Congratulations to junior PJ Duke and freshman Wyatt Boice for earning All-American status at the 35th annual National High School Coaches Association’s (NHSCA) High School Wrestling Nationals, held April 5 to 8 in Virginia Beach.
PJ took first place in the 152-weight class; and Wyatt took fifth place in the 138-pound weight class. The top eight finishers in each weight class are designated as All-Americans.
“PJ wrestled great and totally dominated the weight class,” said Boys Wrestling Varsity Head Coach Kevin Gallagher. “PJ either pinned or won by tech fall in all seven of his matches. It’s incredible that he can dominate the way he did against the best competition in the country. PJ is the top ranked wrestler in the country and showed why.”
Coach Gallagher added: “Wyatt wrestled great also as he won six matches and only lost two. Wyatt made it to the semi-finals where he lost to the eventual champion. His only other loss was against a wrestler that he also beat earlier in the tournament. Taking fifth place in the country and becoming an All-American is an awesome accomplishment especially when there are around 128 wrestlers in each weight class.”
Other members of the Boys Varsity Wrestling Team who competed were:
- Gabe Simpson, 116-weight class
- Colin Matone, 124-weight class
- Joe Uhrig, 145-weight class
- Anthony Tresch, 145-weight class
- Timmy Duke, 195-weight class
- Kevin Crowe-Bailey, 285-weight class
Additionally, two members of the Girls Varsity Wrestling Team also competed. They are:
- Jaida Macaluso, 120-weight class
- Sara Pauls, 132-weight class
“Both wrestled really well against very good competition,” added Coach Gallagher.
While NHSCA has conducted national championship events in football, basketball, golf, tennis, soccer, lacrosse and wrestling, it presently conducts the “High School Nationals” and “National Duals” in wrestling. Both events are the largest and most prestigious wrestling events in the country.
“To see members of our boys and girls wrestling teams compete on a national stage is a testament to their grit and commitment to the sport,” said Athletic Director Tim Bult. “Everyone competed with distinction. We’re so proud to see two members of Minisink Valley’s delegation earn All-American honors.”