Several varsity wrestlers placed in the top three in their weight classes in Edison. Sophomore Jimmy Loudon placed third at 106 pounds, as did junior Patrick Palusczek (220) and seniors Brian Wagner (170) and Joe Ballantyne (126). Freshman John Gabriele finished second at 132 pounds, while junior Mark Riggio (182) and freshman Frank Gabriele (120), were tournament champions.
One week later, the Hillbillies competed in the Bloomfield Holiday Tournament, placing sixth as a team out of a field of 11 teams. Once again, Verona had multiple placewinners. John Gabriele placed third at 132 pounds, while Jimmy Loudon (106) and Frank Gabriele (120) each placed second. Mark Riggio was again a tournament champion at 182 pounds, and received the award for most pins in the least amount of time, as he pinned all three of his opponents in the first period.
During the winter recess, the wrestling team compiled a 3-2 dual meet record, earning victories over Passaic, Boonton and Madison. The Hillbillies open their conference schedule with a home match on Wednesday, January 7, at 5 p.m. against Orange.
Photos copyright Donna Giuliano and Pam Yao. Used by permission.
