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Powerade Preview
Willie Saylor, Editor
One of the strongest individual tournaments during the regular season, the Powerade tournament serves as both a preview for the PA State tournament will sprinkling in some national flavor.
This year's field features 23 nationally ranked wrestlers, 15 of which are Top 5.
Below are weight class capsules with credentials, notes, and picks.
This year's Powerade is available on FLO PRO, so catch all the action in real time!
106:
LY: Luke Pletcher, Greater Latrobe dec. Devin Brown, Saegertown, 7-1
2008: Jimmy Gulibon, Derry md. Corey Keener, Blue Mtn., 10-1
Contenders:
#3-Jr. Devin Brown, Franklin Regional, PA - State Champ, Returning Runner-Up
#19-Jr. Logan Grass, Huntington, WV - State Champ, Returning 5th
HM-Sr. Connor Sheehan, Solanco, PA - State Runner-Up, Returning 4th
So. Jacob Lizak, Parkland, PA - State Qualifier
Fr. Daniel Planta, St. Paul’s, MD
Fr. Vince DeStefanis, Hempfield, PA - KOM 6th
Fr. Cole Manley, Altoona, PA - FloNats JH Champ, Fila Cadet AA
Notes:
Sheehan wrestled 113 at the Beast last weekend, placing 6th. He’s listed at this weight for Powerade and his inclusion here really shakes things up. He was a state runner-up last year to Luke Pletcher.
Brown made the finals at Powerade last year where he also lost to Pletcher. This is his first competition of the season.
Grass had a really strong Ironman where he took 4th.
Sheehan beat Grass, 5-2 in last year’s Powerade consi semi’s.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Brown, FR 2. Sheehan, Solanco 3. Grass, Huntington
113:
LY: Ethan Lizak, Parkland dec. Jordan Allen, Huntington, 5-2
2008: Nico Megaludis, Franklin Regional dec. Zach Zimmer, Clovis West, 3-1
Contenders:
#1-Fr. Spencer Lee, Franklin Regional, PA - Ironman, S32, Fila Cadet Champ
HM-So. Ethan McCoy, Greater Latrobe, PA - National Prep 2nd, FloNats AA
Sr. Adam Whitesell, Good Counsel, MD - National Prep 4th, Beast 7th
Sr. Brenden Price, Canon-Mac, PA - Returning 7th
So. Codi Russell, Collins Hill, GA - State 4th
So. Charlie Lenox, Erie McDowell, PA - Returning 6th, KOM Runner-Up
So. AJ Buckiso, Peters Twsp. PA
Notes:
Spencer Lee is a prodigy, and one of the clearest ‘locks’ to win any weight, here and at any tournament.
But it will be interesting to see where these guys filter in behind him. Charlie Lenox is coming off a great King of the Mountain where he beat Lizak and upset nationally ranked Luke Karam.
McCoy also beat Lizak, 4-3, at KOM.
Pay attention to see if Sheehan is indeed at 106 or if he comes up to 113. He beat Whitesell in consi’s at the Beast.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Lee, FR 2. McCoy, GL 3. Lenox, EM
120:
LY: Matt Kolodzik, Blair Academy dec. Sam Krivus, Hempfield, 8-4
2008: Shane Young, Penn Trafford dec. Tyler Raunzahn, Blue Mtn., 6-3
Contenders:
#2-So. Luke Pletcher, Greater Latrobe, PA - State Champ, S32 Champ, FloNats Champ
#3-Sr. Sean Russell, Collins Hill, GA - Super 32 2nd & 3rd
#4-Sr. Ethan Lizak, Parkland, PA - 3x State Finalist, FILA JR. Champ
#6-So. Mickey Phillipi, Derry, PA - State Champ, S32 Runner-Up
#15-Sr. Jake Gromacki, Erie Prep, PA - Placer at State, FloNats, Fargo and Super 32
HM-Jr. Ryan Friedman, St. Paul’s, MD - Prep Runner-Up, Returning 6th
HM-Jr. Jordan Allen, Huntington, WV - Returning Runner-Up
HM-Jr. Ricky Cavallo, Hempfield, PA - Returning 4th
HM-So. Alex Mackall, Walsh Jesuit, OH - Returning 3rd, Fargo AA
Notes:
What a loaded weight! In addition to having 4 of the Top 6 in the nation, there’s also exceptional depth with five other former placers, including Allen who was in the finals last year.
Pletcher is up two weights from where he won Powerade and a state title last year. And he already has wins over all three of the other contenders. He beat Russell in S32 semi’s and Phillipi in the finals. Two weeks ago, he took out Lizak in KOM finals. All three of them were narrow wins. Russell and Lizak were both in OT and Phillipi had the lead at one point.
The interesting thing about the top four here is that every one of them seem to wrestle tight matches. Expect 3-2 type scores from quarters on.
Picking this weight is almost an impossible task considering the guys aren’t just close in ranking #, but talent and skill set as well. What also makes it difficult are all the land mines that litter the path on the way to them even hitting. Of the HM’s, I particularly like Mackall and Allen.
On paper, if Phillippi can get past a quarter with Gromacki, you’re looking at a semi that’s a rematch of the S32 finals, and a matchup of PA state champions.
I’ll take Russell to pull the upset over Lizak in the other semi (providing the seeds hold). I think he’s wrestling ticked-off since the loss at Who’s #1.
In the finals, I gotta stay with Pletcher. He’s just proven to be able to win the close ones. Though nothing at this weight would be too surprising. Who’s mentally tough enough to win tight, consecutive matches this weekend.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Pletcher, GL 2. Russell, CH 3. Lizak, Parkland 4. Phillippi, Derry
126:
LY: Conner Schram, Canon-Mac inj. def. Michael Kemerer, Franklin Regional
2008: Nathan Pennesi, Latrobe dec. Clinton McAlester, Clovis, 7-2
Contenders:
#5-Sr. Ryan Millhof, Collins Hill, GA - 2x Super 32 Champ
#8-Sr. Dalton Macri, Canon-Mac, PA - State Runner-Up, Fargo AA, Ironman 3rd
HM-Jr. AC Headlee, Waynesburg, PA - Returning 3rd, Fargo AA, State 6th, Beast 3rd
So. Lucas Simpkins, Ripley, WV - State Runner-Up
Jr. Phil Mary, Peters Twsp. PA
Notes:
We’re looking at a premier match-up of national studs in the finals. Macri looked very good at Ironman. Headlee looked strong at the Beast. In each of those tournaments, their only loss came to Matt Kolodzik, a champ here last year.
Millhof was #1 in the preseason after winning a monster bracket to capture his 2nd straight S32 belt, and then taking out consensus #1 and Fargo Champ, Jered Cortez. Since then, however, Millhof has been shaky, losing matches to Dylan Lucas (who he beat soundly in Greensboro) and Ke-Shawn Hayes, who was just coming up from 126.
Millhof probably still gets the 1-seed. Meaning Macri will need to go through Headlee. I like Macri in that match, and I like the momentum he’s on.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Macri, CM 2. Millhof, CH 3. Headlee, Waynesburg
132:
LY: Jason Nolf, Kittaning dec. Tyler Smith, Franklin Regional, 10-5
2008: Frank Martelloti, Shady Side dec. John Prezzia, SS Beaver, 2-1
Contenders:
#1-Jr. Sam Krivus, Hempfield, PA - State Champ, FloNats Champ, Returning RU
#6-Sr. Tyler Smith, Franklin Regional, PA - State Champ, Returning Runner-Up
#14-Fr. Cameron Coy, Penn Trafford, PA - KOM Runner-Up
HM-So. Kevin Budock, Good Counsel, MD - Prep Runner-Up, Returning 7th
HM-Sr. Jack Mutchnik, St. Pauls, MD - Prep Champ, Returning 8th
Sr. Ty Buckiso, Peters Twsp. PA
Sr. Brayden Hartley, Buford, GA - State Champ
Sr. Nolan Whitely, Walsh Jesuit, OH - State 4th, Returning 7th
Jr. Bryan Ramey, Eastern View, VA - State Champ
Jr. Tyler Vath, Saegertown, PA - State 8th, Returning 8th
Jr. Dalton Zimmerman, Brookville, PA - State 6th
Fr. Nino Bonnacorsi, Bethel Park, PA
Notes:
There are six wrestlers here who made their state/prep title bout and two returning Powerade finalist. Krivus leads the way. But he’s been wrestling in an awful lot of close matches recently. He beat freshman phenom, Coy, just 1-0 in the KOM finals. Coy had beat New York State Champ Will Koll in the semi’s there.
Tyler Smith makes the move back down to 132 after sitting out Ironman. He’s a gamer, and I expect him to be a real threat to the #1 ranked wrestler in the country in the finals. I’m teetering on the upset pick with Smith; he’s so darn mentally tough. But Krivus is a rare talent. Close matches or not, he knows how to win.
Good depth here also with Budock and Mutchnik posing as darkhorses.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Krivus, Hempfield 2. Smith, FR 3. Coy, PT
138:
LY: Zain Retherford, Benton dec. Mason Manville, Blair, 2-0
2008: Josh Kindig, Blue Mtn. wbf. Corey Mock, Chapel Hill, :54
Contenders:
#3-Jr. Michael Kemerer, Franklin Regional, PA - 2x State Finalist, 3x S32 Finalist
#4-Sr. Brock Zacherl, Brookville, PA - State 4th, FloNats 3rd, Super 32 Runner-Up
#5-Jr. Vincenzo Joseph, Pitt CC, PA - State 3rd, Fargo AA, Ironman 4th
HM-So. Hayden Hidlay, Mifflin County, PA - Double Fargo Finalist
HM-Sr. Ryan Skonieczny, SVSM, OH - State Runner-Up
HM-Sr. Mikey Kostandaras, Walsh Jesuit, OH - Returning 4th
HM-Jr. Jake Adcock, Pope, GA - State 3rd, Double Fargo AA
So. Nick Monico, Saegertown, PA - State 8th
Notes:
This is one of my favorite weights here this year. Of course it’s lead by Kemerer. But Zacherl has been on a tear lately with good wins in Fargo and a finals appearance in Greensboro where his only loss was to Nolf.
Additionally, Vincenzo Joseph keeps upping his game and proving he can win at any weight. He had Alfred Bannister on the ropes at Ironman, where he was up at 145.
Count me in as a HUGE Hidlay fan. He’s young and has some improving to do, but I’m interested to see where he’s at this weekend.
Watch for Skonieczny. He had a sub-par Ironman where he was a match away from placing, but he’s solid and will be a player in this bracket.
It’s tough to pick against Kemerer, he’s so solid. But I’m going to take a gamble on Joseph. I just love what I see out of him right now.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Joseph, PCC 2. Kemerer, FR 3. Zacherl, Brookville
145:
LY: Josh Shields, Franklin Regional dec. Dylan Milonas, Blair, 4-3
2008: Dane Johnson, Shady Side dec. Jake Bachman, Hempfield, 6-4
Contenders:
#2-Sr. Jason Nolf, Kittaning, PA - 2x State Champ, S32 Champ, Returning Champ
HM-Jr. Josh Maruca, Franklin Regional, PA - State, Fargo, and S32 Placer
Sr. Max Good, Cedar Cliff, PA - Beast 6th
Notes:
What was shaping up as a rumble, has turned into the Nolf show. Chishko and Galasso are out with injuries. And though Maruca is a fine wrestler, Jason Nolf is wrestling as well as anyone in the country right now. I’d pick him against anyone. Yes. Anyone.
Consider this: Ironman finalist Alfred Bannister beat Patrick Duggan in the finals of the Beast of the East, 3-2. Nolf beat Duggan 22-8 two weeks ago at KOM.,
Willie’s Picks: 1. Nolf, Kittaning 2. Maruca, FR 3. Good, CC
152:
LY: Russ Parsons, Blair dec. Anthony Collica, Solon, 2-1 OT
2008: Scott Sakaguchi, Clovis dec. Brian Sewalt, Waverly, NY
Contenders:
#11-Jr. Josh Shields, Franklin Regional, PA - Returning Champ, State 3rd
Sr. Steve Edwards, Burrell, PA - State 6th, KOM Champ
Sr. Jake Colello, Cedar Cliff, PA - State 5th
Sr. Josh Ortman, Parkland, PA - State 8th, Returning 8th
Jr. Cole Walter, Mifflinburg, PA - State 7th, Returning 5th
Jr. DJ Hollingshead, Altoona, PA - Returning 5th
Jr. Jake Martin, Ripley, WV - State Champ
Jr. Dom Vitale, Benton, PA
So. Derek Verkleeren, Belle Vernon, PA
So. Jake Shaffer, Greater Latrobe, PA - State Qualifier
Notes:
Outside of his parents, I’m perhaps Josh Shields’ biggest fan. He had a bad knee that required surgery and didn’t quite look to have good mobility at the Ironman. But I’m told it’s coming along. Remember last year where he had a good Ironman and then a great Powerade? I see that occurring again this year.
There are a couple of interesting prospects in the bracket.
Edwards just won KOM where Walter was 3rd.
Walter is a bit undersized but he’s competitive everywhere and should be in the thick of things.
Also watch for Verkleeren and Shaffer, two young guys that have loads of potential
Willie’s Picks: 1. Shields, FR 2. Walter, Mifflinburg 3. Edwards, Burrell
160:
LY: Zack Zavatsky, Greater Latrobe dec. Zack Voytek, Greensburg-Salem, 2-0
2008: Marshall Peppelman, Central Dauphin tf. Chris Moon, Faquier, 16-0
Contenders:
HM-Sr. Dom Scalise, Greater Latrobe, PA - National Prep 3rd
Sr. Jake Henson, Pope, GA - State Champ
Sr. Jeric Kasunic, Benton, PA - State 6th
Sr. Preston Martin, Ripley, WV - State Runner-Up
Sr. Brodie Zacherl, Brookville, PA - Returning 7th
Jr. Devin Austin, Penn-Trafford, PA - Returning 7th
Fr. Frank Guida, Parkland
Notes:
Scalise is a fringe rankable type kid. He was 3rd at National Preps last year for Kiski, but had an up-and-down offseason.
He should be considered the clear, but not unbeatable favorite. Henson has had some solid national wins. And Zacherl should be in the mix. He beat Kasunic here last year, 7-1.
Keep an eye on Guida. He may not contend this year, but he’s going to be a good one down the road.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Scalise, GL 2. Henson, Pope 3. Zacherl, Brookville
170:
LY: Chance Marsteller, Kennard Dale dec. Cody Wiercioch, Canon-Mac, 2-1 OT
2008: Matt Cunningham, Shady Side dec. Kenny Courts, Central Duaphin, 10-5
Contenders:
#1-Chance Marsteller, Kennard Dale, PA - 3x Undefeated State Champ
Sr. Connor Waugh, St. Pauls, MD - Returning 6th
Sr. Noah Wilps, Chartiers Valley, PA - State 6th, Returning 7th
Sr. Kyle Coniker, Pitt CC, PA
Sr. Zach Vroman, Brookville, PA - State 5th
Fr. Zane Black, Bishop McDevitt, PA - #33 Freshman
Notes:
After three years as one of the most celebrated wrestlers in high school history, Chance Marsteller’s swan song begins. Last year he got a scare from Cody Wiercioch, but his unblemished record (both in-season and out of season) is still in tact, and this field isn’t likely to jeopardize that. It’s Chance, and everyone else.
Waugh and Coniker came up a match short of placing at the Beast and Ironman, respectively this month.
Black is one of America’s best Freshmen.
In the end, I think Wilps gets the honor of being the Runner-Up to Chance. Interestingly enough, Chance, Wagh, and Wilps are all back at the same weight they were at last season.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Marsteller, KD 2. Wilps, CV 3. Coniker, PCC
182:
LY: Dakota DesLauriers, Burrell dec. Addison Knepshield, Blair, 3-1
2008: Jake Kemmerer, Hempfield md. Christian Oberle, Bellefonte, 11-2
Contenders:
#5-Sr. Zack Zavatsky, Greater Latrobe, PA - State and FloNats 3rd, KOM, P-Ade, S32 Champ
#18-Sr. Aaron Adkins, SVSM, OH - State Champ
HM-Jr. Dylan Reynolds, Saegertown, PA - State 4th, Returning 7th
Sr. Tyree Spearman, Erie McDowell, PA - State 5th
So. Josh Colello, Cedar Cliff, PA - Returning 3rd, Beast 8th
Notes:
Zavatsky is one of the best un-talked about wrestlers in the country. Last year his only losses were to TC Warner and Chance Marsteller. He beat Spearman both in state consi semi’s and two weeks ago in King of the Mountain finals.
I’m anxious to get a look at Adkins this year. He missed Ironman, but he won a very good state bracket last season.
Reynolds has been up and down. At one time he was ranked, but DNP’s in his last two majors (S32 and IM) seen him fall out.
Consistency has been an issue for Colello, too. One of the better wrestlers in the Sophomore Class, Colello had a good Cadet Dual series this summer, going 10-3.
In the end, Zavatsky is much too polished to pick against. He’s solid on his feet and one of the best top wrestlers in high school.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Zavatsky, GL 2. Adkins, SVSM 3. Spearman, EM
195:
LY: Frank Mattiace, Blair dec. Jake Hart, Hampton, 3-2 OT
2008: Tony Dallago, Central Dauphin md. Roman Sandoval, Shady Side, 11-2
Contenders:
#2-Chip Ness, Buford, GA - Fargo and FloNats Runner-Up, Super 32 Champ
Sr. Nezar Haddad, Parkland, PA - KOM Runner-Up
Jr. Logan Womelsdorf, Benton, PA - KOM 6th
Jr. Matt Butler, Connellsville, PA - Returning 8th
So. Kevin Snyder, Good Counsel, MD
Fr. Cole Nye, Bishop McDevitt, PA - #36 Freshman
Notes:
Ness is one of the best wrestlers in the country and in the entire tournament. He’s been to the finals of what are three of the biggest events in the sport. Plus, he has great hair. Look for it.
I don’t think any one else in the field can touch Ness. But it will be fun to see who can get to the finals opposite him as there are some talented kids involved. Haddad has had some good national level wins, and I’ll go with him to reach the finals.
Nye will be a star in time.
Watch for Snyder (yes, Kyle’s brother). He was a match from placing at both the Ironman and Beast.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Ness, Buford 2. Haddad, Parkland 3. Snyder, GC
220:
LY: Kyle Snyder, Good Counsel md. Thomas Haines, Solanco, 16-6
2008: Zach Bennett, Westmont-Hilltop wbf. Adam Lazenga, Bethel Park, 2:46
Contenders:
HM-Jr. Bo Spiller, Solanco, PA - Returning 6th, Beast 6th
Jr. Omar Haddad, Parkland, PA - KOM 3rd
So. Bryce Town, Brookville, PA
Notes:
Thin weight here, figuratively. Spiller was a HWT last year and started out strong. He reached the semi’s last week at Beast before having to settle for 6th.
Haddad’s loss at KOM came to Bethlehem Catholic’s Andrew Dunn. I think a Spiller-Haddad final would be a fun match.
Town had a relatively productive summer in FS/GR action.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Spiller, Solanco 2. Haddad, Parkland 3. Town, Brookville
HWT:
LY: Brooks Black, Blair md. Daryl Hicks, Ripley, 12-3
2008: Karl Green, Mt. St. Joe's dec. Sam Brownlee, Canon-Mac, 3-1
Contenders:
#2-Sr. Thomas Haines, Solanco - 3x State Champ, 2x S32 Champ, Beast Champ
HM-Sr. Nazar Mironenko, Mifflinburg, PA - Returning 3rd, 2012 State Champ
Sr. Austin Buttry, Chestnut Ridge, PA - State 5th
Sr. Nigel Cabell, Ripley, WV - State 3rd, Returning 7th
Sr. Scot Augustine, Erie McDowell, PA - KOM 3rd
Jr. Alan Beattie, Burrell, PA - KOM Champ, Returning 8th
Jr. Drek Brumley, SVSM, OH - State 7th
Notes:
Thomas Haines looked very good in winning the Beast last week. His smooth, athletic self. He’s a strong favorite ahead of a solid field.
Alan Beattie beat Mironenko in KOM finals this year. Mironenko had beaten Augustine in the semi’s to get there.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Haines, Solanco 2. Mironenko, Mifflinburg 3. Buttry, CR
Willie Saylor, Editor
One of the strongest individual tournaments during the regular season, the Powerade tournament serves as both a preview for the PA State tournament will sprinkling in some national flavor.
This year's field features 23 nationally ranked wrestlers, 15 of which are Top 5.
Below are weight class capsules with credentials, notes, and picks.
This year's Powerade is available on FLO PRO, so catch all the action in real time!
106:
LY: Luke Pletcher, Greater Latrobe dec. Devin Brown, Saegertown, 7-1
2008: Jimmy Gulibon, Derry md. Corey Keener, Blue Mtn., 10-1
Contenders:
#3-Jr. Devin Brown, Franklin Regional, PA - State Champ, Returning Runner-Up
#19-Jr. Logan Grass, Huntington, WV - State Champ, Returning 5th
HM-Sr. Connor Sheehan, Solanco, PA - State Runner-Up, Returning 4th
So. Jacob Lizak, Parkland, PA - State Qualifier
Fr. Daniel Planta, St. Paul’s, MD
Fr. Vince DeStefanis, Hempfield, PA - KOM 6th
Fr. Cole Manley, Altoona, PA - FloNats JH Champ, Fila Cadet AA
Notes:
Sheehan wrestled 113 at the Beast last weekend, placing 6th. He’s listed at this weight for Powerade and his inclusion here really shakes things up. He was a state runner-up last year to Luke Pletcher.
Brown made the finals at Powerade last year where he also lost to Pletcher. This is his first competition of the season.
Grass had a really strong Ironman where he took 4th.
Sheehan beat Grass, 5-2 in last year’s Powerade consi semi’s.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Brown, FR 2. Sheehan, Solanco 3. Grass, Huntington
113:
LY: Ethan Lizak, Parkland dec. Jordan Allen, Huntington, 5-2
2008: Nico Megaludis, Franklin Regional dec. Zach Zimmer, Clovis West, 3-1
Contenders:
#1-Fr. Spencer Lee, Franklin Regional, PA - Ironman, S32, Fila Cadet Champ
HM-So. Ethan McCoy, Greater Latrobe, PA - National Prep 2nd, FloNats AA
Sr. Adam Whitesell, Good Counsel, MD - National Prep 4th, Beast 7th
Sr. Brenden Price, Canon-Mac, PA - Returning 7th
So. Codi Russell, Collins Hill, GA - State 4th
So. Charlie Lenox, Erie McDowell, PA - Returning 6th, KOM Runner-Up
So. AJ Buckiso, Peters Twsp. PA
Notes:
Spencer Lee is a prodigy, and one of the clearest ‘locks’ to win any weight, here and at any tournament.
But it will be interesting to see where these guys filter in behind him. Charlie Lenox is coming off a great King of the Mountain where he beat Lizak and upset nationally ranked Luke Karam.
McCoy also beat Lizak, 4-3, at KOM.
Pay attention to see if Sheehan is indeed at 106 or if he comes up to 113. He beat Whitesell in consi’s at the Beast.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Lee, FR 2. McCoy, GL 3. Lenox, EM
120:
LY: Matt Kolodzik, Blair Academy dec. Sam Krivus, Hempfield, 8-4
2008: Shane Young, Penn Trafford dec. Tyler Raunzahn, Blue Mtn., 6-3
Contenders:
#2-So. Luke Pletcher, Greater Latrobe, PA - State Champ, S32 Champ, FloNats Champ
#3-Sr. Sean Russell, Collins Hill, GA - Super 32 2nd & 3rd
#4-Sr. Ethan Lizak, Parkland, PA - 3x State Finalist, FILA JR. Champ
#6-So. Mickey Phillipi, Derry, PA - State Champ, S32 Runner-Up
#15-Sr. Jake Gromacki, Erie Prep, PA - Placer at State, FloNats, Fargo and Super 32
HM-Jr. Ryan Friedman, St. Paul’s, MD - Prep Runner-Up, Returning 6th
HM-Jr. Jordan Allen, Huntington, WV - Returning Runner-Up
HM-Jr. Ricky Cavallo, Hempfield, PA - Returning 4th
HM-So. Alex Mackall, Walsh Jesuit, OH - Returning 3rd, Fargo AA
Notes:
What a loaded weight! In addition to having 4 of the Top 6 in the nation, there’s also exceptional depth with five other former placers, including Allen who was in the finals last year.
Pletcher is up two weights from where he won Powerade and a state title last year. And he already has wins over all three of the other contenders. He beat Russell in S32 semi’s and Phillipi in the finals. Two weeks ago, he took out Lizak in KOM finals. All three of them were narrow wins. Russell and Lizak were both in OT and Phillipi had the lead at one point.
The interesting thing about the top four here is that every one of them seem to wrestle tight matches. Expect 3-2 type scores from quarters on.
Picking this weight is almost an impossible task considering the guys aren’t just close in ranking #, but talent and skill set as well. What also makes it difficult are all the land mines that litter the path on the way to them even hitting. Of the HM’s, I particularly like Mackall and Allen.
On paper, if Phillippi can get past a quarter with Gromacki, you’re looking at a semi that’s a rematch of the S32 finals, and a matchup of PA state champions.
I’ll take Russell to pull the upset over Lizak in the other semi (providing the seeds hold). I think he’s wrestling ticked-off since the loss at Who’s #1.
In the finals, I gotta stay with Pletcher. He’s just proven to be able to win the close ones. Though nothing at this weight would be too surprising. Who’s mentally tough enough to win tight, consecutive matches this weekend.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Pletcher, GL 2. Russell, CH 3. Lizak, Parkland 4. Phillippi, Derry
126:
LY: Conner Schram, Canon-Mac inj. def. Michael Kemerer, Franklin Regional
2008: Nathan Pennesi, Latrobe dec. Clinton McAlester, Clovis, 7-2
Contenders:
#5-Sr. Ryan Millhof, Collins Hill, GA - 2x Super 32 Champ
#8-Sr. Dalton Macri, Canon-Mac, PA - State Runner-Up, Fargo AA, Ironman 3rd
HM-Jr. AC Headlee, Waynesburg, PA - Returning 3rd, Fargo AA, State 6th, Beast 3rd
So. Lucas Simpkins, Ripley, WV - State Runner-Up
Jr. Phil Mary, Peters Twsp. PA
Notes:
We’re looking at a premier match-up of national studs in the finals. Macri looked very good at Ironman. Headlee looked strong at the Beast. In each of those tournaments, their only loss came to Matt Kolodzik, a champ here last year.
Millhof was #1 in the preseason after winning a monster bracket to capture his 2nd straight S32 belt, and then taking out consensus #1 and Fargo Champ, Jered Cortez. Since then, however, Millhof has been shaky, losing matches to Dylan Lucas (who he beat soundly in Greensboro) and Ke-Shawn Hayes, who was just coming up from 126.
Millhof probably still gets the 1-seed. Meaning Macri will need to go through Headlee. I like Macri in that match, and I like the momentum he’s on.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Macri, CM 2. Millhof, CH 3. Headlee, Waynesburg
132:
LY: Jason Nolf, Kittaning dec. Tyler Smith, Franklin Regional, 10-5
2008: Frank Martelloti, Shady Side dec. John Prezzia, SS Beaver, 2-1
Contenders:
#1-Jr. Sam Krivus, Hempfield, PA - State Champ, FloNats Champ, Returning RU
#6-Sr. Tyler Smith, Franklin Regional, PA - State Champ, Returning Runner-Up
#14-Fr. Cameron Coy, Penn Trafford, PA - KOM Runner-Up
HM-So. Kevin Budock, Good Counsel, MD - Prep Runner-Up, Returning 7th
HM-Sr. Jack Mutchnik, St. Pauls, MD - Prep Champ, Returning 8th
Sr. Ty Buckiso, Peters Twsp. PA
Sr. Brayden Hartley, Buford, GA - State Champ
Sr. Nolan Whitely, Walsh Jesuit, OH - State 4th, Returning 7th
Jr. Bryan Ramey, Eastern View, VA - State Champ
Jr. Tyler Vath, Saegertown, PA - State 8th, Returning 8th
Jr. Dalton Zimmerman, Brookville, PA - State 6th
Fr. Nino Bonnacorsi, Bethel Park, PA
Notes:
There are six wrestlers here who made their state/prep title bout and two returning Powerade finalist. Krivus leads the way. But he’s been wrestling in an awful lot of close matches recently. He beat freshman phenom, Coy, just 1-0 in the KOM finals. Coy had beat New York State Champ Will Koll in the semi’s there.
Tyler Smith makes the move back down to 132 after sitting out Ironman. He’s a gamer, and I expect him to be a real threat to the #1 ranked wrestler in the country in the finals. I’m teetering on the upset pick with Smith; he’s so darn mentally tough. But Krivus is a rare talent. Close matches or not, he knows how to win.
Good depth here also with Budock and Mutchnik posing as darkhorses.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Krivus, Hempfield 2. Smith, FR 3. Coy, PT
138:
LY: Zain Retherford, Benton dec. Mason Manville, Blair, 2-0
2008: Josh Kindig, Blue Mtn. wbf. Corey Mock, Chapel Hill, :54
Contenders:
#3-Jr. Michael Kemerer, Franklin Regional, PA - 2x State Finalist, 3x S32 Finalist
#4-Sr. Brock Zacherl, Brookville, PA - State 4th, FloNats 3rd, Super 32 Runner-Up
#5-Jr. Vincenzo Joseph, Pitt CC, PA - State 3rd, Fargo AA, Ironman 4th
HM-So. Hayden Hidlay, Mifflin County, PA - Double Fargo Finalist
HM-Sr. Ryan Skonieczny, SVSM, OH - State Runner-Up
HM-Sr. Mikey Kostandaras, Walsh Jesuit, OH - Returning 4th
HM-Jr. Jake Adcock, Pope, GA - State 3rd, Double Fargo AA
So. Nick Monico, Saegertown, PA - State 8th
Notes:
This is one of my favorite weights here this year. Of course it’s lead by Kemerer. But Zacherl has been on a tear lately with good wins in Fargo and a finals appearance in Greensboro where his only loss was to Nolf.
Additionally, Vincenzo Joseph keeps upping his game and proving he can win at any weight. He had Alfred Bannister on the ropes at Ironman, where he was up at 145.
Count me in as a HUGE Hidlay fan. He’s young and has some improving to do, but I’m interested to see where he’s at this weekend.
Watch for Skonieczny. He had a sub-par Ironman where he was a match away from placing, but he’s solid and will be a player in this bracket.
It’s tough to pick against Kemerer, he’s so solid. But I’m going to take a gamble on Joseph. I just love what I see out of him right now.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Joseph, PCC 2. Kemerer, FR 3. Zacherl, Brookville
145:
LY: Josh Shields, Franklin Regional dec. Dylan Milonas, Blair, 4-3
2008: Dane Johnson, Shady Side dec. Jake Bachman, Hempfield, 6-4
Contenders:
#2-Sr. Jason Nolf, Kittaning, PA - 2x State Champ, S32 Champ, Returning Champ
HM-Jr. Josh Maruca, Franklin Regional, PA - State, Fargo, and S32 Placer
Sr. Max Good, Cedar Cliff, PA - Beast 6th
Notes:
What was shaping up as a rumble, has turned into the Nolf show. Chishko and Galasso are out with injuries. And though Maruca is a fine wrestler, Jason Nolf is wrestling as well as anyone in the country right now. I’d pick him against anyone. Yes. Anyone.
Consider this: Ironman finalist Alfred Bannister beat Patrick Duggan in the finals of the Beast of the East, 3-2. Nolf beat Duggan 22-8 two weeks ago at KOM.,
Willie’s Picks: 1. Nolf, Kittaning 2. Maruca, FR 3. Good, CC
152:
LY: Russ Parsons, Blair dec. Anthony Collica, Solon, 2-1 OT
2008: Scott Sakaguchi, Clovis dec. Brian Sewalt, Waverly, NY
Contenders:
#11-Jr. Josh Shields, Franklin Regional, PA - Returning Champ, State 3rd
Sr. Steve Edwards, Burrell, PA - State 6th, KOM Champ
Sr. Jake Colello, Cedar Cliff, PA - State 5th
Sr. Josh Ortman, Parkland, PA - State 8th, Returning 8th
Jr. Cole Walter, Mifflinburg, PA - State 7th, Returning 5th
Jr. DJ Hollingshead, Altoona, PA - Returning 5th
Jr. Jake Martin, Ripley, WV - State Champ
Jr. Dom Vitale, Benton, PA
So. Derek Verkleeren, Belle Vernon, PA
So. Jake Shaffer, Greater Latrobe, PA - State Qualifier
Notes:
Outside of his parents, I’m perhaps Josh Shields’ biggest fan. He had a bad knee that required surgery and didn’t quite look to have good mobility at the Ironman. But I’m told it’s coming along. Remember last year where he had a good Ironman and then a great Powerade? I see that occurring again this year.
There are a couple of interesting prospects in the bracket.
Edwards just won KOM where Walter was 3rd.
Walter is a bit undersized but he’s competitive everywhere and should be in the thick of things.
Also watch for Verkleeren and Shaffer, two young guys that have loads of potential
Willie’s Picks: 1. Shields, FR 2. Walter, Mifflinburg 3. Edwards, Burrell
160:
LY: Zack Zavatsky, Greater Latrobe dec. Zack Voytek, Greensburg-Salem, 2-0
2008: Marshall Peppelman, Central Dauphin tf. Chris Moon, Faquier, 16-0
Contenders:
HM-Sr. Dom Scalise, Greater Latrobe, PA - National Prep 3rd
Sr. Jake Henson, Pope, GA - State Champ
Sr. Jeric Kasunic, Benton, PA - State 6th
Sr. Preston Martin, Ripley, WV - State Runner-Up
Sr. Brodie Zacherl, Brookville, PA - Returning 7th
Jr. Devin Austin, Penn-Trafford, PA - Returning 7th
Fr. Frank Guida, Parkland
Notes:
Scalise is a fringe rankable type kid. He was 3rd at National Preps last year for Kiski, but had an up-and-down offseason.
He should be considered the clear, but not unbeatable favorite. Henson has had some solid national wins. And Zacherl should be in the mix. He beat Kasunic here last year, 7-1.
Keep an eye on Guida. He may not contend this year, but he’s going to be a good one down the road.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Scalise, GL 2. Henson, Pope 3. Zacherl, Brookville
170:
LY: Chance Marsteller, Kennard Dale dec. Cody Wiercioch, Canon-Mac, 2-1 OT
2008: Matt Cunningham, Shady Side dec. Kenny Courts, Central Duaphin, 10-5
Contenders:
#1-Chance Marsteller, Kennard Dale, PA - 3x Undefeated State Champ
Sr. Connor Waugh, St. Pauls, MD - Returning 6th
Sr. Noah Wilps, Chartiers Valley, PA - State 6th, Returning 7th
Sr. Kyle Coniker, Pitt CC, PA
Sr. Zach Vroman, Brookville, PA - State 5th
Fr. Zane Black, Bishop McDevitt, PA - #33 Freshman
Notes:
After three years as one of the most celebrated wrestlers in high school history, Chance Marsteller’s swan song begins. Last year he got a scare from Cody Wiercioch, but his unblemished record (both in-season and out of season) is still in tact, and this field isn’t likely to jeopardize that. It’s Chance, and everyone else.
Waugh and Coniker came up a match short of placing at the Beast and Ironman, respectively this month.
Black is one of America’s best Freshmen.
In the end, I think Wilps gets the honor of being the Runner-Up to Chance. Interestingly enough, Chance, Wagh, and Wilps are all back at the same weight they were at last season.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Marsteller, KD 2. Wilps, CV 3. Coniker, PCC
182:
LY: Dakota DesLauriers, Burrell dec. Addison Knepshield, Blair, 3-1
2008: Jake Kemmerer, Hempfield md. Christian Oberle, Bellefonte, 11-2
Contenders:
#5-Sr. Zack Zavatsky, Greater Latrobe, PA - State and FloNats 3rd, KOM, P-Ade, S32 Champ
#18-Sr. Aaron Adkins, SVSM, OH - State Champ
HM-Jr. Dylan Reynolds, Saegertown, PA - State 4th, Returning 7th
Sr. Tyree Spearman, Erie McDowell, PA - State 5th
So. Josh Colello, Cedar Cliff, PA - Returning 3rd, Beast 8th
Notes:
Zavatsky is one of the best un-talked about wrestlers in the country. Last year his only losses were to TC Warner and Chance Marsteller. He beat Spearman both in state consi semi’s and two weeks ago in King of the Mountain finals.
I’m anxious to get a look at Adkins this year. He missed Ironman, but he won a very good state bracket last season.
Reynolds has been up and down. At one time he was ranked, but DNP’s in his last two majors (S32 and IM) seen him fall out.
Consistency has been an issue for Colello, too. One of the better wrestlers in the Sophomore Class, Colello had a good Cadet Dual series this summer, going 10-3.
In the end, Zavatsky is much too polished to pick against. He’s solid on his feet and one of the best top wrestlers in high school.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Zavatsky, GL 2. Adkins, SVSM 3. Spearman, EM
195:
LY: Frank Mattiace, Blair dec. Jake Hart, Hampton, 3-2 OT
2008: Tony Dallago, Central Dauphin md. Roman Sandoval, Shady Side, 11-2
Contenders:
#2-Chip Ness, Buford, GA - Fargo and FloNats Runner-Up, Super 32 Champ
Sr. Nezar Haddad, Parkland, PA - KOM Runner-Up
Jr. Logan Womelsdorf, Benton, PA - KOM 6th
Jr. Matt Butler, Connellsville, PA - Returning 8th
So. Kevin Snyder, Good Counsel, MD
Fr. Cole Nye, Bishop McDevitt, PA - #36 Freshman
Notes:
Ness is one of the best wrestlers in the country and in the entire tournament. He’s been to the finals of what are three of the biggest events in the sport. Plus, he has great hair. Look for it.
I don’t think any one else in the field can touch Ness. But it will be fun to see who can get to the finals opposite him as there are some talented kids involved. Haddad has had some good national level wins, and I’ll go with him to reach the finals.
Nye will be a star in time.
Watch for Snyder (yes, Kyle’s brother). He was a match from placing at both the Ironman and Beast.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Ness, Buford 2. Haddad, Parkland 3. Snyder, GC
220:
LY: Kyle Snyder, Good Counsel md. Thomas Haines, Solanco, 16-6
2008: Zach Bennett, Westmont-Hilltop wbf. Adam Lazenga, Bethel Park, 2:46
Contenders:
HM-Jr. Bo Spiller, Solanco, PA - Returning 6th, Beast 6th
Jr. Omar Haddad, Parkland, PA - KOM 3rd
So. Bryce Town, Brookville, PA
Notes:
Thin weight here, figuratively. Spiller was a HWT last year and started out strong. He reached the semi’s last week at Beast before having to settle for 6th.
Haddad’s loss at KOM came to Bethlehem Catholic’s Andrew Dunn. I think a Spiller-Haddad final would be a fun match.
Town had a relatively productive summer in FS/GR action.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Spiller, Solanco 2. Haddad, Parkland 3. Town, Brookville
HWT:
LY: Brooks Black, Blair md. Daryl Hicks, Ripley, 12-3
2008: Karl Green, Mt. St. Joe's dec. Sam Brownlee, Canon-Mac, 3-1
Contenders:
#2-Sr. Thomas Haines, Solanco - 3x State Champ, 2x S32 Champ, Beast Champ
HM-Sr. Nazar Mironenko, Mifflinburg, PA - Returning 3rd, 2012 State Champ
Sr. Austin Buttry, Chestnut Ridge, PA - State 5th
Sr. Nigel Cabell, Ripley, WV - State 3rd, Returning 7th
Sr. Scot Augustine, Erie McDowell, PA - KOM 3rd
Jr. Alan Beattie, Burrell, PA - KOM Champ, Returning 8th
Jr. Drek Brumley, SVSM, OH - State 7th
Notes:
Thomas Haines looked very good in winning the Beast last week. His smooth, athletic self. He’s a strong favorite ahead of a solid field.
Alan Beattie beat Mironenko in KOM finals this year. Mironenko had beaten Augustine in the semi’s to get there.
Willie’s Picks: 1. Haines, Solanco 2. Mironenko, Mifflinburg 3. Buttry, CR