The J. Taylor Finley Middle School wrestling team turned in a fine season. The Falcons showcased a group of outstanding young athletes on their way to compiling an overall record of 6-3.
Coached by Michael Marinello and Travis Smith, the 36-wrestler strong roster was captained by eighth grader Lucas Cirlincione.
Finley Middle School wrestling head coach Michael Marinello.
“The team learned a lot through the season and really supported each other,” Marinello said. Finley defeated Copiague (52-20), East Northport (36-23), Brentwood West (50-12), Brentwood North (42-16), Northport (34-22) and Nesaquake (38-18). The Falcons dropped meets to Elwood (32-24), Hauppauge (48-15) and Oldfield (38-24).
“This was a balanced team (between seventh and eighth graders), so I think we will have a good team next season,” Marinello said.
Marinello was very pleased with his top matmen. Cirlincione (“a great all-around athlete”) and Lucas Petrizzi (“a strong athlete with a bright future in wrestling”) shared the team’s MVP Award and were both praised by the coach.
Zach Zboray (“a solid wrestler) and Anthony Annunziata (“sound fundamentals and a fighter”) garnered Finley’s Hardest Worker Award.
Michael Kline (“a great feel for wrestling”) and Enzo Pupillo (“turned in a great seventh grade season”) shared the Most Improved Wrestler Award.
Brett Bender (“solid performer all year”), Ryan Porzio (“a hard worker who knows how to be tough”), Emanuel Mejia (“a dedicated wrestler with a great cradle”) and Rich Zboray (“a skilled wrestler who will get even better with strength training”) also shined on the mat for Finley.
The roster consisted of 21 seventh graders and 15 eighth graders. Finley seems set for another strong season next winter.