Log In


Reset Password
LEHIGH VALLEY WEATHER

CHS has good showing in Rough Rider Invitational

Catasauqua’s wrestling team received a good indication of their potential in the recent Rough Rider Invitational.

The Roughies had two third-place finishers and a pair of fourth-place ones in a tournament that was dominated by Methacton, who crowned six champions. Pen Argyl was second and Lake Lehman was third in the 12-team tournament.

Catty’s Ryan Greene and Tyler Melendez took home third-place medals a t 152 and 126 pounds receptively. Oscar Cordone (132) and Alec Hartranft (145) both finished fourth overall in the weight classes.

Shane Brader missed the tournament due to a sickness and Ben Nosal was a scratch due recurring knee injury form football. Tyler Youseff also missed the tournament due to an academic commitment.

“We had some holes,” said head coach Kyle Rusnock. “We had those guys out of the lineup and we also had to give up some weights. But I am very pleased with our overall effort. They fought hard throughout the tournament.

“We got a good look at some people who can help us and we expect to have a full lineup soon.”

Rusnock noted the performance of 113-pounder Malik Sharif and 160-ounder Austin Gorr as one of the positive signs for the future.

“He’s very tough and had a good tournament,” said Rusnock. “That was the kind of performance that we were looking for. Gorr cracked the varsity lineup and stepped in did his job. He’s also the type of wrestler that we need this season.”

Dan Dailey returned at 170 after missing last season due to a broken leg, and Jacob Latsch moved into the 170-pound slot to replace Youseff.

“Dan (Dailey) is back and that’s a good thing,” added Rusnock. “He can help us this season. Jacob (Latsch) wrestled hard and lost a couple of close matches.”

Rusnock also was impressed with heavyweight Lavonte Bowie, who drew some attention.

“Bowie had a good day and definitely was the most entertaining,” said Rusnock. “He stole the show how he battled some very good heavyweights. Everyone was watching his matches and he showed that he is ready for the season.”

Rusnock stated his squad surely will be tested with the Colonial League meet season underway. The Roughies will compete in the Berwick Duals, Coal Cracker Classic, and Whitehall Duals in January.

“There will be no gimmes for us,” he said. “After the holiday break, every team will be tough. We also will be tested with our tournaments. We’re looking to fill some spots after Christmas, and we’ll see what happens.”

Press photos by Linda RothrockTyler Melendez took third at the Rough Rider Invitational.