In a spirited battle of up-and-coming wrestling programs, Middlesex wrestling won an exciting match at Lawrence Academy on Wednesday, January 8.

Opening at 195 lbs, George M. '15, skillfully started the match with two takedowns and finished in fine fashion with a third period pin over an ISL ranked opponent. Middlesex's second match showed the strength, dominance and great athletic ability of Steven Z. '15 at 220 lbs with a first period pin of his opponent.

With an illness in the heavy weight division, and a few empty weights at 106 and 113, (in addition to losing our 120 lbs for the day), the team was looking at a 24-point swing after two great victories.  Looking at the scoreboard at 12 for MX and 24 for Lawrence, captain Tae Hwan at 126lbs knew he needed to get things back on track.  His New Year's Resolution to create even better leadership for the team paid off with a first period pin, thus inspiring his teammates to victory.

In addition to Tae Hwan's successful performance, Gabe '15 secured a first period fall in 40 seconds after a timely takedown in the 132 lbs weight class. Also contributing a great victory over a ranked opponent was Nick A. '16.  Meanwhile, sophomore standout Nick (coming off overseas jet lag) took on the Lawrence Academy senior captain and finished the wrestling off with a strong 6-1 victory. 

The team's both also faced Chapel Hill Chauncey Hall, so the celebration was limited and hand shakes were made but a nice solid victory over Lawrence to start the New Year with a final score of Middlesex 45, Lawrence 34.

In the next match versus CHCH, Middlesex really looked great- winning at one point in the match, seven straight victories. Tae Hwan continued to lead the way for the Zebras, making all seven pins!

 Gabe S., Jivan P., Gavin F. Jordan P. Andrew Z. and Nick A all recorded pins back- to- back to add to the team total score of Middlesex 54 CHCH  24

Other performances of note came from Sebastian B who gave a great spirited effort for his first time on the mat (though falling to his opponent). Next came George M. and Steven Z, both pinning their opponents to remain undefeated! Congratulations to them and the entire team for winning both matches at a competitive venue.

Middlesex faces Governors Academy and BBN on Saturday.