Solid could be a word used to describe Freedom’s wrestling team this season. The Pates enter the winter with quality core of wrestlers that head coach Dante Terenzio feels will compete throughout the season.

The question is whether the Pates can have breakout wrestlers make jumps in the postseason for bids in Hershey?

Terenzio hopes that’s the case, but also understands the culture of the program can help manifest those goals.

“We have a hardworking core of kids who are ready to wrestle a full season,” said Terenzio. “I have no doubt that their hunger and determination will translate into success.”

Returning for Freedom are CJ Horvath (Jr. 120/126), Reinaldo Lebron (Sr. 126/132), Ethan Christiansen (So. 126/132), Anthony Negrete (Sr. 132), Alex Greenberg (So. 138), Alex Salim (So. 138), Sammy Acevedo (Sr. 138), Cameron Wickemeyer (Jr. 138/145), Joey Bodnar (So. 138/145), Chris Jurado (Sr. 145/152), Connor Bevan (Sr. 152/160) and Jared Karabinus (So. 160/172).

Bevan and Horvath return to headline the roster, as Bevan took third at regionals last year, while Horvath was fourth at districts.

Newcomers include Jomar Medina (Fr. 106), Tristan Hofman (Jr. 106/113), Evan Moretz (Jr. 113/120), Giovanni Carlucci (Sr. 132/138; transfer from New Castle PA), Noah MacIlroy (Fr. 160/172), Miles Turner (Jr. 160/172), Anthony Lyden (Sr. 189/215), Jugraj Nagra (Jr. 189/215) and Nick Farrel (Jr. 285).

The Pates started the season 4-1 over the weekend at home with the Battle at Bethlehem Duals, picking up wins over St. Joe’s Prep, Bangor, North Penn and Honesdale. They fell to Faith Christian Academy 49-22 in their only loss of the weekend.

They kickstart their EPC schedule this Wednesday at Pocono Mountain West, followed by a home match against East Stroudsburg North.

“We want to continue to work hard and improve throughout the season,” said Terenzio. “Winning is always nice, but I think maintaining a hard working culture is more important. A strong work ethic will ultimately result in success.”