Team results:
Minisink vs. Shaker 39–25
Minisink vs. Granville/Whitehall 47–17
Minisink vs. General Brown 41–21
Minisink vs. Utica Proctor 66–5
Minisink vs. Coxsackie 54–5
Minisink vs Glens Falls 49–16
Individual highlights:
MOW: Keira Filip, 6–0
Sara Pauls, 6–0
Avery Wingen, 5–0
Jaida Macaluso, 5–0
Kenzie Welch, 5–0
Amelia Patzelt, 4–0
Olivia Miller,4–0
Cait McIlroy, 4–0
Treven Costello, 4-0
Players and coaches from the Minisink Valley and Valley Central varsity girls wrestling team gathered last evening, Dec. 18, for a group photo following Minisink Valley’s 52-10 dual meet win!
These Minisink Valley wrestlers won their weight class (in parentheses)
• Zoe Ford (94 lbs.)
• Caleesta Vargas (100 lbs.)
• Makenna Matone (107 lbs.)
• Keira Filip (114 lbs.)
• Peyton Matone (120 lbs.)
• Paris Deslandes (126 lbs.)
• Sara Pauls (132 lbs.)
• Avery Wingen (138 lbs.)
• Kenzie Welch (145 lbs.)
• Jaida Macaluso (165 lbs.)
• Treven Costello (185 lbs.)
Minisink Valley also won four exhibition matches before the varsity meet:
• Madyson Thorpe (126 lbs.)
• Kensi Nigro (132 lbs.)
• Lorencia Gangi (138 lbs.)
• Aubrey Weed (138 lbs.)
“Our girls varsity wrestling team wrestled the first dual meet ever in our home gym,” said Head Coach Dan Gallo. “It was a lot of fun and really cool atmosphere. Congratulations to the current roster, led by captains Jaida Macaluso, Keira Filip, Avery Wingen and Sara Pauls. Let’s keep the ball rolling and continue pushing ourselves to be successful and disciplined each and every day.”
Over the season, Valley Central, Minisink Valley, Monroe-Woodbury, Port Jervis and Middletown will compete at various venues within Section IX's area.
"Dual meet" competition for full teams in girls wrestling is representative of the tremendous growth of the teams in Section IX and across New York State over the last two to three years.
While girls have wrestled for many years (often on boys teams or in club tournaments), the sport became officially recognized by the NYSPHSAA in the 2022–23 school year and held its first official state championship in 2025.
Senior multi-eventer Ella Michelitch had a standout debut in all three of her individual events. She opened the evening with a program record of :8.56 in the preliminaries and raced to a runner-up finish in the final of the 55 meter hurdles. After establishing a new personal best of 34'6" in the shot put, Michelitch closed the evening with a dominant win in the high jump, clearing 5'8". Senior Delila Kronimus also finished second in the pole vault, opening her season with a clearance at 11'6".
The boys team were led by a strong showing in the sprint events, with runner-up finishes for seniors Robert LaBarbera (400 meter dash) and Maximillian Wickrath (55 meter dash). Max emphatically lowered the program record in the flat sprint twice in little more than an hour, blazing to times of :6.65 in the preliminaries and :6.52 in the finals.
And in their first 4x200 meter relay of the season, Robert and Max teamed with Angel Mendez and Tarius Theodore to break the program record and earn third-place honors in 1:32.77.
The teams will return to action with a weekend double-header at West Point (OCIAA Developmental Meet) and The Armory (Jim Mitchell Invitational), before a trip to Staten Island for the Ocean Breeze Holiday Festival.
Sixteen schools from all over New York State competed in the tournament, which was hosted by the Girls Varsity Wrestling Team.
“When the dust settled, our girls walked away as team champions with 327 team points,” said Head Coach Dan Gallo. “Shenendehowa and Middletown came in second and third respectively.”
Seniors Keira Filip (120-pound weight class) and Jaida Macaluso (165-pound weight class) earned Most Outstanding Wrestling (MOW) honors. At 120 pounds was senior Keira Filip and at 165 pounds was senior Jaida Macaluso.
“Every single Minisink wrestler won a match,” added Coach Gallo. “That’s pretty cool.”
Champions
Calista Vargas, 100-pound weight class
Aubrey Weed 138-pound weight class
Treven Costello, 165-pound weight class
Olivia Carroll, 185- pound weight class
Keira Filip, 120-pound weight class
Sara Pauls, 132-pound weight class
Jaida Macaluso, 165-pound weight class
Finalists
Kolbie Furman, 107-pound weight class
Kensi Nigro, 132- pound weight class
Kenzie Welch, 145-pound weight class
3/4th
Zoe Ford, 94-pound weight class
Mady Thorpe, 126-pound weight class
Avery Wingen 138-pound weight class
Joanna Wodzinski, 152-pound weight class
Amaris Miklwood, 165-pound weight class
Yes, we know teams can’t “redshirt” themselves.... but we did it anyway for the 2025 Special Olympics New York Polar Bear Plunge. Next year, we will be back!
We’re grateful to officials from Special Olympics New York’s Hudson Valley chapter who visited us this past Friday, Dec. 5, to present us with the 2024 Cool School Challenge Trophy (we raised $4,022) and brought celebratory pizza for anyone from the 2024 team who was able to attend. They gratefully recognized the efforts of the 2024 team and are completely energized to work with us to get an awesome team in place for 2026.
However, the trophy didn’t stay in our possession very long. It’s now in the safekeeping of our friends at the nearby Chester School District, the Cool School Challenge winner for the 2025 plunge at The Rez in Highland Mills. Congratulations, Chester, but you better watch out: We’re coming after you in 2026 to reclaim our title!
In the Nov. 21 NYSPHSAA Regional Championship game, our Varsity Football team played with grit, intense resolve, determination and unbelievable drive and effort, but will not be advancing to the next level of state competition after the 42-12 final score against Rye.
We are beyond proud of this year's Varsity Team...they are the 2025 Section IX champions who finished Section IX play undefeated....the first undefeated season in 17 years!
They came to every game, including tonight's game, well-prepared and represented Minisink with honor and distinction. These talented young men are always winners to us!
Please join us in congratulating the players and coaches and everyone associated with team for a spectacular season. They will be back next year... stronger than ever!
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"Abby had an amazing season that the whole coaching staff is proud of, said Head Coach Ed Sucich. “She has a work ethic and a competitive spirit that has led her to the top of the Section as just an eighth-grader. Congratulations to Abby and her parents."
Did you know Minisink Valley’s Facebook page features thousands of great photos and information which show what’s going on at Otisville Elementary, Minisink Valley Elementary, Minisink Valley Intermediate School, Minisink Valley Middle School and Minisink Valley High School?
Over 8,400 people (and growing!) in the greater Minisink Valley area “follow” the district’s page. Join them! It’s a great source of information!
Visit the district's Facebook page and be sure to “like” us: https://www.facebook.com/MinisinkValleyCSD
•Eighth-grader Natalie Wargo placed sixth in the 200-yard freestyle and third in the 500-yard freestyle.
•Freshman Madyson Thorpe placed sixth in diving
•Treven Costello placed 15th in the 100 breaststroke
•Madison Jennings placed 12th in Diving
•Malunga Kinzonzi, Olivia Bohr, Madyson Thorpe, Natalie Wargo and Treven Costello also participated in the relays. The medley relay placed 14th, the 200-yard free relay placed 15th, and the 400-yeard free relay placed 14th.
#9 Captain Ava Downing
Ava has been on the Minisink girls’ varsity soccer team for five years. Next year, Ava will pursue a nursing degree at SUNY Orange. Ava’s parting message: “Thank you Minisink soccer for the valuable lessons, happy memories, and most importantly --- a family. I am so grateful for all of my coaches and teammates who have helped me along the way. This was the best senior season I could ever ask for, and I am going to miss you all so much.”
#15 Keira Filip
Keira has been a member of the varsity girls’ soccer team for three years. She is still making her college selection, but plans to play softball and study nursing. Keira’s parting words are: “Thank you for all the laughs and jokes. Enjoy every little bit and keep on smiling and have fun!”
#12 Samantha Kassel
Sam is finishing her third year on varsity girls soccer. Next fall, Sam will attend the University of Rhode Island where she will study Biology. Sam’s parting words are: “You are exactly where you’re meant to be. Enjoy every moment and always seize the day!”
#6 Jazlin Luna
Jazlin has played on the varsity team for two and half years and she plans to pursue a degree in Elementary Education at LaFayette University. Jazlin’s parting message is: “Thank you to everyone for your support on the team, the laughs and help I received both at practice and on the field. I’m thankful for the time spent this season and wish nothing but the best to every player moving forward. “
#2 Jaida Macaluso
Jaida has been on the Minisink girls’ varsity soccer team for five years. Next year, she plans to major in Education of Arts. Her parting message: “Life is a movie. Don’t blink, you might miss it.”
#1 Captain Kate O’Neill. Kate has played on the varsity team for six years. In the fall, Kate will attend Misericordia University where she will play soccer and pursue a degree in Education. Kate wishes to say to her team: “Thank you all for great laughs and memories! It goes by so fast. Remember to have fun, work hard and be kind. Love you all!”
#16 Captain Olivia Pollock
Olivia has been on the Minisink girls varsity soccer team for four years. In the fall, she will pursue a degree in medical imaging. Olivia’s parting message: “It’s not about being the best, it’s about trying your best.”
#10 Avery Wingen
Avery has been on our varsity soccer team for two years. Next year, Avery would like to major in Education. Avery’s parting words: “I've made so many friends and memories with this team. Remember to play hard, keep laughing, and don’t take it for granted.”
"Abby is a coach's dream,” said Cross Country Coach Ed Sucich. “She listens to what she is told, works extremely hard, and proved to be cool under the pressure of a championship race. It’s rare that an eighth-grader makes it all the way to states. She should be very proud of her accomplishment.”
The Girls and Boys varsity teams each finished in third place and should be proud of their accomplishments, too!
“In the girl's race, Allison Fritsch, Dempsey DePuy, and Catharine Sullivan finished within about 15 seconds of each other,” said Coach Sucich. “They had excellent races considering the windy conditions. Allson finished 26th, Dempsey 29th, and Catharine 33rd. The third place finish was our best of the season. For comparison, the Girls' team finished 10th at the County Championships. It was a big improvement.”
Coach Sucich added: “In the boys race, the key was really good races by Luciano Palacios, (who almost ran his best time, and Dan Oenga. They finished 18th and 26th respectively. The team finished ahead of Goshen which had beaten us the week before in the County Championships.”
Modified Volleyball Head Coach Kelsie Doller is proud to share her team has grown a great deal during this past volleyball season! Well-done to all!
"Seeing their final game made me such a proud coach," she said. "Their serves were on point, they were hitting, blocking, and playing amazing defense. But more than that, they learned lessons that go far beyond the court like teamwork, communication, perseverance, and believing in themselves even when things get tough. Volleyball teaches responsibility, trust, and the power of showing up for each other. The future is bright both on and off the court for these ladies."
•Anthony Alexis, WR/DB
•Liam Barry, OL/DL
•Jayllen Castillo, WR/DB
•Ramon Colon, OL/DL
•Trace DeJong, QB/DB
•Cody Dul, DL
•Tyler Dul, OL/DL
•Zach Filip, RB/LB
•Roman Gangi, OL/DL
•Robert LaBarbera, QB
•Jordan Mabra, RB/DB
•Shaheed Mitchell, DL
•Jayden Pressley, OL/DL
•Gavin Scott, LB
•Stetson Terpak, WR/DB
•Maximillian Wickrath,WR/DB
•Brady Witkowski, OL/DL
Isabella Bierd
Isabella's bright energy and spirit bring a lot of excitement to the team. Her enthusiasm and love for cheer shine through her energy and smile both on and off the mat. She demonstrates her hard work and positivity in everything she does. Isabella is continuing her education at The College of John Jay for criminal forensic psychology.
Alexis Connolly
Alexis has a positive attitude and continues to show her hard work and determination through her love of cheerleading. She brings energy and excitement to the routine and always puts her best foot forward. Alexis always motivates her teammates to try their best. She is continuing her education, majoring in nursing or education.
Lacey Cummiskey
Lacey is new to school cheerleading this year, having come from an all-star team. She shows great strength and dedication to the sport. Lacey supports everyone on the team and performs with such energy on the mat. She will continue her education at SUNY Orange, majoring in business.
Elizabeth Depolito
Lizzie is also a captain this season. She always lends a helping hand and is constantly reassuring everyone that they can do their best. Her strength, focus, and determination show both on and off the mat, constantly motivating her teammates. Lizzie is continuing her education at SUNY Orange.
Aubree Doty
Aubree is our fourth captain this season. Her enthusiasm and hard work coming into practice set a great tone for every practice and performance. She is a strong captain who always has words of encouragement for her team and constantly tries to bring out the best in herself and her teammates. Aubree is continuing her education at SUNY Orange and will then attend school down south for education.
Hanissa Lubin
Hanissa's strength and enthusiasm positively impact the team. She shows her dedication to the sport and always puts her best performance on the mat. Hanissa is supportive of her teammates and shows her true love of cheerleading when performing. She is continuing her education, majoring in nursing.
Kailee Osborne
Kailee is one of our captains this year. Her leadership, dedication, and positivity have made a lasting impact on the team. As a captain, she has inspired her teammates to give their all on and off the mat. Kailee will be continuing on to college after high school.
Emily Turnbull
Emily is another captain this season. She continues to show strong energy and determination throughout each practice and competition. Emily is constantly motivating the team and being supportive of her teammates. She shows her love of cheerleading both on and off the mat. Emily will be continuing her education at SUNY Orange and then at USF for education.
The Modified Volleyball team is getting a lot of experience as a team, such as its recent weekend participating in the Cornwall Tournament!
"The girls showed off some incredible serves and powerful hits this tournament was truly a reflection of how much they’ve grown, both individually and as a team, said Head Coach Kelsie Doller. "Their confidence, teamwork, and love for the game were on full display, and several players had their best performances yet.We’re so proud of their progress and can’t wait to see what’s next for this amazing group."
The Varsity Boys Soccer team honored its seniors during its recent Senior Night! Thank you to Jandro Arias, Benjamin Danielson, Sean Aldana, Cesar Ramirez, Robert Davis, Julian Ochoa, Gavin Capper, John Falzon and Richard Cai for their many contributions to the team’s success.
Head Coach Jordan Mootz wants us to know about her talented seniors:
•Sean Aldana is the kindest, most easy going kid on the team. You can talk to him about anything! He alternates between defense and goalie.
•Captain Jandro Arias has played goalie, defense, and the frontline, and has excelled at all. He never fails to make his coaches and teammates laugh with his sarcasm. He is always a leader and willing to make others better.
•Richard Cai is one of the midfielders, and is a helpful teammate. He is always the first to assist with equipment. Always prepared and ready to go.
•Gavin Capper is the right defense, and he isn't afraid to boot the ball out or throw in a tackle. He has made significant improvement this year!
•Captain Ben Danielson is known for his speed and strong foot. He has played both defense and offense for us this year, and is a powerhouse. He is always willing to crack a joke, and make everyone laugh.
•Robert Davis joined the team this year and he has made such an impact on defense! He is always prepared at practice.
•Captain John Falzon is the center midfielder. He is the most unselfish player you will ever meet. He does not care about scoring goals, he cares about making his teammates better.
•Julian Ochoa has been playing both right back and left forward for us this year. He has done so with no questions asked, and succeeds at both. He has the farthest boot on the team!
•Cesar Ramirez has been the center forward this season. He has shown his love for soccer and always acknowledges his teachers in the hallway.
Congratulations to senior Robert LaBarbera and Dylan Fox of Port Jervis High School, who are the 2025 recipients of the John Bell Memorial Award! They were recognized and presented these awards during Friday’s Varsity Football game.
Coach Bell was a respected player for Port Jervis in the 1960s and a longtime Minisink Valley coach and teacher. The Minisink Valley and Port Jervis football programs established this annual award to be given to a member of each school who has demonstrated the qualities that Coach Bell lived by: Dedication, sportsmanship, loyalty and school pride.
The girls helped welcome participants during registration time and participated in the walk. Well-done to all!
