Middlesex Wrestling defeated ISL powerhouse Roxbury Latin 38-36, Saturday afternoon, topping the all-boys school for the first time in 28 years. The team had worked hard and managed the seemingly impossible task, all while forfeiting three weight classes. Remarkable participation from the entire team, managers, and parent-student crowd, were the reason.
Of the eleven matches wrestled, Middlesex won seven, with three pins leading the scoring. Nick Agee at 170 pounds performed to perfection pinning his opponent. Alex Wagner finished his opponent off with a skillful pin in the first period. The third pin was an exciting come-from -behind pin by senior captain Steve Zawada, which left the visiting team stunned and the crowd on their feet.
The heart of the lineup featured outstanding performances by Marcus Coward, who managed to win a major decision over his opponent 10-2. Also bringing in bonus points was Gavin Fujimori, who exhibited outstanding technical skill and determination to win with a major victory 10-0. These two victories and their two bonus points became the difference maker in a final score of 38-36.
Also, winning matches were Gabe Smith, pulling a strong 9-6 decision over his opponent and George Morris, winning 13-6 at 195 lb weight class.
In the second match, Middlesex wrestled The Landmark School, who fielded a full team with strong athleticism. The Zebras seemed to have a head of steam after the Roxbury Latin match and won convincingly, 54 to 24.
The ferocious pin by Naomi Hunt sent the crowd into a frenzy. Marcus continued his winning ways by nailing down the 6-4 victory. Gavin, Gabe and Jivan all brought roars from the crowd with six point victories. While Nick Agee and Alex Wagner were both eager to compete, the opponent forfeited these two weight classes. Steve Zawada got back into a rhythm with a combined sleek takedown and methodical turning combination to secure the pin.
Also congratulations to Ameya, as he was able to contribute six points to the team score by picking up the forfeit.
Wrestling returns to action on Wednesday, Jan. 14 at home against Lawrence Academy.