ME - Maine Wrestlng Article
There is more than one thing gone south in high school wrestling in the present decade, but things didn’t transpire over night. One of the biggest causes for concern is the huge number of forfeits, due to a lack of wrestlers at every meet. This has cause concern ever since the National Federation (early 90s) increased from 12 to 14-weight classes; which has only served to create excess forfeits. But, this season it has really gotten out of control. One respected semi-retired veteran coach called it ‘a sad state of affairs’ because student-athletes are choosing not to come out and endure the rigors of wrestling. In this feel good society there are so many other activities and/or events available for every student to choose. Addmittingly, athletics have always provided an out let and wrestling defiantly instills discipline, along with a sense of direction. The new weight classes is puzzling because the current list dropped one of the middle weights (130-145), where there are many wrestlers and added another upper weight. Another veteran coach remarked the number of times having shown up at a meet and there was a double forfeit @ 182. The changes were supposed to follow an even weight distribution of high school kids, however, numerous coaches question if it reflects the high school wrestling population, where smaller athletes come out and succeed. Can any one think of a wrestling team that has been consistently filled all 14 weight classes, this season?
Tick-toc, tick-toc.
Why it’s Dirigo. Every other team has at least one or multiple empty weight classes, including Camden Hills don’t have a any one @ 285. Memodak Valley and Morse showed up with two and eight wrestlers, respectively for a quadrangular meet. Oak Hill has three and Gardiner has five. Lisbon, which has won seven Class C state championships this century, has a grand total of six *freshmen and sophomores) on its entire roster.
The other team located in the River Valley have had to experience a lack of competitiveness, due to having multiple forfeits. That would be Mountain Valley, the defending Class B state champions, who have forfeited five weights through out the season. The Falcons sent shock waves through out the entire wrestling community and even the RSU10, when it allowed four seniors to rejoin the team, within the past two weeks. This has created a Catch-22 because there are two sides to the issue.
Mountain Valley welcomed back Taylor Carey, a 2x state finalist; Robert Worthley (placed ‘09 state meet); Santos Rodriguez (195) and Ryan Glover (defending state champion @ 285) will benefit the Falcons in upcoming tournaments.
“A couple weeks ago Glover had asked to return,”Mountain Valley coach Chris Bean said, in explaining the events. “He realized he had made a mistake (not having joined team, earlier) and I believed he deserved a second chance. So, I asked the coaches and team about allowing the others to return also and it was unanimous.”
Bean freely admitted that he might have to deal with it down the line.
Herein lies the grumbling because it sets a PRESIDENCE to have experienced wrestlers rejoin a team, this late during the season. There is NO RULE to prohibit such a thing from happening, however, opposing coaches have questioned the ethics. Their reasoning is that it will hurt their wrestlers who have been wrestling through out the entire season, have earned solid records and will be top seeded in the Mid State League and respective regional championships. The recent individual’s will have fewer wins and be seeded lower. Thus they will draw a top-seeded wrestling in the quarterfinals, of double elimination tournament. It actually boils down to competition and it has been said that ‘the cream rises to the top’, regardless of the seeding. One keen observer placed forth a simple way to quiet the critics. A rule can be made stating that no ALPHA WEIGH-INS are allowed after a certain date.
ME -Article wrestle
FRYEBURG-This time Caleb Hall was well aware of the situation and the Dirigo wrestler was determined not to be denied. Hall promptly took care of business and the Cougar team benefited from the heroics.
Dirigo had its backs to the mat as it came down to the final match and Hall nailed it to send Dirigo home with a 36-34 win against Fryeburg in a triangular meet against Mid State League foes last week at Ada Cram Wadsworth Arena.
The Cougars crushed undermanned Lisbon 69-12, earlier, set a record with their 25th dual meet win in school history. Dirigo (25-3) had recorded its first ever perfect score 84-0 against Monmouth, the previous Saturday. Hall (36-3), a Class C state champion, pinned Ryan Buzzell in the first period. “It was better results,”Hall said, referring to a loss to Foxcroft wrestler on the first night of competition, in December. “I remembered that and I knew I needed to wrestle my match, mistake free.”
Fryeburg had taken a 34-30 lead on wins by Connor and Zak Sheehan and a 3-1 decision from Matt Frost over Reilly Lombardi. Dirigo and Fryeburg have faced each other several times, so they knew the action would be fierce.
“We really enjoy facing them,”Fryeburg coach Bryce Thurston said. “It’s good competition and we match up well against them in several weight classes, so the meet can go either way. It pushes both of the teams to work harder in practices.”
A case in point was the Cougars Thomas Barnett (29-5 @ 160) and Nelson Pepin (182) who each recorded come-from behind wins.
Barnett executed a reversal and two-point near fall in the third period for a 10-7 decision over CJ Bartlett.
“We go back and forth,”Barnett said, who has split in four matches with the Raider wrestler.
Pepin trail trailed Ian McFawn 5-0 in the third period, when Pepin (36-1) turned and gained leverage to throw and stick McFawn. Derek Leavitt stuck Alex Snowman (195), but Zach White (220) and Misty Steward (106) each stuck opponents, the latter in 20 seconds, to give Dirigo a 30-20 lead.
Fryeburg state champion Connor Sheehan won his 100th career match with a 15-0 technical fall over Eric Holman. Zak Sheehan stuck Dexter Verrill.
“The team has been wrestling well,”Dirigo coach Doug Gilbert said, competed in 15 meets in 10 days. “It has been a rough stretch, so we’ll give the kids time off and see how it goes. Then step things up the upcoming tournaments.”
Fryeburg led 14-0, with Kurt Hibbard over Brett Whittemore 7-1; Jake Thurston (145) tech fell Jesse Hutchinson and Fred Stearns stuck Julian Baldinelli (152).
ME - Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance
12-31 WRESTLING POLL
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance
12-31 WRESTLING POLL
1- Noble (Knights dominated at home to regain the sun berth spot)
2- Camden Hills (Windjammers have things in the right places to regain Class B) 3- Massabesic (Mustangs know what they have and will grip the reins tighter)
4- Mount Blue (Cougars followed up winning dual with another strong effort)
5 Marshwood (Hawks have a solid trio, but the next step is gaining depth)
6- Cony (Rams have developed wrestlers capable of locking horns)
7- Foxcroft Aca. (Ponies road trip south proved positive against competition)
8- Fryeburg (Raiders are striving to be consistent and be in attack mode)
9- Dirigo (Cougars have been idle long enough, it‚s time to be tested)
10- Kennebunk (These Rams from the south could shake up the mix)
On the edge of mat- Belfast
ME - 'MV @ Atlantic '11'
WELLS — The performances on the mat were decisive for the Mountain Valley wrestling teams, but it wasn’t enough as they finished 13th, 16.5 points at the Atlantic Invitational held before Christmas.
Mountain Valley is quite aware of the long odds because a lack of numbers has relegated the tradition-rich program to the unfashionable role of pretenders. The showing at the beefed-up Atlantic was the worst ever in school history and should serve a measuring stick. In wrestling, if one doesn’t put the time in, doesn’t expect much, in return..
The lone MV medalist was Dekota Jacques who placed third at 113-pounds. In the consolation final, Jacques was matched-up against Eric Holman of Dirigo and it turned in to a battle. Holman executed the initial takedown and held a 3-2 lead, after two periods.
“I knew I had to get up off the mat,”Jacques said, who had pinned Holman in a SF match at the McDonalds tournament.
The Falcon executed two stacks for near-fall points on Holman in the final period.
“The (stack) worked twice,”Jacques said, the freshman has placed third and second in previous tournaments. “It’s a pretty good start to my career.”
Jacques had won his first match at the Atlantic, but lost 15-0 in the SF to eventual champion Connor Sheehan of Fryeburg. Jacques regrouped to win a SF-consolation match.
Joe Provencher of MV was stuck by eventual champion Jake Bagley of Noble in the SF and did not place at 138.
The event is comprised mostly of Class B and C teams, but Class A Marshwood rallied past Camden Hills 166-162 in the finals. The Falcons Nicole Burgess (106) won a QF-con match, but was overwhelmed by Jake Gagne of Biddeford in a SF con.
“Nicole is scrappy wrestler,” MVV coach Chris Bean said. “She’s one of the very few who goes out on the mat and is trying the most moves.”
The Falcons Nate Boucher (126), Ian Austin (145) and Anthony Boucher (182) each lost pigtail matches. Zach Cross (170) lost consolation match.
“We need to take it one day at a time,”Bean said, who realizes that it doesn’t always matter where you start, but how you finish. “We also need to go from match to match, at this point. We’ve got some young wrestlers who are showing (potential).”
Maine - 'Gary Dolloff, coach of year'
RUMFORD-It was a long time coming, however, Gary Dolloff finally discovered that he had been voted 2011 coach of the year by the National Federation.
Dolloff retired as varsity wrestling coach at Mountain Valley, at the end of last season. The Federation selects one coach from each state to receive the national award.
“Yes, it was a big surprise,”Dolloff said. “I knew I had been nominated because (Deering coach) Al Kirk had called me up last spring to let me know, but I never heard a thing.”
Dolloff, a Rumford graduate, admitted that he had forgotten all about and the way he found out was strictly, by chance. He dropped by the school to in prepare as meet director of the McDonalds-Mountain Valley Wrestling Invitational, held last Saturday.
“I had just came in to get things organized for the tournament,”Dolloff said.
“(MV athletic director) Jim (Aylward) handed me an envelope that had been on his desk for a couple months. Jim said he didn’t know what it was concerning.”
When Dolloff opened it up he was blind sided by what the certificate read, but he was certainly deserving of the award. The longtime mentor went out on top as Mountain Valley proved dominating in winning the Class B state wrestling championship, last February. Mountain Valley relied on its superior depth through out the season and it paid off by scoring 168 1/2 points to easily win the team crown over Camden Hills 141 points.
Mountain Valley had the most champions, including Ryan Burgess (112-pounds), Josh Thornton 145, Josh Allen (189), Christian Durland (215) and Ryan Glover (285). Cody Magoon 125 and Taylor Carey 171 were finalists.
His coaching philosophy has developed over time, but he pointed out these qualities have been made easier by working with and observing people. He he started coaching middle school wrestling 1987 with John Fitzmorris and the following year, Dolloff took over MS (won eight championships). He was also JV coach at newly merged Mountain Valley and eventually was elevated to heach coach, when Jerry Perkins retired.
“I learned a lot, established what worked for me and was very happy to be back at the high school,”Dolloff said, regarding the experiences. “I did a lot of hands on wrestling with some of these kids and was very dedicated to this program then my dream came true.”during Dolloff’s tenure, has won four Mid State League championships, seven Western Regional championships state championships (2005, 200 and 2011). In nine years the Falcons never finished lower then fourth in the state. Numerous mid state champs, over 30 regional individual champs and 16 individual state champs.
“I’ll say this,”Dolloff smirked, referring to having been suspended from the regional. “Bet I’m the only coach to have won this award after winning a state meet from the bleachers.”
Maine - 'McDonalds Tou MV '11'
RUMFORD-There has been a great emphasis placed on individualís in wrestling, however, itís still requires a team effort and thatís exactly what Dirigo needed to prove the skeptics wrong.
It was the depth which the Cougars had as 10 medalists was enough to score 162 points in winning their first-ever championship at the 27th annual McDonalds-Mountain Valley Invitational. Fryeburg raced back to and finals (153.5) to finish second for the second-straight last year.
The wire-to-wire triumph certainly was easy for Dirigo who are the second Class C school to win tournament, Lisbon won twice. The Cougars had squander a double-digit lead during the consolation and championship finals which were held simultaneously on two mats. Individual championships were won by Caleb Hall (132-pounds) and Nelson Pepin (170) who actually clinched the team title, while Eric Holman and Justin Baldinelli each placed third at 113 and 145, respectively.
Noble, two-time defending champions, finished third (121.5), followed by Belfast (112) and host Mountain Valley 85. The Falcons were led by champions Brandon Gill (126) and Joe Provencher at 138.
We came in here thinking if every one wrestled up to their seeds then a fourth place,îHall said, who executed a series of pinning moves in a 15-0 technical fall against Anthony Sprigg of Brewer. ìI think we showed that collectively that as a team we can hang with any one.
Fryeburg led by champions Connor Sheehan (113), Zac Sheehan (120), Jake Thurston (145) and Kirk Hubbard at 152.
I tell the kids that it doesnít always matter where you start, but how you finish,îFryeburg coach Bryce Thurston said. ìWe want the kids to be fresh and work hard, but they need to be consistent.
In the head-to-head finals match, Hubbard scored a takedown at the end of regulation and then pinned DJ Webber of Dirigo in overtime. Two matches later Pepin was tied 2-2 and eventually clinched when Ethan Fitzuris of Belfast (dislocated elbow) injury defaulted.
Of the 13 wrestlers, we put 12 in the tournament,îDirigo coach Doug Gilbert said. ìThe semi-final round is big (six wins), but in a tournament like this you need kids to wrestle back for thirds and fourth.î
Connor Sheehan, defending Class B state champion, had raced out to a 9-0 lead before pinning Mountain Valley freshman Dekota Jacques.
I work on my wrestling a lot,îConnor Sheehan said. ìI like tilts because thatís where you can score points and I really benefit by having my brother Zac for a practice partner. We really push each other.
Zac, a freshman,voted tournament most outstanding wrestler, executed two late takedowns in a 7-3 decision against 2010 champion Nick McNamara of Lisbon. Mountain Valleys Nicole Burgess (106) was stuck by Bill Gagner of Noble in the final.
Gill also a freshman, had a full strategy in mind and stuck Walker Roberts of Belfast, while Provencher followed up by showing the lights to Brett Whittemore of Dirigo.
I felt pretty good except for having to ice my shoulder,îGill said, who had decisioned Matt York of Fryeburg in a tough SF match. ìI knew (Roberts) was weak in the neutral position, so I took (offensive) in the second period and turned him over.
That was big,îProvencher said regarding a reversal to go up 4-0 late in second period. ìI knew there was no four-point move.î
Lisbon Zach Stevens third at 126, while Connor Murphy (120) and Shawn Bang (160) of Edward Little each placed fourth.
Oxford Hills, dead last a year ago, scored 37 points led by Bill Leahy 285 Jared Jensen of Brunswick won by injury default over Thomas Barnett of Dirigo at 160.
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance
MAINE HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING POLL
1- Noble (Knights have a strong tradition and prove it on the mat.)
2- Massabesic (Mustangs came out of the gates in
full control @ Westbrook)
3- Marshwood (Hawks finished strong @ season-opening tournament)
4- Camden Hills (Windjammers ma not be as deep, but their course is mapped out)
5-Belfast (Lions still refuse to back down and past is water under bridge)
6- Foxcroft Aca. (Ponies received a goooood measuring stick of their worth)
7- Mount Blue (Cougars fully believe they have developed enough depth)
8-Fryeburg (Raiders are betting their pair of brothers will match-up)
9-Cony (Rams are not experiencing any early budget shortfalls)
10- Dirigo (These Cougars plan on making moves to improve team)
Mountain Valley win the Pine Tree Wrestling League championship for the third-straight year
WALDOBORO-Mountain Valley had the depth and paid off in scoring 140 points to win the Pine Tree Wrestling League championship for the third-straight year. The Hawks proved to be in control through out the day and bested runner-up Oxford Hills by 31.5 points.
Caleb Austin (75-pounds), Ethan Boucher 82, Nate Boucher (124) and Brandon Gill 131 won individual championships on Saturday at Medomak Valley High School.
The Hawks jumped out to a quick start scoring 42 points in the first round and had the title in hand after the consolation semi-finals.
Austin started the finals off right with a 4-3 decision against Connor McGonagle (Rockland). Austin executed two escapes that provided the difference.
Ethan Boucher repeated and for the second-straight week decisioned Griffyn Smith of Dirigo in the final. Boucher scored a takedown and three-near fall points in the first period for a 5-0 score. Each wrestler had won by major decision and a pin earlier in the day. Our first round set the tone, MV head coach Lee Farrar said. These kids have been wrestling for (several years) and it shows. This may be an eighth-grade laden team, but we have some sixth graders who are coming up. The more mat time a person has the more improved they will be.
The Hawks Dekota Jacques (110) had pinned two opponents in the first period, however, Jaques was stuck in the finals by Mark Smith of Brewer.
Nate Boucher completed the season unbeaten after decisioning Eli Smith of Camden. Boucher was solid through out his career and will be prepared for the next level. Gill unbeaten in his PTWL career, won his third-straight championship with an 11-4 decision. Gill went on the offensive and stuck Waterman (Troy Howard) in the semi-finals.
It's quite an accomplishment, Gill said, regarding his record.
Tucker Rowland placed third will a 5-3 DEC. In the con-finals. The Hawks Ian Austin 138 (who was out weighed by 16-pounds) and Alan Carrier 190 each placed fourth. Carrier decisioned Lucas ŒBo‚ MacDonald of Dirigo) in con-SF. In a tournament like this it‚s so important to have kids wrestle back through, Farrar said. We brought 11 wrestlers here and eight placed.
Dirigo (43 points) was led by Bryce Whittemore who won the championship at 89. The Cougar recorded two pins and a 3-0 decision in the finals.
„You have to go out and wrestle, Whittemore, believed to be the first sixth-grade champion at Dirigo. I knew the semi-finals and finals would be more competitive. On the day it‚s win or go home, there are no re-do‚s
The Cougars were leading several matches, but mistakes allowed opponents to capitalize.
(Assistant Gunnar Bradbury) and I tell the kids to leave it all on the mat. Dirigo coach Dana Whittemore said. The season is short, so learning and working hard in practices is where it all begins. Zackery Sheehan from Fryeburg, outstanding wrestler, beat Chris Weiss from Rockland in the finals. Mt Ararat (75 points, third) got sportsmanship award.
Mountain Valley had the depth in scoring 197.5 points to win the Pine Tree Wrestling League West Regional championship
BATH-Mountain Valley had the depth in scoring 197.5 points to win the Pine Tree Wrestling League West Regional championship over Mount Ararat 134 points at Bath Middle School. It was the Hawks multiple regional crown.
Caleb Austin (75-pounds), Ethan Boucher 82, Dekota Jacques (110), Nate Boucher (124) and Brandon Gill 131 won individual championships. Mountain Valley qualified 12 for the league championships, this Saturday 26th at Medomak Valley.
We‚ll be going in unaware,Gill said. „We don‚t know any thing about wrestlers from the East.
The Hawks jumped out to a quick start scoring 42 Points in the first round (10 pins, 21 total) and increased it in the semi-finals. Jacques and Gill each recorded three pins.
Gill unbeaten in three seasons won his third-straight championship by dominating opponents, with three pins in the first period. In the finals, the grim reaper surrendered the first two points against him this season, but immediately executed a reversal and stuck Zack Fifield (Bath) in 1:05.
„I‚m more of a defensive wrestler,Gill said. „I like to have my opponent make a move and then I try to capitalize on his mistake. That style has worked for me and plus I use my height as an advantage against shorter wrestlers.
Caleb Austin dominated a strong Danny Buteau (Oak Hill) 9-0 major decision in finals.
Ethan Boucher repeated by battling to a close 5-3 decision against Griffyn Smith of Dirigo in the final. Jacques stuck Hunter Day (previous meeting was a one point decision).
„I believe we have the talent and numbers to score very well next week at
The league championship,‰ MV coach Anthony Mazza said. „This week of practice will be one of revise and hard Work and we prepare to defend out title.
Nate Boucher 124 remained unbeaten after pinning Gabe Brown (Gardiner). Tucker Rowland lost 8-3 in the finals. The Hawks Ian Austin 138 (fought off back) and Alan Carrier 190 (pinned Lucas MacDonald of Dirigo) each won con-final matches to place third.
Mike Provencher, JT Greene (avenged loss), Coyote Freeman and Jake Parise 240 each placed fourth.
Dirigo was led by champion Bryce Whittemore 88 and the team finished fifth with 98 pts. Whittemore, sixth grade (16-0), pinned the first and third seeds to take championship. It was redemption for the sixth grader who had his appendix burst last season, just before regional.
„Pleased with the results and the efforts,Dirigo coach Dana Whittemore said. „We only had wrestlers in 10 of the 16 weight classes. We are young and our higher scorers will be back next year.
Hunter White was a finalist at 96 and pinned an opponent in the semis that had pinned him earlier in the season.
Matt Irish who returned to wrestling this year, placed third at 210. Irish stuck Freeman in the con-finals.
Spencer Vaughan 124 was fourth.
„This is Lucas‚ second year of wrestling,‰coach Whittemore said. „He went in #1 seed and came out placing 4th. „It was a good learning experience. He had split with the days champion during the season.‰
Jon Wainwright and Nick Milligan are alternates at 75 and 117.
Dirigo‚s Ethan Bryant and Megan Bradbury; Travis Pelletier 117, Kyle Farrar 96 (Alternate) of MV did not place.
Individual‚s have been preparing to compete in the 47th Annual New England Interscholastic Wrestling Championships in New Haven, CT.
Lisbon and Mountain Valley each have five wrestlers, most from Maine and hope experience will count. The Greyhounds have four returning, including four-time Class C state champion Forrest Cornell (119-pounds) and 3X Mike McNamara (130), while Mountain Valley counters with three-time Class B state champion Ryan Burgess (112). Cornell is the 15th wrestler to win four championships from our state. When Cornell was a freshman he pinned Flannery of Massachusetts, who won the NE title last year. McNamara (top Maine seed at 135) knows what he needs to do and to stick to his game plan.
The New England tournament is always a big deal,‰Lisbon coach Mark Stevens said. „There are no easy matches and a second or a point can be the difference between (losing two matches) and getting into the semi finals. Anything can happen and it most likely will.
Burgess, school record 150 career wins, is making his third-straight trip and is determined to end the drought. Burgess, top seed, won two of three consolation matches two years ago, falling one shy of placing.
At NE, the strategy is limited to the basics and trying low-percentage moves, is unwise. It‚s best to execute a takedown, escape or ride because there‚s a lot of stalling that is not called.
Burgess dropped to 112 during the regular season and is confident competing near his natural weight will be an advantage.
It is a great honor for these kids to participate,MV coach Gary Dolloff said, regarding the prestigious event. But (Maine) is still behind because of timing to much time off, but dedicated kids will stay in shape. We have had a couple kids (brothers David and Chris Smith) place (sixth) in the past but would love to get a kid on the top three podium. I think Ryan (Burgess) has a good a shot at doing that then anyone we have sent.‰
The Falcon trio- Taylor Carey (171), Josh Allen (189) and Christian Durland (215) each have positive attributes that could serve them, well. Allen will be trying to utilize his aggressiveness to execute the first takedown. Durland has incredible strength and could be a surprise. Carey has been added a second year and Ryan Glover (285) will not participate.
Lisbon‚s Josh Pomerleau (119) and No.1 Matt Nicholson 140, along with Josh Thornton 145 of MV each make a return trip and will have their work cut out for them since they are wrestling in very difficult brackets in their weight classes. Former Greyhound Marcus Bubar placed fifth in New England, lat year. Dirigo sophomore DJ Webber (160) will be making his initial trip.
When ever I take kids to New England for the first time you just never know, Dirigo coach Doug Gilbert said. It‚s a different environment and the wrestling styles need to be (experienced). The kids need to be prepared, both physically and mentally. It‚s certainly not a case of just being able to step on the mat and being able to simply execute moves that have worked through out the season.
Fryeburg has top-seed Connor Sheehan (103) and Stefan Emery (152), independent Jared Jensen (130) of Brunswick and Lisbon freshman Nick McNamara (103). Jacob Powers (160) of Camden Hills is the lone unbeaten wrestler, however, there are no returning Maine medal winners.
Nick will go with hopes to gain experienceStevens said. He and (older brother) Mike are great on their feet and that is where you need to be if your going to do anything in Connecticut.
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance High School wrestling Poll - 2/14 WRESTLING POLL
1- Noble (Knights showed opponents toward lights early and often)
2- Mountain Valley (Falcons peaked at the right time consider mission accomplished)
3- Marshwood (Hawks warmed up all season and turned it on at Augusta)
4- Camden Hills (Windjammers were closing the gap, but blew off course)
5-Belfast (Lions had a trio of quality wrestlers, but lacked the depth)
6- Foxcroft Aca. (Ponies ran under the radar until every thing was on line)
7- Massabesic (Mustangs simply couldn’t muster a final run)
8-Lisbon (Greyhounds came up a few points shy of a four-peat)
9-Westbrook (Blazes can’t deny the move East changed the team line of fire)
10- Dirigo (Look for the youthful Cougars to grow up to be lean and mean)
Highlights:
……………… Steve Swindalls officiated his 33rd and final state meet, but will hang around to ding stalling
Belfast coach Ted Heroux had three grand sons win state titles.
Will Lundquist, Cony 150 wins
Ryan Burgess, Mountain Valley 150 wins
Mike Cyr, first ever state champion from Scarborough
Forrest Cornell, Lisbon 4-time state champion
5 points to win the Class C qualifier Saturday in Maine.
Lisbon 167 was third at the event held in the spacious Tigerdome at Jay High School, for the second-straight year. Lisbon beat Dirigo 208-189.5, last year.
The top eight wrestlers in each weight class advance to the state meet this Saturday at the Augusta Civic Center. Dirigo qualified 13 and Lisbon qualified 10 wrestlers.
Dirigo champions included Caleb Hall 119, Adam Gill 130, D J Webber 160 and Nelson Pepin 171.
Hall, a 2009 state champion, pinned longtime foe Pat McInnis of Monmonth. Gill won by injury default. Pepin stuck his opponent, also.
Webber had the longest day, receiving two byes in to the finals the Cougar sophomore blew off steam, with a 38-second pin in the finals. Brett Whittemore 125 lost by major decision to Joel Pomperleau of Lisbon, in finals. The younger Webber brother reached the finals at 125.
„We did what we needed to do, Dirigo coach Doug Gilbert said. „The kids wrestled, well.
The tournament, which featured every Class C team and independents statewide, had drawn concerns by respective coaches regarding seeding. The Maine Principal‚ Association had pre-seeded each wrestler, based on winning percentages. Because of the large coverage area, the meet was divided in to „north‰ and „south‰ brackets.
Several Cougars placed third, including Dylan Sattler 103, Eric Holman 112, Jesse Hutchinson 135, Ryan Lemay 140, Thomas Barnett 152, Alex Snowman 189 and Jack Brown at 285.
Lisbon led the way with six individual champions Nick McNamara (103), Zach Stevens 112, Forrest Cornell (119), Pomerleau (125), Mike McNamara (135) and Matt Nicholson 140. Lisbon poured it on as Stevens, Cornell, both McNamaras and Nicholson each stuck opponents.
Our kids know that the qualifier is just that, to qualify for the State Tournament in Augusta,‰Lisbon coach Mark Stevens said. „(Objective) was setting our selves up so that have a chance to win the State title. Team score (Jay)is irrelevant.
Monmouth cchampions were Eric Coulmbe 145 and Kyle Foyt-Bridges 189. The latter pinned his finals opponent in nine seconds.
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance High School wrestling Poll -2/7/11
1- Noble (Knights proved it has Armour to turn out the lights)
2- Massabesic (Mustangs came close, however, lacked finishing kick)
3- Mountain Valley (Falcons have weights covered and control their flight)
4- Camden Hills (Windjammers are always ready for a battle, be warned)
5-Belfast (Lions will be prepared to pounce on other prey)
6- Marshwood (Hawks still have the ability to out point the rest)
7- Mount Blue (Cougars backed up their „championship‰ chanting)
8-Westbrook (Blazes were in position to win regional, can redeem at ACC)
9- Foxcroft Aca. (Ponies rode in from the East and walked away with qualifier)
10- Dirigo (Cougars have been growing and might have enough depth)
Knocking on door:
Lisbon, Skowhegan, Brewer, Morse
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance High School wrestling Poll -1/31/11
1- Noble (Knights absolutely manhandled Massebesic in a dual meet)
2- Camden Hills (very convincing team effort at KVAC' S)
3- Massabesic (a little undermanned right now, must right the corral quickly)
4- Belfast (very impressive performance at KVAC's)
5- Fryeburg Acad. (Raiders showed depth is a reality in winning Mid States)
6- Mountain Valley (Falcons are going to have weighted problem from coast)
7- Marshwood (Hawks will have a major effect on the final outcome)
8- Lisbon (Greyhounds have quality, 4 potential state champs but will need help)
9- Mount Blue (Cougars will be hunted by Indians from the East)
10-Westbrook (Blazes need to qualify several in Regional, strong challenge)
Knocking on door:
Wells, Skowhegan, Foxcroft Academy, Cony, Dirigo
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance High School Wrestling Poll 1/24/11
1. Massabesic (Mustangs raised stock with runnerup finish at Essex)
2. Noble (Knights will be ready to battle, when it counts)
3. Camden Hills (Windjammers are going to be focused for extended KVACs)
4. Belfast (Lions slipped in dual, but are tournament tough)
5. Mt. Blue (Cougars have an opportunity to make noise, Saturday)
6. Marshwood (Hawks will be right there if either contender breaks stride)
7. Mountain Valley (Falcons have been hovering enough, its time to get down)
8. Lisbon (Greyhounds were on idle, but look to kick it in gear)
9. Fryeburg Academy (Raiders can not be over looked in own field house)
10. Westbrook (Blue Blazes control their own destiny for top-five finish)
Knocking on door:
Wells, Skowhegan, Foxcroft Academy, Cony, Dirigo
Special congrats for Kaleb Austin, 140, Skowhegan for setting a school record while earning his 150th career victory.
Jared Jensen (Brunswick) beat 2x Vermont Champ at 130 and was Outstanding Wrestler at Essex.
About Maine High School Wrestling 1/20/11
RUMFORD-The Mountain Valley wrestling team utilized its veterans, again to pull away from Dirigo with a 4527 win in Mid State League action.
Mountain Valley and Dirigo each tuned up by crushing Monmouth 64-12 and 59-15, respectively.
The Falcons utilized its upper weights to beat Dirigo 44-27, last month. The rematch was anticipated to be more competitive. Both teams have changed its lineup in an effort to find which wrestlers have made the proper adjustments-physically and mentally for the upcoming season-ending tournaments.
Mountain Valley (13-2) took control when it was necessary, winning nine of the 11 contested matches, including ruling the upper weights with 24 points by Taylor Carey 171, Josh Allen 189, Christian Durland 215 and Ryan Glover at 285.
"I told the kids go for a pin,Falcon coach Gary Dolloff, who is retiring after 24 with the program. "It was the final home meet and don‚t leave any thing on the mat.
In a rubber match, Allen pinned Kyle Foyt-Bridges of Monmouth The two seniors had split in two previous matches, this season. Allen had won 18-6 on the same mat, two weeks ago. This time Allen executed two front Salto throws to shock the Mustang wrestler.
„I didn‚t know if I‚d be able to throw the second salto,‰Allen said. „Ryan Glover had just shown it to me. (Foyt-Bridges) is a good wrestler.
Class C Dirigo (12-2) had actually taken a 21-18 lead on wins by Thomas Barnett and DJ Webber at 60 and 52. Webber stuck Santos Rodriguez (152). Barnett executed a reversal with 25 seconds left for a 7-5 decision over fellow freshmen Zach Cross.
"We have five freshman and six sophomores,Dirigo coach Doug Gilbert said. ''I‚m looking for a good effort from the kids. They need to wrestle for the entire match.
2x state champion Ryan Burgess of MV decisioned Caleb Hall 2-0 in overtime. The two had been scoreless, through regulation. Hall was in deep on a takedown, but Burgess grabbed a leg and pushed it over. They each decisioned Patrick McInnis of Monmouth.
MV senior Cody Magoon stuck Brett Whittemore at 125.
"I felt strong,Magoon said. „I used arm bars and tried not to put any strain on my injured shoulders. Both of shoulders have been operated on and when I was injured earlier this season I thought (career) was over, but coaches talked me in to coming back and I‚m glad I did
Joe Provencher 135 spun behind with one-second left to beat Jesse Hutchinson, 9-7. MV state champion Josh Thornton (145) stuck Julian Baldinelli and Jake Thornton pinned Eric Holman at 112.
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance High School Wrestling Poll 1/19/11
1- Noble (Knights have confidence and will not be denied)
2- Camden Hills (Windjammers are always ready to defend crown)
3. Massabesic (Mustangs still could make a run at the top spot)
4- Belfast (Say a prayer for Ted Heroux for speedy recovery)
5- Mt. Blue (Cougars continue to claw their way through East)
6- Marshwood (Hawks will be pushed to remain in top three)
7. Mountain Valley (Falcons better get the kinks out, before it‚s past)
8- Lisbon (Greyhounds need to develop some depth)
9- Fryeburg Academy (Raiders have developed a solid group)
10- Westbrook (Blue Blazes stock is rising)
Knocking on door:
Wells, , Skowhegan, Foxcroft Academy, Cony, Dirigo
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance High School Wrestling Poll
1/10/11 WRESTLING POLL
1- Noble (Knights remain at head of pack, again)
2- Camden Hills (Windjammers had enough Power(s) at Redskin)
3. Massabesic ( Mustangs still will be right there to push Knights)
4- Belfast (Lions remain ahead of schedule and will contend)
5- Mountain Valley (Falcons can not afford to let up, or risk slipping)
6- Lisbon (Greyhounds will be the team to beat in Class "C")
7- Marshwood (Hawks have been building and will be in the show)
8- Mt. Blue (Cougars ruled at the Clash, but have lost the Archer)
9- Fryeburg Academy (Raiders have lineup that will be tournament tested)
10- Dirigo (Cougars might be young, but showed plenty of depth)
Knocking on door:
Erskine Academy, Westbrook, Skowhegan, Foxcroft Academy, Cony, Oak Hill
Matt Archer stepped on the mat the Mount Blue wrestler was loaded with emotions
NEWPORT-When Matt Archer stepped on the mat the Mount Blue wrestler was loaded with emotions because it was the final match of his career, however, the Cougars had already wrapped the team championship (185 points) Saturday in the Nokomis clash.
In the battle of Cougars, Dirigo, making its first ever appearance, utilized its depth to score 177 points. Wells, Oak Hill and Foxcroft rounded out the top five.
Mount Blue, 2010 champion, Oak Hill scored points in the semi-finals to lead
Mount blue was led by individual champions Dustin Small (103), Drew Blanchet (135) and Archer. The Cougars had pulled away by scoring 104 points in the semi-finals to l41 to Wells 111. We are having a good season,‰Mount Blue coach Bob O‚Connor said. „We have been solid as a dual meet team because we have some good wrestlers. This is a test to see how we are building (depth) to be a tournament team.
A highly-anticipated match-up materialized between John Metcalf of Mount Blue and Nick Wells of Oak Hill. Both were finalists in their respective Class A and Class B state meets, last year. Wells grabbed a quick lead before finding himself straddling the out of bounds line while on his back. Wells, who had won a SF match in overtime, refocused for a 14-7 decision.
Archer pinned Noah French of Wells in 46 seconds. Caleb Farrington was third at 171. I was just trying to hold my shoulder together, Archer said, who is scheduled for surgery on Wednesday to repair a torn labrum. The senior is a semi-finalist for the lineman award in football. I had set a goal to play in the Lobster Bowl (July) and I still believe it is still doable.
Dirigo had a trio of champions in Caleb Hall (119), Adam Gill 130 and DJ Webber (160). Brett Whittemore, state finalist, was stuck by Trevor Weymouth of Fox in the final at 125.
The youngsters are getting better, Dirigo coach Doug Gilbert said. „This was a great experience for them. Every kid, except for Dylan Sattler (fourth at 103) had three matches. That‚s three quality matches and that‚s why we came up here.
Hall recorded a technical fall on Nick Hyde of Mount Blue. In an extremely physical match, Gill teed-off on Alex Francis of Foxcroft.
He had gotten the initial takedown,Gill said. „But, then he cross-faced me for the fourth and that made me (mad). I enjoy the physical matches.
The Cougars leap-frogged into second, after scoring 50 points in the consolation-SF (five points, plus two for a pin).
Ryan Lemay 140, Bryan Blackman 145, freshman Thomas Barnett 152 and Zach White 189 each placed third. Eric Holman (112), Reilly Lombardi (135) and Nelson Pepin (171) placed fourth.
Webber fell behind before reversing and sticking Zack Faulkner of MB.
„I just needed to remember to bridge and roll,Webber said, who had three pins during the day. Once I got back on top (offense) position I was all right.
Oak Hills Keith Madore140 and Mike Hamm 171 repeated as champions. Craig Morrill was denied a quest for a third-straight crown by Garret Perkins of Wells.
Kyle Foyt-Bridges repeated as a titlist at 189. Monmouth teammates Patrick McInnis (119), Stewart Buzzell (125) and James Gambino (130) each placed third.
Khail Newbill, defending champion, of Mount Blue suffered his first loss of the season at 2. Freshman Colin Sevigney of Wells executed a reversal for a decision. Small struck Robbie Lee of Nokomis.
‰I find the competition is better here in Maine, Newbill said, who transferred from Alaska and advanced to the state final last year. I like being neutral on my feet and I‚m confident about my competition in Class A East.
Josh Little of Oxford Hils was fourth at 189. Connor Murphy and Sheldon and Steve Bang of Edward Little and Peter Ruffalo of Jay each lost in the early rounds.
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance High School Wrestling Poll 1/3/10
1- Noble (Knight team effort to easily win their own tournament)
2- Massabesic ( Mustangs looked very strong at Noble Tourney)
3- Belfast (Lions continuing to wrestle impressively)
4- Camden Hills (Windjammers definitely a force to be reckoned with)
5- Mountain Valley (Falcons will be ready to move up if right fit)
6- Marshwood (Hawks will be right there at seasons end)
7- Lisbon (Greyhounds should be very tough especially in class "C")
8- Fryeburg Academy (Raiders can’t be over looked, they are the real deal)
9- Mt. Blue (Cougars pounced on competition at Cony Duals)
10- Cony (Rams are starting to piece together, like state Capital)
Knocking on door:
Erskine Academy, Westbrook, Skowhegan, Mt. Ararat, Oak Hill
Maine High School Wrestling Alliance Poll
1- Noble (Knights returned to Maine and retained top spot, again)
2- Massabesic (Mustangs definitely have plenty of horses in the corral)
3- Fryeburg (Raiders have been building and maybe turning Connor)
4- Mtn. Valley (Falcons will be a force if they are fitted like a Glove)
5- Belfast (Lions were impressive group of very talented young cubs)
6- Camden Hills (Windjammers lost Powers but have talent and time to recover)
7- Marshwood (Hawks will make presence felt by seasons end)
8- Erskine (Eagles won Tiger tourney and headed in the right direction)
9- Westbrook (Blue Blazes must continue to improve as season progresses)
10- Lisbon (Greyhounds can get back on track with McNamaras band)
Maine brothers in Wrestling
RUMFORD-Lisbon freshman Nick McNamara has always looked up to his older brother Matt, however, the younger sibling achieved equal footing after winning the 103-pound individual championship on Saturday. Although, Noble had the final say by scoring 148 ∏ points to defend its championship at the 26th annual McDonalds-Mountain Valley Invitational.
Fryeburg finished second (139), had its best showing in nearly two decades, to edge out host Mountain Valley (132). The Raiders placed nine in the top four of their respective weight classes, led by champions Connor Sheehan and Stephan Emery at 112 and 160, respectively. Sheehan tech fell Mountain Valley freshman Jake Thornton and Peter Bacchiocci lost 3-2 to Malcolm Marshall of Mount Ararat in the 152 final.
Noble scored 89 points in the semi-finals to lead Mountain Valley 119-114 and then simply used its depth in the consolation rounds to pull away.
„We wanted to come here and do well,‰Noble coach Kip DeVoll said, who was competing without two state champions. ‰I can‚t really put my finger on one thing that has made our program so strong, but the kids love to wrestle and other teams know we‚ve been here.‰
Mountain Valley had the most champions (four), including Ryan Burgess (119) who was voted the Most Outstanding Wrestler. The award is named for former Rumford and Mountain Valley Hall OF Fame coach Jerry Perkins. Burgess executed a takedown in the second period and then used a crab ride to decision Jordan Young of Belfast 3-2. The Falcons Josh Thornton (145), Taylor Carey (171-pounds) and Josh Allen (189) also won crowns.
„I can‚t say enough about the way these kids wrestled,‰MV coach Gary Dolloff said. „Seven advanced tom the finals and Burgess and Thornton each avenged losses earlier this year. We lacked depth and it will be that way for a while until we can get every one squared away.‰ .
Thornton built a lead and decisioned Jake Oh of Mount Ararat, 6-2. Oh had beat Thornton in the Westbrook Tournament finals, last weekend.
„I knew he was good on his feet,‰Thornton said. „So, I controlled the wrist so he couldn‚t get the high crotch like last weekend. I needed to wrestle defensively.‰
Carey executed a shug-by takedown 11 seconds in to overtime to beat Kornealius of Belfast. Allen trailed 2-0, but reversed the action and stuck Nate Hill of Fryeburg.
„(Hill) was very strong,‰Allen said, who recorded three pins on the day. „I couldn‚t move him, but I was able to duck under and slip (half nelson in).‰
Lisbon (fifth, 111) won three of four head-to-head match-ups against Noble in the finals. Nick McNamara decisioned senior Kayleigh Longley 6-2, while Mike McNamara and Matt Nicholson each pinned at 135 and 140, respectively. In a battle between multiple state champions, Noble‚s Jake Bagley stuck Josh Pomerleau at 130.
„Nick didn‚t know what to expect today,‰Lisbon coach Mark Stevens said. „He had never been in a venue like this. But, he stuck with the basics and took it one match at a time.‰
Caleb Hall of Dirigo placed third (5-3 decision at 119), while teammates Adam Gill (130) and Ryan Lemay (140) each were fourth. Shawn Bang (160) of Edward Little was fourth. Craig Morrill (152) of Oak Hill won 100th career match and placed third. Nick Wells of Oak Hill won the 215 crown with a 12-3 decision over Christian Durland of MV.
„I‚m not going to over look him,‰Wells said, who beat Durland three times last season. „They were all close matches and he is strong.‰
Maine High School Wrestling news
RUMFORD- When Josh Thornton stepped on the wrestling mat he had a plan, however, it just required time to execute before every thing came together and the rest of the Mountain Valley followed suit to reap the benefits Wednesday.
A series of pins by Taylor Carey (171-pounds), Josh Allen and Christian Durland (215) helped carry the Falcons to triumphs against York (39-30) and Lisbon (45-24) in a Mid-State League triangular meet.
Mountain Valley (2-0) started to bend a litter, but refused to break and finished strong.
In the match of the evening, Thornton and Mike Nicholson in a battle of state champions. Nicholson led through out the match and led 3-0 with 20 seconds left. Thornton went for broke and reversed the action with a roll.
„I decided to tae the bottom (position) in the third period,‰Thornton said. „I couldn‚t turn him because he had spiny shoulders, so I used a Granby roll. It was a desperation move.‰
Thornton rolled and got out on the side, then got perpendicular to Nicholson, reached back to hook a leg and rolled in to the Greyhound senior to earn three-near fall points.
Lisbon (3-2) received pins by Devin Estes (189) and Andrew Arias (215) to clinch a 45-33 win against York.
Mountain Valley had a strong performance (114 points) to finish third at the Westbrook Invitational, last Saturday. Seven wrestlers placed in the top four of their respective weight classes, led by champions Ryan Burgess and Allen at 119 and 189. Burgess, two-time Class B state champion, pinned Tyler Bard of Lisbon and Micheal Stump of York each in the first period. A pin by Santos Rodriguez (160) on Garrett Starr was the first of five as the Falcons pulled away.
„I feel more confident on top,‰Carey said, who stuck Bradley Stevens of York. „I had beat him last year with an arm bar, so I used one again. It really helped by having played football because I feel like going for two championships.‰
Lisbon senior Josh Pomerleau, 3x Class C state champion, held on for a 4-3 decision against the Falcons Joe Provencher (135). In a battle of freshmen, Zach Stevens of Lisbon executed a standing escape with 50 seconds left for a 4-3 decision against Jake Thornton (112)
„We are working hard,‰Lisbon coach Mark Stevens said, of the three-time defending Class C state champions. „It‚s early and every body is juggling weights around. We are certainly not the top dogs right now.‰
„I was also pleased with some performances,‰Falcon coach Gary Dolloff. „Our upper weights and Burgess will help us, but still we need to be in better (physical) shape.‰
Mountain Valley received key decisions by Nicole Burgess (112) 19-4 major, both Thornton brothers and Provencher, against York.
1. Massabesic (Mustangs started out strong by winning Westbrook)
2. Marshwood (Hawks have three R‚s, Rasque, Ricker and leader Rix)
3. Noble (Knights will be near the head of table when necessary)
4. Camden Hills (Windjammers will rule B East with plenty of yeomen)
5. Mountain Valley (Falcons have some studs, but will they produce on mat)
6. Lisbon (Greyhounds foursome of state champions, will answer)
7. Fryeburg (Raiders have young guns who need to prove they deserve it)
8. Mount Blue (Cougars may be small, but new body Metcalf is a force)
9. Cony (Rams could challenge for the top step in Class A East)
10. Mount Ararat (Eagles need to follow through with more repetitive motion)
Maine All-Star Tournament
BATH-There was still some thing to prove and Lisbon did its talking on the wrestling mat scoring 115.5 to repeat as champions at the second annual All-Star tournament over bridesmaid Noble 80.5.
The Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance sponsors the event, which follows in-season guidelines by the Maine Principal Association.
Lisbon was led by champions, Josh Pomerleau (119-pounds), Matt Nicholson 135 and Joe Doughty at 215. The Geyhounds essentially secured their crown by winning six (72 points) semi-finals, to takes a commanding lead.
“We needed to have all our kids come to wrestle,”Lisbon coach Mark Stevens said, reflecting on some individual’s skipping the event to avoid losing to another champ or a state medalist from another class. “Or it will all be in vain. This is a neutralizer, regardless of which class teams are in. We have to wrestle up to each kids seed.’
As expected, the action produced several top-notch matches and it began early and often.
Nicholson technical fell 15-0 Justin Ciciotte of Mount Ararat and Doughty secured a power half nelson to pin Nick Wells of Oak Hill.
Freshman Connor Sheehan from Fryeburg won the 103 crown, tech fell Class A state champion Tyler Davidson of Marshwood.
Dirigo senior Brandon Jonaitis recorded one the biggest splashes by rallying to decision Brandon Rich of Camden Hills in the consolation SF. The duo had exchanged reversals and were tied, before the Cougar executed an all out reversal with eight seconds left in the match.
“It felt really good,”Jonaitis said, for 100th career win. “Especially against Rich because he had beaten me twice in this tournament, last year. He tried a splade and I knew how to counter it because (Alex) Miele try’s using it in practice on me.”
In a rematch of the Class C state meet, Eric Coulombe of Monmouth placed third with a 3-0 decision against Jonaitis. The foes were scoreless after two periods, but Coulombe pealed off a standing escape.”
“I don’t think some kids take this seriously,”Monmouth coach Shawn Schultz said. “It’s less pressure than the state meet, but there are math-ups when some one or both have scores to settle.”
A trio of Lisbon finalists found the going rough, Forrest Cornell (112), Mike McNamara (130) and Marcus Bubar 145. The state champions each lost to state champions, including Mcnamera who lost a 3-1 overtime thriller to Zach Fields of Camden Hills. The Greyhounds Art Stambach placed third at 189.
“This is a relaxed tounament,”Bubar said, referring to any pressure must be self-induced. I think you’d see more kids here if it meant (earning) a trip to New Englands.”
The state champions have automatically qualified to compete in the New England Championships, next in New Haven, CT.
Matt Duka of Mountain Valley earned a hard fought third place at 160. The trex began with an overtime loss and ended with a winning takedown in the consolation finals.
“I’ve been sick and debated about coming,”Duka said, who was the Falcons lone wrestler. “I’m glad I did now. I thought I’d be in the finals, but that (SF) match took a lot out of me.”
Dirigo freshman Brett Whittemore 103 started strong by sticking an opponent who had the upper hand and lost to Mark Smith of Foxcroft Academy, in a rematch of the state meet. Teammate Caleb Hall (fourth at 112) was short changed against Rob Quimby of Noble. “All my guys won a match,”Dirigo coach Doug Gilbert said. “There were some marvelous displays of wrestling and the competition made the match increasingly more scientific.”
Matt Delgallo of Gardiner, a four-time state champion and Stephen Martin 171 of Bonny Eagle each repeated, also.
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance Poll 2/17
1. Noble (Knights standing tall after receiving a team effort)
2. Camden Hills (Windjammers utilized depth in the cons to sail, yonder)
3. Lisbon (Greyhounds answered the critics and added, extra help)
4. Massabesic (Mustangs couldn’t bang a higher gear, when needed)
5. Mountain Valley (Falcons knew it was an uphill battle and made no excuses)
6. Bonny Eagle (Scotsmen came on strong, but ran short on luck)
7. Morse (Shipbuilders kept on course and surprised people, weekly)
8. Westbrook (Blue Blazes had kids step up and will be Eastern power)
9. Marshwood (Hawks returned to their competitive nature)
10. Fryeburg (Raiders have been building for this and deserve it)
Outstanding Wrestler: Steve Martin, Bonny Eagle
Coach of Year: Shawn Guest, Morse
Best of Rest: Wells, Oak Hill, Penobscot Valley, Cony
Two dozen wins against cdx
Camden Hills takes Class B State Championship
The motto 'no excuses, just give-um some’ was for the Mountain Valley wrestling team, however, it didn’t have enough depth to stay with Camden Hills who scored 130 points to win the Class B state championship.
Mountain Valley finished second 108 points, led by champions Ryan Burgess (103-pounds) Josh Thornton (140). The Falcon finalists were Taylor Carey (152), Christian Durland 189 and Ryan Glover at 285. The aforementioned five are each underclassmen, which bodes well for next season.
The Falcons had led entering the consolation round, but Camden Hills placed five wrestlers in third or fourth. In a reversal of the regional final, Matt Duka of MV decisioned Mike Hamm of Oak Hill 8-4 to place third at 160.
“All of our kids scored,”Mountain Valley coach Gary Dolloff said. “We placed six of the nine kids that came. I’m happy with that. We had put five in the finals, but we didn’t have enough to hold (CH) off in the consolations.”
The main threats entering the event were regional champions Mountain Valley and Camden Hills, which held true.
“I’m not disappointed with the kid’s efforts,”Dolloff said. “(CH) had 12 and we had nine. It was an uphill battle to start with.”
Burgess and Carey each faced Fryeburg wrestlers for the third-straight week. The teammates have each qualified to compete in the New England championships at New Haven, Connecticut, next month.
Burgess defended his crown with a 2-1 decision over Connor Sheehan. The match was tied after two periods, but Burgess executed a standing escape in the final minute in the final minute. It was redemption for Burgess, who had lost to Sheehan in the regional final. Earlier during the day, the Falcon wrestler had beaten Coleman Powers of CH 5-4 overtime in the semi-finals.
In a rubber match, Thornton decisioned Brandon Rich of Camden 3-2. The Falcon junior escaped in the second period and then held the Windjammer down in the third period. Carey lost 1-0 to Stefan Emery 3-2, it was the third-straight one-point match between the duo. Durland was decisioned 6-0 by two-time state champ Tyler Russell of Morse. In the final match, Glover lost 7-1 to Stephen Johnson of Wells.
Lisbon takes third straight Class C state title at Dexter High School.
DEXTER- When Alex Meile stepped on the wrestling mat over two months ago the Dirigo senior was still on a high and that feeling was repeated after winning the 160-pound championship at the Class C state meet.
The Dirigo team found the going tough and faded to fourth with 117.5 points.
Lisbon was too strong with six individual champions, scoring 190 points to win its third-straight state championship. Penobscot Valley 141 was second, Dexter 121 was third.
Miele pinned Lee Gustin of Dexter, with a splade in the first period.
"I felt good today,"Miele said, Gustin had the initial takedown,but Miele, a state finalist last year, quickly executed a reversal.
."I stayed with basics (first two pins), but I got lucky against Gustin last week because he lost his balance. It WA tougher this time ."
Miele, who was a standout receiver on the state championship football team, joins older brother Kyle who won two state wrestling championships at Dirigo.
The Cougars freshmen Brett Whittemore and Brandon Jonaitis were finalists at 103 and 40, respectively.
Whittemore lost a hard fight 2-1 decision to Mark Smith of Foxcroft Academy. Whittemore, who had lost 7-0 to the Ponies wrestler, last week, escaped with 48 seconds left.
Jonaitis, a 2009 state champion, lost 2-0 to Eric Coloumbe of Monmouth. It was the third-straight week the two foes faced each other. It was 0-0 entering third period and Coloumbe executed a switch with 18 seconds left.
"I was confident,"Jonaitis said, who was seeking his 100th career match. "I'll go with what got me here, but I do need to change my takedown style against him."
Dirigo bus driver Montell ‘Bummy’ Kennedy did double duty after going to rescue the Monmuth team who was stranded when its bus broke down.
The Cougars depth was expected to be an asset, but Chad Oakes third at 145 and Justin Jasper placed fourth at 125.
"The kids wrestled tough,"Dirigo coach Doug Gilbert said. "A couple lost early on, like Caleb (Hall at 112), it was the third match against (Vincent Malinskas of Dexter) and (Malinskas) was due, but I was not worried about him wrestling back. The thirds and fourths were key for us."
The ability to wrestle back through was imperative. Hall executed a double-leg takedown in overtime 9-7 and placed third.
There was a long delay following a semi-final consolation match between Ben Dolloff of Dirigo and Ryan Havleck of Lisbon, who won 7-4. The clock had not been reset to 2:00 for the second period, so only one of the 2:00 was actually wrestled. Dirigo protested, but the referee and tournament officials concluded Dolloff had vacated the wrestling area.
Lisbon champions included Forrest Cornell 112, Josh Pomerleau 119, Mike McNamara 130, Matt Nicholson 135, Marcus Bubar 145 and Joe Doughty at 215. The Greyhounds won their third-straight team crown, seventh in 10 years and have won 13 individual titles, in the past two years.
The individual state champions automatically qualified for the New England championships to be held in Connecticut next month. Bubar major decisioned Jordon Fogg of Bucksport. Art Stambach of Lisbon lost 9-2 in 189 final to most outstanding wrestler Doug Richardson of Dexter.
Former Rumford wrestler Lenny Doiron coaches Penobscot Valley.
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance Poll 2/8
1. Noble (Knights DeVoll still believes a better effort awaits)
2. Massabesic (Mustangs can’t not hold back now, it’s the home stretch)
3. Camden Hills (Windjammers rely on double Powers and strong cast)
4. Mountain Valley (Falcons made up for shortages with true grit on mat)
5. Lisbon (Greyhounds need their magnificent seven and more)
6. Westbrook (Blue Blazes are the new beast of the East)
7. Bonny Eagle (Scotsmen Martin is unbeaten and will not be denied)
8. Cony (Rams are banking on Ancia and Vallee to reach apex) 9. Fryeburg (Raiders have come a long way from Fairgrounds)
10 T. Dirigo (Cougars have a good mix and will be on prowl)
Knocking on door Marshwood, Morse, Wells, Oak Hill, Penobscot Valley
Maine Amateur High School Wrestling Alliance Rankings
1/28/10 WRESTLING POLL
1. Noble (Knights )
2. Massabesic (Mustangs )
3. Lisbon (Greyhounds )
4. Marshwood (Hawks )
5. Mountain Valley (Falcons )
6. Camden Hills
7. Bonny Eagle (Scotsmen)
8. Cony (Rams)
9. Westbrook (Blue Blazes )
10. Mount Ararat
Knocking on door Kennebunk, Belfast, Oak Hill, Morse, Mount Blue
Maine High School Wrestling Poll 1/19
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance
1. Massabesic (Mustangs must work together in order to return to front of herd)
2. Noble (Knights will be well conditioned, after having been there)
3. Lisbon (Greyhounds rode Bubar’ pin to win Kennebunk Duals)
4. Marshwood (Hawks are hovering above and picking off opponents)
5. Mountain Valley (Falcons will need full contribution by their upper weights)
6. Camden Hills (Windjammers keep it close and will take their chances)
7. Bonny Eagle (Scotsmen heard words of wisdom from the legend, will it stick)
8. Westbrook (Blue Blazes have been building something, so it’s time to act)
9. Mount Blue (Cougars may have a strength in numbers to make noise)
10. Cony (Rams could be factor in, but they will need full team)
Knocking on door Kennebunk, Belfast, Oak Hill, Dirigo
Maine High School Wrestling Poll 12/29
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance
1. Noble (Knights used depth to be host with most in tournament)
2. Massabesic (Mustangs have the horses that can lead the herd, again)
3. Camden Hills (Windjammers have the powers and a field of dreams)
4. Lisbon (Greyhounds cant rest and still remain on correct track)
5. Westbrook (Blue Blazes could have finally left their Morin-ings)
6. Mountain Valley (Falcons hovering over and finding proper weight classes)
7. Marshwood (Hawks can be dark horse w/ K light in the wild West)
8. Bonny Eagle (Scotsmen are not about to go away without a bearing of arms)
9. Mount Ararat (Eagles could be factors with additional drilling techniques)
10. Belfast (Lions were champions and need to find similar hearts)
Knocking on door Wells, Cony
DelGallo showed class in-first-ever in-state loss to Fields
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance Wrestling Poll 12/21
1. Noble (Knights have plenty of weapons and continue to build)
2.Lisbon (Greyhounds scored with six studs in covering Atlantic)
3. Massabesic (Mustangs are waiting and trying to find the Knights waterloo)
4. Bonny Eagle (Scotsmen have Steve Martin and we‚ll see who else)
5. Camden Hills (Windjammers will be tested to see where they sail)
6. Mountain Valley (Falcons rebounded with focus and will be contenders)
7. Marshwood (Hawks Jake Rasque survived battle of state champions)
8. Westbrook (Blue Blazes have not really shown what they have, yet)
9. Belfast (Lions have to leave their den to find new replacements)
10. Cony (Rams will need to toughen up and add depth)
Knocking on door Wells, York
Survive the holiday and put plans in motion∑
Mountain Valley at Atlantic Invitational
WELLS ˜ The performances on the mat were decisive for the Mountain Valley sophomores Robert Worthley (119-pounds) and Taylor Carey (171) who each won individual championships at the Atlantic Invitational, however, the Falcons team settled for a bridesmaid finish behind Lisbon 155 points to 132.5 points.
Mountain Valley did come on strong to slip past Class A Marshwood by 2.5 points, when Josh Allen (3-1) pinned a Hawk wrestler in 47 seconds to place third at 189.
Dirigo champions were Brandon Jonaitis and Alex Miele at 140 and 160, respectively.
„It was a great team performance(S),‰MV assistant Jeff Gilbert said, who placed eight in the top four of their respective weight classes. „Finishing second to Lisbon in a tournament, only 19.5 points behind them with two quality wrestlers out, is pretty good.‰ Worthley (fourth seed) upset the top seed in the semi-finales and recorded a 12-2 major decision over Cheyenne Augstine of Medomak Valley. Carey stuck two opponents and then executed an escape to upset Dillon Tibbetts of Oak Hill. The Falcon had lost to Tibbetts in the SF at McDonalds tournament. Both Worthley and Carey placed fourth in the 2008 Atlantic.
The 112 division featured four defending state champions, including MV‚s Ryan Burgess (fourth) who lost in overtime in SF to eventual champion Jake Rasque of Marshwood. The Falcon junior lost 3-2 to Forrest Cornell of Lisbon, in the consolation finals.
The Mid State League was well-represented by Lisbon, Wells, York and Fryeburg, in addition to the Falcons and Cougars.
Jonaitis was on a mission and decisioned Scott Cryer of Wells 6-1. The Cougar state champion was very disappointed after placing fourth at the McDonalds tourney. He was seeded fourth and beat numbers one and two in the tourney.
Miele had two sticks, before decisioning (top seed) Patrick Hapworth of Maine Central Institute 6-3. Miele lost 6-4 in the ‚08 Atlantic, last year.
Tim Ross 130 and Matt Duka 3-1 at 160 each placed third and teammates Christian Durland and Ryan Glover each placed fourth at 215 and 285, respectively.
Dirigo freshman Brett Whittemore placed fourth at 103.
Dirigo (69 points) had 11 wrestlers in the pigtail rounds and (Ryan Lemay, Dylan Castonguay, Nelson Pepin, Alex Snowman and Eric Holman) each lost. So, the Cougars were battling back as a team with fewer bullets.
Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance Rankings
12/7/09
1. Noble (Knights still the top team until someone knocks them off)
2.Lisbon (Greyhounds can hold its own against rest of competition)
3. Massabessic (Mustangs lost the big names but return a solid nucleus)
4. Mountain Valley (Falcons return depth squad, plus a healthy Magoon and Allen)
5. Bonny Eagle (Scotsmen are legit contenders, especially in tournaments)
6. Camden Hills (Windjammers return the most points to the B state meet)
7. Cony (Coach Totman has really got this Ram team on track)
8. Belfast (Lions must overcome adversity and loss of key wrestlers)
9. Fryeburg (Raiders won their tournament, youth movement is working)
10. Oak Hill (They have chance to be near top, but must avoid injuries)
Hal Watson of Rumford inducted in to the Maine Amateur Wrestling Hall
PORTLAND—It is certainly deserving and Hal Watson of Rumford was officially inducted in to the Maine Amateur Wrestling Hall Of Fame.
Over 100 people attended the MAWA banquet held at Verrillo's Convention Center, Saturday July 18.
The honor is certainly humbling to Watson who started the Dirigo wrestling program three decades ago with little support or guarantees.
Master of Ceremonies Wally Lafountain, HOF member, cited Watson for his intense dedication .
Watson had initially started a wrestling program at Dirigo in 1980, however, the administration put things on the back burner. The vision resurfaced in 1985 when his second-floor classroom served as a practice room and approximately 10, four by eight-foot mats were taped together. At Dirigo there were numerous obstacles, especially since the team wasn’t allowed to practice in Defoe Gymnasium at the high school. In 1989, a regulation wrestling mat was purchased, however, it was stored at the middle school one mile away.
Watson was initially introduced to wrestling by the late Mel Preble who coached at Stephens.
“I surrounded myself with good coaches,”Watson said. “I took advice from anybody, then I’d pick and choose from the information that I had stumbled across.” Dirigo paid its dues and Watson hammered out discipline, while early assistants Peter Glover, Mike Burke, Roger Smith, Glenn Gurney and Spencer Quiriron were the technicians.
Watson credited former athletic director Brad Payne for being supportive of the program. Then Rumford coach and fellow HOF Jerry Perkins told Watson the Cougar wrestlers knew what moves to execute, but they needed physical conditioning. Watson didn’t take any criticism personally, but instead quietly listened and learned.
Mark Stevens of Lisbon accepted Coach-of-the-Year honors. The Greyhound dynasty has flourished under Stevens, including winning Class C state championships twice in the past three years. In 2009, Lisbon outscored bridesmaid Dirigo and Bucksport by 73 points.
Also inducted in to the HOF were former coaches Bob Walker and Mark Lewia and Sanford wrestler Ryan Kalman.
Walker had no prior wrestling experience, however, with sheer determination and a can-do-attitude founded the program at Noble HS in 1973; winning state crowns at Noble 1985 and at Kennebunk 1991.
The Wrestler of the Year is Travis Spencer-Belfast who is a four-time state champion. The award is named for legendary coach John Carmaihalis, who started wrestling in Maine in 1959. Spencer, 2009 New England finalist, earned All-American Honorable Mention by Wrestling U.S.A. Magazine, respectively. The Lion standout has received a full-scholarship from a Missouri University.
The Maine-Nebraska Friendship Series had its beginnings In April of 1984
The wrestling will be intense when competitiors step on the mat for the silver anniversary of the Maine/Nebraska Friendship Series later this month. The venues will feature competitors from Mountain Valley,Lisbon, Oak Hill and Dirigo.
Oak Hill High School will be the second of four competitions for the Cornhuskers who will also compete at York 22nd, Cony 26th and Morse the 28th. The exchange was created in 1985 and is the longest running exchange between two states in the entire country.
The two states have alternated hosting each other, with the visiting team typically wrestling at four different sites.
This will be Oak Hill‚s initial time hosting Nebraska and several wrestlers from Lisbon and Oak Hill are scheduled to compete. They include Lisbon state champions Forrest Cornell 115, Marcus Bubar 145, Mike McNamara (130), Kyle Huston 150 and Joe Doughty 220. Raider state champion Craig Morrill and finalists Keith Madore, Dillon and Clyde Tibbetts and Nick Wells at 182.
Of 16 kids on our team, seven are state champs eight runners up,‰Oak Hill coach Shane Bouchard, a former Dirigo wrestler. „One placed fourth, but beat one of the state champs during the year. So while we may not have the Marquee wrestlers, but we have a very solid group, from some very solid teams (Lisbon, Oak Hill, Camden, Noble). Alex Meile of Dirigo was a finalist.
Best of all.......I believe...... Is the group of kids,‰Bouchard said. „They are all around great kids and that was an important part of deciding who to pick.
Mountain Valley‚s Ryan Burgess (105) will be at Cony and teammate Ernie Matthews (145) has been invited, also. Each won Class B state championships. Matthews, two-time state champ, is the Falcons all time leader in wins.
Dirigo state champion Brandon Jonaitis will compete at Morse. Nebraska will be stacked, Maine Team Leader Shawn Guest said. After (Maine) going 3-1 last year out there, Tom (McCann) will be gunning for bear. They are just so deep in high school wrestlers in the state. Of course it helps when (three university teams placed in top four inn respective division). Kids want to wrestle.
Maine team will feature four-time state champions Joe Eon of Massabesic and Travis Spencer-Belfast-189. Spencer, 2009 New England finalist, earned All-American Honorable Mention by Wrestling U.S.A. Magazine, respectively. The Lion standout has received a full-scholarship from a Missouri University. Nebraska wrestlers are well-known for securing legs to control matches.
The guys we are bringing are not all state champs,‰ McCann said. „But a good mix of kids that qualified through our try out system, for the most part. They are a good group of kids.
The Cornhusker state really has 210 schools offering wrestling in four classes. Class A has 32 of the largest schools - most have over 1,000 students.; Class B has 48 schools with enrollments from 400 to 700+; Class C 150 students and up - has 64 schools. Class D is schools with under 150 students.
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
The Maine-Nebraska Friendship Series had its beginnings In April of 1984 when Wally LaFountain, an official from Winslow attended a National Federation of High School's rules committee in Kansas City and met Mick Pierce, who coached at Lincoln Southeast High School in Nebraska.
Given the great geographical and economic diversity of the two states, the Great Plains-Atlantic Ocean, this is truly a great cultural exchange. The various scenery and unique experiences continue to provide the participants with life-long memories.
Following the first year of the exchange, Pierce handed the Nebraska Program over to Tom McCann, coach at Kearney, Nebraska. Wally LaFountain was the leader on the Maine side of the program for ten years. In 1995, he stepped Down, giving the responsibility of the exchange to Dennis Walch. After leading the exchange for nine years, Walch, retired Westbrook coach, passed the responsibility on to Guest; a veteran coach at both Wiscasset and Morse. On the Nebraska end, McCann has led for 23 years. Nearly 1000 Maine wrestlers have participated in over 1500 matches. Maine has also Wrestled against individuals from Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, South DakotaAnd Texas. While the wrestling is fierce on the mats, the main purpose Is to initiate friendships and develop an understanding of a slightly.
Maine Hall of Fame addition on BOB Walker
The MAWA Hall OF Fame increases each year as deserving individuals are recognizes for accomplishments and contributions to the worlds oldest sport. A foursome will be officially inducted at a MAWA banquet this summer. They include former coaches Bob Walker, Hal Watson and Mark Lewia and Sanford wrestler Ryan Kalman.
Robert Bob Walker had no prior wrestling experience, however, with sheer determination and a can-do-attitude founded the program at Noble HS in 1973 and also enjoyed a success tenure at Kennebunk.
In nearly two decades, Walker compiled a 253-98-1 dual-meet record and along the way won state championships at each interscholastic institution. This included the hundreds of individuals who he helped and earned their respect.
After getting the Knights going in 1974, Walker stepped away for a season, before returning in 1976 and stayed mat side until 1985. Noble finished fourth in the 1977 Class A state meet, but it served as a prelude of things to come.
In Walkers nomination, current Noble coach Kip DeVoll wrote Bob was my coach and mentor at Noble, along with many other athletes at Noble and Kennebunk. If it had not been for Bob, I would not be where I am today in terms of coaching. Bob is the father of Noble wrestling, having started the program from scratch in 1973 with no previous wrestling experiences, he built a powerful base for future teams to follow.
In ‚81 and ‚84, Noble proved to be a team to be on the move after placing second at the regional and state meets, respectively. In ‚85, the Knights broke through by winning both the regional and state meets.
Following the banner season, Walker moved up the road to Kennebunk and
In 1991, Kenn tied Sanford for the Class A state championship. In 1994, Walker retired and Dale Doucette took over.. DeVoll and Doucette both wrestled for Walker at Noble and both coach the Knights. Glenn Rowe and Steve Winkleman were Walker's first two state champions. Walker coached 17 individual state champions 10 at Noble and seven at Kennebunk; is believed to be the only coach to win a team state championship without ever competing in the sport; even more amazing, he won two state titles with two different high school programs.
Walker was committed to enhancing the sport and served as Liaison to the MPA from 1989-94.
////////////////////////////////
Mark Lewia who coached wrestling at Wells for 23 years earned plenty of respect and will be inducted in to the MAWA HOF, also. Lewia guided the Warriors beginning in 1983 and following the 2006 stepped aside to coach the junior high program.
Lewia had discovered how wrestling can contribute to a person‚s life, when competing at Kennebunk. He placed third in the 1979 state meet. The lessons learned prompted him to move in to the coaching ranks.
Wells won 254 dual meets and became a team to watch for in tournament competition. This included Class B state championships in 1988 and 1996, respectively. In both big wins the teams had stepped-up following set backs at the regional, one week earlier. The Warriors did win three regional crowns and finished second seven times.
Lewia coached 26 individual state champions and 54 state finalists. This included the late Sean Sheehy who won three titles. The Navy Seal was inducted in to the MAWA HOF in 1994.
Wells has always been a competitive program which competes hard and has earned nine Sportsmanship awards from the Maine Principal‚s Association.
When Lewia stepped away his brother Scott took over and continues coaching the high school team.
///////////////////////////
Ryan Kalman who competed at Sanford HS and Springfield College will be inducted as a competitor. He was a member of two state championship teams at Sanford and was a finalist in ‚92 state meet.
Kalman enrolled at Springfield and excelled in the classroom and on the wrestling mat. He was an Academic All American in 1995 and 1997.
In ‚97, Kalman earned All American honors with a sixth-place finish at the NCAA Division III championships. He was inducted in to the New England College Conference Wrestling Association HOF.
Kalman joins his late father Keith as the fourth father-son tandem in the MAWA HOF. The elder Kalman won a NE championship in 1964, in fact Sanford is the only Maine team to ever win the NE crown.
Hal Watson, Dirigo coach is a member of the 2009 Maine Amateur Wrestling Hall Of Fame.
It requires quite an event to revoke a reaction from Hal Watson, however, even the mild-mannered man was rendered speechless upon being informed that the former Dirigo coach is a member of the 2009 Maine Amateur Wrestling Hall Of Fame.
The honor is certainly humbling to Watson who started the Cougar wrestling program over three decades ago with little support or guarantees. Still, Watson refused to be deterred and was determined to see his dream become a reality.
Watson will be officially inducted at a MAWA banquet this summer. He will be joined by former coaches Bob Walker and Mark Lewia and Sanford wrestler Ryan Kalman.
Watson engulfed the opportunity and with a no-nonsense and can do attitude, Dirigo has revolved from club level to a state powerhouse.
“I am overwhelmed at being selected,”Watson said, a retired history teacher. “To have my name mentioned in the same conversation with those (past and current) recipients is gratifying. As I have contacted people, it has forced me to realize that this has happened to a short, fat, bald kid from (River Valley).”
Watson had initially started a wrestling program at Dirigo in 1980 and Jack Schmidt placed third in the 1982 Class B state meet. Despite high student participation, a lack of interest by the administration put things on the back burner.
Fortunately, the vision resurfaced in 1985 when first-year principal Tom Ward asked Watson if he’d be willing to be wrestling coach. Watson’s second-floor classroom served as a practice room and approximately 10, four by eight-foot mats were taped together between the iron-heating grates, which were cranked up.
“Hal is very deserving,”Ward said, currently SAD 21 superintendent. “I vividly remember watching Hal empty his classroom every night after school and put together what he had for mats and coach wrestling. I knew then that I had to find a way to buy him a wrestling mat and support him in starting wrestling at DHS. The rest is history.”
////////////
Watson initially introduced to wrestling by the late Mel Preble who coached at Stephens High School in Rumford. The fever and love for the pure sport never escaped his intra-being.
When the sport was reintroduced at Dirigo there were numerous obstacles to overcome, especially since the team wasn’t allowed to practice in Defoe Gymnasium at the high school. In 1989, a regulation wrestling mat was purchased, however, it was stored at the middle school one mile away. Dirigo paid its dues and Watson handled things by instituting his own style. He hammered out discipline, while early assistants Peter Glover, Mike Burke, Roger Smith, Glenn Gurney and Spencer Quiriron were the technicians.
“I surrounded myself with good coaches,”Watson said. “I took advice from anybody, then I’d pick and choose from the information that I had stumbled across. The important thing was never forgetting reaching toward the goal of a quality program.”
Former athletic director Brad Payne scheduled powers Oxford Hills and Rumford in a triangular meet, and as expected Dirigo was crushed. Then Rumford coach Jerry Perkins stated the Cougar wrestlers knew what moves to execute, but they needed physical conditioning. Watson didn’t take any criticism personally, but instead quietly listened and instrumented what was necessary in order for Dirigo to reach the next level.
“When you think of Dirigo wrestling it is important to think of the man who started it,”Perkins said, who is a hall of famer. “Hal Watson started the program from scratch and built it up by learning and teaching the basics. Not only has Dirigo earned respect in Class C rankings, but in all classes.”
For years, Watson brought out the best in his hard-nosed student-athletes and the competitiveness is well known. In 1988, the Cougars finished fifth at the Mid-State League tournament and went home with their heads held high. The following day coach Tom Hicks called to admit a scoring error was discovered and Dirigo was declared the winner.
Wrestlers are known for being able to react to any situation and following a 1989 meet, Watson took Martha outside and proposed marriage to her. Fortunately, he maintained focus and received an affirmative answer because he needed to rush back-inside and help roll the mats up. Two years later, a Class C state meet was created, but controversy erupted over seeding each wrestler. Watson promptly spoke-up and said it doesn’t matter who is seeded where because we’ll still kick your tail. This wasn’t an idle threat because Dirigo won the 1990 state championship and finished runner-up the next three years.
“The classroom was still being used for practice when we won the state championship,”Watson said. “We had six finalists and Keith St Laurent (103-pounds) was our first state champion. My philosophy for the team(s) that I stressed was that we didn’t fit any previous molds. Nobody wanted us. So, if we were relentless, worked hard and stayed together we would gain acceptance. (Dirigo) built a tradition and has maintained it since it started.”
Watson stepped away in 1994 and handed the reins over to Gurney and Dirigo didn’t skip a beat and won the 1996 state championship. When wrestling gets in the blood stream it’s hard to ignore and Watson is no exception because he was reeled back in as assistant coach for Doug Gilbert from 1997-2006.
“Hal’s demeanor never changed,”Gurney said. “I’ve never heard a referee or opposing coach say any thing disrespectful. He treated every one fairly like you’d want to be treated. I can honestly say that any one who been around him is a better person.”
Bob Walker, Hal Watson and Mark Lewia and Sanford wrestler Ryan Kalman in the MAWA Hall OF Fame
The MAWA Hall OF Fame increases each year as deserving individuals are recognizes for accomplishments and contributions to the worlds oldest sport. A foursome will be officially inducted at a MAWA banquet this summer. He will be joined by former coaches Bob Walker, Hal Watson and Mark Lewia and Sanford wrestler Ryan Kalman.
Robert Bob Walker had no prior wrestling experience, however, with sheer determination and a can-do-attitude founded the program at Noble HS in 1973 and also enjoyed a success tenure at Kennebunk.
In nearly two decades, Walker compiled a 253-98-1 dual-meet record and along the way won state championships at each interscholastic institution. This included the hundreds of individuals who he helped and earned their respect.
After getting the Knights going in 1974, Walker stepped away for a season, before returning in 1976 and stayed mat side until 1985. Noble finished fourth in the 1977 Class A state meet, but it served as a prelude of things to come.
In Walkers nomination, current Noble coach Kip DeVoll wrote Bob was my coach and mentor at Noble, along with many other athletes at Noble and Kennebunk. If it had not been for Bob, I would not be where I am today in terms of coaching. Bob is the father of Noble wrestling, having started the program from scratch in 1973 with no previous wrestling experiences, he built a powerful base for future teams to follow.”
In ’81 and ’84, Noble proved to be a team to be on the move after placing second at the regional and state meets, respectively. In ’85, the Knights broke through by winning both the regional and state meets.
Following the banner season, Walker moved up the road to Kennebunk and eventually won the 1992 Class A state championship. He coached 17 individual state champions 10 at Noble and seven at Kennebunk.
Walker was committed to enhancing the sport and served as Liaison to the MPA from 1989-94.
////////////////////////////////
Mark Lewia who coached wrestling at Wells for 23 years earned plenty of respect and will be inducted in to the MAWA HOF, also. Lewia guided the Warriors beginning in 1983 and following the 2006 stepped aside to coach the junior high program.
Lewia had discovered how wrestling can contribute to a person’s life, when competing at Kennebunk. He placed third in the 1979 state meet. The lessons learned prompted him to move in to the coaching ranks.
Wells won 254 dual meets and became a team to watch for in tournament competition. This included Class B state championships in 1988 and 1996, respectively. In both big wins the teams had stepped-up following set backs at the regional, one week earlier. The Warriors did win three regional crowns and finished second seven times.
Lewia coached 26 individual state champions and 54 state finalists. This included the late Sean Sheehy who won three titles. The Navy Seal was inducted in to the MAWA HOF in 1994.
Wells has always been a competitive program which competes hard and has earned nine Sportsmanship awards from the Maine Principal’s Association.
When Lewia stepped away his brother Scott took over and continues coaching the high school team.
///////////////////////////
Ryan Kalman who competed at Sanford HS and Springfield College will be inducted as a competitor. He was a member of two state championship teams at Sanford and was a finalist in ’92 state meet.
Kalman enrolled at Springfield and excelled in the classroom and on the wrestling mat. He was an Academic All American in 1995 and 1997.
In ’97, Kalman earned All American honors with a sixth-place finish at the NCAA Division III championships. He was inducted in to the New England College Conference Wrestling Association HOF.
Kalman joins his late father Keith as the fourth father-son tandem in the MAWA HOF. The elder Kalman won a NE championship in 1964, in fact Sanford is the only Maine team to ever win the NE crown.