Top Incoming Freshmen of 2013

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Below is PA Power Wrestling’s list of the top incoming freshmen for the upcoming season. If I have missed a wrestler you felt should have been included, please post a topic in the Member Forum under the “Top Incoming Freshmen” page or send me an e-mail.

 

#1.  Luke Pletcher

School:  Greater Latrobe

Class:  AAA

District:  7

Region:  Southwest

Weight:  106 lbs./113 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  106 lbs.-Flo Nationals Third Place (High School)

2012:  107 lbs.-PJW State Champion (13 & 14)

2012:  105 lbs.-Southwest Regional Champion (Junior High)

2011:  106 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Fourth Place (High School)

2011:  92 lbs-PJW State Champion (13 & 14)

2010:  90 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Champion (Junior High)

2010:  85 lbs.-PJW State Champion (11 & 12)

2009:  85 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Third Place (Junior High)

2009:  84 lbs.-Eastern Worlds Champion (12 & Under)

2009:  70 lbs.-PJW State Champion (11 & 12)

2008:  65 lbs.-PJW State Champion (10 & Under)

2007:  62 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Midget)

2007:  60 lbs.-PJW State Seventh Place (10 & Under)

2006:  55 lbs.-PJW State Sixth Place (10 & Under)

2005:  52 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Champion (Bantam)

 

Overview:

The most accomplished wrestler of the incoming class of freshmen, Luke Pletcher of Latrobe, PA will most likely compete for a State medal and possible State Championship in Hershey this upcoming season. The most impressive performance of Pletcher’s career may not be his 5x PJW State Championships, but rather his fourth place finish at the 2011 Super 32 and his third place finish at the 2012 FloNationals, both which were in the High School Divisions and featured the Nation’s top wrestlers. Throughout his pre-high school career Pletcher has wrestled and defeated some of PA’s top light-weights. For example in 2010 at the Super 32 Junior High Division, Pletcher defeated Vincenzo Joseph (5-1) in the finals at 90 lbs. Joseph was a 2012 PIAA State seventh place medal winner at 106 lbs. At the 2011 Super 32 High School Division, Pletcher lost to eventual tournament champion Mike Kemerer by a score of (1-0) in ultimate tiebreaker. Kemerer (Franklin Regional) was the 2012 PIAA State Runner-up at 106 lbs. And in April of this year Pletcher faced Scott Parker (Pennridge) at the 2012 FloNationals in Philadelphia and dropped a tough (5-3) match in overtime. Parker was a 2012 PIAA State fourth place finisher at 106 lbs.

For the 2012-2013 season Luke projects to be at 106 lbs. throughout the entire season with the goal of going undefeated and capturing his first PIAA State Championship. Luke predicts he will compete for the second year in a row in the Super 32 Challenge, within the high school division, looking to improve on his fourth place finish in 2011. Overall, Luke Pletcher has a bright future ahead of him and if his previous success in PA Youth wrestling is any indication of the future, expect big things from this Greater Latrobe Wildcat.

2013 Prediction:  State Medalist

 

#2.  Hayden Hidlay

School:  Mifflin County

Class:  AAA

District:  6

Region:  Northwest

Weight:  106 lbs./113 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  106 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Runner-up (Cadet)

2012:  106 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Third Place (Cadet)

2012:  102 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (13 & 14)

2011:  100 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Third Place (Junior High)

2011:  91 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Schoolboy)

2011:  91 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Schoolboy)

2011:  87 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (13 & 14)

2010:  90 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Fourth Place (Junior High)

2010:  80 lbs.-Tulsa Nationals Fifth Place (12 & Under)

2010:  80 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (11 & 12)

2009:  74 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Champion (Junior)

2009:  75 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (11 & 12)

2008:  70 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Champion (Junior)

2008:  70 lbs.-PJW State Champion (10 & Under)

2007:  62 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Champion (Midget)

2007:  60 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (10 & Under)

2006:  58 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Seventh Place (Midget)

2006:  60 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (10 & Under)

2005:  55 lbs.-PAWF State Champion (Midget)

2005:  52 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Bantam)

 

Overview:

A decorated wrestler from Lewistown, PA Hayden Hidlay has been on the Pennsylvania Youth Wrestling scene for several years. Hidlay has accumulated 6 PA Junior Wrestling medals, including one Championship title, and no place lower than third. In addition Hayden has won two MAWA Eastern National Championships and three combined PAWF Championship titles. The incoming freshman recently competed in the PAWF Cadet State Championships and placed second in Greco-Roman and third in Freestyle at 106 lbs. On a National level, Hayden has placed twice at the prestigious Super 32 Challenge in Greensboro, North Carolina competing in the Junior High Division, while in 2010 he placed fifth at the Tulsa Nationals in Oklahoma. Hidlay will make an impact early for Mifflin County High School, figuring to begin the season at either 113 lbs. or 120 lbs. with the potential to drop to 106 lbs. for the post-season. Hayden’s previous experience against top talent will enable him to be one of the most impressive freshmen of 2013.

2013 Prediction:  State Qualifier

 

#3.  Kaleb Young

School:  Punxsutawney Area

Class:  AAA

District:  9

Region:  Northwest

Weight:  120 lbs./126 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  117 lbs.-PJW State Champion (13 & 14)

2011:  102 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (13 & 14)

2010:  90 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (11 & 12)

2009:  86 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Junior)

2009:  80 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

2008:  75 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (10 & Under)

2007:  70 lbs.-Eastern Worlds Fourth Place (10 & Under)

2007:  70 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Midget)

2007:  70 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Midget)

2007:  65 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier  (10 & Under)

2006:  65 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Third Place (Midget)

 

Overview:

Younger brother of former Punxsutawney Chuck star and current Mercyhurst wrestler Kody Young, Kaleb earned his first PJW State title in 2012 by capturing the 117 lbs. Championship. It was his fourth PJW medal, twice finishing as the runner-up and once in fourth place. In 2007 Kaleb was a double Schoolboy Champion at the PAWF State Championship capturing both Greco and Freestyle titles at 70 lbs. Additionally, Young was a MAWA Eastern National runner-up in 2009 and an Eastern Worlds fourth place finisher in 2007. For the 2013 Season Kaleb Young should fall into the 120 lbs./126 lbs. range, joining 2012 State qualifier Joel Bowers in the Punxsutawney lower weights. Young should have no issues adjusting to the high school level and may end up wrestling in Hershey come March 2013.

2013 Prediction:  State Qualifier

 

#4.  Lucas Ortiz

School:  Conestoga Valley

Class:  AAA

District:  3

Region:  South Central

Weight:  126 lbs./132 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  126 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Fourth (Cadet)

2012:  126 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Third Place (Cadet)

2012:  124 lbs.-PJW State Champion (13 & 14)

2011:  120 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Champion (JH Div.)

2011:  112 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Schoolboy)

2011:  112 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (13 & 14)

2010:  98 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Fourth Place (Schoolboy)

2010:  95 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

2009:  82 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Fourth Place (Junior)

 

Overview:

Incoming freshman Lucas Ortiz recently competed at the USAW Cadet Freestyle Nationals in Fargo, ND where he compiled a (2-2) record in Freestyle. Earlier this year Ortiz earned his first PJW State title, capturing the 124 lbs. Championship for his second career PJW medal. In 2011 Ortiz was a PAWF State Champion in Freestyle, competing in the Schoolboy division, and was also a Super 32 Challenge champion in the Junior High division. Ortiz will join 2x Regional Qualifier Nate Musser in Conestoga Valley’s lower-middle weights, figuring to compete at the 126 lbs./132 lbs. range for the 2013 Season. Ortiz will be tested in District 3 by upper class-men but should fair well, while certainly having the potential to complete an outstanding career for Conestoga Valley.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#5.  Gage Curry

School:  North Hills

Class:  AAA

District:  7

Region:  Southwest

Weight:  106 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  97 lbs.-PJW State Champion (13 & 14)

2011:  100 lbs.-PJW State Champion (11 & 12)

2010:  75 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (11 & 12)

2009:  60 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (10 & Under)

2008:  55 lbs.-PJW State Seventh Place (10 & Under)

2007:  50 lbs.-PJW State Seventh Place (10 & Under)

2006:  46 lbs.-Eastern Worlds Third Place (8 & Under)

2006:  45 lbs.-PJW State Sixth Place (10 & Under)

2005:  40 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Fifth Place (Bantam)

 

Overview:

Gage Curry has competed in almost every youth tournament imaginable in his long career of the sport. Curry placed four times in the PJW 10 & Under Division before capturing back-to-back State titles in 2011 and 2012. The light-weight wrestler from the WPIAL will be one of many competitors in the 106 lbs. weight of District 7 in 2013. The freshman may be undersized competing at 106 lbs. which could hurt him when wrestling older and bigger opponents but the North Hills wrestler will no doubt grow into his own and have a successful high school career. Curry has over 7 years of experience wrestling on the State level and this will help him when facing tough competition early and often in District 7.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#6.  Felix Belga

School:  Cumberland Valley

Class:  AAA

District:  3

Region:  South Central

Weight:  138 lbs./145 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  138 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Third Place (Cadet)

2012:  138 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Cadet)

2012:  132 lbs.-PJW State Champion (13 & 14)

2012:  130 lbs.-Wilson Junior High Champion

2011:  136 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Fourth Place (Intermediate)

2010:  115 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

 

Overview:

Last month Belga wrestled his future teammate and 2012 PIAA State third place medalist Patrick Duggan in the finals of the 138 lbs. PAWF Cadet State Freestyle Championship. Although Duggan won, Felix went on to compete in the USAW Cadet Nationals in Fargo, ND. In Fargo Belga finished with a record of (1-2) in both Greco and Freestyle at 145 lbs. Belga won his first PJW State title last season when he captured the 132 lbs. championship. The incoming freshman will have the advantage of practicing with some of the State’s best in Patrick Duggan and 2012 State Runner-up T.C. Warner, as well as being coached by Dave Heckard for the Cumberland Valley Eagles. Belga should see action at the 138 lbs./145 lbs. range in the 2013 Season, gaining valuable experience wrestling in tournaments such as the Beast of the East and the Manheim Holiday Classic.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#7.  Drew Phipps

School:  Norwin

Class:  AAA

District:  7

Region:  Southwest

Weight:  182 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  182 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Runner-up (Cadet)

2012:  182 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Third Place (Cadet)

2012:  167 lbs.-PJW State Champions (13 & 14)

2012:  185 lbs.-Southwest Regional Champion (Junior High)

2011:  180 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Runner-up (Junior High)

2011:  167 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (13 & 14)

2010:  145 lbs.-Eastern Worlds Champion (12 & Under)

2010:  145 lbs.-PJW State Champion (11 & 12)

2009:  115 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

2008:  95 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (10 & Under)

2007:  90 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (10 & Under)

 

Overview:

Two-time PJW State Champion and one-time runner-up Drew Phipps will have an immediate impact in the WPIAL. In 2013 Phipps should see action for Norwin High School at both 182 lbs. and 195 lbs. In addition to his four PJW medals, Phipps was a 2012 Southwest Regional Junior High Champion, a 2011 Super 32 Challenge runner-up in the Junior High Division, and a 2010 Eastern Worlds Champion in the 12 & Under Division. Given his size and experience Drew Phipps should have a bright future at Norwin with the potential to make multiple trips to Hershey in addition to PIAA hardware.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#8.  Jordan Wood

School:  Boyertown Area

Class:  AAA

District:  1

Region:  Southeast

Weight:  220 lbs./285 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  265 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Schoolboy)

2012:  210 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Schoolboy)

2012:  212 lbs.-PJW State Champion (13 & 14)

2011:  235 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Champion (JH Div.)

2011:  200 lbs.-PJW State Champion (11 & 12)

2010:  166 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Champion (Junior)

2010:  160 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

2008:  134 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Midget)

 

Overview:

Boyertown Area High School has not seen an upper-weight of this capability since the days of 2004 PIAA State Champion Mike Spaid. Jordan Wood has won it all, including two PJW State titles, a double PAWF State Champion, a Super 32 Challenge Champion, and a MAWA Eastern National Champion. The incoming freshman should see action at both 220 lbs. and 285 lbs. for the Boyertown Bears and could go at either weight for the post-season. Wood should have an impact within the Southeast Regional right out of the gate and at the completion of his career may have a few State medals and a PIAA State Championship to his name.

2013 Prediction:  State Qualifier

 

#9.  Shae Bloom

School:  DuBois Area

Class:  AAA

District:  9

Region:  Northwest

Weight:  106 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  92 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (13 & 14)

2011:  91 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Fourth Place (Schoolboy)

2011:  91 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Third Place (Schoolboy)

2011:  82 lbs.-PJW State Champion (13 & 14)

2010:  75 lbs.-PJW State Seventh Place (11 & 12)

2009:  60 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Midget)

2008:  65 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (10 & Under)

2008:  66 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Fifth Place (Junior)

2007:  60 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Midget)

2007:  60 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Midget)

2007:  60 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (10 & Under)

2006:  60 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Runner-up (Midget)

2006:  60 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Midget)

 

Overview:

One-time PJW State Champion and 2x State medalist Shae Bloom is yet another DuBois Area High School light-weight that should be one of the best in District 9. Bloom will be undersized in his freshman season competing at 106 lbs. but in no way should that disqualify him as a potential Regional or State qualifier. Much like Scotty Parker from Pennridge, Bloom may come into his own during his sophomore year after putting on more weight and gaining a year of experience wrestling slightly heavier opponents. Competing in the PAWF State Tournament, Shae Bloom has accumulated quite the collection of medals that include 3 medals in Freestyle and 4 medals in Greco-Roman.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#10.  Blake Marks

School:  Southern Columbia Area

Class:  AA

District:  4

Region:  Northeast

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  147 lbs.-PJW State Champion (13 & 14)

2011:  136 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Schoolboy)

2011:  132 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (13 & 14)

2010:  105 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (11 & 12)

2009:  91 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Junior)

2009:  90 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

2008:  80 lbs.-PJW State Seventh Place (10 & Under)

2007:  70 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Champion (Midget)

2007:  70 lbs.-PJW State Sixth Place (10 & Under)

2005:  60 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Fifth Place (Bantam)

 

Overview:

2012 PJW State Champion Blake Marks will be a solid addition to the Southern Columbia line-up in 2013. In the finals of the 2012 PJW Tournament at 147 lbs. Marks defeated 2011 PIAA State qualifier Jared Walker from South Fayette (4-3).  In addition to being a 5x PJW State medal winner he was also a 2011 PAWF State Freestyle Champion. Marks also was a 3x MAWA Eastern National place winner, claiming the Championship in 2007 at 70 lbs. For his freshman year Blake Marks predicts to fall into the 145 lbs. or 152 lbs. position. Marks should find success early in his career and by the time its over may have several PIAA medals.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#11.   Cole Manley

School:  Altoona Area

Class:  AAA

District:  6

Region:  Northwest

Weight:  106 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  82 lbs.-PJW State Champion (13 & 14)

2011:  85 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Third Place (Junior High)

2011:  77 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Schoolboy)

2011:  77 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Third Place (Schoolboy)

2011:  75 lbs.-PJW State Fifth Place (11 & 12)

2010:  75 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Fourth Place (Junior High)

2010:  70 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Novice)

2010:  70 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (11 & 12)

2009:  70 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Fifth Place (Junior High)

2009:  65 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Third Place (Novice)

2009:  65 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Novice)

2009:  65 lbs. PJW State Runner-up (10 & Under)

2008:  60 lbs.-PJW State Seventh Place (10 & Under)

2007:  60 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Runner-up (Midget)

2007:  60 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Midget)

2007:  55 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (10 & Under)

2006:  52 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Fourth Place (Bantam)

 

Overview:

Another wrestler that has been around the PA Youth wrestling scene for quite some time is Cole “C.J.” Manley from Altoona, PA. Manley was a 2012 PJW State Champion at 82 lbs. earning his fifth PJW State medal. He was also a 3x Super 32 Challenge place winner, finishing fifth, fourth and runner-up. Additionally Manley has earned 7 PAWF State medals, including both a State Freestyle and a State Greco title. In his freshman season Manley will be well undersized for 106 lbs. considering he has been wrestling in the 80 lbs. range this past season. Much like Clearfield’s Matt Kyler who weighed well under 103 lbs. when he was a freshman in 2003. Manley will have several talented work-out partners such as DJ Hollingshead and T.J. Brandt this season and despite his size should have success in District 6. Once he gains weight and grows into the 106 lbs. weight-class Manley will be a threat in both the Northwest Region and the State.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#12.  Devin Schnupp

School:  Warwick

Class:  AAA

District:  3

Region:  South Central

Weight:  106 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  88 lbs.-USAW Greco Nationals Champion (Cadet)

2012:  88 lbs.-USAW Freestyle Nationals Champion (Cadet)

2012:  88 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Cadet)

2012:  88 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Cadet)

2012:  82 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (13 & 14)

2011:  70 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Schoolboy)

2011:  70 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Schoolboy)

2010:  70 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Schoolboy)

2010:  65 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

2009:  60 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Novice)

2008:  55 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (10 & Under)

2007:  54 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Third Place (Midget)

2007:  55 lbs.-PJW State Eighth Place (10 & Under)

2006:  50 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Seventh Place (Midget)

 

Overview:

In July 2012 Devin Schnupp reached new heights when he became a Fargo Cadet Double National Champion at 88 lbs. in North Dakota. Schnupp was the only Pennsylvania wrestler in 2012 to win both Greco and Freestyle National titles in either Cadet or Junior Divisions. It was not the first time Schnupp has excelled in Freestyle and Greco as he has won 6 individual PAWF State titles. He has also earned 2 PJW State medals, most recently in 2012 when he finished third at 82 lbs. in the 13 & 14 year old division. Although, during the 2013 season Devin Schnupp will be undersized at 106 lbs., and may have trouble with heavier opponents. Despite his lack of size Schnupp will most definitely be competitive in his freshman season and once he grows into the weight the Warwick wrestler will be one of the top light-weights in District 3.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#13. Owen Wherley

Team:  South Western

Class:  AAA

District:  3

Region:  South Central

Weight:  106 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  105 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Fifth Place (Advanced)

2012:  97 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (13 & 14)

2012:  90 lbs.-Wilson Junior High Champion

2011:  90 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Sixth Place (Junior High)

2011:  85 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Third Place (Intermediate)

2011:  77 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (13 & 14)

2010:  75 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Third Place (Intermediate)

2010:  70 lbs.-PJW Sate Sixth Place (11 & 12)

2009:  70 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Champion (Junior High)

2008:  58 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Junior)

2008:  55 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (10 & Under)

2007:  54 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Midget)

2006:  50 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Sixth Place (Midget)

 

Overview:

Owen Wherley is an experienced Pennsylvania Youth wrestler who has 6 MAWA Eastern National medals and 4 PJW State medals. In 2009 Wherley was a Super 32 Challenge Champion at 70 lbs. in the Junior High Division and a 2012 Wilson Junior High Champion at 90 lbs. At the 2012 PJW State Championships Owen placed third at 97 lbs. in the 13 & 14 year old division. He was also a 2012 MAWA Eastern National fifth place finisher at 105 lbs. competing in the Advanced division. Wherley should see action at 106 lbs. most of the season and the freshman will have the luxury of working out daily with 2011 106 lbs. South Central Regional Champion Logan Feeser. Unless Feeser is certified and drops to 106 lbs., Wherley should wrestle there the entire season and have a successful year. With future size and strength, in addition to the benefits of working out with a State qualifier all this season, Wherley will make an impact on District 3 and possibly the State in the years to come.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#14.  Noah Stewart

School:  Mifflin County

Class:  AAA

District:  6

Region:  Northwest

Weight:  113 lbs./120 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  112 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (13 & 14)

2011:  102 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (13 & 14)

2010:  90 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (11 & 12)

2009:  82 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Junior)

2009:  80 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

2008:  75 lbs.-PJW State Champion (10 & Under)

2007:  70 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Sixth Place (Midget)

2005:  60 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Runner-up (Midget)

 

Overview:

The second top incoming freshman from Mifflin County High School is Noah Stewart. He was a 2007 PJW State Champion and a 2012 third place finisher at 112 lbs. in the 13 & 14 year old division. Overall Stewart owns 3 PJW State medals and 2 MAWA Eastern National medals. The freshman will most likely compete at the weight class above #2 freshman Hayden Hidlay which appears to be either 113 lbs. or 120 lbs. Either way, the next four years for these young stars should be exciting ones, with Stewart having the potential to win PIAA hardware by the time his career is over.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

#15.  Jarod Verkleeren

School:  Belle Vernon Area

Class:  AAA

District:  7

Region:  Southwest

Weight:  126 lbs./132 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  128 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Schoolboy)

2012:  128 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Schoolboy)

2012:  124 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (13 & 14)

2012:  122 lbs.-Southwest Regional Champion (Junior High)

2011:  112 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Schoolboy)

2011:  112 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Schoolboy)

2011:  105 lbs.-PJW State Champion (11 & 12)

2010:  85 lbs.-PJW State Fifth Place (11 & 12)

2009:  80 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Novice)

2009:  80 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (10 & Under)

2008:  80 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (10 & Under)

 

Overview:

2011 PJW State Champion and 2012 PJW State third place finisher Jarod Verkleeren will be a strong middle-weight for the Belle Vernon wrestling team. Verkleeren also finished fifth at the PJW State Tournament in 2010 and was a Southwest Region Junior High Champion at 122 lbs. last season. In addition, Jarod is a 3x PAWF State Greco Champion and a one-time Freestyle Champion and runner-up. Verkleeren will be joined by his brother Derek, who will also be a freshman next season, with Jarod most likely wrestling at 132 lbs. and Derek at 138 lbs. Both wrestlers should have success for Belle Vernon, with Jarod leading the way, as both compete against the WPIAL’s top middle-weights.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#16.  Jonathan Gabriel

School:  Bedford

Class:  AA

District:  5

Region:  Southwest

Weight:  106 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  94 lbs.-USAW Greco Nationals Runner-up (Cadet)

2012:  94 lbs.-USAW Freestyle Nationals Third Place (Cadet)

2012:  94 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Cadet)

2012:  94 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Cadet)

2012:  87 lbs.-PJW State Champion (13 & 14)

2011:  90 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Fourth Place (Junior High)

2011:  77 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Schoolboy)

2011:  77 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Schoolboy)

2011:  77 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (13 & 14)

2010:  77 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Schoolboy)

2010:  75 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (11 & 12)

2009:  70 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Novice)

2009:  70 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Runner-up (Novice)

2009:  70 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

2008:  65 lbs.-PJW State Eighth Place (10 & Under)

2007:  60 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Sixth Place (Midget)

2006:  55 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Champion (Midget)

 

Overview:

2012 PJW State Champion Jon Gabriel will add to an already experienced lower-weight group of wrestlers from Bedford High School. The incoming freshman recently earned National recognition when he became a USAW Double Cadet All-American in Fargo, ND. Gabriel earned runner-up honors in Greco and a third place medal in Freestyle, both at 94 lbs. Overall Gabriel has earned three PJW medals and a fourth place finish at the Super 32 Challenge in the Junior High division at 90 lbs. In the PAWF State Freestyle tournament Jon has captured 6 medals, including 3 Championships, one sixth place and, 2 runner-up finishes. In the PAWF State Greco tournament Jon has captured 3 medals, including 2 Championships and once a runner-up. Although he may be slightly undersized for 106 lbs. next season, Jon Gabriel will benefit greatly by having drill partners in 2x PIAA State medalist Ryan Easter and 30+ match winner last season Garett Thomas. Gabriel should have a successful career that includes several trips to Hershey.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier 

 

#17.  Wade Cummings

School:  Downingtown East

Class:  AAA

District:  1

Region: Southeast

Weight:  113 lbs./120 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  107 lbs.-PJW State Fifth Place (13 & 14)

2012:  107 lbs.-Southeast Regional Champion (Junior High)

2012:  110 lbs.-Chester County Champion (Junior High)

2011:  98 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Schoolboy)

2011:  92 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (13 & 14)

2011:  97 lbs.-Southeast Regional Champion (Junior High)

2011:  95 lbs.-Chester County Champion (Junior High)

2010:  85 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

 

Overview:

One of District 1’s most anticipated freshman for the 2013 Season is Downingtown East’s Wade Cummings. The 2x Chester County and Southeast Regional Junior High Champion also finished fifth at the 2012 PJW State Tournament at 107 lbs. Cummings may see action at both 113 lbs. and 120 lbs. in 2013 but, if certified, will most likely compete at 106 lbs. for the post-season. Overall Wade Cummings should be one of the top light-weights in District 1 next season and has the potential to earn PIAA hardware by the end of his career.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#18.  Nathaniel Newberry

School:  Biglerville

Class:  AA

District:  3

Region:  Southeast

Weight:  106 lbs./113 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  107 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (13 & 14)

2012:  105 lbs.-Wilson Junior High Runner-up

2011:  82 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (13 & 14)

2011:  85 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Intermediate)

2010:  85 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Eighth Place (Junior High)

2010:  75 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

2010:  75 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Fifth Place (Intermediate)

2009:  66 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Junior)

2008:  62 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Fourth Place (Junior)

2008:  60 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (10 & Under)

2007:  54 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Champion (Midget)

2006:  50 lbs.-PJW State Eighth Place (10 & Under)

 

Overview:

A 3x PJW State medal winner and 5x MAWA Eastern National medal winner Nathaniel Newberry of Upper Adams, PA should have no problem adjusting to competition at the high school level. In 2013 Newberry may compete at both 106 lbs. and 113 lbs. for Biglerville High School in District 3. Newberry was a MAWA Eastern National Champion in 2007 and 2x runner-up in addition to an eighth place finisher at the Super 32 Challenge in the Junior High Division. The incoming freshman should have an impact in the lower weights and could earn several trips to Hershey by the end of his career.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#19.  Josh Colello

School:  Cedar Cliff

Class:  AAA

District:  3

Region:  South Central

Weight:  182 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  187 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (13 & 14)

2012:  185 lbs.-Wilson Junior High Champion

2011:  167 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (13 & 14)

2010:  135 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (12 & 11)

2008:  105 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (10 & Under)

2007:  93 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Fourth Place (Midget)

2005:  73 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Fourth Place (Bantam)

 

Overview:

Josh Colello will join his older brother Jake at Cedar Cliff High School and should have similar success early in his career. Josh was a four-time PJW State medal winner, finishing third twice and fourth twice, in addition to two MAWA Eastern National medals. Josh may be the younger brother but he is already the heavier wrestler, figuring to compete at 182 lbs./195 lbs. in 2013 for the Colts. Josh will face a tough schedule, competing in the Reno Tournament of Champions and the PowerADE Holiday Classic, in addition to a heavy dual line-up. Like older brother Jake, Josh Colello should fair well in District 3, and has the potential to earn both Regional and State medals in the future.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

#20.  Collin Glorioso

School:  Huntingdon Area

Class:  AA

District:  6

Region:  Southwest

Weight:  106 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  100 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Champion (Cadet)

2012:  100 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Third Place (Cadet)

2012:  97 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (13 & 14)

2011:  100 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Fourth Place (Junior High)

2011:  84 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Schoolboy)

2011:  84 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Runner-up (Schoolboy)

2011:  87 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (13 & 14)

2009:  80 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Novice)

2009:  80 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Runner-up (Novice)

 

Overview:

Collin Glorioso was a 2012 PAWF State Greco Champion and Freestyle third place finisher and qualified for the USAW Cadet Nationals in Fargo, ND and went (0-2) at 100 lbs. Glorioso was also a 2012 PJW State fourth place medalist, a career first, and a 2011 Super 32 Challenge fourth place finisher in the Junior High division. The incoming freshman should begin the season at 106 lbs. for Huntingdon Area High School. Glorioso will face top competition in District 6 at 106 lbs. but could earn several trips to Hershey by the end of his career.

2013 Prediction:  Regional Qualifier

 

Honorable Mention

(Alphabetical Order)

 

HM.  Benjie Kane

School:  Shaler Area

Class:  AAA

District:  7

Region:  Southwest

Weight:  285 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  252 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (13 & 14)

2011:  252 lbs.-PJW State Eighth Place (13 & 14)

2010:  200 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (11 & 12)

2009:  160 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

 

HM.  Jacob Lizak

HM.  Nicholas Monico

School:  Saegertown

Class:  AA

District:

Region:

Weight:  132 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  128 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Fourth Place (Schoolboy)

2012:  128 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Runner-up (Schoolboy)

2012:  124 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (13 & 14)

2011:  115 lbs.-PJW State Seventh Place (11 & 12)

2009:  80 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (10 & Under)

 

HM.  Dan Moran

School:  Northampton Area

Class:  AAA

District:  11

Region:  Northeast

Weight:  106 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  84 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Schoolboy)

2012:  87 lbs.-District XI Third Place (Junior High)

2012:  87 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (13 & 14)

2011:  85 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Fourth Place (Junior High)

2011:  75 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (11 & 12)

2011:  77 lbs.-District XI Champion (Junior High)

2010:  70 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Runner-up (Novice)

2010:  65 lbs.-PJW State Fifth Place (11 & 12)

2008:  55 lbs. PJW State Fifth Place (10 & Under)

2008:  54 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Champion (Midget)

2007:  50 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Midget)

2006:  45 lbs.-PJW State Sixth Place (10 & Under)

 

HM.  Jake Shaffer

School:  Greater Latrobe

Class:  AAA

District:  7

Region:  Southwest

Weight:  132 lbs./138 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  138 lbs.-PAWF State Freestyle Third Place (Cadet)

2012:  132 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (13 & 14)

2012:  130 lbs.-Southwest Regional Champion (Junior High)

2011:  136 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Runner-up (Junior High)

2011:  112 lbs.-PJW State Fifth Place (13 & 14)

2010:  112 lbs.-Super 32 Challenge Sixth Place (Junior High)

2010:  100 lbs.-Eastern Worlds Fourth Place (12 & Under)

2010:  95 lbs.-PJW State Fourth Place (11 & 12)

2009:  95 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (11 & 12)

2008:  75 lbs.-PJW State Sixth Place (10 & Under)

2007:  75 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Sixth Place (Midget)

2005:  60 lbs.-MAWA Eastern National Runner-up (Bantam)

 

HM.  Lee Todora

School:  Bethlehem Catholic

Class:  AA

District:  11

Region:  Southeast

Weight:  126 lbs./132 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  124 lbs.-PJW State Runner-up (13 & 14)

2012:  132 lbs.-District XI Champion (Junior High)

2011:  117 lbs.-District XI Runner-up (Junior High)

2010:  105 lbs.-PJW State Sixth Place (11 & 12)

 

HM.  Derek Verkleeren

School:  Belle Vernon Area

Class:  AAA

District:  7

Region:  Southwest

Weight:  132 lbs./138 lbs.

 

Career Highlights:

2012:  132 lbs.-PJW State Third Place (13 & 14)

2012:  130 lbs.-Southwest Regional Third Place (Junior High)

2011:  128 lbs.-PAWF State Greco Fourth Place (Schoolboy)

2011:  124 lbs.-PJW State Qualifier (13 & 14)

 

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