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Coach Yates Closing In On Win #200 It's so close you can smell it. A wise old Italian once said that if you're close enough to smell it, your close enough to taste it. Dawgs Head Coach Ernie Yates can taste it. He just has to wait - a little bit. As the most winning coach in the proud history of Berwick Wrestling, Coach Yates currently has 192 wins in the record books, 42 of which were notched in just a little over the last 2 years. Coach Yates, entering into his 18th year at the Dawg's Helm, previously hit magic number 150 in career wins on January 11, 2003, at the National High School Coaches Association's Wrestling Fest (formerly Easton Duals) at Quakertown High School. The wait now is for next season. But, as for many of us, seasons intertwine into one long endless season. In a blink of an eye, season 2005-2006 will be at our doorstep. Coach Yates has compiled an impressive number of honors over the years. He does not wear his honors as a badge on his shirt pocket. You basically have to interrogate him to compile them into a list, but what we do know is that his honors include at least the following:
The most recent surge in Dawg winning ways over the last several years has had very little to do with the outward goal of team wins. In lieu of setting goals focusing on the number of season team wins, Coach Yates has focused on getting the Dawgs some of the fiercest competition in the state and nation. During the past few seasons, Coach Yates has had the Dawgs compete against Blair Academy, Connellsville, Upper Perkiomen (twice), and a host of other top wrestling programs from New Jersey and Virginia. In scheduling these dual competitions, there were no illusions of grandeur. The plan is simple. If you want to be the best, you have to wrestle the best. Stop reading about these top wrestling programs in the news, and start wrestling them. If you get soundly defeated - fine. There is no other way. There is no other way to better one's self. There is no other way to better one's program. Such efforts illustrate that the number of coaching career wins is not the main goal of Berwick Wrestling. This past 2004-2005 season, Berwick did not schedule regular season match-ups against Nanticoke, Dallas, and Tunkhannock (all three would have realistically been 3 sure wins), in order to attend the Virginia Battlefield Duals to compete against Connellsville, Upper Perk, and some of the top teams in Virginia. How many coaches would make such a trade is an open question, but Coach Yates went after the match-ups - with excitement. Such a philosophy has certainly reaped rewards. The rewards may not be in enhancing the team win column for Coach Yates, but the rewards lie with making the Dawgs significantly better individually and as a program. The Dawgs are never intimated by anyone they compete against. The historical big "district rivalries" fade in comparison versus wrestling the top programs. You not only significantly improve, you learn to believe. It doesn't matter what sport one competes in, the road to becoming a champion starts with one word - "Believe." The Dawgs believe their winning ways will continue. Along the way, the career win total for Coach Yates will continue to eclipse Berwick Wrestling's all-time coaching win record. Nobody will need a calculator next season. We can start counting with just our two hands, because.... Win #150 was excellent. Win #200 will be monumental. The magic number stands at #8. The countdown continues. BUJNO,
PERRY, VENDITTI, & WALSH GARNER ALL-ACADEMIC HONORS It takes a great deal for an athlete to achieve success in the sport of wrestling. It takes a enormous commitment for a student to achieve success in academics. It takes a special student-athlete to be able to excel in both. The math is simple. Despite the dedication, training, and commitment required to achieve success in wrestling, there are many wrestlers that are able to rise to the top in the sport. Despite the hours of studying, focus, and commitment to succeed academically, there are many students that are able to rise toward the top of their class. What separates one from the crowd, what makes one truly stand-out, is the ability to excel both academically and in the sport of wrestling. An exemplary student-athlete is that special person. Such achievement adds to the definition of a champion. A champion isn't one who dedicates his self to excellence in a sport. Such achievement is just one aspect, just one slice, of one's life. A "true champion" is one who dedicates his self to excellence in all that he does. For a champion, the drive to win that next tough wrestling match, to win districts, to get to the state championship tournament, equals the same exact drive to get an "A" on the next tough test, to nail the comprehensive final at the end of the year, to continually strive to get to the top academic ranks of their class. Thus is the nature of the consummate student-athlete. To be the best, one must strive to be the best in all that you do. The key words are "in all that you do." It is a way of life. The Champion Berwick Wrestling Program is proud to announce that the following Dawgs have separated themselves from the crowd by achieving State and/or District 2 All-Academic honors this year: Anthony
Bujno, Senior
This past season, Anthony earned State Medalist honors by placing 8th at the PIAA Class AAA State Championship Tournament, placed 3rd at the PIAA NE AAA Regional Championship Tournament, won his second consecutive District Championship at the PIAA District 2 AAA Championship Tournament, compiled 39 season wins this year, and finished his high school career with 116 wins as the 3rd most winning wrestler in the history of Berwick Wrestling. Anthony will be continuing his academic and wrestling career at East Stroudsburg University. Tyler
Perry, Sophomore
This past season, Tyler placed 5th at the PIAA NE Class AAA Regional Championship Tournament, was Runner-Up at the PIAA District 2 AAA Championship Tournament, and compiled 31 wins this past season that places him on an accelerated pace to potentially eclipse Berwick's all-time career win record before his high school career comes to a close. Nick
Venditti, Freshman
This past season, Nick took 5th place honors at the PIAA District 2 AAA Championship Tournament in what was arguably the toughest bracket at districts. Nick also had 26 wins during his freshman season putting him on pace to potentially join the exclusive Berwick Wrestling 100-Win Club before his high school career is completed. Josh
Walsh, Junior This past season, Josh placed 5th at the PIAA NE Class AAA Regional Championship Tournament, won a District Championship at the PIAA District 2 AAA Championship Tournament, and compiled 35 wins during his stellar junior season that puts him in the front seat to lead and guide the Dawgs next season for his senior finale. The District 2 Wrestling Coaches Association will hold a banquet honoring the first and second All-Academic teams on Sunday, June 5. Congratulations Anthony, Tyler, Nick, & Josh!! BRENT YATES ~ NICK YALCH ~
JUSTIN BOHL ~ ??? The Dawgs have been very successful over the past several years. And not just in the win column. The Champion Berwick Wrestling Program has been very successful in acquiring the talents of a superb second assistant volunteer coach to assist both Head Coach Ernie Yates and Assistant Coach Wade Perry. The Dawg Faithful was saddened to learn at the recent annual awards banquet that Justin Bohl will be unable to volunteer his excellent services next year. Justin did a great job, was admired by both the wrestlers and the Dawg Faithful alike, and he will be sorely missed. Because the last three volunteer second assistant coaches were extremely talented young individuals with bright futures, we have had to incur a somewhat expected turnover in this vital position. But somehow, someway, this position has been filled with extraordinary people who have cast a bright light to enhance and improve upon the success of the Champion Berwick Wrestling Program. Brent Yates
When the announcement was made, the Dawg Faithful were all familiar with Brent and knew him to be an outstanding wrestler and young man. At the time, Brent was a recent graduate of Drexel University and possessed four years of experience wrestling at the NCAA Division I level. Brent, a young man that both carries himself and leads with focused determination, made an immediate positive impact on the Dawgs. He not only schooled wrestlers with his technical expertise, his "you-can-do-it" attitude brushed off and benefited every wrestler. Brent was adored and he was an outstanding coach. Brent was also a role model. He was a role model for all in wrestling, academics, and in how one should be in life. He made one think, "Brent is the type of person that I would like my son to become." That, in and of itself, is the greatest compliment any coach or individual can receive. Brent had to leave the Dawg program in order to relocate for a career opportunity in western Pennsylvania. Brent may have left, but he stays tuned to the Dawgs and gets constant updates all the time. Nick Yalch
When the announcement was made, there were no question marks from the Dawg Faithful in regard to Nick's wrestling expertise as he was one of the best wrestlers to ever have worn a Dawg singlet. Coming into coaching the immediate year after graduating from high school obviously left some initial open-ended question marks. Any question marks quickly got answered. For such a young man, Nick was a stellar surprise in the way he coached with both maturity and purpose. He immediately earned the respect of all of the wrestlers and the Dawg Faithful. Nick did a great job. He preached confidence and more confidence to the wrestlers, which had a lasting effect on the Dawgs. The buzz word all year was, "Man, what a excellent job Nick is doing coaching!" Nick had to leave the Dawg program to enter into college. Nick may have officially left, but he has seen the Dawgs in action many times since, including attending regionals and states, departing his highly effective message of "confidence & confidence" to all of the wrestlers. Justin Bohl
When the announcement was made, most everyone knew that Justin was a fierce and excellent wrestler as a past-Dawg. But not many of the current Dawgs personally knew him very well. That didn't last long. Justin, a strong and sturdily-built young man with an electric personality, was an immediate hit with the wrestlers and Dawg Faithful. Justin, whose broad smile could light up the darkest room, also had an effective fever-pitch competitive intensity incapable of being diminished. He coached not only through his expertise in the sport, but with illuminating respect to all through his dedication and pure love of wrestling. Justin, who is an excellent young man, did an excellent job that was appreciated by all. Justin had to leave the Dawg program due to job relocation. Justin left such a positive mark on the Berwick Wrestling Program that it will not fade away, but is left simply to be built upon. Who's Next? It is sort of like thinking about who the newest member to your family may be. Whoever it will end up being, we stand a great chance of the lucky streak continuing and receiving another excellent coach and mentor. Consider this. Brent Yates did a great job. Nick Yalch did a great job. Then Justin Bohl did a great job. What did they all have in common? They were all athletes that coached with a champion mindset. When one great athlete has to immediately follow in the footsteps of another great athlete, an odd thing happens. One dusts off the footsteps. One decides never to follow a predecessor, but to lead. A champion only knows how to lead and succeed through dedication and commitment to the task at hand. The task at hand for the second volunteer assistant coach is not an envious task. At a championship tournament, there are but two chairs on the side of the mat for coaches. And, as the word volunteer implies, there is no paycheck. The second volunteer assistant coach is someone who supports our coaching staff and dedicates their self to our champion wrestling program by energetically departing his knowledge and expertise to our youth simply out of their intense passion for the sport of wrestling. The Dawg Faithful extends it best wishes in the search!! ROLAND
SINGLETARY HEADS TO STEVENS AS BULLDOG Senior Team Captain Roland Singletary has committed to continue his academic and wrestling career at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology located in Lancaster, PA.. Singletary will get to stay a Bulldog as he will be competing for the Battling Bulldogs under the guidance of Head Coach Dan Long. The Battling Bulldogs of Thaddeus Stevens compete in Region XIX of the National Junior College Athletic Association. In addition to Stevens College, Roland was also actively recruited by a number of D1, D2, & D3 colleges, with Bloomsburg University also being a finalist in his college choice decision-making process. Roland completed his Berwick High School Wrestling career by amassing a multitude of honors including: State Qualifier - 2005 PIAA Class AAA State Championship Tournament; 107 Career Wins - 7th Most Winning Wrestler In The History Of Berwick High School Wrestling; 38 Wins In Senior 2004/2005 Season; Regional Champion - 2005 NE AAA Championship Tournament; District Champion - 2005 District 2 AAA Championship Tournament; 100 Career Wins On February 4, 2005; Team Captain; First Team 2005 Times Leader All-Star Team; First Team 2005 Citizens Voice All-Star Team; First Team 2005 Reading Eagle All-Anthracite All-Star Team; First Team 2005 Press Enterprise All-Star Team; 3rd Place - 2004 District 2 AAA Championship Tournament; District Champion - 2003 District 2 AAA Championship Tournament; 4th Place - 2003 NE Regional Championship Tournament. The Dawg Faithful collectively wishes Roland "the very best" during his academic and wrestling pursuits at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. Congratulations Roland!! 3RD ANNUAL DAWG GOLF TOURNAMENT A SUNNY SUCCESS ON MAY 15 The 3rd Annual Berwick Wrestling Golf Tournament was held on beautiful sunny Sunday, May 15, at the Rolling Pines Golf Course in Briar Creek Township. It was a great golf extravaganza with showcase golfers and hackers alike, all competing in great fun and in support of the Champion Berwick Wrestling Program. What a difference a year makes, or better yet, what a difference the weather makes. With last year's drenching rain a mere memory, this year's tournament witnessed 17 foursome teams competing in shotgun start for prizes, food, and a shot at $10,000 for a hole-in-one at the number 5 hole. Hot dogs, snacks, and refreshments were provided at the golf course during the tournament. A wonderful dinner buffet, with a ton of great food and fellowship, was held at the Jaycees building immediately following the tournament. Berwick's R.J. Norce, Dean of Students at the Berwick Area Middle School, came close to snatching the unclaimed $10,000 hole-in-one prize. R.J. Norce rocketed a beautiful screaming drive on the 5-hole that just came up a mere four to five feet short of the cup. After all the "ooh's" and "aah's" from stunned spectators near the hole, and after prayers for a minor earthquake went unanswered, R.J. knew the meaning of the age-old saying that close only counts in horseshoes and hand-grenades. Final Results & Prizes
It appears that Ernie Ney & Frank Peters were extra lucky on the day! *In addition, all golfers received a prize of appreciation which included such things as gift certificates to various stores & restaurants & other goodies, etc. The steering committee for Berwick Wrestling's Third Annual Golf Tournament consisted of Cindy Karns, Julie Ney, and Lou Ney. A significant number of dedicated Matbackers were present both at the golf course and in food preparation at the Jaycees. It is wished that an attendance sheet could have been signed to personally thank everyone present. But, as always, we know how much the hard working crew of the Matbackers is appreciated, whether or not it is routinely spoken or unspoken. Your hard work, dedication, and support is the backbone of our Champion Berwick Wrestling Program! On behalf of the Champion Berwick Wrestling Program, we sincerely appreciate and thank all of the golfers who attended this year's tournament. It is because of you that the Berwick Wrestling Golf Tournament has grown so successful in just a few short years. We appreciate your support and commitment to compete in the Berwick Wrestling Golf Tournament. We look forward to seeing you again next year in our 4th Annual Tournament! On behalf of the Champion Berwick Wrestling Program, we extend a sincere thank you to the Jaycees who donated the use of their facilities for the tournament dinner. The support the Jaycees has given to the Champion Berwick Wrestling Program is greatly appreciated. Great Golf Tournament - Thanks Again To ALL!!! CHAMPION DAWGS HUDDLE FOR ANNUAL TEAM AWARDS BANQUET ON MAY 7 The Champion Dawgs don't gather - they huddle. The Dawg Huddle is the ultimate symbol of Berwick Wrestling team unity and team pride. The Dawgs festively huddled for Berwick Wrestling's annual varsity and junior high team awards banquet held on Sunday, May 7, at the Berwick High School Cafeteria. The annual banquet was very well organized with lots of great food and Dawg fellowship. On behalf of all the Dawg Faithful, our sincere appreciation goes out to all those involved in planning, cooking, and holding the banquet. Your hard work and selfless volunteerism is greatly appreciated! On an opening note, there was a ton of information to cover. So much information that I had to go from my one sheet of paper to napkins for note-taking. If I missed anyone or anything, please let me know and accept my apology in advance. Varsity Team & Coaching Staff Recognition & Appreciation For the second time in the last three years, the Dawgs won the 2005 PIAA Class AAA District 2 Championship Tournament this past season. On behalf of the Berwick Matbackers, Laurie Drake congratulated the Champion Dawgs and presented all team members with a championship hooded sweatshirt. These hooded sweatshirts are really nice and are appreciated by all varsity wrestlers. Karen Venditti, on behalf of Pennsylvania Senator John Gordner of the PA 27th District, presented separate Senatorial Certificates of Recognition of Excellence to Coach Ernie Yates and the Berwick High School Wrestling Team on their championship season and coaching honors accomplished this past season. The Dawgs sincerely thank Senator John Gordner for his support and recognition of the Berwick Wrestling Program. The next presentation was gifts for the Varsity Coaching Staff. Head Coach Ernie Yates, Assistant Coach Wade Perry, and Assistant Coach Justin Bohl, had a great season. In addition to winning the District 2 Tournament Championship, they were also named by their fellow District 2 coaches as the 2005 District 2 Head Coach and Assistant Coaches of the year. Their commitment to excellence, the significant amount of time they devote to our championship wrestling program, and their outstanding leadership is greatly appreciated by the Dawg Faithful. Varsity Awards Presentation Presentation of individual varsity awards were provided next. Every member of the championship varsity wrestling team was individually recognized and honored. Coach Yates introduced and provided highlight season summaries of each wrestler. Each wrestler was also bestowed an award as a token of appreciation from all of the Dawg Faithful. All departing seniors were recognized for their contributions to the success of Berwick Wrestling. Our large and exceptionally talented group of seniors, many of whom have shared the past four years on the varsity wrestling team, will be greatly missed and will always be remembered for their hard work, skill, and dedication that directed and led Berwick to its 2005 PIAA Class AAA District Tournament Championship. Departing senior Dawgs include: Adam Alley, Ryan Becker, Thomas Bomboy, Robert Brown, Anthony Bujno, Billy Drake, John Karns, Jeremiah Morris, Shawn Probst, and Roland Singletary. Seniors, thank you for all that you have done in your fine representation of Berwick Wrestling. We wish you the best in all your future endeavors! Presentation of annual awards continued with special recognition given to the following high-honor achieving Dawgs: Anthony
Bujno, Senior - 140lbs Roland
Singletary, Senior - 119lbs Josh
Walsh, Junior - 135lbs Tyler
Perry, Sophomore - 112lbs Lou Ney, Freshman - 103lbs Senior Anthony Bujno and Sophomore Tyler Perry were also recognized for their academic achievements of excellence in being selected to the Pennsylvania Wrestling Coaches Association All-State All-Academic team. A more comprehensive web announcement will be posted on a later date on Anthony's, Tyler's, & other Dawgs placement on the forthcoming District 2 Wrestling Coaches Association All-Academic team. Awards of appreciation were also giving to the following Dawg supporters for their time, commitment, support, and dedication to the Berwick Wrestling Program: Mr. Don Bohl, John and Jolinda Becker, and Chuck Bujno. Junior High Team & Coaching Staff Recognition & Appreciation Berwick's Junior High Team had a very successful year, placing fourth at the 28-team District 2 Junior High Championship Tournament. The 28 teams that compete in the District 2 Junior High Championship tournament includes both Class AAA and Class AA teams. The Junior High Dawgs are guided by Head Coach Jeff Lorson and Assistant Coach Mark Maczuga. The significant accomplishments of the Junior High Dawgs is exceptional considering 17 of the team's 32 wrestlers never stepped on the mat before this season. Coach Lorson is highly commended for his coaching expertise and his efforts to get kids to come out for the team to experience the greatest sport that exists. More importantly, these are the Future Dawgs. Because of the fine efforts of the Junior High coaching staff and wrestlers, the future of Berwick Wrestling looks bright for years to come. All members of the Junior High Team were introduced with Coach Lorson providing highlights and season summaries of each wrestler. The following Dawgs placed this season at the Jr. High District 2 Championship Tournament: Chris Bujno, 7th Grade:
District Champion, 80lbs Mr. Rick Rado, a Berwick Wrestling Alumni, made a presentation that included the importance of wrestling in his life and the positive impact of his junior high coaches, Coach Ross and Coach Cole. Rick wanted to honor his former coach by establishing an award in the name of Coach Jim Ross & Coach Ernie Cole. In addition, Rick established a memorial award to honor his former Berwick teammate, Harry Knorr, for his dedication to the sport. These awards, the Coach Ross & Cole Award and the Harry Knorr Memorial Award, are to be given to junior high wrestlers who not only demonstrate the pride of Berwick wrestling on-the-mat, but as well as embody the spirit of Berwick Wrestling in academics and personal commitment. The recipients of the 2005 Coach Ross & Cole award, and the Harry Knorr memorial award, were as follows: 2005 Coach Ross & Cole
Award: Corey Rupp, 9th Grade The Dawgs sincerely thank Mr. Rick Rado for his generosity, recognition, and support of the Berwick Wrestling Program. Congratulations Junior High Wrestlers On A Great Season!! Congratulations Varsity Wrestlers For Earning Another Championship Season!! JOEY THE BANANA LUCKY AT
DISTRICTS Skill and determination are the keys to success. But a little luck doesn't hurt. Enter - Joey The Banana. Rewind to Saturday morning, February 26. Location is the District 2 Class AAA Championship Wrestling Tournament at Hazleton. With a few Dawgs knocked out, things did not look exceptionally bright for the Dawgs to pull out a team district championship title. With team championship titles always hinging on the consolation rounds, the Dawgs had to suck it up and show their pride on this particular Saturday. The pivotal Dawgs in consolations had to win, win big, and notch a few upsets. A rally attitude was needed. Maybe the coaches didn't know everything that was going on with the team at districts. Sometimes it's best not to know. This may be one of those times. Confirmed reports have it that seniors Thomas Bomboy and Billy Drake discovered "the remains" of a several month old rotten banana on the Berwick bus that Saturday morning. It seems that this ugliest of all rotten bananas had been wedged into a unforeseen place on the bus that escaped prior proper disposal and burial. It was gross. The blackened partially decomposed banana was missing its "inner guts." But what we older folks often forget, what is extremely gross to us seems at times to be pretty cool to kids. Then Bomboy and Drake wanted to keep it and take it inside to Districts as good luck. The idea was if this ugly banana can survive (somewhat) over the last few months, it has to be a good luck charm. What to name this gross banana was now the key question. At first, it was called Bomboy's banana. That didn't last for obvious reasons. Somebody then said, "Call it Joey the Banana." The name immediately took to life. Joey the Banana made its way inside Hazleton High School for the important day of competition. Joey the Banana not only made its way inside the tournament, but a few of the wrestlers decided that Joey had to sit ringside for him to depart any luck to the Dawgs. That's right, Joey the Banana sat "on-the-mat" during most of the competition on that Saturday. Remember the biggest Dawg victories in the consolation rounds? Yep, Joey the Banana was sitting on-the-mat. While the coaches may not have noticed, it was amazing that they did not smell Joey! That special Saturday saw the Dawgs wrestle in consolations like never witnessed before. They just kept winning, winning, and winning. It was a total team effort accomplished by a total individual effort of skill, guts, and determination. There were huge wins, Dawgs avenging regular season losses, an attitude that no one loses again. It was the skill, determination, and team attitude that led Berwick to its District 2 Tournament Championship, the second title for the Dawgs in the past three years. But a little lucky charm doesn't hurt. The team said goodbye to Joey the Banana after the championship title was announced and the happy Dawgs celebrated. It was a fond farewell - although an extremely stinky one! ANTHONY
BUJNO HEADED TO ESU AS WARRIOR Senior Team Captain Anthony Bujno has committed to continue his academic and wrestling career at East Stroudsburg University. As a future Warrior, Bujno will be wrestling for Head Coach Angelo Borzio in ESU's Division I program. In addition to ESU, Anthony was actively recruited this past year by a number of Division 1, 2, & 3 colleges such as Drexel, Franklin & Marshall, Shippensburg, Kutztown, Ursinus, Scranton, Lycoming, Elizabethtown, King's, Wilkes, Messiah, York, and Delaware Valley. As a true student-athlete, Anthony demonstrated that one can excel both on-the-mat and in the classroom. On the wrestling mat, Anthony finished his Berwick High School Wrestling career by amassing a multitude of honors including: State Medalist - 8th - 2005 PIAA Class AAA State Championship Tournament - 140lbs; 116 Career Wins - 3rd Most Winning Wrestler In The History Of Berwick High School Wrestling; 39 Wins In Senior 2004/2005 Season; Regional Place-Winner - 3rd - 2005 NE Class AAA Regional Championship Tournament - 140lbs; Two-Time Consecutive District Champion; Three-Time Consecutive District Finalist; 2005 District Champion - District 2 Class AAA Championship Tournament -140lbs; 100 Career Wins On January 15, 2005; Team Captain; First Team 2005 Times Leader All-Star Team; First Team 2005 Citizens Voice All-Star Team; First Team 2005 Reading Eagle All-Anthracite All-Star Team; First Team 2005 Press Enterprise All-Star Team; 2004 District Champion - District 2 Class AAA Championship Tournament - 135lbs; 2004 Regional Place-Winner - 5th - NE Regional Class AAA Championship Tournament - 135lbs; First Team - 2004 Pennsylvania All-Academic Wrestling Team; First Team - 2004 District 2 All-Academic Wrestling Team; 1st Place - 2004 Keystone Games - 140lbs; 2003 District Runner-Up - District 2 Class AAA Championship Tournament - 135lbs; First Team - 2003 Pennsylvania All-Academic Wrestling Team; First Team - 2003 District 2 All-Academic Wrestling Team; 2002 District Place-Winner - 4th - District 2 Class AAA Championship Tournament - 103lbs; First Team - 2002 District 2 All-Academic Wrestling Team. Academically, Bujno has a class rank of 8/178 (top 4.5%) with an overall cumulative GPA of 3.9655 (4.0 index) in an honors curriculum. Anthony, who has enrolled to major in mathematics, was the recipient of East Stroudsburg University's Board of Governors Full Tuition Scholarship For Science & Technology. Congratulations Anthony!! NEY & BOWER WRESTLE
STRONG AT OHIO TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS Freshman Lou Ney and Derrick Bower traveled to Columbus Ohio to compete in the Ohio Tournament of Champions, the world's largest one-day wrestling tournament, on Saturday, April 23. While neither Dawg placed, both Lou and Derrick wrestled excellent in one of the largest wrestling tournaments and against some of the fiercest competition in the country. Lou Ney, with 64 wrestlers (count-em, 64!) in his Cadet 108lb bracket, shot out to the quarterfinals by notching three consecutive fantastic victories. Lou ended up dropping a match to the eventual tournament champion, New Jersey's Anthony Luma. Derrick Bower, with 59 wrestlers in his Cadet 200lb bracket, got a bye and then recorded two consecutive superb victories before bowing out. Simply outstanding wrestling by two outstanding Dawgs! Way to Wrestle! Congratulations Lou & Derrick!! IT WAS THE ONLY YEAR IT WAS
POSSIBLE "The year 2005 was the only year it was possible." This year was the only year where brothers Anthony and Chris Bujno would be wearing a singlet wrestling for the Berwick Area School District competing for a District 2 Championship. It turned out to be a highly successful year for each as both brothers earned a trip to the top of the podium as District Champions. Oddly enough, both Anthony and Chris won their District Championship Titles by the exact same score margin of 5 points. Chris, a seventh grader at Berwick Area Middle School, won his championship title at the District 2 Junior High Championship tournament held at Lake Lehman High School on February 19 with a 5-0 victory in the 80lb. weight class. The 28-team district championship tournament is the final competition in junior high. Chris had over 20 wins this past year and is a four-time Pennsylvania Junior State Championship qualifier, past state place-winner, and past Eastern National place-winner. On a special note, Chris withdrew from this year's PA Junior State qualifier so he could support his brother in the postseason. Chris said, "I have a next year to wrestle for Berwick, Anthony doesn't." Anthony, a senior at Berwick Area High School, won his second consecutive championship title at the District 2 Class AAA Championship tournament held at Hazleton High School on February 26 with a 6-1 victory in the 140lb. weight class. Anthony then went on to place 3rd at the NE Class AAA Regional Championship tournament, earn state medalist honors by placing 8th at the PIAA Class AAA State Championship tournament, compiled 39 wins this season, and ended his varsity career as the third most winning wrestler in the history of the Berwick High School wrestling program, finishing with 116 career wins. Congratulations Anthony & Chris!! YANTORN TAKES 8TH PLACE AT
MAWA EASTERN NATIONALS Eighth grader Dominick Yantorn competed at 100lbs in the Advanced Division at the MAWA Eastern National Championship Tournament held at Recreation Hall at Penn State University on April 16 & 17. Dominick had a great tournament and notched eighth place honors. After dropping his preliminary match, Yantorn fought back with a vengeance in the consolation bracket. In the first round of consolations, Dominick picked up a 4-0 decision over Kyler Killian of Lebanon, PA. Needing that second most-important win for medal-clinching honors, Yantorn was not to be denied as he defeated John Scheidall of Richboro, PA, by the score of 3-2. Dominick then narrowly dropped his next two matches only by the score of 3-2 and 7-3. Yantorn will be moving up to varsity next year for his freshman season. Dominick is a two-time Junior High District Champion and is expected to have an immediate impact for the Dawgs. Congratulations Dominick!! WALSH,
BUJNO, & SINGLETARY NAMED FIRST TEAM CITIZENS VOICE ALL-STARS The Citizens Voice selected Junior Josh Walsh and Seniors Anthony Bujno and Roland Singletary to their 2005 First Team Wrestling All-Star Team. The Citizens Voice published its all-star list on Sunday, April 17. Anthony Bujno - Senior, 140lbs. Anthony earned state medalist honors this season by placing 8th at the PIAA Class AAA State Championship Tournament, placed 3rd at the PIAA Class AAA NE Regional Tournament, won his second consecutive District Championship at the PIAA Class AAA District 2 Championship Tournament, recorded 39 wins this season, and ended his varsity career with 116 career wins. Roland Singletary - Senior, 119lbs. Roland was a state qualifier and won the Regional Championship at the PIAA Class AAA NE Regional Tournament, won his second District Championship at the PIAA Class AAA District 2 Championship Tournament, recorded 38 wins this season, and ended his varsity career with 107 career wins. Josh Walsh - Junior, 135lbs. Josh won the District Championship at the 2005 PIAA Class AAA District 2 Championship Tournament and qualified for the NE Regional Tournament where he notched 5th place honors. Josh also recorded 35 wins in his outstanding junior season and will be leading the Dawgs next year in the 2005-2006 season. Congratulations Josh, Anthony & Roland! BERWICK AREA SCHOOL BOARD HONORS
CHAMPION DAWG TEAM The Berwick Area School Board gave tribute and honor to the Champion Berwick High School Wrestling Team during the regular board meeting on April 11. The Dawgs capped off their excellent season by winning the PIAA Class AAA District 2 Tournament Championship. It was the second time in three years that the Dawgs achieved this feat. Head Coach Ernie Yates was also selected as District 2 Head Coach of the Year and Assistant Coach Wade Perry as District 2 Assistant Coach of the Year at the District 2 Championship Tournament. Berwick High School Principal Mr. Richard Walton introduced Coach Yates and the Champion Dawgs to the school board and audience. All the Dawg wrestlers were introduced and Coach Yates then recapped season highlights and post-season accomplishments of the team and wrestlers. A summary brochure of all wrestler honors and achievements were provided and distributed to all the school board members. The Dawgs sincerely thank Mr. Richard Walton and the Berwick Area School Board for their support and time in honoring the Championship Berwick Wrestling Program. Congratulations Dawgs!! COACH
YATES READING EAGLE'S ALL-ANTHRACITE HEAD COACH OF THE YEAR The Reading Eagle selected Head Coach Ernie Yates as Head Coach Of The Year for its 2005 All-Anthracite All-Star Wrestling Team. Senior Dawgs Anthony Bujno and Roland Singletary were selected to the First Team All-Anthracite Wrestling All-Star Team. The Reading Eagle's All-Anthracite All-Star team was announced and published on April 3. Head Coach Ernie Yates - Coach Yates guided the Dawgs to their second District 2 Class AAA Tournament Championship in three years and compiled a 16-6 record this season. In addition to being named as the 2005 Reading Eagle All-Anthracite Head Coach of the Year, Coach Yates was previously selected this year as the 2005 District 2 Head Coach of the Year, an honor he has now received 5 times (1996, 1999, 2001, 2003, 2005). Coach Yates has a career record of 192-98-1 (got to keep an eye on that one), and has coached 27 District Champions, 2 NE Regional Champions, 5 PIAA AAA State Place-Winners, and 8 100-Match Winners. Anthony Bujno - Senior, 140lbs. Anthony earned state medalist honors this season by placing 8th at the PIAA Class AAA State Championship Tournament, placed 3rd at the PIAA Class AAA NE Regional Tournament, won his second consecutive District Championship at the PIAA Class AAA District 2 Championship Tournament, recorded 39 wins this season, and ended his varsity career with 116 career wins. Roland Singletary - Senior, 119lbs. Roland was a state qualifier and won the Regional Championship at the PIAA Class AAA NE Regional Tournament, won his second District Championship at the PIAA Class AAA District 2 Championship Tournament, recorded 38 wins this season, and ended his varsity career with 107 career wins. Congratulations Coach Yates, Anthony & Roland! NEY & YANTORN QUALIFY
FOR MAWA EASTERN NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP Freshman Lou Ney and Eighth grader Dominick Yantorn qualified for the MAWA Eastern National Championship Tournament by placing in the top four at the Shamokin Northern Regional Championship Tournament held on April 3. Lou Ney continued his excellent wrestling performance by placing fourth at the Shamokin Regional to earn his qualifying ticket. Eight grader Dominick Yantorn, a two-time Junior High District Champion who is certain to be a significant performer in varsity next year, placed third at Shamokin's Regional to win his admission ticket to Eastern Nationals. Two Dawgs had to injury default out of the Shamokin Regional. Freshman Nick Venditti also wrestled great at Shamokin and claimed victory in his first two matches and went to the semi-final round. In the semi-final, Nick was winning 2-1 in the second frame before injuring his shoulder in an out-of-bounds fall. Nick's x-rays show no major injury so Thank Goodness!! Freshman Derek Bower had a bye out to the semi-final round but had to forfeit out of the tournament due to an injury incurred a few days prior. The MAWA Eastern National Championship Tournament will be held at Penn State University in University Park, PA, on April 16 & 17. Congratulations Lou & Dominick!! Good Luck At Eastern Nationals!! SINGLETARY & BUJNO
NAMED 1ST TEAM PRESS-ENTERPRISE ALL-STARS The Press-Enterprise selected Seniors Roland Singletary (119lbs) and Anthony Bujno (140lbs) to their 2004-2005 First Team Wrestling All-Star Team announced and published on April 1. Freshman Lou Ney (103lbs) and Sophomore Tyler Perry (112lbs) received second team honors. Freshman Nick Venditti (125lbs), and Seniors Adam Alley (130lbs), Thomas Bomboy (152lbs), and John Karns (215lbs received honorable mention honors. Congratulations Dawgs!! BUJNO, SINGLETARY, & PERRY NAMED
TIMES LEADER 1ST TEAM ALL-STARS Dawg Seniors Anthony Bujno (140lbs), Roland Singletary (119lbs), and Sophomore Tyler Perry (112lbs) were selected to the first team of the 2005 Times Leader Wyoming Valley Conference Wrestling All-Star Team. The Times Leader will publish its Wyoming Valley Conference Wrestling All-Star team, as well as other winter sports all-stars, in their newspaper edition on Friday, April 1. Anthony Bujno - Senior, 140lbs. Anthony earned state place winner honors this season by placing 8th at the PIAA Class AAA State Championship Tournament, placed 3rd at the PIAA Class AAA NE Regional Tournament, won his second consecutive District Championship at the PIAA Class AAA District 2 Championship Tournament, recorded 39 wins this season, and ended his varsity career with 116 career wins. Roland Singletary - Senior, 119lbs. Roland was a state qualifier and won the Regional Championship at the PIAA Class AAA NE Regional Tournament, won his second District Championship at the PIAA Class AAA District 2 Championship Tournament, recorded 38 wins this season, and ended his varsity career with 107 career wins. Tyler Perry - Sophomore, 112lbs. Tyler earned 5th place honors at the PIAA Class AAA NE Regional Tournament, was a Runner-Up at the PIAA Class AAA District 2 Championship tournament, and recorded 31 wins this season. Tyler was also a first team all-star selection of the 2004 Times Leader Wyoming Valley Conference Wrestling All-Star Team. Congratulations Anthony, Roland, & Tyler!! DAWGS SHINE AT MAWA DISTRICT
TOURNEY AT LAKE LEHMAN ON MARCH 20 Several Dawgs competed in the MAWA District Championship tournament held at Lake Lehman High School on Sunday, March 20. Taking gold honors were Lou Ney (105lbs), Nick Venditti (130lbs), Aaron Karns (171lbs), and Derrick Bower (215lbs). Lou Ney had an exceptional outing, going 3-0 on the day. Lou had one of the premier match-ups of the day when he squared up in the championship final with District 2 rival Joe Stanzione of Delaware Valley. While Lou incurred two losses to Stanzione during the regular varsity season (by fall and a 10-5 decision), it was "third time is the charm" at the MAWA tournament. Tied going into the third period, Lou took a 4-2 lead, but Stanzione secured the reversal to knot the score at 4-apiece and force overtime. With approximately 30 seconds remaining in the extra frame, Lou's lightening quick aggressiveness notched the takedown to clinch his huge victory. Nick Venditti also had a great performance, going 2-0 at the tournament for his excellent first place honors. Derrick Bower, a freshman who all expect to have an impact in varsity next year, went 1-0 on the day for first place. Competition must have scurried away from Aaron Karns at 171lbs, as he moves onto the regional tournament with default gold at Lehman. Don't worry Aaron, there will be plenty of bouts at Shamokin - get them there!! Ney, Venditti, Karns, and Bower all qualified to compete at the MAWA North Regional Championship tournament that will be held at Shamokin High School on April 3. Congratulations Lou, Nick, Aaron, & Derrick!! Good Luck At Shamokin!! ANTHONY BUJNO BRINGS HOME STATE
MEDAL FROM HERSHEY!! Berwick’s Anthony Bujno (140lbs) and Roland Singletary (119lbs) traveled on their hard-earned trip to the Pennsylvania PIAA Class AAA State Championship tournament held at the Giant Center in Hershey, PA, from March 10 to 12. Anthony Bujno wrestled brilliantly and captured his well-earned state place winner status by bringing home a cherished state medal and rising to the podium with 8th place honors. Roland Singletary, who won the NE Regional championship last week, had a tough draw at states but simply took to the mat as tough as nails and wrestled his heart out. Both Dawgs should be proud of their accomplishments as they made the Berwick Faithful extremely proud with their Dawg-renowned fierce wrestling. Getting to the Pennsylvania AAA State Championship tournament is no easy task coming out of the NE AAA Regional in Bethlehem and it is a highly respected honor in and of itself. Going to states and wrestling against the best competition in Pennsylvania (the toughest wrestling state in the country), and in front of over 66,000 screaming fans over a 3-day period, is an experience one will never forget. It is an experience that will be engrained in the hearts of Anthony and Roland, two of Berwick’s finest ever, for the rest of their lives. Congratulations Anthony & Roland!! State championship summary listed under individual wrestler captions below. Anthony
Bujno, State Medalist, 8th, PIAA AAA State Championships, District Wrap: Anthony Bujno dismantled his bracket in capturing his second consecutive District Championship title in his illustrious varsity career. A four-time district medalist, three-time consecutive district finalist, Anthony advances to the NE AAA regional championship with 34 wins this season and 111 career wins. NE Regional Wrap: Anthony put on a brilliant display of his best career wrestling in capturing 3rd place honors at the NE Regional Championship tournament. Anthony began his "mission-not-to-be-denied" with a controlling 5-1 win by decision in his quarterfinal match. Anthony then squared up with the eventual regional champion, Easton's Andrew Goldstein, in the semifinal match. Anthony fell short against Goldstein, losing by a 9-5 decision. Anthony then put on the afterburners in the consolation bracket, crushing District 11's third placer Cody Smith of Stroudsburg by a 11-0 major decision. Anthony then dominated once again in the consolation final with a 9-2 decision over Nazareth's Adam Counterman. Anthony heads to Hershey with 37 wins this season, 114 career wins, a District Championship, and a 3rd Place NE Regional finish. State Championship Wrap: Anthony has been upping the ante on his career best wrestling performances over the last several weeks, and topped it off with his finest effort by taking home a state medal by placing 8th at the PIAA AAA State Championship Tournament. In a brutal bracket where names like Paukovits and Thompson (to name a few) received early dismissals, Anthony's mission was to conquer his goal of placing at states and bringing home that special and highly sought after medal. Anthony's quest got off on a rocky start by dropping a 9-2 decision to Council Rock North's Dave Zeek in the preliminary round. It was now one more loss and home you go. The obstacle up next was South Central Regional Champion Chris Dahlheimer. Anthony battled fiercely and strategically throughout a scoreless regulation. In overtime, Anthony used a quick butt drag to haul his opponent to the mat for a crowd-roaring overtime victory. But it was still one more loss and home you go. In the next crucial round, Anthony faced off with Dallastown's Justin Meyers. Despite Anthony's aggressive style, Bujno was behind 0-1 and on bottom with approximately 1:20 left to go in the match. Anthony then ripped off a brilliant 5-point move, a reversal straight into locking up Meyer's back to the mat, and Anthony's overwhelming strength held the lock for over a minute for the medal clinching victory. In the first medal round, Anthony lost by a 10-3 decision to Zach Snyder of Connellsville. In the consolation 7/8 final, Anthony sought revenge against Easton's Andrew Goldstein. Anthony was on fire and was the aggressor from the start. Anthony gave up a last second takedown in the first period but he did not let that affect him the rest of the match. Between opposing let-ups, Anthony was relentless with his aggressive offense and countering defense, but just came up short in a 3-1 loss. Anthony may have lost this match on the scoreboard to Goldstein, but Anthony was not beaten as he wrestled his heart out and out-wrestled his opponent. In the end, Anthony's dream came true - the dream he sought to fulfill through hard work, sweat, determination, and countless off-season competitions - to end his varsity career standing tall on the podium at Hershey with a state place winning medal around his neck. Anthony Bujno tips his hat for one last time to the Dawg Faithful as a State Medalist, NE Regional 3rd Place Medalist, 2-time consecutive District Champion, and enters into the Dawg record books with 39 wins this season and finishes his varsity career as the third most winning wrestler in the proud history of the Berwick Wrestling Program with a total of 116 career wins! Congratulations Anthony!! What A Great Varsity Career!! Roland
Singletary, State Qualifier, PIAA AAA State Championships, District Wrap: Roland Singletary plowed through his competition in winning his second District Championship title in his fantastic varsity career. A three-time district medalist, Roland advances to the NE AAA regional championship tournament in Bethlehem with 35 wins this season and 104 career wins. NE Regional Wrap: Roland became the third Dawg in the history of Berwick Wrestling to win a Regional Championship. Roland took his bracket chart home with his overall best career performance that witnessed simply outstanding and overpowering wrestling. Roland started off the championship weekend with a commanding 10-1 major decision victory in his quarterfinal match-up with Nazareth's Andrew Ritchie. Roland then defeated the bracket's "expected" favorite, Easton's Brad Gentzle, by a 7-3 decision in the semifinal. Roland then decisively clinched the championship final with a thrilling and crowd-roaring 6-1 overtime victory over Northampton's Chris Wieller. Roland heads to Hershey with 38 wins this season, 107 career wins, a District Championship, and a NE Regional Championship. State Championship Wrap: Roland qualified for the PIAA AAA State Championships in a way that only two, count them again, two Dawgs in the history of Berwick Wrestling had ever done before - by winning the NE AAA Regional Championship in Bethlehem - the hottest hotbed of scholastic wrestling in the entire country. In the preliminary round of the state championship tournament, Roland incurred an extremely tough draw in facing Spring-Ford's Matt Moley, the 2004 State Runner-Up at 103lbs, and ended up dropping a 12-0 major decision. Roland knew the score, not that which reads on the scoreboard, but that no more losses can occur in the next two rounds. The true exceptional athlete that he is, Roland geared up mightily for his next match. His next opponent was Cathedral Prep's John Heynoski. Roland came out in the first period against Heynoski lit up like the Fourth of July. Roland planted his opponent and took a commanding 5-0 lead after the first period. Entering the third frame Roland had a 5-3 lead, but Heynoski hit a quick 5-point move off a takedown. Roland was down, but not out. Roland viciously fought for and secured an outstanding move for a reversal, but time ran out for a heartbreaking 8-7 loss. One outing or one tournament does not define a career. Nor does it take away or diminish from the honors and achievements of the special varsity career that Roland has compiled as a Dawg. For an athlete, it's all about hunger. The hunger for a district title, the hunger to place in the top 3 at regionals, the hunger to win a regional championship, the hunger to just qualify and get to Hershey, the hunger to medal at states. Roland has been one hungry wrestler this year and throughout his varsity career. Roland Singletary tips his hat for one last time to the Dawg Faithful in accomplishing what he never had accomplished before - winning a second district title, winning the NE AAA Regional Championship, becoming only the 3rd Dawg to ever win a regional championship, qualifying for the PIAA AAA State Championship tournament, and enters into the Dawg record books with 38 wins this season and 107 career wins! Congratulations Roland!! What A Great Varsity Career!! Ney & Venditti Excel At Central York Tournament On March 12 Freshman Lou Ney and Nick Venditti competed at the Central York Tournament held on March 12. More than 500 wrestlers competed at this tournament. Just as during the regular season, Lou & Nick continue to excel during the off-season. Lou Ney captured first place honors at 110lbs and Nick Venditti snatched third place honors at 125lbs. Junior High Dawgs Dominic Yantorn and Stephen Prebola also attended this tournament and compiled impressive finishes. Prebola earned first place honors at 90lbs and Yantorn grabbed second place honors at 100lbs. Congratulations Lou, Nick, Dominic, and Stephen! ROLAND SINGLETARY & ANTHONY
BUJNO ARE GOING TO HERSHEY!! *From Then To Now - A Long Journey - Taking The Trip Together To Hershey Getting out of the brutal NE AAA Regional Championship tournament and qualifying for the PIAA Class AAA State Championship tournament is an outstanding individual accomplishment and honor. As with all individual accomplishments in life, they are derived from personal hard work, personal dedication, and from working with others - teamwork. Seniors Anthony Bujno and Roland Singletary started their own separate individual journeys way back in elementary wrestling. They shared their first honors together when they both captured a District Championship in 8th grade of junior high school. They both got pulled up to varsity as freshman as two in a group of a highly-talented freshman class. They shared the ups and downs of great elation and personal disappointment that only the sport of wrestling is renowned to provide. Singletary and Bujno persevered together in their journey over the years that now takes them on one last away match - the Pennsylvania State AAA Championship Tournament. Heading into States, their relentless work ethic and outstanding performance on the mat has seen them amass for a combined 221 career wins, four District 2 AAA Championship titles, seven district medals, and seven NE AAA Regional qualifying appearances. Together as drilling partners, running mates, and away match hotel roommates, they now share in what has been their ultimate personal dream of finishing their high school career at the best place possible - Hershey! Congratulations Roland & Anthony!! Best Wishes At States!! **Individual Dawg coverage of regional results is listed below in wrestler profiles. And for those not paying attention, Berwick finished the NE AAA Regional Tournament in 9th out of 30 teams (some of the best teams in PA & the country). Way to go Dawgs! DAWG WRAP-UP OF NE AAA
REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNEMENT Roland
Singletary, State Qualifier, NE AAA Regional Champion, Anthony
Bujno, State Qualifier, 3rd Place NE AAA Regionals, Josh
Walsh, 5th Place NE AAA Regionals, District Champion, Tyler
Perry, 5th Place NE AAA Regionals, District Runner-Up Adam
Alley, Regional Qualifier, Third Place Districts, Thomas
Bomboy, Third Place, Regional Qualifier, Lou
Ney, Third Place, Regional Qualifier, Berwick Wins 2005 District 2 AAA
Championship Tournament On February 25 & 26 Assistant Coaches Perry & Bohl Named D2 Assistant Coaches Of The YearFor the second time in three years, Berwick Wrestling took first place at the District 2 AAA Championship Tournament held at Hazleton High School On February 25 & 26. Berwick crowned 3 District Champions, 10 place winners, and will be advancing 7 wrestlers to the NE AAA Regional Championship tournament in Bethlehem next week. Regional action starts on Friday, 3/4, at 5pm at Bethlehem Liberty HS & continues on Saturday, 3/5, at 9:30am. With district team competition this year at an unparalleled level of parity, the Dawgs saved their best for last at the individual District 2 Championships. Each and every Berwick wrestler simply wrestled their hearts out and contributed to Berwick's success. The Dawgs just kept winning, winning, and winning. There was no stopping them. And the honors kept piling on. Head Coach Ernie Yates was honored as District 2 Head Coach Of The Year, and Assistant Coaches Wade Perry & Justin Bohl were honored as District 2 Assistant Coaches Of The Year. **Berwick Honors At District 2 AAA Championship Tourney - February 25 & 26 Roland
Singletary, District Champion, Regional Qualifier, Anthony
Bujno, District Champion, Regional Qualifier, Josh
Walsh, District Champion, Regional Qualifier, Tyler
Perry, District Runner-Up, Regional Qualifier, Adam
Alley, Third Place, Regional Qualifier, Thomas
Bomboy, Third Place, Regional Qualifier, Lou
Ney, Third Place, Regional Qualifier, Billy Drake, Fifth Place, Senior, 160lbs. Billy Drake, wrestling in one of the toughest and stacked brackets at districts, rose to the occasion by dazzling everyone with his finest wrestling display of his outstanding career. Billy showed us all what "wrestling with heart" is all about and he places both a fantastic 5th place victory and district medal in his pocket, right above that great big heart. Nick Venditti, Fifth Place, Freshman, 125lbs. I've said it from day one, this phenomenal freshman never quits. What a season he has had and what a district tournament to be proud of. In another one of the most exciting district matches, Nick avenged two prior losses, one by technical fall, to a foe in the fifth place consolations by winning a crowd-roaring 1-0 decision. Look out D2. Nick has three more years! Zeb Bankes, Eighth Place, Junior, 275lbs. Zeb Bankes, in just his first varsity season, more than earned his extremely hard-fought 8th place honors in taking his first district medal. Zeb, who wrestled terrific at districts, has continually improved over the course of his first season and will certainly be a major force to reckon with next year. Congratulations Dawgs!! District 2 AAA Dual Meet
Championship Tournament - February 4 & 5 Berwick competed in the District 2 AAA Dual Meet Championship tournament held at Pittston High School on February 4 and 5. The team dual championship tournament this year witnessed unparalleled parity among teams in the district. The Dawgs ended up splitting their pair of dual competitions. Berwick blasted Scranton 50-17 in the quarterfinals before incurring a close 30-35 loss to eventual champion Delaware Valley who won in the finals 42-24 against host Pittston. Berwick wrestlers that went undefeated at dual championship competition included Tyler Perry, Roland Singletary, Nick Venditti, Adam Alley, Anthony Bujno, and John Karns. The Dawgs opened up the weekend in impressive style with a 50-17 trouncing of Scranton in the quarterfinal. Berwick won 10 of the 14 bouts and recorded five pins against Scranton. This Scranton team was a tougher and more physical opponent than the score indicated, but Berwick rose to the occasion by being even more physical and out-wrestling the competition. Berwick carried its excellent wrestling momentum into the match up against Delaware Valley. Most people knew that this semifinal contest would be the equivalent of a final, as Berwick did not have a full lineup due to injury in its only prior 3-point loss to Pittston earlier in the year. Most people knew it would also be close. And it was. Berwick wrestlers gave a tremendous effort against Delaware Valley. Berwick split wins in the contest with seven Dawgs winning their bouts and a like number losing their bouts. Some people may think it came down to the last bout. It didn’t. It never does in the sport of wrestling. Each and every bout hinges on bonus points, how losses are lost and how wins are won, which is the only determining factor in the outcome of close team competition. The goal is to win. There is no glory in a loss. But every competitive athlete or team that incurs a tough loss will respectfully tip their hat to their opponent and then possess an unspoken desire for the victor to go on and win, and to do so decisively. This happened. The Dawgs should be proud and build on their strong competitive performance as they move on to individual districts on February 25 & 26. The Berwick Faithful wishes our Dawgs only the best!! Winning Dawgs Against
Scranton Winning Dawgs Against
Delaware Valley Roland Singletary Inducted
Into The Dawgs 100 Win Club On February 4
Roland Singletary,
Berwick's 119lb senior, was inducted into Berwick Wrestling's 100 Win Club
at the District 2 AAA Team Dual Championship Tournament on February 4.
Singletary notched his 100th career win against Scranton in the quarterfinal
of the District 2 Dual Championship tournament held at Pittston High School.
Roland is the eighth wrestler in the history of Berwick Wrestling to attain
the milestone of 100 career wins. Berwick Records Key Victory
Over Hazleton 36-26 On February 1 Berwick traveled to take on the Hazleton Cougars on February 1 for the last regular season and key dual meet of the season and walked away with an impressive 36-26 victory. With the win, the Dawgs have secured the #2 seed for this weekend’s District 2 AAA Team Duals Championship. The Dawgs recorded three falls on the night from John Karns, Lou Ney, and Tyler Perry. Tyler Perry recorded the fastest fall at 0.53. Berwick immediately went to work in lighting up the scoreboard as the Dawgs took five of the first seven bouts of the contest. Roland Singletary (Sr) was the first out and engaged in a slugfest that saw him splendidly outwrestle his opponent for a key decision. The Cougars then took the next bout by technical fall that only briefly put the Dawgs in a deficit of 3-5. The Dawgs then rolled in capturing the next three bouts. Adam Alley (Sr) put Berwick back in front with an outstanding display of technique and sheer strength in notching an important decision. Josh Walsh (Jr) followed with a carbon copy performance by dominating his opponent with brilliant and physical takedown after takedown in sealing another important decision for Berwick. The Cougars then tipped their hat and awarded a forfeit to Anthony Bujno (Sr). The scoreboard now read in Berwick’s favor 15-5. The young and spirited Cougars then rallied to take four of the next five bouts, three by major decision and one by decision that ended up putting the Dawgs in their second deficit of the night by the score of 18-20. Thomas Bomboy (Sr) was the interrupting force in this Hazleton rally as he continued with his outstanding wrestling and utter determination as he physically punished his opponent before placing another key decision in the books. John Karns (Sr), wrestling with unwavering brutal force, put his finger in the dike and stopped the Cougar rally dead when he put on a clinic of dazzling technique and strength before dropping his opponent’s shoulders to the basement for an impressive fall. This win put Berwick back in front 24-20. Hazleton would make one last major threat by taking the next bout by fall. The Cougars third and last lead of the night put Berwick in the hole 24-26. There were two bouts left and the Berwick lightweights would make the most of their opportunity to seal their wins and victory for Berwick. Lou Ney (Fr) continued his sensational year by wrestling like a seasoned veteran as he physically dismantled his opponent for a period and a half before setting off seismographs with a ground-shaking and gym-roaring second period pin. Tyler Perry (So) entering the circle knowing that the Dawgs were already up by four, would put the exclamation mark on the night’s action when he trounced his opponent in his renowned lightning-quick work ethic on the mat before nailing shoulders to the floor in the quickest pin of the night. The Dawg faithful rejoiced at the impressive win and turned the lights out on the top of Hazleton Mountain with the score of 36-26. Winning Dawgs Against
Hazleton Congratulations Dawgs!! Berwick Overpowers Crestwood 46 - 18 On
January 29 Berwick hosted its last home dual meet of the season when the Comets of Crestwood came to town on Saturday, January 29. The Dawgs lineup overpowered the Comets en-route to an impressive 46-18 victory. Berwick won 10 of the 14 bouts and recorded five falls in the contest from Josh Walsh, Zeb Bankes, Tyler Perry, Roland Singletary, and Nick Venditti. Zeb Bankes had the fastest pin at 1:26. Berwick Wrestling conducted pre-match celebrations in hosting a "Champions Night" celebration prior to the dual. **Celebration overview listed below dual coverage. The Dawgs shot quickly out of the pen by capturing the first two bouts. Josh Walsh (Jr) came out first for Berwick and overwhelmed his opponent before delivering a macerating blow that sent shoulders to the mat for the win by fall. Anthony Bujno (Sr) came out next and delivered another one of his skillful and patented takedown clinics in notching one of the most decisive decisions that can be recorded. Crestwood captured the next bout by fall. Thomas Bomboy (Sr) put Berwick right back on track with an astounding exhibition of masterful technique and aggressive physical prowess in putting an excellent decision into the books. Billy Drake (Sr) then entered the circle next for Berwick and tossed his opponent around the mat in a glaringly brilliant display of wrestling in sealing an impressive major decision. Crestwood took the next two bouts, one by major decision and one by fall that still had the scoreboard lights in Berwick’s favor by the score of 16-15. Although the score had narrowed, confidence was high that the Dawgs would still put the dual out of reach. And, that they did. Berwick would take six of the last seven bouts of the contest. John Karns (Sr) appeared next in one of the two most exciting and physical bouts of the night. Karns, significantly out-sized against his opponent, once again showed his mighty strength and resolute determination in a splendid display of wrestling that saw him record an excellent key decision. Zeb Bankes (Jr) followed and delivered another thunderous Dawg match by pouncing his opponent to mat several times before crashing shoulders to the basement for the fastest fall of the night in 1.26. Lou Ney (Fr) entered next, and in the other most exciting and physical contests of the night, engaged in an all-out slugfest with his opponent before overpowering and out-wrestling his way to a brilliant decision. Tyler Perry (So) trotted out next and wasted no time on the clock when he quickly and explosively took his opponent’s back to the mat and glued a singlet to the floor for an outstanding first period pin. Roland Singletary (Sr) kept the pinning action alive as he out-dueled and out-battled his opponent before stapling a pair of shoulders to the ground for a dominating third period fall. Nick Venditti (Fr) came out next and made sure the falls kept on falling as he put on a simply dazzling array of wrestling technique before physically detonating an explosive fall in the second frame. The Comets took the last bout of the night, but it could do nothing to lessen the wide scoring gap as Berwick emptied the gym with an impressive 46-18 victory. Winning Dawgs Against
Crestwood Congratulations Dawgs!! Berwick Wrestling Celebrates
"Champions Night" On January 29 The Berwick Wrestling program conducted a celebration honoring all past district champions, regional champions, state place winners, and 100-career match winners in a ceremony held before the Crestwood match on January 29. Each individual champion was honored for their historic accomplishments on the mat. Mr. Richard Walton, Berwick High School Principal, and Head Coach Ernie Yates had the honor of presenting certificates of respect and appreciation to all champions. These champions are the wrestlers who have notched their names forever in the record books of Berwick Wrestling. These champions are the wrestlers, through their unrelenting dedication to their craft and unyielding resolution for victory, represent the historic lore of Berwick Wrestling’s rise to excellence. These champions are the wrestlers, representing both the current youth and the older generations, which are the shining ambassadors of Berwick Wrestling. Once a wrestler - always a wrestler. Wrestling is not just a sport; it is a way of life. Nothing pleased us more during this celebration than to see Dawg wrestlers of all ages come together to share one very important common value. Respect. Once a champion – always a champion. The hard work and skill that has historically embossed your name forever is something that can never be taken away. A champion’s accomplishments are something that is cherished for a lifetime. A champion’s accomplishments should be mandatory reading for all current and future youth who desire to step on the prestigious mat of Berwick Wrestling. Why? It is only through history that one can learn where you have come from and what it will take to shape your future, individually and as a program. It is not the individual accomplishments of our past champions, but rather the collective aggregate of their achievements, that have come to embody the Spirit of Berwick Wrestling for over the past fifty years. As witnessed during the previous half century, the list of Berwick’s Champions will grow in numbers. A list or photo of the Champions of Berwick Wrestling is just a mere snapshot of time. These champions not only represent our excellent past, but our destiny for the future. To all of our Berwick Wrestling Champions, the Berwick Wrestling Program sincerely thanks you for all that you have given of yourself and for that which you have achieved, not only for yourself, but for the betterment of our program. You have only our greatest respect. You have given us honor by allowing us to honor you. THANK YOU!! Dawgs Slay Spartans Of Wyoming Valley West 45 - 22 On January 27 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
