There comes a time, at the beginning of every wrestler’s career, when he finally begins to understand the potential that he may have. They begin to get out of their own way, push aside their fears and banish doubt. This past Sunday, six first-year wrestlers donned their headgear and went to battle. The site of this competition was North Bergen. This was a Frosh Tournament, one that has been around for so long that I competed in it back in 1982. Each one wondered whether he would have what it takes to make an impact, wondering how he would fare against teams like North Bergen, St. Peter’s Prep, High Point, Bayonne, St. Benedict’s and the list goes on. As a coach, I have spent the year trying to get them to understand that with hard work, results will follow. This sale is a tough one. If they can just get past that awkward beginning stage and the tough losses, the sun can be seen in the distance. I believe a number of our wrestlers began to see that sun at this very tournament.

Out of the six wrestlers, four made it to the finals, one the consolations and the last, though he did not place, showed potential and went 1-and-1 on the day. Two took first place and became champions; two were runner ups and the other took third place. With only six wrestlers, Kushner, as a team, took fourth place in a tournament where they were matched with teams that entered lineups of 12-14 wrestlers.

I see the potential in these kids, the transformations as they unfold. My hope is that through their success, the boys will recognize that persevering with wrestling as a sport will help them in many aspects of their lives.

By Coach Dave Cilio