams Valley made school history last season by winning its first Division II title.
With senior and state seventh-place finisher Willy Girard (37-9) among 11 wrestlers with starting experience, the Vikings enter the season as the team to beat.
Junior Ian Minnich (27-9) qualified for regionals, and senior Alex Raho (22-13) was sixth at districts. Junior Daymian Shoop (22-11) and sophomores Dylan Rabuck and Devon Rabuck are others to watch.
“The boys are eager to build on that success,’’ Williams Valley coach Jason Chamberlain said. “For the first time in my three-year tenure, we have transitioned from a young team into seasoned veterans.
“We now have three seniors and six juniors anchoring our lineup,’’ he added. “Even our young wrestlers of three sophomores and two freshmen come with multiple years of wrestling experience.’’
One of Williams Valley’s main challenges will come from Schuylkill Haven, which won 15 meets and qualified for District Duals last season. The Hurricanes return nine starters, including seniors Max Motko (25-12) and Trevyn Fessler (25-9), junior Preston Gehring (29-6) and sophomore Austin Engle (24-12).
Sophomore Tommy Tarlecky, fourth at junior high districts, joins the varsity.
“We should do as well as we did last year,’’ Schuylkill Haven coach Kevin Sterner said. “We should be tough in the middle, but we will have some empty weight classes down low.’’
Halifax graduated nine senior starters and has just one senior on this year’s club. The Wildcats have depth with 21 on the roster and some rising wrestlers in junior Jakob Paul (34-8) and sophomore Landon Bruner (26-11). They might be a year away from challenging for the division.
Mahanoy Area returns nine lettermen, but a lot of their guys are bunched in the upper weights. Though forfeits in the lightweights will hurt, the Golden Bears should be able to compete in the division.
Senior Nolan Fegley (23-7) is a team leader. Two freshmen, Colin Fegley (3rd at JH districts) and Chris Kondash (4th at JH districts), should contribute as well.
Jim Thorpe returns the most accomplished wrestler in the Schuylkill League in senior Kevan Gentile. A district and regional champion last season, Gentile (44-3) placed fourth at the PIAA Championships and fourth at the Super 32 Tournament.
Junior Antonio Madera (26-14 as a freshman), sophomore John Newhall and freshman Jarrin Geisinger (4th at JH districts) add to a team that should have a lot more than three wins this season.
CMVT and Upper Dauphin are in rebuilding modes. The Trojans have a solid freshman class but little depth. Junior Jackson Kennerly (25-9) is UDA’s top returning wrestler.
Col-Mon Vo-Tech
Head coach: Jimmy Getkin (1st season)
Last year: 4-17, 0-6 D-II
Returnees: Jarred Slodysko, sr., 138; Gabe Slodysko, sr., 145; Chris McLellan, jr., 220; Weston Marion, soph., 152; Mike Miller, soph., 126
Newcomers: Cody Depew, sr., 132; Joel Depaola, sr., 170; Austin Hill, soph., 132; Logan Bellum, soph., 195; Kyle Roader, soph. 195; Cole Moyer, fr.,113; Maverick Kramer, fr., 152; Tristin Naus, fr., 220
Outlook: New coaching staff takes over Rams’ rebuilding project.
Halifax
Head coach: Brian Zerby (9th season)
Last year: 14-11, 4-2 D-II
Returnees: Wes Brady, sr., 138-145; Jakob Paul (34-8), jr., 220-285; Glenn Enders, jr., 138-145; Cade Wilbert, jr., 170-182; Landon Bruner (26-11), soph., 120-126; Grant Klinger, soph., 160-170
Newcomers: Kenny Albright, jr., 170; Daniel Enders, soph., 126; Alex Kulp, soph., 132; Dakota Sims, soph., 195; Justin Brady, soph., 113; Kyler Schadel, fr., 106; Earl Stipe, fr., 120; Trenton Howard, fr., 126; Reece Bruner, fr., 132; Dalton Marshall, fr., 138; D.J. Humphries, fr., 145; Gabriel Bailey, fr., 182; Matthew Christoff, fr., 195; Chase Fisher, fr., 220; Chris Swartz, fr., 126
Outlook: Graduated nine senior starters but reload with a deep and talented freshman class. With just one senior on a roster of 21, Wildcats’ best days are ahead of them.
Jim Thorpe
Head coach: Shawn Albert (6th season)
Last year: 3-14, 1-5 D-II
Returnees: Kevan Gentile (44-3), sr., 106-113; Tylor Day, sr., 132-138; Pollux Fisher, sr., 152-160; Robbie Geisinger, sr., 170-182; Dalton Freer, jr., 138-145; Cameron Condly, jr., 145-152; Antonio Madera, jr., 152-160; Stephen Counterman, jr., 195-220; Ryan O’Rourke, jr., 285; John Newhall, soph., 106-113
Newcomers: James O’Toole, sr., 160-170; Justice Batts, sr., 195-220; Joseph Erskine, jr., 138; Justin Emery, jr., 152-160; Austin Williams, fr., 145; Jarrin Geisinger, fr., 145-152; Tyler Gilliard, fr., 152-160; Ethan Mordaunt, fr., 170-182
Outlook: Led by state placewinner Gentile, Olympians are primed to improve this season. Nine starters return. A .500 record is a realistic goal.
Mahanoy Area
Head coach: Mark Lawrence (8th season)
Last year: 5-8, 3-3 D-II
Returnees: Chris Caravella, sr., 195-220; Nolan Fegley (23-7), sr., 170-182; Andre Wilson, sr., 145-152; Blake Florio, sr., 160-170; Grant Schadle, sr., 220-285; Adam Bahrey, sr., 145-152; Mark Lawrence, jr., 170-182; Yaddiel Barazza, soph., 126-132; Brendan Bennett, soph., 132-138; Jake Freil, soph., 160-170; Justin Letcavage, soph., 160-170; Matt Lewandowski, soph., 160-170; Jacob Witiszen, soph., 152-160
Newcomers: Lenny Dulsky, sr., 195-220; Tyler Nalesnik, jr., 285; John Sheipe, jr., 220-285; Ryan Wuttke, jr., 285; Christian Alvarez, soph., 152-160; Dylan Anastacio, soph., 160-170; Marcos Lora, soph., 170-182; Colin Fegley, fr., 145-152; Chris Kondash, fr., 132-138; Seth Maley, fr., 120-126; Dakota Sheipe, fr., 285
Outlook: Bears return solid mix of experience and talented newcomers. Lack of lightweights will hurt in dual meets, but expect team to be more competitive this season.
Schuylkill Haven
Head coach: Kevin Sterner (15th season)
Last year: 15-7, 5-1 D-II
Returnees: Blake Handling, sr., 138; Trevyn Fessler (25-9), sr., 152-160; Nathan Batz, sr., 170-182; Ben Hower, sr., 220; Max Motko (25-12), sr., 285; Randy Lyons, sr., 170-182; Preston Gehring (29-6), jr., 145; Kross Houck, jr., 170-182; Cedrick Fessler, soph., 120-126; Austin Engle (24-12), soph., 126-132
Newcomers: Daerrick Johnson, sr., 145-152; Kyle Rossman, sr., 195; Mike Weiser, jr., 145-152; Caleb Johnson, soph., 132-138; Tommy Tarlecky, soph., 182-195; Joey Kocher, soph., 285; Colby Shaner, fr., 106
Outlook: Promising. Hurricanes took step forward last season and have enough to return to District Duals and contend for Division II title. Inability to fill entire lineup could hold Haven back.
Upper Dauphin
Head coach: Todd Rupp (12th season)
Last year: 6-11, 2-4 D-II
Returnees: Holden Miller, sr., 120; Matt Heck, jr., 120; Evan Hoffman, jr., 152; Hayden McAllister, jr., 170; Jackson Kennerly (25-10), jr., 160
Newcomers: Brock Welker, fr., 106; Bronson Garber, fr., 113; Zach Rupp, fr., 120; Darien Wiest, fr., 126; Tyler Wright, fr., 138; Mason Wiest, fr., 145; Donny Gelnett, fr., 195
Outlook: Young team in a rebuilding mode. Inexperience and lack of depth will make dual-meet success difficult.
Williams Valley
Head coach: Jason Chamberlain (3rd season)
Last year: 7-8, 6-0 D-II. Division II champion
Returnees: Willy Girard (37-9), sr., 113-120; Alex Raho (22-13), sr., 126-132; Travis Martin, sr., 152-170; Matt Kemble, jr., 132-138; Jason Chamberlain, jr., 138-152; Kailin Hoffman, jr., 182-220; Daymian Shoop (22-11), jr., 195-285; Ian Minnich (27-9), jr., 220-285; Colton Rebuck, soph., 138-152; Dylan Rabuck, soph., 170-182; Devon Rabuck, soph., 182-195
Newcomers: Dylan Moyer, jr., 152-160; Shane Harris, soph., 138-145; Chett Pesta, fr., 106; J.T. Girard, fr., 120-132
Outlook: Best lineup in division, but must stay healthy to reach full potential. Lots of multiple-year starters. Division favorite that should strive to become much more of a factor at the district level.
Berks League
Despite graduating the deepest collection of talent in school history in 2014, coach Derek Sola put another competitive team on the mat as Hamburg won its second straight Berks League Section II championship last winter.
Another young team will take aim at a three-peat this season.
Ignacio Reynoso made an immediate impact, going 41-16 and qualifying for the state tournament. The gifted athlete is also a star on the football field, and though he’s just a sophomore, he’s a legitimate hammer at 182.
Seniors Mike Madara (22-18), Matt James (27-11) and Tyler Herber (24-17); junior Max Kline (23-18) and sophomore Reese Mason (22-14) had some success in their first year being counted on to produce. The question: Can these wrestlers go up a level — from good to very good?
With 38 wrestlers in the program, the Hawks have the depth to become a solid dual-meet team again.
“The majority of the starting lineup will be comprised of underclassmen (most likely 10 out of 14 weight classes), including a few freshmen,’’ Sola said. “The team is young and building experience after a few successful seasons.’’
Hamburg
Head coach: Derek Sola (7th season, 11th overall)
Last year: 13-6, 6-0 Berks II. Berks II champion, Berks League semifinalist, District 3 Duals Class AA quarterfinalist
Returnees: Mike Madara (22-18), sr., 132; Matt James (27-11), sr., 152; Tyler Herber (24-17), sr., 170; Mike Eicher, sr., 120; David Madara, jr., 195; Max Kline (23-18), jr., 220; Andre Selesky, soph., 132; Reese Mason (22-14), soph., 145; Ignacio Reynoso (41-16), soph., 182
Newcomers: Jarrod Bickley, sr., 138; Brandon Bogoniewski, sr., 145; Dan Fuellner, sr., 152; Dariel Ruiz, sr., 138; Dalton Gromlich, sr., 285; Jake Johnson, jr., 132; Austin Landis, jr., 182; Dan Lee, jr., 220; Zach Scheffler, jr., 160; Mike Ansel, soph., 285; Logan Herber, soph., 160; Brad Levan, soph., 126; Dominic Schollenberger, fr., 113; Austin Strunk, fr., 195; Zack Vankeuren, fr., 152; Isiah Blatt, fr., 106; Lucas Deturk, fr,, 120; Owen Deturk, fr., 126; Andrew Galarza, fr., 170; Brandon Hamilton, fr., 152; Trenton Metcalfe, fr., 160; Alex Norton, fr., 138; Cole Schlenker, fr., 170; Shane Strausser, fr., 106; Ben Wiedenhammer, fr., 152; Mike Withelder, fr., 160; Joseph Pietz, fr., 106
Outlook: With a roster of 38 — including nine returning starters led by state qualifier Reynoso — Hawks should have the depth to compete in their division. Still a young team, Hamburg will need others to make contributions right away to challenge top teams on schedule.
Heartland Conference
Mount Carmel took a big jump in Steve Sinkovich’s first season as head coach, improving from 3-11 two years ago to 13-7 last winter.
Now comes the hard part: Building on that success.
The Red Tornadoes have some firepower, especially up top. Senior Allen Yancoskie (30-11) and junior Wes Shurock (27-11) advanced to regionals last season, and senior Gabe Bogutskie (25-9) was a solid contributor.
They’ll need some wrestlers in the lower and middle weights to chip in to match last season’s win total.
“We are hoping to be even more competitive within the league this year,’’ Sinkovich said. “But we could struggle because some weight classes are being filled by first-year wrestlers. ... Going out and competing in the wrestling room is a priority. We need to be in top shape so that we can fight until the end whistle.’’
Nearby rival Shamokin should be improved, too, as the Indians welcome back eight starters. Sophomores Devin Pietkiewicz and Jake Carpenter (20-14) are ones to watch.
“Our staff is very pleased with the progress our team has made in the preseason,’’ Shamokin coach Todd Hockenbroch said. “... A much-needed culture change was made in the weight room this offseason, and our kids are excited to see their hard work pay off.’’
Mount Carmel
Head coach: Steve Sinkovich (2nd season)
Last year: 13-7, 3-3 HAC-II
Returnees: Mitchell Fletcher, sr., 170; Gabe Bogutskie (25-9), sr., 182; Allen Yancoskie (30-11), sr., 195; Ethan Bartos, sr., 285; Wes Shurock (27-11), jr., 220; Dion Watson, jr., 126-132; Trevor Shuder, jr., 285; Luke Adzema, soph., 106; Tommy McDonald, soph., 145; Jeff Weidner, soph., 152
Newcomers: Kevin Velez, sr., 132-138; Mike White, sr., 182; Ben Bui, jr., 120; Manus McCracken, soph., 182; Nate Slotterback, soph., 285; David Koreisl, soph., 285
Outlook: Graduating just two senior starters and having 10 starters back make Red Tornadoes optimistic they can climb a little higher in ultra-competitive District 4. Upperweights are team strength.
Shamokin
Head coach: Todd Hockenbroch (13th season)
Last year: 2-19, 1-5 HAC-I
Returnees: Mike Britton, sr., 132; Brayson Pawelczyk, sr., 170; Brett Rebuck, sr., 182; Garrett Zalar, sr., 220; Adam Miller, sr., 285; Josh Britton, soph., 113-120; Devin Pietkiewicz, soph., 126; Jake Carpenter (20-14), soph., 152
Newcomers: Josh Collentes, sr., 160; Chris Kindle, jr., 138; Teann Beck, soph., 145; Aaron Miller, soph., 160; Mike Faust, soph., 195; Trent Curcie, soph., 220
Outlook: After taking their lumps and gaining experience, Indians should be more competitive with eight returning starters. Will likely improve record.
National Preps
Blue Mountain products Jake Hendricks and Ryan Guers are members of nationally ranked Wyoming Seminary.
Hendricks (23-13 according to trackwrestling) broke into the lineup as a freshman last season, though he wrestled up at 152-160. He’s expected to be at 145 this year.
2014-15 standings
Schuylkill League
Division I
Leag. Over.
*Blue Mtn. 7-0 18-2
Tri-Valley 6-1 15-4
Pottsville 5-2 12-8
N. Schuylkill 4-3 18-5
Panther Valley 3-4 10-10
Pine Grove 2-5 11-10
Lehighton 1-6 12-9
Tamaqua 0-7 0-22
Division II
*Williams Valley 6-0 7-8
Sch. Haven 5-1 15-7
Halifax 4-2 14-11
Mahanoy Area 3-3 5-8
U. Dauphin 2-4 6-11
Jim Thorpe 1-5 3-14
CMVT 0-6 4-17
Berks League
Section II
*Hamburg 6-0 13-6
Heartland Conference
Division I
Shamokin 1-5 2-19
Division II
Mount Carmel 3-3 13-7
*Division champion
Area’s top returning wins leaders
Kevan Gentile Jim Thorpe senior 44-3
Ignacio Reynoso Hamburg sophomore 41-16
Connor Frey Lehighton senior 38-6
Sam Hepler Tri-Valley junior 38-8
Luke Gardner Pottsville senior 37-6
Willy Girard Williams Valley senior 37-9
Chase Schaeffer Tri-Valley senior 36-11
Tanner McHugh Tamaqua junior 35-8
Jake Paul Halifax junior 34-8
Dan Scheib Tri-Valley sophomore 34-14
Schuylkill League
Wrestling Schedule
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9
Upper Dauphin at Halifax, 7 p.m.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15
Schuylkill Haven at Williams Valley, 7 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16
Pine Grove at Blue Mtn., 6:45 p.m.
Pottsville at Tamaqua, 6:45 p.m.
Panther Valley at Tri-Valley, 6:45 p.m.
North Schuylkill at Lehighton, 6:45 p.m.
CMVT at Mahanoy Area, 6:45 p.m.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22
Mahanoy Area at Upper Dauphin, 6:45 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6
Panther Valley at Blue Mtn., 6:45 p.m.
Tri-Valley at Pine Grove, 6:45 p.m.
Lehighton at Pottsville, 6:45 p.m.
North Schuylkill at Tamaqua, 6:45 p.m.
Halifax at Schuylkill Haven, 6:45 p.m.
Jim Thorpe at CMVT, 6:45 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13
Blue Mountain at Tri-Valley, 6:45 p.m.
Pottsville at North Schuylkill, 6:45 p.m.
Pine Grove at Panther Valley, 6:45 p.m.
Tamaqua at Lehighton, 6:45 p.m.
Sch. Haven at Mahanoy Area, 6:45 p.m.
Jim Thorpe at Upper Dauphin, 6:45 p.m.
CMVT at Williams Valley, 7 p.m.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15
Schuylkill Wrestling
League meet (Martz Hall), 5 p.m.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 16
Schuylkill Wrestling
League meet (Martz Hall), 10 a.m.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20
Tamaqua at Blue Mtn., 6:45 p.m.
Pottsville at Pine Grove, 6:45 p.m.
Lehighton at Tri-Valley, 6:45 p.m.
N. Schuylkill at Panther Valley, 6:45 p.m.
Mahanoy Area at Jim Thorpe, 6:45 p.m.
Williams Valley at Halifax, 6:45 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27
Blue Mtn. at Pottsville, 6:45 p.m.
Tri-Valley at North Schuylkill, 6:45 p.m.
Pine Grove at Lehighton, 6:45 p.m.
Panther Valley at Tamaqua, 6:45 p.m.
CMVT at Schuylkill Haven, 6:45 p.m.
Halifax at Jim Thorpe, 6:45 p.m.
Williams Valley at Mahanoy Area, 6:45 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3
Lehighton at Blue Mtn., 6:45 p.m.
Tamaqua at Tri-Valley, 6:45 p.m.
North Schuylkill at Pine Grove, 6:45 p.m.
Pottsville at Panther Valley, 6:45 p.m.
Jim Thorpe at Sch. Haven, 6:45 p.m.
U. Dauphin at Williams Valley, 6:45 p.m.
Halifax at CMVT, 6:45 p.m.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5
Upper Dauphin at CMVT, 6 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10
Blue Mtn. at North Schuylkill, 6:45 p.m.
Tri-Valley at Pottsville, 6:45 p.m.
Pine Grove at Tamaqua, 6:45 p.m.
Panther Valley at Lehighton, 6:45 p.m.
Sch. Haven at Upper Dauphin, 6:45 p.m.
Williams Valley at Jim Thorpe, 6:45 p.m.
Mahanoy Area at Halifax, 6:45 p.m.