The Livingston Jr. Lancer Wrestling team competed in the state tournament on March 11 and 12.
Three of the team’s wrestlers placed in the top eight in their respective weight classes at the tournament. Manuel Escalante, in the 215-pound weight class, finished in fourth place. Jacob Bagolie, also 215, finished in eighth. Andrew Strulson, 75 pounds, also finished eighth in his weight class.
Also competing at the state tournament were Eli Levinson (60 pounds), Hunter Lee (65), Ryan Strulson (80), Matthew Ferdinand (85), Haokai Liu-Duan (100), Giancarlo Tauro (100 pounds), Michael Giordano (135), and Giorgio DeCorso (90).
“(They) all brought their A-game and gave it their all,” said head coach John Kane. “Their dedication, hard work, and perseverance paid off in a big way, with each of them putting on an impressive performance and making their coaches, families, and fans incredibly proud. It was a truly remarkable sight to see these young athletes showcase their skills and leave it all on the mat.”
The team will continue to train and plans to compete in additional tournaments in the coming months.
“With their eyes on the prize, these wrestlers are sure to continue making their team proud and showcasing their skills on a larger stage,” Kane said. “As Head Jr Lancer Wrestling Coach, I believe that our program offers more than just wrestling skills to our young athletes. It provides them with an opportunity to build character and excel off the mat as well. Through setting goals, hard work, teamwork and sportsmanship, these kids gain valuable life skills that will enrich their lives beyond the sport of wrestling.”
Kane invites new members to join the team.
“If you’re looking for a fun and challenging sport that offers the opportunity for personal growth and achievement, look no further than the Livingston Jr. Lancer Wrestling program,” he said. “With a team of dedicated coaches and talented young athletes, this program is sure to continue making waves in the world of wrestling for years to come.”
The upcoming 2023-24 season will, for the first time, feature a Kindergarten second grade program. For more information, go to www. LivingstonJrwrestling.com.
