UPDATE: In a stunning display of skill and determination, the Nazareth wrestling team triumphed over Northampton with a final score of 37-28 during their first home dual meet of the season on November 3, 2023. Senior wrestlers Elijah Simak and Brayden Zuercher played pivotal roles, bumping up two weight classes each to lead their team to victory.
Simak, competing at 215 pounds despite weighing only 173 pounds, showcased his unmatched speed by securing a 22-6 tech fall victory over Northampton’s Joell Small in just 3:21. “I knew I had the speed on him,” Simak stated confidently, emphasizing his tactical advantage. This crucial win gave Nazareth a 31-28 lead heading into the final match.
The excitement continued as Zuercher, who weighed in at 215 pounds but faced off against Northampton’s heavyweight, Brandon McEntire, who outweighed him by 89.7 pounds, made a swift impact. Zuercher pinned McEntire in an impressive 48 seconds, sealing the win for Nazareth.
Coach Dave Crowell praised Simak’s and Zuercher’s commitment to the team, saying, “Anything we can do for the team, we’re all in.” This spirit was evident as both seniors willingly accepted the challenge of competing in heavier weight classes.
Despite the loss, Northampton displayed resilience. The Konkrete Kids, coached by Joe Provini, faced difficulties with missed weight at 107 pounds, which forced them to forfeit and shift their lineup. “Our guys are going to have to ask themselves what kind of season we want to have going forward,” Provini commented, highlighting the need for improvement and consistency.
Bright spots for Northampton included victories by freshman Benjamin Schoenberger, who won at 114 pounds in just 45 seconds, and Brayden Werich at 127 pounds, who earned a fall in 1:48. However, the team struggled overall to match Nazareth’s intensity, with Provini noting, “We did not match their intensity.”
The dual meet was a showcase of skill and strategy, with Nazareth dominating the takedown battle 25-10. As Nazareth improves to 2-0 this season, they look ahead to another rivalry match against Easton on November 8 at 7 p.m.
Simak encapsulated the team’s ethos, stating, “Our coach wanted us to get as many shots as we could, no stopping just because we’re up.” The Blue Eagles’ relentless pursuit of excellence is evident as they prepare for their next challenge, aiming for continued success in the competitive wrestling landscape.
