1985 Brakeman Report

1985 High School Wrestling Forecast
14th Annual Edition
Written by Brian F. Brakeman
February 1, 1985

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INTRODUCTION

The object of these annual reports encompasses two basic goals, First, is to acquaint everyone with the basic character of each weight class, and identify the Participants who are likely to play a major role in its resolution. In addition, each regional is examined as to whom its representatives might be. Second, is to stimulate interest in the whole state tournament process throughout the state. Naturel accuracy is also of primary concern so care is taken to develop the most comprehensive list possible of outstanding wrestlers, though of necessity, the evaluation of their final place is, in part, subjective.

In terms of caliber of wrestling this is, Perhaps, a somewhat stronger than average year in Ohio. Much of this is due to the maturation of competitors in the upper weights–many of whom have wrestled at the state level for three years. Upper weight competitors like Holman, Moxley, Potokar, Inderlied, the Sullivans, Welch, Cameron and a number of others make this an outstanding recruiting year for those interested in the upper weights. Naturally, there are the usual superstars–maybe a few more than
usual–such as Goad, Strauss, Hoy, and Patrick that makes wrestling such a rewarding sport.

The major change in 1985 has been the guest for improvement in last year’s introductory regional format. There is no question that many of the flaws have been eliminated such as two-man districts in
“AAA,” one round on Friday night, and the raffling of regional sites in Toledo. Regular readers of this report are well aware of my lack of sympathy for those in Northeast Ohio who expect some sort of
qualifying advantage because they possess most of the best “AAA” wrestlers. However, common equity suggests that the configuration of the redrawn Mentor Regional should be looked at in anticipation of 1986. The current north-south split should be reinvestigated since it has led to a regional that penalizes too many individuals for geographical rather than wrestling defects. There is no question that travel times can remain at current levels with a differently, fairer assignment of schools.

At the same time, we ought to be reevaluating the wrestle-back used at the district, regional and state level. The requirement of losing to a finalist before being allowed in the consolation rounds is archaic and unfair. Every year fewer tournaments held in this state use such a rule. Instead, most have opted for the much fairer procedure of permitting wrestlers into the consolation if the competitor defeating them makes the semi-finals. It adds only one round to the tournament, but pays off in fairer placements.

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“AAA”

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98#

PROJECTED CHAMP: MIKE MALCUIT (Louisville)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Kurman (St. Ignatius)
3. Utt (Fairborn Baker)
4. Martin (Midview)
5. 5, Baker (Fairfield)
6. Gardner (Mentor)
7. Cornell (North Olmsted)
8. Cameron (Hilliard)
9. Range (Cleveland Hts.)
10. Stumpf (Dayton Stebbins )
11. McDougle (Maumee)
12. Marinigs (Fremont Ross)
13. Faillace (Cincinnati Elder)
14. Elsass (N. Canton Hoover)
15. Savely (Watking Memorial)
16. Hamilton (Centerville)
17. Rhodes (Cuyahoga Falls)

Mike Malcuit should dominate this weight class and capture his first state title with relative ease. While the remainder of the field is solid, there really isn’t anybody within four points of my choice. Malcuit, a state runner-up as a sophomore, spent most of the season at 105, easily winning both the prestigious Medina and North.

Most of the best 96’s, excluding Malcuit, are in the Mentor Regional, including five of my top nine picks. The two best are Kurman and Martin, who have both been outstanding this year. I’ve chosen Kurman ahead of Martin, even though he dropped a 2-0 decision to him at the Brunswick Invitational. I believe Kurman’s greater poise and experience will show to best advantage at tourney time. However, Martin is enormously strong, if untutored, and is capable of upsetting almost anyone. Gardner, my third choice at Mentor, is an old rival of Malcuit. In fact, he inflicted Malcuit’s only defeat, 5-2, in a bout contested at 105. Over the past two years, Malcuit has beaten Gardner three other times. Gardner, at least in my mind, may not be consistent enough to string together enough wins to capture the state crown. However, he could be the one wrestler with a reasonable chance of upsetting Malcuit because of their many previous contests. Cornell is my choice for the fourth qualifying spot, but it’s difficult to accurately judge his true ability since he just recently made 96 and the team. He is excellent on his feet. Range could easily qualify out of any other regional but may be shut out at Mentor. He looked awesome at Brecksville, upsetting Gardner and winning the final 21-0. The pairings will have a lot to do with who does get to Columbus. Murray (Austintown Fitch) and Topoly (Lake Catholic) are two other capable performers who are not quite good enough to qualify.

The only other regional with a lot of quality is the Southwest. Utt, down from 105, won the Wayne Invitational, dominating the previously unbeaten Stumpfl in the process. If he progresses, he should get a medium place. I was much impressed with Baker at the North Canton. I’m not sure he’s this highly rated in his own regional, but I detect real ability in his performance. Watch for him to surprise people. Stumpfl and Faillace are my other two choices to qualify and, perhaps, win a bout at state. This would leave out Hamilton Blone with Muhlen (Oak Hills), Moore (Lebanon), and Pergram (Middletown). In summary, this is the second-best regional with good depth and strong individuals.

The Perry Regional has little except Malcuit. I’ve seen Rhodes and Elsass this year, and they are solid performers, but they cannot “go” with the boys from the two previously mentioned regions. Lemen (Glen Oak) and Lemon (Perry) are two possibilities for that fourth qualifying spot. Fenwick (Cambridge) has previous regional experience, but Woodruff (Vincent Warren) may surpass him in the Southeast. Pawl (Nordonia), if at this weight, could be a factor. They should not challenge the top people at this regional.

The worst regional is at Bowling Green. I’ve listed Cameron, McDougle, Marinis, and Savely, but none are that strong. I would expect them all to be first-round victims. Burnheimer (Pickerington) and Schaub (Ashland) are outside choices here for a qualifying spot.

105#

PROJECTED CHAMP: CHRIS GELVIN (Kettering Fairmont)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Biggs (St. Edward)
3. Montrie (Toledo Rogers)
4. Sanftillippo (North Olmsted)
5. Cassady (Logan)
6. Mains (Westerville)
7. Caskey (Xenia)
8. Hamad (Akron Firestone)
9. Kundtz (Holy Name)
10. Picone (Solon)
11. Bellows (Lima Shawnee)
12. Salemme (Cincinnati Elder)
13. Duncan (Fairfield)
14. Knotts (Vincent Warren)
15. Kintner (Galion)

The battle for the 105# state championship should basically revolve around the top four listed at this weight. There is a real drop-off in quality after Sanfillippo in the ratings such that the best the remaining can hope for is a low place.

My choice to capture his second state title is Chris Gelvin, but it won’t be easy. Gelvin cruised through the first two rounds at Columbus last year, and then won 2-point decisions over Marder and Malcuit for the crown. He was helped in that pre-meet favorite Jackie Macko could not compete due to illness, although Gelvin certainly would have given Macko everything he could handle. I was kind of hoping Gelvin would Stay at 112″ and match up with Macko this year just to see how things would turn out. Nevertheless, Gelvin is much improved over last year. He had a fantastic Summer Season and is now much better on his feet.

That’s where Biggs will try and wrestle with him. Runner-up at 98# two years ago Biggs was upset in last year’s regional and failed to qualify. This year he has been very sharp except for one stumble against the defending state champ from Michigan. I still believe he will be slightly better than Gelvin on his feet, but he’ll have to prove it in, hopefully, the finals. The Northeast District also has State 3rd, Sanfillippo, who has been amazingly consistent. He slows down the tempo of a bout, and utilizes his big move arsenal to win the close bouts. Biggs beat him 5-4 in their dual with a last second reversal. I’ve listed Kundtz and Picone as other possible qualifiers, but I think the field is wide-open for these last two qualifying spots at Mentor. People like Deboe (Euclid), state qualifier Barron (Chardon), and state qualifier Miller (Howland) all have a chance.

Montrie has wrestled successfully at 1194 and 112# and will be an absolutely gigantic 1054. I was impressed with him last year, and he has potential to be a finalist. His problem will be on his feet where his height will make his legs vulnerable. On the mat he is awesome. State qualifier Mains should be a strong second at Bowling Green, but, like Mentor, the other two spots are wide open. I’ve listed Bellows and Kintner, but they won’t be favored by most at that regional. Many will be looking at Alves (Anthony Wayne), Ryan (Reynoldsburg), and Bender (Northland).

Gelvin heads another strong Southwestern contingent. Caskey ignites the strong Xenia team, and he could nail down a low place. Salemme and state qualifier Duncan are solid choices for the last two spots. Binkley (Oak Hills) and Williams (Mt. Healthy) are upset possibilities here. The problem this regional has at this weight is their weakness on takedowns. Give them the first two points and they are very difficult to beat.

Cassady will be a real unknown at the Perry Regional, but he is very good. Logan doesn’t wrestle that tough a schedule, but Cassady, now a senior, has still continued to get better. Last year at Columbus Malcuit beat him by just two points in the first round. I was also impressed with Hamad at last year’s regional. In his go- to-state bout with Montrie he fell short by a single point. Like several other regionals, the other two qualifying spots are still to be spoken for.

112#

PROJECTED CHAMP: JACK MACKO (St. Edward)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Hart (Worthington)
3. McCreery (Maumee)
4. Hunter (St. Joseph)
5. Neble (Lebanon)
6. Snyder (North Olmsted)
7. Jordan (Westerville South)
8. Brokloff (North Canton Hoover)
9. Gantz (Massillon Perry)
10. Worley (Carrollton)
11. Smith (Anthony Wayne)
12. Blanton (Cincinnati St. X)
13. Jones (Akron East)
14. Lampa (Valley Forge)
15. Heer (Toledo Libbey)
16. Nelson (North Royalton)
17. Howard (Sycamore)
18. Berdysz (Mentor)
19. Long (Galion)
20. Solano (Lake Catholic)

This will turn out to be a very interesting and competitive weight class that should draw substantial fan interest. Every regional has potential high place winners and most of the bouts should be close and exciting. In addition, each regional has five or six boys good enough to go to Columbus so the competition at that level will also be fierce.

I’m looking for Jackie Macko to stay healthy this year and collect the state title that seemed so evidently his most of last year. He is less flashy than a number of his St. Ed’s teammates, but he really knows how to win. He has not lost in two years. On his feet, on the mat, or underneath he is first-rate, and has no apparent weakness. If Macko does win at 112#, it will break a long-time St. Ed’s jinx. Despite all the good lightweights they’ve had and 21 State individual championships in the last 7 years no one has ever won a crown for the Eagles at less than 126#. Close behind him are Jeff Hunter and Mike Snyder who have also had outstanding years. Hunter swept through the challenging St. X Tourney pinning in the finals while Snyder defeated Lampa, state champ Hanson, and Berdysz on his way to the Brecksville title. Snyder’s only defeat was by one point to a somewhat illness-weakened Macko. The battle for the fourth spot will be bitter. Normally state qualifier Lampa would be favored, but he has not looked good this year. At Brecksville, he seemed out of synchronization and just couldn’t get his timing down. He is not wrestling as well as last year. This leaves the door ajar for Berdysz or Solano to nail down a state tourney bid. The pairings at this regional will go a long way in determining the ultimate outcome with Hunter, Berdysz, and Solano exiting the same district as do Macko and Snyder at theirs.

Hart, my second choice, finished a solid 4th at this weight losing only to Shire and Carlin last season. This season he finished behind Macko at North Canton when both were at 119#. His regional is loaded. McCreery did a great job at the Admiral King Regional last year sweeping through a great field to the final. There he took Carlin down three times in the first period before running out of gas and getting “decked.” He has been a little erratic this year so it’s difficult to know what he’ll do at tourney time. State qualifier Jordan won a bout at Columbus last year and could do better this time around. Again, it’ll be a challenge just getting out of that regional. The battle for the last qualifying will be interesting. Smith has never done as well as I’ve expected, but he has real talent. Heer missed state qualification by one point last year while Long has had a terrific year including the MVP at the Gorman. Look for Smith to finally cash in with some crucial victories here.

The Southwestern is not quite as solid as the two previously mentioned areas. It is led by junior Ed Noble, already a two-time State qualifier. Last year he lost a quarter-final thriller 9-9, 7-0 OT costing him a high place. This year he stands clearly above the rest of that regional. Blanton and state qualifier Howard look to be two possible qualifiers with the last spot open to anybody having a good weekend. The only competitor to watch from this area, though, is Noble.

The Perry Regional is very confusing because some of the top people have not met this year. Brokloff and Gantz head this list. Brokloff, a sure placer at 98# last year, was hit by a car before districts and did not compete. He did not wrestle this season until mid-January and is only slowly rounding into form. I look for him to be much sharper by tourney time. He is “dynamite” on his feet. Gantz also had a slow start campaigning at 119#. For example, he finished 6th at North Canton. Still, this boy was 5th in the State last year including two falls–one of which caught Jordan. Right behind this duo is Worley–2nd at Medina, and Jones, the Hudson champ. Both are experienced competitors with a lot of strength. A dark horse is Nelson who I’ve liked for two years. He could be a regional finalist on a hot weekend. Another person to watch is Summers (Alliance) who has made rapid progress.

119#

PROJECTED CHAMP: RICK HARTMAN (St. Ignatius)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Carlin (St. Edward)
3. Xopp (Lorain Southview)
4. Bish (Tiffin Columbian)
5. Green (North Canton Hoover)
6. Mezinger (Fremont Ross)
7. Miller (Dayton Chaminade)
8. Pircson (Alliance)
9. McClellan (Upper Arlington)
10. DeFelice (Chardon)
11. Schreier (Kettering Fairmount)
12. Zeller (Glen Oak)
13. Shepherd (North Olmsted)
14. Wasson (Vandalia Butler)
15. Biggins (Anthony Wayne)
16. Lee (Cincinnati Mt. Healthy)
17. Yacobucci (Akron North)

On the surface, this choice does not appear to make a lot of sense. After all, Carlin beat Hartman at the OCC’s and outwrestled him in a drawn dual meet. There is little difference in experience as both boys have had magnificent four-year varsity careers. Hartman was a state champ as a sophomore and runner-up last year while Carlin has placed 2nd and 3rd the last two years. I’ve chosen Hartman for two reasons–first, his safe, conservative style makes him less prone to the big upset by someone else. Second, should he and Carlin meet in the State finals he should have an advantage because in pressure bouts his approach requires less coordination and timing. Thus, nerves will have less effect on him in the critical first period, and with an early lead Hartman is almost impossible to beat. I foresee Carlin having a couple “bad shots” in the first period with Hartman converting those into takedowns. After that, he’ll use the legs to hang on to that lead.

It’s tempting to see this weight class as a two-man show, but it would be incorrect to do so. Also exiting the Mentor Regional is the terribly strong Kopp who upset Hartman at the Brunswick. Last year he failed by one point to qualify for Columbus, and he will be a major factor in the competition. Also at Mentor will be the excellent DeFelice–who if the pairings are balanced–should gain the fourth qualifying spot. Backing up this foursome are Shepherd, who has made major improvement this season, Cwiklinski (Valley Forge), and Schaeffer (Ashtabula Edgewood). Two dark horses who deserve special mention are Zingale (Brecksville) and Maddox (Collinwood). Zingale, a state quarter-finalist two years ago, got decked last year at districts while leading 12-4 and eliminated from further competition, Injured all season he had just recently returned to the lineup and with his marvelous athletic ability could pull some major upsets. Maddox is also a sensational athlete with great balance and a wonderful cradle. He is the beginning of an outstanding Collinwood trio of wrestlers and needs to be closely watched.

The Bowling Green Regional is second strongest at this weight. Bish and Mezinger have both had outstanding years, and they have a lot of experience. I was very impressed with Mezinger at last year’s regional, but after Carlin decked him, he just wasn’t himself in the state meet. Bish lost in the regionals to Venesile who now wrestles on St. Ed’s Green Team after transferring this year. Yet he has come back to beat Mezinger at the Rogers and win two major tourneys. Behind this duo are McClellan and state qualifier Biggins. These boys have done well with the important exception of big tourneys where they have folded. If that trend continues people like Reisch (Worthington), Richardson (Columbus South), Zeto (Hilliard), and Weisbarth (Eastmoor) could qualify.

As has been the case several times the Perry Regional is confusing. Green has the best overall record–winning the Medina, finishing 2nd at North Canton, and wrestling solid bouts in almost every outing–but he has been upset several times. His steadiness in big tournaments has to be a primary strength. Pierson beat Green while Zeller drew with him, but I still rate them lower–that’s because at Medina they both finished behind him. Yacobucci is a tentative fourth choice, but he all too often has failed to win the big bout. Pontuti (Carrollton) has pulled some major upsets while Crevar (Nordonia) is cut from the same cloth, When you see either of these boys on a good day you wonder how they ever lose. Lewis Clarke (Ravenna) has one of my favorite names, and has an outside chance at this weight.

The Southwestern Regional has a lot of experience, but I don’t think the talent is there for placement Possibilities. Schreier Wasson both qualified for States at this weight last Year, but were hammered in the first round. It could well happen again this year, although Schreier may do a little better this time. Somebody to really watch, however, is Miller. A state qualifier in “AA” last season, he beat Branham and then lost to Pryor in overtime. He easily won the GMVWA and has been Outstanding all year. The fourth Spot could go to Lee, Stafford (Fairfield), or LeForce (Franklin).

126#

PROJECTED CHAMP: DAN PICOLO (Springfield North)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Lightner (Alliance)
3. Hunter (St. Joseph)
4. Diglia (Elida)
5. Saxton (Elyria)
6. DeCamp (Centerville)
7. Fitch (West Geauga)
8. Schenk (GlenOak)
9. Palker (St. Edward)
10. Andrassy (Nordonia)
11. Ma (Cleveland Hts.)
12. McClellan (Upper Arlington)
13. Glass (North Canton)
14. Dance (Oak Hills)
15. Burnette (Collinwood)
16. Purney (Toledo Macomber)
17. Ice (East Liverpool)
18. Durbin (Lisbon Beaver Local)
19. Korney (Pickerington)
20. Schette (Dayton Wayne)

The way this report is constructed centers around writing 39 short reports (one for each weight class) over about a ten-day period. Since it’s typed on a sophisticated word processor there is no reason to write them in any particular order so I start with those that seem easiest–like the ones that contain names with Goad or Potokar or Strauss. That gives me more time to collect information on more difficult weights hoping that something will happen to make my task a little easier. Gradually–sometimes very gradually–they all get done until I’m left with the single most difficult case–this one.

I have absolutely no idea who will win this championship. One thing I have noticed in weights like this is that distance becomes important. That is when no wrestler seems real good to me, ones that wrestle for schools far away from Cleveland start looking better and better. Basically, that’s how Dan Picolo became my top choice. He may have flaws, but from 200 miles they’re not easy to see. Anyway, Picolo is undefeated, qualified for state last year, and possesses a formidable array of skills. He has as good a chance as anyone.

His top competition should come, at least in part, from the Mentor Regional. Tony Hunter is quick and strong and very experienced. He placed 6th last year at this weight. I think he is ready to improve on that result. Saxton has been hidden away at 1328, but he is the kind of wrestler Elyria produces every year–strong, well-conditioned, and knowing how to win. With the right draw he could be a finalist. Fitch has been impressive all season and could have to grab a qualifying spot in this tough competition. Palker is a sensational sophomore who could be one of the all-time best at that school. He has a “tough head” and that combined with his quickness will win a lot of bouts. However, a half year of varsity experience may be too much to overcome. He had state champion Ken Ramsey beat at the OCC, but succumbed to the pressure and lost late. I think both Fitch and Palker are vulnerable here and there are a host of eager 126’s who could displace them. Ma had a great Brecksville Tourney and I was just about ready to pick him. Enormously strong I believe he may be having trouble with the weight and he has been unable to sustain his earlier momentum. Taylor (Lorain Southview) and Burnett are very talented competitors who have shown an erratic pattern of results. They look like upset threats rather than long-term winners. Durbin has the bad luck of coming to Mentor, but he could sneak into a qualifying spot if everything goes just right.

The Perry Regional is also strong and deep. I almost picked Lightner to win the state crown so impressive is his record. A relentless attacker, he has won the Medina Tourney and is undefeated in duals. He’s the same lad who twice last season lost to two-time State champ Dan Willaman by a single point. I see Schenk, Glass, and, maybe, Acierni (Marlington) all at about the same level with the first two having the edge in experience. Incidentally, all four of these wrestlers compete in the tough Federal League. There is not even a shade of a doubt that it is the toughest wrestling league in Ohio. The level of dual meet competition there just cannot be matched anywhere in Ohio. Two younger wrestlers will also compete at this regional–Andrassy and Ice. The former is only a freshman, but he caught my eye early and he should become a great one. I think he will qualify for State on talent alone. Ice, only a sophomore, won a bout at Columbus last year. So far, after moving up two weights, he has not been nearly as impressive. Look for him to come on at the end of the season.

The Southwestern Regional has some depth behind Picole. I keep looking for DeCamp to hit his stride and nail down a low place at Columbus. Dance is also a solid competitor with the credentials to qualify. Another outstanding freshman is Aaron Schette who could also qualify past some more experienced wrestlers. Again we have a talented young wrestler about to make a mark for himself. His competition will come from Holliday (Vandalia Butler).

This seems to be the weight class for relative unknowns. People are going to be surprised when Diglia dominates the Bowling Green Regional but they shouldn’t be. He missed most of last season with a serious injury, but he has crushed everybody this season. Now “everybody” hasn’t necessarily been all the best people, but a weak schedule shouldn’t hurt this boy too much. Other possible qualifiers are Purney, McClellan, and Korney, but they are really just journeymen competitors. I look for some real surprises in this regional. “AA” state qualifier Olander (Whitehall) is a possibility as is Knauer (Toledo St. John). I shudder, however, to think what will happen to these wrestlers once they reach Columbus.

132#

PROJECTED CHAMP: JEFF STRAUSS (St. Edward)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. St. John (St. Joseph)
3. Tusick (North Olmsted)
4. Lieb (Watkins Memorial)
5. Bright (Collinwood)
6. Price (Fairfield)
7. Gallagher (Chardon)
8. Denker (Holland Springfield)
9. Barker (Stow)
10. Tharp (North Canton)
11. Whitehair (Madison)
12. Thomas (Marion Franklin)
13. Hudson (Toledo Macomber)
14. Smith (Xenia)
15. Crane (Nordonia)
16. Lyons (Elyria)
17. Galilei (Westerville South)
18. Papalios (Dayton Wayne)

Just about all the good 132’s are at the Mentor Regional. It’s a real shame that two or three boys who would be finalists at the other regionals won’t even get out of the Northeast District. Let’s take a look at who’ll be competing.

First, of course, is defending state champ Bubba Strauss–one of the best and most recruitable wrestlers in Ohio. Then two-time state qualifier Dan St. John cropped down–his only loss this season is to Strauss. Then state runner-up Bennie Bright certified at 132# further crowding the field. Already there was state qualifier Bob Gallagher and Brecksville champ Tim Tusick whose only loss was an 8-7 defeat by Strauss. It could easily be argued that these are the five best 132’s in the state. In addition, Whitehair and Lyons could easily qualify out of any other regional in the state. The shame of it all is that only four will qualify. The competition here at this weight will be much tougher than the following week at Columbus. The pairings will mean everything. Since the top six people emerge from three districts there will hopefully be a balanced draw. I would not be surprised to see the four that emerge all meet in the state semi-finals.

Strauss should win again. He’s become a top-pressure wrestler and loves the spotlight in big tourneys (or little ones, too). St. John is just so solid you figure he has to qualify. Tusick can be overpowered and Bright outslicked while Gallagher cannot match the speed of the others. It will depend on the matchup for these three. Whitehair, as good as he is, looks to be left out. People like Lyons and Hoopes (Austintown-Fitch) who are good, but have no chance at this weight ought to think seriously about 138#. What a great regional field.

At Bowling Green, there is a lot of depth, but far less quality. I look for Lieb to defeat the rest of the pack and grab a low state place. Denker seems next best and relatively sure of qualification. After that, the field is wide open. There are over a half-dozen past regional qualifiers any of whom could grab a qualification spot. I’ve listed Thomas, Hudson, and the Pugnacious Galilei. They seem the next best to me. Other possibilities might include Rentschler (Marion Harding), Bellows (Lima Shawnee), Anderson (Toledo Clay), and Mezklin (Gahanna). In its own way, competition at this regional will mirror the battles at Mentor–though at a much lower level.

The Southwest is substantially weaker. I really like Price, but after that, there is a big drop-off in quality. Smith and Papalios have done reasonably well within this area while a whole host of others trail behind. Campbell (Princeton) upset Thomas at the Fairfield Invitational and has become a factor at this weight since dropping from 138#.

This same lack of quality holds true at the Perry Regional. Tharp reminds me very much of his last year’s teammate Auker with his ability to win close matches while Barker has beaten some good people. I just have no feeling that people like Crane really are good enough for state qualification but I have no better names to bring forth. Again, this is an area where some unfamiliar wrestlers will do well like, for example, Richter (Strongsville) or Parks (Alliance).

138#

PROJECTED CHAMP: BRIAN DOLPH (North Canton Hoover)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Sell (Carrollton)
3. Carpenter (St. Edward)
4. Dodson (Hilliard)
5. Roberts (Shelby)
6. Black (Stow)
7. Dagley (Xenia)
8. Smith (North Olmsted)
9. Kendig (Lima Shawnee)
10. Johnson (Nordonia)
11. Shumaker (W. Chester Lakota)
12. Berg (Cleveland Hts.)
13. Reda (Alliance)
14. Christie (West Geauga)
15. Jackson (Toledo Waite)
16. Jedding (Cincinnati LaSalle)
17. Siske (Pickerington)
18. Spychalski (Maumee)
19. Wright (East Liverpool)
20. Mullen (Cincinnati Elder)

This is a strong and deep weight class with quality competitors throughout the state. The competition should be very close as no one boy stands out well above the rest. It also should prove to be a contrast in styles as virtually every type of wrestler is represented.

The choice at this weight is very difficult. I’ve gone with Dolph, 5th last year at 126, even though he has had some ups and downs this year. He has wrestled a very competitive schedule this season with solid success. I believe that he’ll be able to withstand the pressure and win the close battles it will take to capture the crown.

Actually, I think Sell may actually be the better wrestler. He defeated Dolph at Medina on his way to the championship and is undefeated this year. This will be his fourth State trip, and yet, he has never placed. He has only lost seven times in those four years, but he does not wrestle the big-time schedule that a Dolph or a Carpenter wrestles. I was tremendously impressed with Skip Laughlin, the Carrollton coach, last year. His boys are well trained and he is a superb coach during the bout. Last year his 119-pounder Bryan Shaw nearly upset two-time champ Dan Willaman in the finals using a well-developed plan. Still, Sell just doesn’t wrestle enough tough, hard bouts to be completely ready for what is still to come.

That Perry Regional is dynamite. Besides Dolph and Sell it features a number of other wrestlers who could place. Foremost, is state qualifier Jeff Black who has just come back from a separated shoulder. He can be brilliant. Rusty Johnson is a fine leg wrestler who is almost impossible to beat once he gets ahead, OVAC champ Rich Wright is undefeated and has a chance to grab a state spot. Finally, Shawn Reda has wrestled a difficult schedule with solid success although he has lost a number of very close bouts. Should things go his way he’ll upset some higher-rated boys. Still, I look for Black and Johnson to cop the last two state spots and possibly place at Columbus.

The Mentor Regional is also excellent, though, it does not have the depth of the one at Perry. Mike Carpenter has done everything asked of him this season including winning the North Canton, the Top Hat, and the West Geauga. As good as he is I think Dolph and Sell are just a little better–especially on their feet. Smith, state qualifier Berg, and Christie are just a small step behind Carpenter. The one to watch may well be Smith. He has some great upper body moves, and if North Olmsted does well in the team competition he may pick up some of that momentum. The sophomore Steve Buddie may be a strong contender for a spot if he continues to improve.

Bowling Green also has a lot of depth at this weight with some very strong wrestlers leading the way. Both Dodson and Roberts were state qualifiers with Roberts garnering a 6th place at this weight. They have different styles. Roberts, extremely strong, is hard to score on and wins a lot of close bouts. He may stress defense too much. Dodson is a scorer who is good on his feet. His style tends to keep stalling calls from being a factor in the matches. Kendig is another strong battler who has moved down one weight class. A one-point loss kept him from Columbus last year. Nacko Jackson, who gets an automatic two points for the first name, is rated #1 in Toledo. Frankly, he did not look very good at last year’s Admiral King Regional and is vulnerable once again this year. Siske, Spychalski, O’Conner (Worthington), and Ulen (Upper Arlington) are all top-flight contenders for that last spot. I particularly like Siske and would not be surprised to see him in the thick of things at Columbus.

Dagley towers over the rest of the field at the Southwestern Regional. He may be in line for a low place with a good draw at Columbus. Shumaker is rated highly in his area and is probably next in this regional. I don’t believe he can compete well with my top ten. Jedding and Mullen are my other two choices, but Hogan (Dayton Colonel White) is an intriguing possibility. He has compiled an outstanding record against generally inferior competition and is yet to be really tested. His fall record suggests caution, however.

145#

PROJECTED CHAMP: MARK BUDDIE (St. Ignatius)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Ross (West Carrollton)
3. Dagley (Xenia)
4. Marine (West Geauga)
5. Patsey (Normandy)
6. Melegari (Louisville)
7. Walker (North Olmsted)
8. Greer (Tiffin Columbian)
9. Norris (Centerville)
10. Walter (Upper Arlington)
11. Ice (East Liverpool)
12. Galbreath (Groveport)
13. Mayse (Marion Harding)
14. Sprouse (Canton South)
15. Mulcahy (Holland Springfield)
16. Smith (Port Clinton)
17. Raynes (Elyria)
18. Breitfelder (Cincinnati Elder)

This is a relatively mediocre weight class that will not cause much of a stir in Columbus this year. In that respect, it is mindful of the 145’s last year. It gives that appearance, perhaps, because only two wrestlers at this weight have ever won a bout at previous state meets.

Mark Buddie, one of those two, finished 4th last year at 132 and is having a sensational season. He has already won the Brunswick, St. X, and OCC tourneys and has beaten Ross and “AA” star Aaron Peters. However, his victory is not assured. Ross was 2nd last year losing the title bout at this weight 3-2. He is very strong and solid and his 9-2 loss is not indicative of his abilities. What Buddie did was take him down four times to run up the big score. I don’t think that will happen again, although if Ross has a weakness it is on his feet, Buddie still has the look of a winner and he should enter the tournaments with enormous confidence.

The Mentor Regional is very strong–in fact, four of my top seven choices exit from that regional. Marino, a state qualifier last season, has really had a strange year with weight problems, injuries, and a suspension. However, he is a standout wrestler. Patsey blew a 4-1 lead on Walker at the Brecksville by retreating into a shell. If he wrestles hard for six minutes few will be able to match him. Walker is so terribly tall that most 145’ers don’t even know how to approach him. If he can keep from getting taken down he’ll win a lot of bouts. This foursome should prove very strong in Columbus. They are all battle-hardened and tough. The only problem might be the regional pairings, If Marino and Walker are the champs on one side then they’ll be with Patsey, second to Buddie, at the Normandy Regional. While the probabilities of that are only one in three it would leave the door ajar for a Raynes or Markulin (Austintown Fitch) to qualify. Another candidate would be Brodnik (Solon) who is an outstanding wrestler, but who, for health reasons, has trouble going six tough minutes.

At Bowling Green, there are a lot of possibilities but no sure things. Greer is top-rated in the Northwest but has never done really well with out-of-area competitors. Walter is a top-flight junior who may still be a year away from being able to “go” with the very best. Galbreath, Mayse, Mulcahy, and Smith are all possible state qualifiers. This is a regional that mixes both Toledo area and Columbus area competitors. There will be little knowledge about the competition and so wrestlers with one great move–like a headlock or cradle–will have a better chance of winning than they normally would at this time of year. The refereeing will also be important since the two areas have differing philosophies regarding such things as stalling.

Ross, Dagley, and Norris make up a very strong Southwestern trio. They all have state placement potential. While Ross stands at the top of the list, Dagley and Norris both are strong, and surprisingly for that area, pretty good on their feet. Breitfelder, a strong 3rd at the OCC should be the fourth qualifier. Maxwell, (Tecumseh) has a sensational record but will not be ready for this level of competition.

The Perry Regional is very weak, Melegari won the North Canton and was 2nd at the Medina. He stands above the rest. OVAC champ Ice and state qualifier Sprouse are possibilities, although both have some definite weaknesses. Two Pioneer Conference wrestlers McGowan (Strongsville) and Stallard (Cloverleaf) have had strong years and could be state qualifiers. My feeling is that after Melegari, the other three qualifiers will simply be bracket fillers.

155#

PROJECTED CHAMP: TIM KENVILLE (North Canton)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Pearson (Centerville)
3. Stickleman (Franklin)
4. Coldiron (Toledo Whitmer)
5. Genovese (Solon)
6. Gerhardstein (Cincinnati Elder)
7. Toney/Chambers (St. Edward)
8. Millward (Akron North)
9. Martin (Toledo Rogers)
10. Muscarella (Warren Howland)
11. Taylor (Lorain Southview)
12. Higgins (Elyria)
13. Lavutzenheiser (GlenOak)
14. Peck (Xenia)
15. Scavuzzo (Revere)
16. Gutbrod (St. Joseph)
17. Hamilton (Upper Arlington)
18. Cornist (Cincinnati Princeton)
19. Raab (Trotwood-Madison)

Last year this was one of the outstanding weight classes in any classification featuring almost a dozen first-rate wrestlers. This year it is much weaker and possesses a minimum of fan interest.

My choice is Tim Kenville, the experienced star from North Canton Hoover. He was 3rd at this weight as a sophomore, but last year failed to place because of an unfortunate pairing. Injured most of the season, he returned to win the important St. X Tourney in solid fashion. Like most North Canton wrestlers, he is very well trained in the basics and knows how to win the close ones. His major competition will be Jim Pearson–winner at both North Canton and Brecksville, and a wrestler with a style similar to Kenville. Neither is particularly quick and they grind out the decisions using their outstanding strength to control and contain the opponent.

Most of the best 155’s seem to be in the Southwestern Regional. Beside Pearson, there is the undefeated Stickleman, OCC champ Gerhardstein, St. X runner-up Peck, Raab, and Cornist. While not in Pearson’s class, the first two should be able to capture medium to low places while the last three will battle for the final qualifying spot. In addition, DiCarlo (Chaminade) and Marcell (West Carrollton) are fine wrestlers with no place to go. Unlike many weights, drawing a Southwestern Regional qualifier at 155# will prove to be a rough go.

I’m really confused with the Mentor Regional Picture. Genovese is a hardworking performer, but can he really be the best this area has to offer? Early in the season, I would have rated Geoff Toney as the best, but he isn’t even making the team and his replacement, Chambers, did not make the finals at the North Canton or the OCC. And what about Muscarella? He was 6th at this weight last year, has been much less than impressive so far this season. Somehow I’m not getting it to all add up. Taylor and Higgins from the far west of the regional just haven’t wrestled enough top people for me to make a solid judgment. And finally, Gutlbrod has surprised me by taking Kenville into overtime and beating Chambers and Dulin. Besides, the improving Bright (Chardon) and the strong Culpepper (Bedford) still haven’t been accounted for. What it makes for is a jumbled picture that suggests that the four qualifiers are likely to be surprises and probably will have real trouble placing in Columbus.

At Bowling Green, the two Toledo wrestlers–Coldiron and Martin–stand well ahead of the remainder of the field. Neither is likely to challenge the very best boys, but both would win some bouts in Columbus. Behind them are Hamilton, rated 1st in Columbus but only 6th at the Brunswick, and Wilkens (Grove City). They are both vulnerable to upsets. In particular, Simpson (Sylvania Southview) and Brown (Northland) are possible threats to unseat them. Still, after the top two, this regional is not strong.

On the other hand, the Perry Regional has a lot of solid performers. Clearly, Kenville is my top choice, but the stubborn Millward and Lautzenheiser are quite good. Scavuzzo gets a tentative nod for the fourth spot. However, no one is safe here, not even Kenville. Taggart (East Liverpool) won the huge OVAC tourney while Garn (Wadsworth) is a tenacious wrestler. Two possible dark horses are Krosse (Medina) and Stephens (Lancaster).

167#

PROJECTED CHAMP: DARRYL MICKLEY (Louisville)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Coulter (Whitehall)
3. Stobart (Worthington)
4. Mason (St. Edward)
5. Shafer (Lima Shawnee)
6. Dudgeon (Xenia)
7. Beier (Toledo St. John)
8. Lucas (West Carrollton)
9. Drew (Toledo Whitmer)
10. Dotson (Springfield North)
11. Reinbolt (Walsh Jesuit)
12. Lucas (Lakewood)
13. Laake (Cincinnati LaSalle)
14. Barnes (Vincent Warren)
15. Hoover (Cleveland Heights)
16. Griffiths (Nordonia)

Darryl Mickley is one of those rare wrestlers who has seemingly changed his style overnight. In the past, he was a stolid, defensive wrestler winning bouts in a gritty style that allowed him twice to place at the state level. Suddenly, this season he becomes the consummate offensive wrestler, scoring 20 or more points in virtually every bout. In 1965, this newfound aggressiveness should translate into a state title. Except for Coulter, I really don’t see anybody even challenging him.

Mickley’s regional is probably one of the weakest in the state. Reinbolt certainly should challenge for a qualifying spot, but not Mickley’s. The unknown Barnes is a pinner who may catch enough people by surprise to qualify. State qualifier Huston (Lancaster) has not wrestled well enough to qualify, but Griffiths and Wagner (Medina) may have a chance. McClintock (North Canton Hoover) looks to be moving to this weight and if so, he could be a factor. Clearly, except for Mickley, no one here will place at State.

The really strong regional, though, is the one at Bowling Green. There, six top-notch contenders will vie for the four qualifying spots. Coulter has wrestled at 175 pounds all year but certified at 167 pounds. He should be the top man at Bowling Green and the one competitor who could upset Mickley. State qualifier Stobart has solid credentials despite a 4th place finish at North Canton. He seems to be the kind of wrestler who improves as the season progresses. Shafer is an outstanding athlete whose state chances ended last year with a regional injury. I like both their chances for qualification. I put OCC champ Beier ahead of Drew and State qualifier Schwartz (Westerville North) for the last spot, but it should be very close. I see Beier as the wildcard in this regional. On a hot weekend, he could be second–on just an average weekend, he could be left out. Again, as is so often the case, the pairings will be crucial.

Mason heads the Mentor contingent, which appears to be very weak. Since he has moved up to 167 pounds, Mason has looked very good. Except for the controversial loss to Beier, he has been dominating. He won’t be quick enough to match up with Mickley, though. The well runs dry after Mason. Lucas and Hoover are LEL rivals with very moderate credentials, although Hoover was the Brecksville champ. King (Euclid), Chirozzi (Warren Howland), and Bryant (Lorain) are also possibilities. But there have to be better folks than this. Look for them, whoever they are, to surprise at least several of my listed people this year.

As a footnote, two-time State qualifier Kevin Ginley of St. Ignatius did not come out for the team. Had he done so, he would probably have been a top three choice and given Ignatius the opportunity for the runner-up trophy.

The qualifiers from the Southwest will surprise a lot of people. Dudgeon, Lucas, Dotson, and Laake may not be superstars, but they are better than anyone outside of Bowling Green except for Mickley and Mason. They all look like they have low place possibilities–particularly Dudgeon and Lucas. These two have battled each other all year, and it would be only fitting if they met for a place, say 5th, at Columbus. The one weakness is their takedown skills. Dole (Harrison) is another possibility who cannot be overlooked.

PROJECTED CHAMP: SCOTT HOLMAN (Upper Arlington)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Welch (St. Edward)
3. Funk (Massillon Jackson)
4. Prelock (Lake Catholic)
5. Law (Wapakoneta)
6. Managan (Akron Firestone)
7. Seacrist (Chardon)
8. Rosemond (Toledo Rogers)
9. Byington (Fairfield)
10. Millimen (Toledo Clay)
11. Brownsberger (Louisville)
12. Rupper (Dayton Wayne)
13. Benes (Lakewood)
14. Mincy (Cincinnati Mt. Healthy)
15. Bauer (Amherst Steele)

A sensational weight class featuring a number of absolutely outstanding 175’s. If there were an Outstanding Wrestler Award at Columbus, the winner of this weight class would be a prime candidate.

My choice is the rock solid and implacable Holman. He was 2nd last year–thanks to drawing away from both Moore and Foor–but pairings will not have any effect on him this year. He is the best at their weight class, and will prove it by defeating an awesome field for the title. His finals loss to Foor is his only defeat the past two years, and he has wrestled all season at 185# even though certified at this lower weight.

There is top competition for Holman everywhere but let’s start at the Mentor Regional. Chris Welch has developed into a legitimate star who probably has the best chance of upsetting Holman. He, like Holman, is an enormous 1754 although I think Holman may be a bit quicker and stronger. Welch benefits from great coaching and solid competition week after week. Right behind Welch is the redoubtable Prelock, 6th last year at this weight. He was hammered by Welch at the OCC but has made a habit of coming back from such losses. Last year he pinned Inderlied in the regional finals after an early season loss. Trailing both of these is the solid Seacrist–loser only to Welch at both the West Geauga and North Canton finals. He was one point from a state berth last season. All of these boys have strong placement possibilities with Welch a possible finalist. Behind them–a long way behind them–are folks like Benes, Bauer, and D’Annibale (Brecksville).

Mike Funk has made incredible strides this year, and this outstanding junior is a force to be reckoned with. Last season he made it to the state quarter-finals, but he should do much better than that is 1985. He has already thumped Managan, 4th at this weight last year, and crushed my “AA” choice, Rini, 10-0. He’ll join his brother as a state champion, but probably not this year. Managan is still big and tough and could place again. The question I have revolves around his level of improvement. Brownsberger is an often overlooked member of that fine Louisville team, but he should qualify and, perhaps, score at the state level. The fourth spot is wide open.

Holman will face vigorous competition at his own regional. I was really impressed with Mike Law last season even though he lost both outings–one to state champ Foor and the other by one point to Prelock. He should be a solid qualifier. Rosemond and Millimen are long-time rivals who I favor for the other two qualifying spots. Rosemond, unaccountably, failed to get out of his district after a splendid season while Millimen went to State. This year they have split in two hard-fought outings. Gutoski (Port Clinton) and Uphouse (Hilliard) are two other state possibilities at this regional.

The Southwest Regional is not quite as well armed at this weight. North Canton champ Byington moved down from 185#, but he would actually do better at the higher weight. Rupper, Mincy, and Starkey are my choices for the last three spots, but there are a number of other contenders as well. Chief among them are Wampler (Springfield North) and Whitney (Oakhills). This area will have trouble placing a boy at this weight.

185#

PROJECTED CHAMP: HANK INDERLIED (Chardon)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Sullivan (Lake Catholic)
3. Musci (Stow)
4. Blessing (Cin, Roger Bacon)
5. Young (Lancaster)
6. Castellucci (Marlington)
7. Baker (Trotwood Madison)
8. Dominguez (Toledo Rogers)
9. Mullins (Dayton Charminade)
10. Mitchell (St. Edward)
11. Salopeck (Mentor)
12. Houska (Walsh Jesuit)
13. Miller (Rocky River)
14. Lyons (Elyrie)
15. Kelley (Amherst Steele)
16. Anderson (Toledo St. John)
17. Chenevey (Massillon Jackson)
18. Tsamasiros (Centerville)
19. Cross (Louisville)
20. Bowermaster (Franklin)

It’s kind of strange the way it’s worked out at the upper weights. The 175# class is loaded as is the heavyweight division while here at 185# the cupboard is nearly bare. In every regional I’m scratching to find four wrestlers who look even close to state caliber. This may be an opportunity weight for 175’s who are not in the top echelon of that classification. Somebody like Byington who moved down to 175# would probably be better off at this weight in 1965.

Hank Inderlied is the obvious choice at this weight, but picking him makes me extremely nervous. He has always been a performer who has compiled erratic results over the years. A former World Age-group champion, his skills are unsurpassed in this weight class, but his ability to consistently win has never been convincingly proven. An auto accident set him back early in the year but the MVP at the Brecksville after a beautifully wrestled win over Potokar showed what he can do. The question that still remains to be answered is whether he can do it all for three consecutive weekends.

Inderlied is a small 185, but his closest competitor, John Sullivan, is certainly not. John 3rd at this weight in 1984, has not looked real impressive so far this year, but I attribute that to the few bouts that he has actually wrestled. My guess is that he’ll have heavy duty practice sessions to get him ready for the tournaments. I think Inderlied is just too slick for him, but with Inderlied’s penchant for being upset Sullivan may find someone else awaiting him in the finals,

The rest of the Mentor Regional is in a state of confusion, Miller and Kelley are west side wrestlers who made it to regionals last year. However, they wrestle weak schedules which do not sufficiently harden them for the tests still to come. Lyons was runner-up at the Medina, and he may be the best possibility for the third qualifying spot. Miller and Kelley could be pushed out of the picture altogether by two rapidly improving juniors. Mitchell–while a very small 185#–took Sullivan to the limit at the OCC and may be ready to establish himself as one of the outstanding big men in 1986, Salopeck decked Mitchell earlier in the year and his heroics have led to three Mentor dual triumphs. He will challenge anyone but the top two,

At Perry the picture is jumbled because many of the top contenders have not met. Musci lost two regional matches last year–one in overtime–either of which would have qualified him for the state. He should be ready this year. Castellucci and Young are both little known, but very tough. Castellucci has already beaten both Cross and Chenevey in compiling an undefeated season, while Young has been outstanding at the Gorman and Marion Harding Classics. Hovuska may be the fourth qualifier, but Cross and Chenevey are ready to pounce on the smallest opening. It will be a close, if not particularly elevated, competition,

Blessing, a state qualifier at 175# last year, has moved up this year and has done well. He leads what appears to be the best in a rather weak Southwestern Regional. Missing is state qualifier Nick Cooley, who as a first year wrestler nearly placed at the state level. A sensational prospect this junior from Hamilton did not go out for the team, Other top performers who will appear are Baker, Mullins, Tsamasiros, and Bowermaster. It will be a crowded field with some surprises sure to occur. Bitsko (Dayton Carroll) and Rettig, (Cincinnati St. Xavier) are two possibilities for long-shot qualification.

The Bowling Green Regional is weakest of all. Two pocket-sized heavyweights, Dominguez and Anderson, will move down and be the people to beat, They lack quickness. Smith is a possibility for a qualifying spot while the unheralded Longfellow (Newark) could also be in the thick of things. Not much here.

HVY.

PROJECTED CHAMP: KEITH CAMERON (Alliance)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Stewart (Xenia)
3. Reid (St. Joseph)
4. Farrow (New Philadelphia)
5. Vanadia (Normandy)
6. Chenetski (Pickerington)
7. Sullivan (Lake Catholic)
8. Cliffe (Defiance)
9. McConnell (Centerville)
10. Mynster (Upper Arlington)
11. White (Dayton Stebbins)
12. Murphy (Kent Roosevelt)
13. Korleski (Austintown Fitch)
14. Goforth (West Chester Lakota)
15. Fraley (Marion Franklin)
16. Bouman (North Olmsted)
17. Johnson (Strongsville)
18. Hicks (Norton)
19. Arslanian (Solon)
20. Stanley (Springfield North)

The heavyweight division is the strongest it’s been since 1975 when Golic, Cousineau, Harold Smith, Payne, and Weitzman competed. There are a number of outstanding competitors and each regional is loaded with state quality kids. From the first round at Columbus we’ll be seeing intriguing matchups and great wrestling. Enjoy.

I’ve not correctly chosen the winner at this class in “AAA” since 1980 and, generally, my picks get pinned in the first round while 10 points ahead. Last year I outdid myself with Chris D’Esposito breaking his ankle after winning the regional. Thus it should give defending state champion Keith Cameron little pleasure that I believe he has the ability to repeat. Clearly, in a high performance field like this one and with the known volatility of the heavyweight class Cameron will have to be razor sharp to take the title. He will also be combatting a 17-year jinx in which no “AAA” heavyweight has taken the title two consecutive years. The last wrestler to do so was Greg Wojciechowski in 1967 and 1968. Later, of course, he became an NCAA champion. Still the short squatty Cameron is extremely quick and a real pinner. He corrects his own mistakes by ending the match early. Undefeated this year and Medina champ on fire straight falls his biggest problem will be the wrestler who’ll outslick him early and stall at the end.

Cameron exits from the Perry Regional and the competition there will be very strong. Farrow, 2nd to Cameron last year, also returns and has lost only one bout this year. His biggest problem has been a weak schedule dotted with forfeits. His only losses last season were to D’Esposito and Cameron, and he beat Stewart 12-9 in the quarter-finals. Junior Wes Murphy has moved ahead of many others this year with his rapid improvement. Cameron pinned him at Medina, but other than that he looked very tough. Johnson was a state qualifier last season while Hicks missed by a single bout. Both will have to scrape to make Columbus this year. Two interesting wrestlers will be Jackson (Akron Buchtel) and Datkuliak (Louisville). The former upset Farrow this year 9-8 so you know he didn’t win on a lucky fall, He had not shown that kind of talent in the past, although he clearly is capable of the monumental upset. Datkuliak, brother of last year’s state qualifier, placed an unimpressive 3rd at North Canton and 5th at Medina, but he recently took Cameron to the wire in a narrow 8-6 loss. They will have to be watched.

One of Cameron’s biggest challenges will be Rod Stewart, 4th last year at this weight. Not always the most impressive looking wrestler he knows how to win the close ones–A super talent for a heavyweight. This season he remains undefeated despite a number of “close shaves.” McConnell is an excellent wrestler who also plays the line on stalling with great intelligence. He’s about due to beat Stewart after a number of close losses to him, White at 6’5″ and 230# is an impressive physical specimen who was Lineman of the Year in Ohio. If he can harness his tremendous athletic skills into a wrestling framework he should get to Columbus. That leaves the aptly named Goforth and Stanley to squabble for the last place.

The Mentor Regional also is loaded with at least seven boys good enough to qualify. I’ve liked Reid for the last several years and he came on strong at the end of last season to become a state quarter-finalist. If he can get over the occasional habit of going into a coma and throwing away won matches he could win it all. Ed Vanadia put on about 45 pounds during the past year and he has good wrestling skills to go along with a 230# frame. He was most impressive winning the Brecksville title. Twin brother Mike Sullivan wrestles a tough, intimidating style, and has the muscle to back it up. However, he has trouble with the “good moves” heavyweights. Korleski is something of a plodder but at 5’10”, 235# he is difficult to do much against. He also has trouble with heavyweights who wrestle rather than push and tug. That leaves the door open for Bouman who has excellent moves, but lacks the strength and size to overpower the best boys. He’ll have to be at his peak to qualify. Two other possibilities are the rugged duo of Arslanian and Linberger (Chardon). The latter–a strong placer at North Canton and Brecksville–recently underwent arthroscopic knee surgery and may not be ready for the tournaments.

The Bowling Green Regional is terribly crowded. Medina runner-up Chenetski has had a recent slump but he may marginally be the best heavy there. The 6’6″ Cliffe isn’t well known, but this Defiance senior is ready for a really strong performance. Last year he lost a regional bout to Chenetski by two points and is undefeated this year, Mynster and the angular Fraley are my two other choices as qualifiers, but the field is really wide open. Lavelle (Westerville South), the gigantic Reed (Reynoldsburg), and Stine (Perrysburg) are possibilities. While this would be a strong regional in a normal year, it is probably the weakest of a strong lot in 1985.

TEAMS

1. St. Edward — A senior-oriented team that should crush all opposition on its way to an eighth consecutive team crown. The super tough Mentor Regional may actually help St. Ed’s since it will swallow up competitors’ boys without materially affecting their wrestlers. The heart of the team is the weights from 105# to 138#, and it would not be surprising for any or all of that group to win a state title with the exception of the dazzling sophomore Parker. Welch and Mason are upper weight place possibilities, but to break the team point record, the disarray at 145# and 155# will have to be rectified, and Mitchell must continue to improve.
2. North Canton Hoover — One of the best teams from the standout Federal League, North Canton has a solid nucleus of Green, Dolph, and Kenville. In addition, if Brokloff can come back, he will score for them at 112#. Where North Canton rates ahead of others is that they have fine second-line strength. Glass, Thorp, Elsass, and McClintock could all score points at the state level.
3. North Olmsted — A senior-dominated team that could easily finish as high as 2nd weight or as low as 10th. The real question is how good these lower boys really are. It’s crucial because they line up strength on strength at the regional with St. Ed’s. Snyder and Shepherd have had great seasons, but the jury is still out on their state capabilities. Tusick must exit from the absolutely brutal Mentor Regional at 132#–something he had twice failed to do in the past. Bouman is at the murderous heavyweight class and Cornell at the equally tough 98#. Their test is the regional. Success there would make them state runner-ups.
4. Upper Arlington — The brilliant Holman is the hub of the team, but there is plenty of strong help. Both McClellans could qualify, and Walter, Hamilton, and Mynster certainly have good chances to do so. They exit from a regional that is often weak at their key weights so they should be well represented in Columbus. The question is can they score there.
5. St. Joseph — A team with four working parts and, maybe, one spare. It’s about time St. John did something at the state level–after all, should he make his way through the torturous Mentor Regional at his weight, a high place would seem a certainty in this his third try. Both Hunters should place, and if Reid stays alert he could win it. However, there is little margin for error.
6. Louisville — A team that may be somewhat over-rated. Mickley and Malcuit are great, but everyone after them is suspect. They have the good fortune of being away from the Cleveland boys this year, but it won’t help them much if people like Melegari, Brownsberger, Cross, and Datkuliak cannot score at the state level.
7. Chardon — A team with some crucial question marks. First, can Inderlied stay solid and win the state crown he clearly deserves? Second, can Gallagher qualify at 132# out of that murderous Mentor Regional? Third, can Seacrist and DeFelice score at the state level? And fourth, can Barron and Linberger be ready to compete by district time? Four affirmative answers put them in the top five.
8. Centerville — Pearson should be a finalist, and the 126# class is such that DeCamp has the ability to score heavily. If McConnell can do well at the rugged heavyweight class and Norris hangs tough at 145#, this team will do very well. It wouldn’t hurt to have Hamilton and Tsamasiros pitch in, too.
9. Lake Catholic — This is not a deep team, but features three individual stars–Prelock and the Sullivan twins. It wouldn’t be a huge jump into fantasy land to see all three as possible finalists–but it’s unlikely. The problem is that Topoly and Solano–the only possible helpers–are at difficult regional weight classes.
10. Xenia — They just have so many opportunities that you’d think some would come through for them. The sticking point is that Xenia wrestlers haven’t proved that they’re good enough to score at the state level as a team. Still, with Stewart as the linchpin and the two Dagleys to help, maybe they can get Caskey, Dudgeon, Peck, Smith, and Muncy involved.
11. St. Ignatius — Strictly a three-man team, but what a threesome. Buddie and Hartman have to be favored and Kurman could be a finalist. In the land of “what might have been,” you have to think about state placer Ginley who didn’t come out–and possible state placer Haman who moved to California. They might have been second with that group.
12. Alliance — I’m really impressed with Cameron and Lightner, but both could be upset victims. With only Pierson and Reda as back-up help, this team–with bad luck–could fall out of the top twenty.

---

“AA”

During the past few years, this classification has provided us with most of the exciting team races and many of the most memorable bouts. That is because there are good teams and outstanding individuals. Several teams have been able to consistently dominate. For example, since the three-class system was initiated in 1976, only 3 “AAA” high schools have won state crowns as compared to 7 “AA” high schools.

As always, the team title is wide open with at least half a dozen schools having a reasonable chance of winning. Last year, it was highly embarrassing that Barnesville–a team I had not listed in my top ten–went on to snare the team title. I loved it anyway because it was heartening to see an Eastern District school cop the crown. When two great wrestlers battle not only for an individual state crown but also for team laurels, it really creates tremendous excitement. During the past few years, most of this kind of action has been provided in “AA.”

98#

PROJECTED CHAMP: JOHN PURCELL (Streetsboro)
TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Cassidy (Coventry)
3. Wilhelm (Bath)
4. Moats (Circleville)
5. Kruse (Bishop Ready)
6. Blunt (Willard)
7. Landis (Casstown Miami East)
8. Anders (Teays Valley)
9. Schade (Buckeye)
10. Tinney (Rossford)
11. Shocklee (ASV)
12. Burns (Reading)
13. Reynolds (Stritch)
14. DiDomenico (Chanel)
15. Manger (Ww. Jefferson)
16. Grandison (Claymont)
17. Letzner (Highland)
18. Carter (Preble Shawnee)

This is a weight class that each season generally introduces an entire new crop of talented freshmen and sophomores. This year, however, it appears that three seniors will stand as the early favorites to dominate the 98# class. At the top of the list is the redoubtable John Purcell who came within a whisker of capturing the crown last year. His 9-8 semi-final upset loss was as heart-breaking as it was unexpected since he already owned a regional win over the eventual champ, Eric Burnett. A tremendous Pinner, he has dominated every wrestler he has met this year and his only problem has been a lack of good competition.

The Northeast District also returns state qualifier Cassidy–a runaway winner of the Prestigious Medina Tourney (4 falls and a Superior decision), However, Purcell has handled him easily in the past, and Cassidy has already suffered an upset defeat this year. Behind this duo I favor Schade and Shocklee for the last two spots, although both DiDomenico and Letzner certainly will be strong contenders. This group should do very well in Columbus.

At Fostoria, the senior Wilhelm would seem to be the favorite for the regional title and a high state Place. However, the combination of a weak schedule and weight problems make him vulnerable to the upset. This regional has good depth with Blunt, Tinney, Reynolds, Kruse and Manger, all possessing good credentials. As is too often the case at this weight though, look for the big upset by an unheralded sophomore or freshman.

Moats, Anders and Grandison stand out at the Lancaster Regional, I may be overlooking other top contenders, but this trio stands well above the rest of the folks there, and is competitive with the rest of the state. Both Moats and Anders–who just failed to qualify for States last year–should prove to be formidable Opponents for all but Purcell.

The Southwest Regional has not really been a factor at this weight class in the past three years, garnering only a pair of sixths during that time period–and that should continue this year. Those listed–Landis, Burns, and Carter–appear to be the three best with McCombs (Springfield Northwestern), Amos (Brookville) and Fry (Bethel-Tate) as possible qualifiers. None of this group should be a real factor in Columbus.

105#

PROJECTED CHAMP: MARK MARINELLI (Columbus DeSales)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Burnett (Oberlin)
3. Marder (Chanel)
4. Young (Steubenville)
5. Silvers (Eaton)
6. Bell (Copley)
7. Mitchell (Dayton Northridge)
8. Marczika (Bishop Ready)
9. Krantz (Beachwood)
10. Cunningham (Deer Park)
11. Moor (Bryan)
12. Milum (Upper Sandusky)
13. DeLande (St. Clairsville)
14. Moyer (Casstown Miami East)
15. Nguyen (Lima CC)
16. Foss (Ontario)
17. Gregan (Twinsburg)
18. Williams (Hillsboro)
19. Timpe (Swanton)

This is an exceptionally fine and deep weight class featuring five former state placers and another six state qualifiers. This wide dispersal of talent probably portends many upsets at both the regional and state level.

Notwithstanding this, it still seems likely that my top three choices will dominate the competition. All still remain underclassmen this year even though they all placed 3rd or better in 1984. Marinelli, my choice both this year and last, is a blend of strength and speed who still does not fully realize how good he can be. His losses are generally the result of his “sitting on” a small lead rather than taking control of the bout in the early going.

Burnett upset Marinelli last year at Columbus in one of the best matches of the tourney 6-4 in overtime. He is lightning quick and superb on his feet. He emerged last season as something of an unknown except for those close to age-group wrestling–where he has substantial experience. He lost in both district and regional competition last year, so his elevation to state champion was rather unexpected.

A new element in this brew is Brian Marder–3rd at 98# in “AAA” last year–and just down from 119#. A solid, consistent wrestler, he is probably the least likely of the three to fall victim to an upset. His biggest problem may be coping with the demands of making 105#. Nonetheless, he has the tools to cope with Marinelli’s strength and Burnett‘s speed.

Since Burnett and Marder emerge from the same regional, one will be lucky enough to have drawn away from both the other two. That could be an important element in the final resolution of this weight. Other outstanding competitors in the Northwest District include Bell, Krantz, Gregan, and Meadows (Ravenna Southeast). I particularly like Bell if he chooses to compete at this weight. He could well prove to be an unexpected factor at the regional level. A long-shot for state qualification could be Gainer (Manchester).

The Northwest is also loaded with strong competitors chasing after Marinelli. Marczika was 3rd in “A” last year, but has had injury problems. Nguyen qualified last year, but there are so many 105’s close to him. Of these Moor seems like the best possibility to do very well. I have also listed the improving Foss and the veteran Timpe as possible state qualifiers. Pay careful heed to the sophomore Milum just down from 112#. He is the kind of wrestler where a hot weekend could vault him over many older and more experienced wrestlers as witnessed by his impressive win at the Tiffin Christmas Tourney. It’s strickly a long-shot possibility for Keyes (Olentangy), Miracle (River View), and Mullett (Macysville).

Young should lead the Lancaster contingent and should be in line for a medium to high place in Columbus. State qualifiers DeLande and Williams should also make it to state competition but the latter seems very vulnerable to an upset. He has not wrestled at a state caliber level as of late.

In the Southwest, Silvers and Mitchell are powerful competitors. Mitchell “pitched” two shut-outs last year at Columbus until Burnett and Marinelli walloped him back-to-back, He ended up 6th. Silvers may have an edge on him this year. Other possibilities are state qualifier Moyer and Cunningham.

112#

PROJECTED CHAMP: DAN DONOVAN (Chanel)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Nitz (Canal Fulton NW)
3. Bell (Barnesville)
4. Leemaster (Bloomdale Elmwood)
5. A. DiSabato (Bishop Ready)
6. Staniford (Northwestern)
7. Woods (Wooster Triway)
8. Thurn (Clyde)
9. Kristoff (Grand Valley)
10. E. DiSabato (Columbus DeSales)
11. Mikula (Bellbrook)
12. Racer (Ottawa-Glandorf)
13. Tresch (Olmsted Falls)
14. Hodge (Bethel-Tate)
15. Bailey (Ravenna Southeast)
16. Savoia (Highland)
17. St. Clair (Hamilton Ross)
18. Scheufler (Castalia Margaretta)
19. Schaeffer (Brookville)

This is a very geographically unbalanced weight class. The two northern regionals are loaded with state qualifiers, former place-winners, and promising newcomers. The southern areas seem not to have the same talent level with Bell being the one exception.

Standing above everyone, however, is last year’s “AAA” state champ at 105#, Dan Donovan. The Chanel junior was also 2nd as a freshman so he has enormous experience to go along with his strong determination, Recently, however, he has not appeared as aggressive on his feet as he’ll need to be on the tourney trail. Nevertheless, he has to be the clear choice at this weight.

Not that far behind Donovan is Doug Nitz, the excellent senior from Canal Fulton. He was 5th last year at this weight–losing late to Menchaca and in overtime to McCumber. His biggest drawback will be the lack of rigorous regular season scheduling.

It will surprise many that I’ve rated the virtually unknown Trevor Staniford so high, but he should emerge in much the same manner as his state titlelist teammate, John Huber, did last year. His record the past two years has been most impressive despite the fact that he was unable to participate in the state qualifying Process last year.

The other Northeast qualifier should be either Woods or Kristoff–both state qualifiers last year–but there are so many other possible claimants. Bailey and Tresch are just down from 1198 and have competed well at the higher weight. Savoia is somewhat erratic, but has strong upset potential. Even beyond this group are possibilities such as Hatfield (Elyria Catholic), Hach (Twinsburg), and Wilkens (Kenston). Keep a particular eye on Hach from this group.

The Northwest Regional has a similar glut of talented 112#’s. Leemaster and Thurn are former state qualifiers while Eric DiSabato, Racer, and Scheufler have solid credentials. One wrestler to really watch closely, though, is the heralded freshman, Adam DiSabato. One has heard so much the past year about another DiSabato from the famous Columbus wrestling family, but he has performed well under that pressure. He seems to be a very tough-minded kid who just doesn’t know when to quit. Mix in good genes and fast reflexes and that could win a lot of bouts in Columbus.

In the Southwest, state qualifiers Mikula and St. Clair will be joined by such as Williams, Schaeffer, and Hodge. Frankly this group is unlikely to inspire terror in the competitors from the North, and are unlikely to garner anything but the lowest of places should they receive a favorable draw. One darkhorse is state qualifier Callaway (Jamestown Greenview) out all year with an injury, but due back in time for the tournaments.

The perceptive will note that only one of the nineteen top-rated wrestlers exit from the Lancaster Regional. But that one, Shawn Bell, looms large in evaluating the final results at this weight and, perhaps, in the team competition. Enormously strong, he cruised through his half-bracket before being crushed by Tatonetti in the finals. This time it will be a much tougher road to the finals, but Bell should have good pairings since he is almost a sure regional champ. I was really impressed with the way he handled Leemaster last year and three performances like that would put him in the finals against Donovan. The rest of the Lancaster qualifiers at 1124 will strictly be bracket-fillers. Possible qualifiers are Calis (St. Clairsville), Mathews (Ridgewood), and White (Logan Elm). Of this group I like Calis the best.

119#

PROJECTED CHAMP: MITCH TATONETTI (Kenston)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Branham (West Jefferson)
3. Crockett (Lewistown Indian Lake)
4. Gier (Upper Sandusky)
5. Martin (Elyria Catholic)
6. Theriot (Olmsted Fall)
7. Lewis (Tipp City)
8. Torzok (Percy)
9. Geyer (Aurora)
10. Sigler (Union Local)
11. Weiner (Bishop Ready)
12. Isaac (Twinsburg)
13. Stillion (Byerville Meadowbrook)
14. Sheehan (Highland)
15. Uribes (Wauseon)
16. Powers (Orrville)
17. Mathers (Cardinal Stritch)
18. Fraze (Doylestown)
19. Donathan (Mt. Orab West. Brown)
20. Mullet (Marysville)

The Northeast District is loaded at this weight. Nine of my top twenty wrestlers exit from this district–and the shame is that only four will qualify for States. The competition will be absolutely brutal at the regional level.

The best of this group is defending state champ, Mitch Tatonetti, who had a brilliant state tourney in 1984. This year he has not been nearly as effective–mainly because he looks too much for big upper body throws instead of mixing it up and attacking the legs as well. Still I see him as a tournament wrestler who will rise to the occasion and defend his title. Frankly, his biggest problem may be to avoid an upset at his crowded regional.

The other eight listed from the Northeast are all very close in ability with only marginal differences in overall rating. They all have the look of low place-winners. I’ve gone with three former state qualifiers–Martin, Theriot and Torzok–as the most likely candidates to join Tatonetti in Columbus. I particularly like Martin, but he failed to make it to the second period in his only state bout last year. Torzok and Theriot are both solid performers who seem a little less prone to the upset. However, it bothers me that Smithville champ Powers and Medina runner-up Geyer fall outside the qualifying circle in this analysis. Both have hit “highs” that could carry them not only to Columbus, but to a placement position. The wrestler, though, who could provide real fireworks is Shawn Sheehan. He has the potential to string upsets including Tatonetti at the Regional or any of the champs from the other areas.

At Fostoria, Branham and Gier should provide a strong one-two punch. Both have had outstanding campaigns, and Branham, in particular, seems a solid bet for a high place. Defending state “A” champ Weiner has moved up to “AA” competition this year, but I do not foresee his earlier successes. Branham has twice crushed him and he may have trouble even qualifying for Columbus. Two other solid performers in that area are Mathers and Uribes while below them are a whole raft of journeymen wrestlers such as Mullet and Crawford (Perkins).

State runner-up Crockett heads a solid Southwest contingent. A real unknown at tourney time and a 4th place regional qualifier, Crockett missed by one point and maybe five seconds of capturing the 112# crown. His closest challenger should be Lewis who defeated him for 3rd at the regional and has again wrestled well this year. These two stand far above other competitors from that area such as Donathan.

At Lancaster Sean Bell, second to Tatonetti last year, has moved down~-perhaps temporarily–to 112#. Should he return to this weight he would have to be rated in the top five. Otherwise Sigler, who split two matches with Bell is probably the top person out of Lancaster. State qualifier Stillon will certainly repeat last year’s trip to Columbus, but after him matters are pretty uncertain as to the last two qualifiers. Perhaps Takach (Steubenville) or Carpenter (Barnesville) have a shot at those spots.

126#

PROJECTED CHAMP: MATT McCUMBER (Rossford)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Schneider (Beachwood)
3. Ohl (Ontario)
4. DiSabato (Bishop Ready)
5. Chaddock (Minerva)
6. Collica (Twinsburg)
7. Thomas (Lexington)
8. Polinsky (St. Clairsville)
9. Schenk (Casstown Miami East)
10. Martin (Orrville)
11. Gentile (Columbus DeSales)
12. Fallona (Granville)
13. Burchett (Tipp City)
14. Hatfield (Willard)
15. Philiphs (Hillsboro)
16. Fisher (Harrison)
17. Speed (Chagrin Falls)
18. Layne (Ironton)
19. Sako (Wellington)

This is one of those frustrating weight classes where literally any one of a dozen competitors could win the state title without it being called an upset. It’s also a strong class featuring twelve former state qualifiers scattered throughout all four regionals. The rating shown above is the fourth I’ve drawn up on consecutive days, and each one varies substantially from its predecessors. It shows the real indecision I have about this weight.

My choice, today, is Matt McCumber, the scrappy senior from Rossford who has placed 4th and 3rd in Ohio the last two years. He lost by one point to the eventual champ at 112# in the semi-finals last year, so he has been exposed to the enormous pressure wrestlers face in Columbus. As good as McCumber is, he does not face an easy path just to qualify for his third state trip. Also at Fostoria are five other contenders with solid credentials. Ohl and DiSabato are both outstanding juniors with previous state experience. Ohl suffered a narrow loss to my 132# choice, Brian Bartos, in last year’s first round at state while DiSabato was “A” state champ at 112# two years ago. Ohl has been very successful this season at 1328 while DiSabato’s performance consistently confounds my efforts to determine how good he really is. Thomas is another strong performer who won the Gorman and holds a victory over McCumber 16-13. Hatfield was 3rd at 98# two years ago–ironically defeating McCumber by one point to capture that spot. Finally, Gentile looked impressive at the Brecksville making the finals before dislocating his elbow. Completely recovered, he is tough to beat. It should be a real donnybrook at this weight in Fostoria and if Grossenbacher (West Jefferson) has a hot weekend, things will get even more confused.

The Northeast Regional has much the same look. Schneider, Chaddock, and Martin were all state qualifiers although none won a bout. Mix in Collica–down from 138# last year and the steacy Speed, and once again it’s difficult to pick out the qualifiers from the nonqualifiers. Schneider is conservative and a great rider so he should continue his winning ways. Chaddock was 3rd at the Medina and looked very good. He should last longer than the 65 seconds he got at Columbus last year. Martin is not well known, but all he does is win and win. The biggest puzzle, though, is Collica. He has beaten some outstanding kids, and then not done so well against mediocrities. If this means he wrestles to the level of the competition, he’ll do very well, indeed, on the tournament trail. Besides Speed as a possible choice to upset one of the above four for a state berth, also remember names like Schultz (Kenston) and Sako.

At Lancaster state qualifiers Fallona, Philiphs, Polinsky, and Layne all return at this weight. I like Polinsky best and I think he could easily win a medium to low place, He already holds four career victories over state 4th Steve Pryor–now at 132#. Again there are some nongualifiers who could knock out one or, maybe, two of the top four here. Bragg (Morgan), Potts (Philo), and Somers (Claymont) are not that far behind that top quartet.

Finally, in the Southeast the quality level seems to drop off. Schenk has beaten Burchett and Fisher and seems clearly strongest. Still I wouldn’t be surprised to see Burchett move ahead during the last third of this season. Fisher, a former state qualifier, seems to have dropped a little off the pace of the other two. There is, however, little depth at this weight so these three should qualify in a relatively easy manner.

132#

Projected Champion: BRIAN BARTOS (Buckeye)

2. Zoccole (Brookfield)
3. Pryor (Barnesville)
4. Garner (Bloomdale Elmwood)
5. Sibcy (Camden Preble Shawnee)
6. Cole (Jefferson)
7. Kriz (Ravenna Southeast)
8. Huffman (Lima Central Catholic)
9. Hibbs (Jefferson Union)
10. Volpe (Columbus DeSales)
11. Goolsby (Hillsboro)
12. Spurlock (Tipp City)
13. Paonessa (ASV)
14. Wyer (Philo)
15. Mendicino (Fairview)
16. Shore (Springfield NW)
17. Lamb (Evergreen)

This is not a particularly strong weight class. It’s surprising how many of the above listed wrestlers are long-time starters who have always been just on the fringe of stardom. One exception to this rule is Brian Bartos, who established himself as a bona-fide star with a strong third last year at Columbus, and has built on that success this year. His only loss in the past two years was to Wlodarz in last year’s semi-finals. One place he stands out above his competition is his ability on his feet.

Zoccole is an extremely experienced wrestler who has already twice qualified for Columbus. This may be his break-through year where he takes charge of the competition. He was extremely impressive at the Howland Invitational. These two–Bartos and Zoccole–dominate the Northwest Regional, but Cole, a real unknown, will surprise many. Already an upset winner over Jeff Whitehair, he has made enormous improvement this year. Kriz is my choice as the fourth qualifier, as this experienced wrestler has performed impressively this year. I look for Paonessa and Medicino to be just on the fringe of state qualification–and, of course, the most tempting target for an upset will be the inexperienced Cole.

Pryor is a brutal mat wrestler whose 4th place finish last year provided enough unexpected points to give Barnesville the state title. If he grabs that initial takedown he can be very tough to beat. Goolsby, Wyer, and Hibbs are the best choices for the other qualifying spots, but a low place is the best they could hope to garner. Kurth (Bellaire) has an outside chance of making Columbus.

In the Northwest, state qualifier Garner heads a weak and lackluster field. He has had a successful season and certainly is in the hunt for a place. His supporting cast should probably include such as Huffman, Volpe, and, perhaps, someone like Lamb. Two other possible contenders are Rader (Lakota) and Watson (Olentangy). Unlike most other weight classes, this northwestern contingent will not be feared in Columbus.

There is much the same story in the Southwest. State qualifier Sibcy is the nominal leader of this qualifying group, but Spurlock and Shore may surpass him by regional time. There is not much depth in this area so that whoever the fourth qualifier is will have a short tournament expectancy in Columbus. Ott (Eaton) or Wick (Springboro) could be that short-lived soul.

138#

PROJECTED CHAMP: LUKE GRAZIANI (Columbus DeSales)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Wlodarz (Stritch)
3. Brown (Manchester)
4. Reese (Springfield NW)
5. Smith (Ravenna Southeast)
6. Sambuco (Martins Ferry)
7. Esterkamp (Mason)
8. Kosla (Chanel)
9. Perdue (Huron)
10. Hagen (Kenston)
11. Rhude (Hillsboro)
12. Iams (Barnesville)
13. Barron (Reading)
14. Napoli (Col. Station)
15. Jones (Otsego)
16. Meyers (St. Paris Graham)
17. Jennings (Buckeye Brilliant No.)

This is a first-rate weight class dominated by the two senior stars both exiting from Fostoria. Since they should finish 1-2 or 1-3 there (depending on the draw), they will be in an ideal position to meet again in the state finals. Both were runners-up in 1984 and represent Catholic schools that have been abiding powerhouses in “AA”. I’ve selected Graziani because he has held weight while Wlodarz has moved up two classes, and because he has been brilliant wrestling a more difficult schedule. To my mind Graziani could have easily been the outstanding wrestler at Brecksville because he dominated the tourney’s strongest weight class. However, victory is not assured because Wlodarz is a tremendously tough competitor who matches up reasonably well with Graziani. The rest of the field at Fostoria lags well behind this duo with Perdue and Jones, perhaps, a smidgen ahead of the rest of the field. However, both Mahnke (Wauseon) and Green (Marysville) are certainly capable of capturing a qualifying spot. Mahnke, in particular, may be underrated in this analysis.

The Northeast regional is also very strong. State qualifiers Brown and Smith have strong placement potential and Brown may be the only one in the rest of the state with a shot at upsetting either Graziani or Wlodarz. Brown won the prestigious Medina Invitational at 145# defeating a strong field. Kosla missed by one match qualifying for Columbus as a “AAA” 145#er. He has just dropped to 138# and will be very strong at this weight. Look for him to become much more formidable the last day of a tourney when he can eat. Hagen is really an excellent sophomore with two years of varsity experience, I look for him to qualify this year, and, with work, place in 1986 and 1987. Napoli, Davis (Perry), and Arto (Coventry) are other threats in this regional.

Reese is a very strong contender from the Southwestern Regional. He placed 4th last year posting wins over two regional champs. Currently, he is 16-0 with 14 falls. Such domination suggests that he may have trouble adjusting to the close, hard matches that state competition so abundantly provides. There is a big fall-off after him in this area with Esterkamp, Barron, and Meyers more than a respectable step behind. None of that group will place. A long-shot choice might be Peters (Tipp City).

Every year Martins Ferry turns out one state caliber wrestler and this year it’s Scott Sambuco. He should win the Lancaster Regional and have a reasonable shot at a low state Place. Rhude has just recently dropped to 138# and has started winning big, while Iams could become a crucial element in Barnesville’s team hopes. Jennings, 3rd last year in “A” will not do as well in this classification. He lacks the needed quickness to counter the speed of the top people. Boyd (Licking Valley) and Mlynek (Bellaire) are two other state possibilities. My feeling is that the qualifiers from this area are just not good enough on their feet to compete with those from other regionals.

145#

PROJECTED CHAMP: PAT HOY (Fairview)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Patrick (Upper Sandusky)
3. A. Peters (Cardinal Stritch)
4. Dunn (Oak Harbor)
5. M. Peters (Claymont)
6. Sampley (Tipp City)
7. Durieux (Hebron Lakewood)
8. Brady (Milton-Union)
9. Amburgey (Bishop Ready)
10. Slazyk (Indian Hills)
11. Henderson (Copley)
12. Kiko (Louisville St. Thomas)
13. Ferrell (St. Paris Graham)

The top five at this weight class make it one of the most exciting in the entire state. It should provide a number of long-anticipated match-ups that leave any true wrestling fan almost breathless, since the first three rated boys are all among the top ten seniors in the state.

How shall we sort it out? Defending state champion Pat Hoy is lightning quick and has amazing balance, but his best trait is outstanding mental toughness. He is able to go out and wrestle a super match every time.

Brian Patrick, 3rd at 138# last year, after a narrow 12-10 loss to Hoy, is a diamond-in-the-rough. Twice a placer, he is probably the best pure athlete in this group, and has been the nucleus around which Upper Sandusky has built a fine team. He is undefeated at 167# and 155# this year, and will be an enormous 145#. He undoubtedly dropped to get away from Goad, but as weak as 167# is he would probably be the favorite there. It will take an all-out effort for Hoy to defeat him.

Aaron Peters, upset in last year’s regional had an outstanding summer establishing himself as one of the best in the country in both freestyle and Greco-Roman. His only defeat this year was a 3-2 loss at 155# administered by two-time state champ Greg Goad.

Sam Dunn transferred from Findlay to Oak Harbor for this season presumably to utilize Greg Goad as a workout partner. He has already won the Perrysburg Open and finished a strong third at Medina. He is the most likely to show real improvement as the season progresses as he adjusts to new coaching.

Matt Peters finished 5th last year at 138# and is the second brother in what promises to be a long line of outstanding wrestlers at Claymont. He is probably as good as Dunn but the lack of great workout partners and a weaker schedule drop him to fifth in this rating.

The draw could be crucial at Columbus. The second and third place finishers at Fostoria–say Peters and Dunn–will be together on one side of the bracket with the odds favoring Hoy to be in the half, too. If that is the case, it will give the Fostoria champ a real edge. Hoy would then have to beat Dunn, Peters, and Patrick in succession–a Herculean task. Still I think that’s exactly what will happen. Hoy will be too quick for Dunn and outscore Peters on his feet. I believe the real challenge will be Patrick. Should that be the final it could well go down as one of the great ones in tournament history.

This quintet should dominate, but the Southwest Regional has a number of solid wrestlers who should challenge for a low place. Sampley and Slazyk were state qualifiers last year and Sampley impressed in his tough opening round loss. However, to give you an idea of the depth in this area Brady has already defeated Sampley this year, and Ferrell has been strong although admittedly against somewhat inferior opposition. Besides these four this regional has several other good wrestlers such as Eisner (Loveland).

At Fostoria, the trio of Patrick, Peters, and Dunn should stand well above the competition. However, Dennison (Fostoria), Asmus (Otsego), and particularly, Amburgey, should be the top challengers for the last qualifying spot. I think it’s possible that all the way through the Regional and State competition the top group may become so concerned with each other that they could fall prey to an early round upset. That often happens in an unbalanced weight class like this where the top people stand far above the rest of the field.

Both the Northeast and Lancaster Regionals are very weak except for Hoy in the former and Peters and Durieux in the latter. I’ve had trouble coming up with names to even list as possible qualifiers in both areas. It’s quite likely that pretty much unknown wrestlers will fill out the qualifying spots in each area. Names like Kiko, Lurch (Kenston), Winovich (Chagrin Falls), and Fink (West Branch) are some possible names in the Northeast area, while Raber (West Holmes), Hart (Union Local), and Ramsey (River Local) may do well at Lancaster.

155#

PROJECTED CHAMP: GREG GOAD (Oak Harbor)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Stankus (Tipp City)
3. McGlone (Marysville)
4. Hanchin (Perkins)
5. Romp (Rossford)
6. Bowman (Bishop Ready)
7. DeFraine (Olmsted Falls)
8. Robinson (Circleville)
9. Saylor (Columbia Station)
10. Mathys (North Union)
11. Cottrell (Loveland)
12. Moore (Chanel)
13. Sawka (Jefferson Union)
14. Szwec (Brookville)

Now that Peters and Patrick have moved down to 145# it will be strictly a one-man show. It’s kind of a shame because we all would like to see Goad really tested, so that we can truly appreciate how good he really is. Like pairs skating, a masterpiece can only be created by two superior talents, and there is nobody here who can push Goad to a higher level of performance. Goad, of course, has been a prodigy finishing 2nd as a freshman, and then winning two state titles since then. He was enormously impressive at the Medina Tourney and is one of the very top senior prospects in Ohio.

Sometimes one can only regret the vagaries of fate. Tony McCormick–a one point loser to Goad in the state finals last year–moved to Florida, eliminating, perhaps, the outstanding junior in the state this year. He was of a level that would have tested Goad to the very depths of his skills and talent. That move will also cost DeSales the team title.

The Fostoria Regional is dominant at this weight–with, of course, Goad leading the way, but also including five of the top six rated boys. The competition should be ferocious for the last three qualifying spots. McGlone, down from 167#, qualified at that weight last year, and will be an important factor. I’m surprised that he made this severe cut since 167# appears so much easier. Hanchin and Romp have had great seasons and both surely deserve a state spot this year, but it won’t be easy. Bowman, only a sophomore, is amazingly strong, and undefeated at 155#. Mathys, another 1984 state qualifier, faces a long road to duplicate that achievement. Considering the quality of the other regionals it’s kind of a pity that two of these boys will have their season on regional weekend.

Stankus, the hard-working senior, is in the hunt for a medium place and leads a very representative Southwestern Regional. His only loss has been to “AAA” contender Stickleman. Cottrell and Szwec look like other possible qualifiers, but keep an eye on Hoffman (Lewistown Indian Lake) and Sayers (Springfield Shawnee). This is the second consecutive weight class where the Southwest should be a factor.

At Lancaster, Sawka is looking to erase the frustration of twice losing bouts last year that could have qualified him for Columbus. He will be joined by Robinson, a regional quarter-finalist last year at 167#. The other two spots are wide open with Anderegg (Claymont) as a prime threat. Also look for Spencer (Belpre) and Reed (Byersville Meadowbrook) to play a role at this regional.

The Northwest Regional is uncharacteristically weak with DeFraine appearing to have the only placement possibilities. He is up from 126#. Saylor is down from 167# and should surprise some unwary 155’s although he cannot really challenge the better boys from the Fostoria Regional. Jeff Moore is beginning to pick up the baton left by his state champion brother, Jon–now at Michigan State. Because of his rapid improvement and the weak nature of this weight class in the Northeast, he could qualify. Other possibilities include Minillo (Elyria Catholic), Cageao (Kenston), and Williams (Louisville St. Thomas). Several of these boys, particularly Cageo, seem better in the dual meet setting and will have to reset their mental gears to do well at tourney time.

167#

PROJECTED CHAMP: ERNIE SLONE (Milan Edison)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Current (Steubenville)
3. Wearsch (Wellington)
4. Hatfield (Dayton Northridge)
5. Platzke (Oak Harbor)
6. Skinner (Milton-Union)
7. Lipnos (Twinsburg)
8. Ackerman (Cardinal Stritch)
9. Auble (Orrville)
10. Lindley (Eaton)
11. Garrison (Hillsboro)
12. Meyers (Dixie)
13. Mulhollen (Ravenna Southeast)
14. Henessey (Brookfield)
15. Cameron (Upper Sandusky)
16. Rountree (Springfield NW)
17. Love (Byersville Meadowbrook)

This is a very weak weight with very little to recommend it. There are no obvious standouts, and many of the names listed here are basically the result of guesswork. It seems apparent that the wrestlers who have hot weekends in Columbus can really move up in this mass of mediocrity.

A possible exception to this gloomy forecast is Ernie Slone–5th last year at this weight. A solid performer, he has defeated a number of the highly rated boys listed at this and the previous weight. His steadiness suggests that if no one gets a “hot hand” in Columbus he has to be rated a slight favorite to take it all.

Slone along with Platzke and Ackerman appear to be the dominant forces at the Fostoria Regional. The latter wrestle in the shadow of their more famous teammates–like Goad and Peters–but they have manufactured successful seasons. Platzke, in particular, seems to come on with a rush late in the season and he may be somewhat underrated in this analysis. Top contenders for the wide-open fourth Spot might be Cameron, Romp (Rossford), Janyia (Columbus DeSales) and maybe even Swank (Clear Fork)

Current, runner-up at Medina, is a solid second choice. It’s kind of ironic that he and Slone met in the first round of the States last year with Slone triumphing, 8-4, Their next match-up could be for the state title. Garrison is really the only other 167#er at Lancaster so that there is little depth there. I was straining to find Love as a third choice and a fourth candidate eluded me altogether, although Briggs (Barnesville) could be such a wrestler.

There is no paucity of contenders in the Southwest, though. Hatfield has had an outstanding year and should place. Skinner and Lindley, up from 126#, are also strong candidates for a regional Place. After that Meyers and Rountree should battle for the last spot. Grisez (Versailles) and Padgett (Mason) will be looking for the big upset to help their chances.

There is not a whole lot in the Northwest Regional. Lipnos has wrestled from 167# to 185# this year and last year won a state bout at 175#. At the moment he does not appear to be in that same form in 1985. I placed the more impressive Wearsch ahead of him based on two victories over Platzke and an unblemished record, besides. Auble, just down from 175# is my choice for the third spot and he could really help make a good team showing. Mulhollen and Henessey are strictly guesses for the other qualifying spots. A dark horse candidate might be Ware (Fairview) and the erratic Pemberton (Kenston).

175#

PROJECTED CHAMP: MIKE RINI (Aurora)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Miller (Bexley)
3. Ziegler (Creston Norwayne)
4. Smart (Springfield NW)
5. Sciuva (Orange)
6. Schultz (Cardinal Stritch)
7. Topp (Carlisle)
8. Dixie (Perkins)
9. Cua (Columbus DeSales)
10. Winigman (Minerva)
11. Schell (Bishop Ready)
12. Kemp (Oberlin)
13. Poe (St. Clairsville)
14. Bray (Reading)
15. Gaba (Olmsted Falls)

While this weight is not as weak as 167#, it is still below normal in both quality and depth. One positive feature is that all four regionals have strong contenders for the title, although, as is often the case the two northern regionals have superior depth.

My choice, Mike Rini, has substantial varsity experience, but has never qualified for Columbus. His victory would give Aurora two consecutive titles at this weight as Jon Stratton cruised to an easy win last year. If Rini is to win, it will not be easy. He will have to win two or three nailbiters to take the crown, but I believe he can accomplish this. He has wrestled a top-flight schedule including such “AAA” stars as Funk and Rosemond.

There are other strong contenders in the Northeast. Ziegler was one of the four 167’s who qualified for the State from the Orrville Sectional last year–and the only one not to place. He wrestles a weak schedule, but may be able to regain his competitive edge at this year’s somewhat easier district. Sciuva has had an up-and-down career, but is a fierce mat wrestler from the top. Last year he pinned “AAA” state runner-up Pat Renz to win the Richmond Heights Tourney, yet failed to win a bout at his regional. This may be his year. Auble has been steady and is good in low-scoring bouts. He benefits from having Leeder for a work-out partner.

Right below this foursome are some interesting contenders. Winigman has beaten Sciuva among others, but did not look good at Medina. Gaba has had an exceptionally steady season and he will punish mistakes of any of the top wrestlers. Most intriguing is Kemp who has won several tournaments wrestling for a school I seem to overlook (such as Erik Burnett). He will probably turn out to be either much better or much worse than this top twelve rating.

Miller should dominate the Lancaster Regional. His only loss was a shocking pin at the hands of a much under-valued foe. That is not likely to happen again. State qualifier Poe wrestles a lot of high-scoring bouts, and that can be a real negative at the regional level. Charles Lytle (Steubenville) up from 155# has had good success, and could play a key role in Steubenville’s hopes for a very high “AA” team finish. This is a wide-open regional at this weight and if he can qualify and score at Columbus it could make a big difference. Other possibilities are Hanby (Dresden Tri-Valley) and McDaniel (Claymont) if he returns to the line-up at this weight,

The Southwest should be dominated by Topp and Smart, and both have the potential to place at this weight class, Behind this due are Bray (Reading) who spent last season behind Reading’s fine upper-weights, but has done just as well himself this year. The fourth spot should be very wide open.

The Northwest area has a large number of relatively equal wrestlers and the real question will be how this group matches up with the rest of the state. I like Schultz and Dixie as placement threats, but you cannot overlook the experienced Cua and Schell. Others to watch are Pierce (Oak Harbor), Leeth (Upper Sandusky), and Slob (River Valley).

185#

PROJECTED CHAMP: JACK LEEDER (Orrville)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Young (Steubenville)
3. Michael (Marysville)
4. Meyer (Reading)
5. Cameron (Brookville)
6. Roschman (Swanton)
7. May (Upper Sandusky)
8. Robinson (Akron St. Vincent)
9. Daiber (Cardinal Stritch)
10. Moore (Rootstown)
11. Basinski (Elyria Catholic)
12. Kindle (Indian Hills)
13. Sloboda (Marion Pleasant)
14. Havens (Washington CH)
15. Warwick (Clyde)
16. Ross (Philo)
17. King (Byesville Meadowbrook)

What I really anticipated seeing in 1985 was defending state champ Charlie Keenan match up one more time with Jack Leeder. Last year–in the quarter-finals–Keenan pulled out a heart-stopping 11-10 victory, and then cruised to the state title with Leeder notching a strong third. Unfortunately football recruiting squashed this rematch (more on that later), so that now Leeder stands alone at the top of the heap. The big blonde from Orrville is still only a junior, but what an awesome athlete. However, he does not wrestle a strong schedule and has not been pushed this year. This could hurt him when a close bout inevitably comes along. However, my guess is he won’t have many close ones.

Brian Young, my second choice, is also an interesting story. Not willing or able to make 1754#–where he qualified for Columbus in 1984–he intended to sit out the season. When Keenan was forced up to heavyweight, Young jumped back in and won the high-powered Medina Tourney in his first appearance. Talk about depth, Steubenville really had it at 185#. Still Young isn’t a Keenan and I expect Leeder to triumph against a Steubenville wrestler this year, Remember both these boys are still only juniors.

Leeder exits from the Northeast Regional which is uncharacteristically weak at this weight. State qualifier Basinski is far behind Leeder, and may be ripe for an upset. It might come from the direction of Robinson or Moore–who, I have been assured by an unbiased source, has made rapid improvement this year. Leeder has beaten them both this year–Robinson at Copley 6-2 and Moore at Smithville 10-2. After that I’m not even coming with names at this weight. Maybe, Baier (Grand Valley) will pull a couple of upsets and qualify.

Young stands head and shoulders above his Lancaster Regional competition. Havens, Ross, and, perhaps, King or Mayhew (Barnesville) are viable candidates at this weight. I expect some dark horses from the Hartley District will probably capture one or two of these wide-open qualifying spots.

At Fostoria, there is a crush of solid 185’s. Kip Michael has to be the top choice, but he may be vacillating between this weight and heavyweight. He should stay right here. He is only marginally ahead of Roschman, May and Daiber who have performed well in 1985. I keep looking for May to really break-out and start beating everyone– so far it hasn’t happened. Sloboda will be waiting for any of this group to falter. A real long-shot with great potential is Warwick. He is a little known contender who has quietly defeated some better known opponents.

The Southwest should be strictly a two-man show. Meyer–unlike Leeder and Young in their regionals–has a strong competitor within his geographical area. Last year he got caught in 33 seconds by Ishmael in the quarter-finals and eliminated, It shouldn’t happen that early this year. Cameron, 6th last year at 175#, should push Meyer at the regional level and has an opportunity to better his placement of last year. Besides the listed Kindle–Phelan (Versailles) and Wagner (Dayton Northridge) have the best shots for the last two qualifying spots.

HVY.

PROJECTED CHAMP: TIM MOXLEY (Barnesville)

TOP CONTENDERS:

2. Keenan (Steubenville)
3. Alig (Coldwater)
4. Robbins (Eaton)
5. Recknagel (Rossford)
6. Beachler (Loudonville)
7. Magda (Grand Valley)
8. Young (Upper Sandusky)
9. McLain (Jefferson Union)
10. Moncoviesh (Streetsboro)
11. Moore (Jonathan Alder)
12. Cencebaugh (Carlisle)
13. Pence (Wauseon)
14. Pitzpatrick (Chagrin Falls)
15. Gregory (Mason)
16. Rine (Bellevue)
17. Farnsworth (Highland)
18. Bainter (Circleville)
19. Gephart (Middletown Madison)
20. Riffle (Manchester)

Recent events have made this the most intriguing weight in “AA”. Defending 185# state champ Charlie Keenan is also an all-state defensive tackle. He opened the year at 1854, but, as I understand it, football recruiters told him that to realize his lifelong dream of playing at Ohio State he would have to start gaining weight immediately. Based on this he committed to Ohio State and moved up to the heavyweight division. Now, in most years, Keenan would probably be good enough to win at heavyweight. He is a superb athlete who has wrestled since grade school, consequently knowing more actual wrestling than the sum of three average heavyweights, However, Keenan at about 6’2″, 200#, will be a small, super-quick heavyweight.

This isn’t most years. Returning state champion Tim Moxley pinned his way through the state tournament, and is a knowledgeable wrestler having a brother who wrestled at Ohio State for two years. Not as quick as Keenan he does possess one Significant advantage–he is 6’6″, 304%. It’s your classic match-up. A good “little” man versus a good big man–and it will probably happen four times (the OVAC, the district, the regional and the state). One other advantage that Moxley has is that he is unlikely to fall victim to an unexpected fall. Keenan, on the other hand, must be careful since he’ll be terribly outweighed in almost every bout–plus Keenan tends to wrestle on his side and back (with the legs) more than most big men. Moxley is not unbeatable though it seemed that way at Columbus last year. In his regional final, Fuller of Hillsboro lost 4-3 to Tim on a controversial stalling point,

Ohio has a number of solid “AA” heavyweights. Each area is reasonably solid at this weight. For example, at Lancaster, Moxley and Keenan lead the field, but McLain and Bainter have excellent track records. Both were regional qualifiers last year and they should move up one more tournament this year.

At Fostoria, I count at least seven possible contenders. 1 really like Alig, but he wrestles such a wretched schedule that he just may not be ready for the kind of “heavy duty” competition he’ll find at his régional., Recknagel and Young are tough with Moore, Rine, and Pence just a step behind, Even the sophomore Flathers (Swanton) can pull the big upset as he did over Pence to give Swanton a big dual meet win over Wauseon. It also could have important team implications as Rossford, Upper Sandusky, Wauseon, and Swanton have state possibilities, here.

In the Southwest, Robbins and Cencebaugh started off even in my mind but Robbins seems to have made the greater Progress. Just last week he knocked off undefeated “AAA” contender Brent White. Both are excellent and Gregory and Gephart look to be the other two qualifiers. Meredith (Loveland), Staats (Brookville), and Wickersham (Reading) may also challenge.

The picture in the Northeast is very confusing. Beachler wrestles such a weak schedule it’s difficult to get a real fix on his true ability. I think he will turn out to be quite good. Magda is erratic and makes the prediction business a most difficult one. His only loss was a 6-5 squeaker to defending “AAA* champ Keith Cameron– by far Cameron’s closest bout this year. Moncoviesh is a solid journeyman performer while much the same can be said about Fitzpatrick. They win the ones they’re supposed to and do their best against the “heavy hitters.” Riffle and the 315# Bell (Columbia Station) are real long-shots, Something of a disappointment has been Farnsworth. Late last year he seemed to be making real progress, but I just haven’t seen that same momentum this year. Unless things change he likely will fail to qualify.

TEAMS

1. Cardinal Stritch – It’s getting to be kind of an annual event. Every year I choose Cardinal Stritch for the team title; every year somebody else wins. This is my third consecutive shot and, maybe, we both can get it right in 1985. After all they have two sure–or almost sure–finalists in Wlodarz and Peters along with upper weight help from Schultz and Daiber. Factor in a resurgent Ackerman and some help from Reynolds and Mathers and they should win–or so I said before.
2. Barnesville – A team that returns all their state points ought to be heavy favorites, right? Well maybe, but the feeling still persists that Bell and Pryor “maxed” out at Columbus last year–a feat that is unlikely to happen again. Still, Bell has looked good and Pryor has been solid. If Iams can score a few points they could repeat. Moxley at 6’8″, 3044 is a given–at least until the finals.
3. Steubenville – A solid nucleus of four stars may be just enough to take the title–and it had better be since no one is likely to help. The key is Tim Young at 105#. If he can do well I think the big guys will hold up their end of the bargain. It’s no exaggeration to see all three of them as finalists.
4. Columbus DeSales – Another long-time great “AA” team with possible state championship potential. The next time they win it will break their tie with Coventry for most “AA” team titles. Marinelli and Graziani should be champs, but after that it’s difficult to count on much solid help. Gentile or Volpe are the best chances, but Janyia or a rejuvenated Cua could help.
5. Chanel – The early choice as state champion, but I’m not sure why. No doubt that Donovan and Marder are proven state point scoring machines, but everyone else is unproven. I do believe that DiDomenico, Kosla, and Moore, could help, but that remains a big question mark.
6. Upper Sandusky – This team is led by the brilliant Patrick who would be a state champion in most years. Unfortunately most years does not include 1985 with the redoubtable Hoy and powerful Peters. Still, there would be lots of help for Patrick. Gier has been super at 119# while May and Young have the two upper weights covered. The sensational sophomore Milum could put them over the top with a great performance. This is a team that could finish 1st or 21st.
7. Columbus Bishop Ready – An under-rated team given the reports of most observers. Both DiSabatos should place and a healthy Marczika could do the same. Kruse and Bowman are young, but a hot weekend could see them score a lot of state points. The key, though, is Schell, who needs to score big for this team to reach its maximum potential.
8. Oak Harbor – Goad is worth about 30 points alone and Dunn is excellent. Again, though, he competes at the fierce 145# class. Clearly, that weight will tell a lot of the story with regard to the team trophy. Pierce and Platzke could lend some help, but there is very little depth on this team.
9. Kenston – A perennial Top Ten team that never does quite as well as anticipated. Defending state champ Tatonetti leads the way, but the sophomore Hagen is very impressive at 138#. They need Schultz, Wilkens, and, maybe, Pemberton or Cageao to get to Columbus to help out.
10. Tipp City – A Southwestern Regional team that has a number of solid state qualifiers. The question is whether they can score at that level. Stankus, Sampley and Lewis are all possible placers. The key is the second line strength embodied by such as Burchett and Spurlock.
11. Ravenna Southeast – A Portage County team with some solid performers. Key to their success are seniors Kriz and state qualifier Smith who must provide strong leadership. After that it’s up to the underclassmen like Bailey, Mulhollen, and Coontz.
12. Orrville – Leeder is my top choice at 1854 now that Keenan has moved up to Heavyweight. Powers, Martin, and Auble all have state potential, but there are questions as to getting through that tough Northeast Regional.

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A

We are still missing the “A” report for 1985. If you have a copy, please email us at [email protected].

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