Matt Snyder-Lewistown (40-1) vs Kegan Handlovic-Easton (38-1)

119 LB AAA Championship Final

Kegan with a really quick takedown with Snyder escaping right away. 2-1 score with 1:00 remaining in the first period. Kegan with another takedown to go up 4-1. Handlovic riding on top trying to turn Snyder. First period ends 4-1. Handlovic starts the second period on the bottom. Snyders riding tough trying to turn Kegan. Handlovic escapes to take the score to 5-1. Snyder in on a quick single leg for a takedown to cut the lead to 5-3. Second period ends 5-3. They start Neutral to start the third period. Alot of motion and circling with Handlovic in on a deep single but they go out of bounds. Fresh start in the middle has the two wrestlers dancing in the middle of the circle with Handlovic working a nice single leg to ankle pick takedown to lead 7-3. Stalling call on Handlovic. Escape by Snyder off the whistle. Handlovic leads 7-4. Handlovic in on another deep single leg but no control granted. Snyders sprawling but Handlovic outmuscles Snyder for a takedown as the buzzer sounds to end the match with a final score of 9-4. Kegan Handlovic is your 2008 PIAA AAA 119 lb state champion. This is the second straight for Kegan as he is last years returning 103 lb state champion.

Nick Fuscgino-Owen J Roberts vs Eric Burgey-Easton

Fuschino (42-5) vs Burgey (34-11)

Fuschino in on a deep single leg trying to trip for the takedown to go up 2-0. Burgey reverses to tie the score 2-2. Fuschino escapes to end the period with the score 3-2. Burgey starts the second period on the bottom position. Fuschino riding Burgey trying to break him down flat. Burgey gets to his feet and escapes to tie the score 3-3. Fuschino is driving forward as they go out of bounds. To the center for a fresh start. Blood time for Fuscino. Start of the third period, tied up 3-3. Fuschino escapes to make it 4-3. Burgey gets a takedown to tie the score 5-4 as Fuschino again escapes to tie the score at 5's. Fuschino is in on a single leg trying to trip or sweep the leg as they go out of bounds with :42 seconds in the match left. Thirty seconds to go with the match tied. Burgey hits a cross face for the takedown to go up 7-5. Burgey lets Fuschino up with :05 left. Match ends 7-6.

103 lb Championship Bout

Mason Beckman (48-7) Freshman from Reynolds vs Luke Frey (41-1) Freshman from Montoursville.

Tony Dallago-Central Dauphin vs Jimmy Sheptock-Northampton

Tony Dallago-Central Dauphin (44-7) vs Jimmy Sheptock-Northampton (37-4) will face off in todays Consolation Semi-final round bout to determine who goes on to wrestle in tonights Consolation Finals for the third place bout. Sheptock is hoping to get some revenge on Dallago as Dallago earlier in the tournament beat Sheptock in the Preliminary round to nock him into the Consolation Bracket. The winner of the bout will go on to wrestle for a third place medal as the loser will fall down to wrestle for a fifth place medal.

Both wrestlers are flurrying as Dallago attemps to hit a headlock. Both wrestlers go out of bounds to stop the action. With a fresh start in the middle, both wrestlers are again trying to secure the matches first takedown. Circling in the midde of the ring the first period ends scoreless. Dallago defers choice to start the second period as Sheptock takes the Neutral position. With 1:16 left in the second period were still in the Neutral position with a scoreless match. Dallago attempts to shoot in on a single leg but Sheptock counters. Sheptock shrugs and spins around to get the matches first points to take a 2-0 lead. Dallago trys to come out the back but the hold is stalmated. The bout is stopped for blood time for Dallago. Dallago escapes to make it 2-1 as the second period ends. Dallago chooses bottom position to start the third. Sheptock chooses to let Dallago up to start Neutral to make the bout 2-2. Sheptock trys to shrug and spin again but Dallago counters. Sheptock spins for the takedown to take a 4-2 lead. Sheptock again leaves Dallago up to lead 4-3. :30 left Sheptock is in on a single leg only to be called Stalemate. Dallago attempted a headlock but went out of bounds. :09 left in the match. The match ends with a final score of 4-3.

4th Round Consolations

4th Round Consolations are now underway. Results are being posted as they become avaliable to us. This will set up all the medal rounds for this evening's bouts. Check back and enjoy!!!!

Eddie Ruth-Susquehanna Township

Eddie Ruth (26-1) Susquehanna Township, fell a bit short in this morning's Semi-final round bout. Eddie had to face top ranked in the State Quentin Wright (38-0) a Senior from Bald Eagle Area for a birth to the State Finals later this evening. Hanging in there right to the end, Ruth gave it a serious fight but fell a bit short dropping to a 10-8 decision. Ruth, to many's thoughts was a underdog going into the bout. Wright, a Penn State recruit and returning State Champion at the 171 lb weight class, earlier in the year had won the Penn State Nittany Lion Open as a Senior in high school. Ruth wrestled well, but just fell a bit short. Ruth will now face Reading's Giovanni Ortiz, a Senior with a record of (42-5), in the Consolation Semi-finals later this evening. Wright will go on to face Joe Loffredo of Jersey Shore, a Senior with a record of (36-3), in tonight's State Final bout.

Central Dauphins Peppelman Brothers

Central Dauphin superstars, Walter (47-3) and Marshall (40-2) Peppelman have both continued their wish of being State Champions in the same season. This morning in the PIAA AAA Wrestling Championship Semi-finals round, 140 lb. Sophmore Marshall was victorious with a 7-3 decision over Central Mountain Sophmore, Andrew Alton (45-1). One weight class later, older brother Walter won his Semi-final bout with a 3-0 decision giving West Mifflin Junior, James Flemming (35-1) his first loss of the year. Marshall will face District 3 foe Bryce Busler (40-7), a Junior from Cumberland Valley, while Walter will face another Cumberland Valley wrestler, Junior, Joey Napoli (46-3) in tonight's State Championship match. Peppelman vs Napoli will make for an intersting Finals matchup as Walter gets his chance to avenge an earlier season loss to Napoli.

Matt Prestifilippo-North Penn - 112 lb.

North Penn Junior Matt Prestifillippo (33-3) saw his chances for a State Championship end due to some anxious starts in the Ultimate Tiebreaker. Taylor Brown (39-8), a Senior from Emmaus High, was awarded a point for what the official deemed a second caution on a restart by Prestifillippo. To the fans' disagreement, The Giant Center erupted into a frenzy of boos towards the official. The caution point awarded in the Ultimate Tiebreaker period awarded Brown the point to go ahead 3-2 for a birth in tonight's State Championships against returning 103 lb. State Champion Shane Young (43-0) of Penn Trafford.

Zach Horan-Nazareth

Zach Horan (48-5), a Freshman from Nazareth, continued his quest for his first State Championship in this morning's AAA State Championships. Zach won his Semifinal bout by Tech Fall with a score of 20-5 5:19 over Quakertown's Freshman Scott Wolfinger (35-13). Horan will now face Council Rock South Senior Mark Rappo (49-0) in this evening's State Championship bout.

AAA Semifinals

have began. Today promises to produce some exciting action as there are some Semifinal bouts that could be featured as Final state championship bouts. Tune in for results of todays action. Results will be posted as they become avaliable to us. Enjoy!!!!

James Haynes-Mt. Carmel

James Haynes (46-3), Senior, Mt. Carmel, faces Lance Moore (38-4) of Lackawanna Trail in the Consolation Semifinals. Motion and tons of flurries but the first period ends scoreless. Starting Neutral from the start of the second, Haynes trys a shrug for the takedown but Moore shrugs it off. Both wrestlers go out of bounds and come to the center for a fresh start. In the third period, the score is tied 3-3. Haynes hits a last second takedown to take the win 5-3. Haynes now advances into the Consolation Finals in hopes of a third place medal.

Ben Clymer-South Western Lehigh vs Jon Fausey-Line Mountain

Both wrestlers are flurrying trying to gain the first points of the match. Blood time for Fausey of Line Mountain. The match resumes in the neutral position. :20 left in the first period the match is still scoreless. The first period ends scoreless with not much action from either wrestler. Fausey wins the flip and chooses the bottom position to start off the second period. Clymer is riding on top as he trys to turn Fausey. Fausey gets to his feet and gathers an escape to go up 1-0. Still in the Neutral position. Fausey is in on an attempted shot but Clymer sprawls as they go out of bounds. The second period ends with Fausey leading 1-0. Clymer chooses to start the third period from the bottom position. Clymer flurries and comes out with a reversal to take a 2-1 lead. Caution on Clymer on the restart. Clymer puts Fausey on his back for two nearfall with :25 left in the match to go up 4-1. Blood time again for Fausey. Fausey escapes to close the gap to 4-2. The third period ends with Clymer taking a 4-2 win.

Charles Walls-Littlestown

Charles Walls of Littlestown, a Sophmore with a record of (44-7), battles Mike Brant a Senior from Westmont-Hilltop (33-7) . After one period of action, Brant holds a slim lead at 1-0. :30 left in the second period, Walls is riding on top trying to generate some offense. Brant reverses Walls and immediately turns him for three nearfall points. Brant holds a 6-0. They start the third period Neutral. Brant spins around for a takedown to take the score to 8-0. :47 left in the third period, Walls is trying to get out from the bottom to score. An escape by Walls cuts the score to 8-1. Brant gets a last second takedown to increase the lead to 10-1 as the third period ends. Brant takes his record to (34-8) into the Consolation Semifinals as Walls now with a record of (44-8) falls to the seventh/eighth place medal round.

Austin Williams Pen Argyl vs Tim Hubbard Smethport

Williams quickly in on a takedown to go up 2-0. Hubbard escapes making it 2-1 starting from a neutral position. Williams again quickly gets the takedown and immediately turns Hubbard to his back for nearfall to go ahead 6-1. Hubbard again escapes to cut the lead to 6-2 as the first period ends. Starting from the neutral period in the second period, both wrestlers lock up and are pretty still. Williams again secures a takedown with Hubbard quickly escaping to take the score to 8-3. Again a quick takedown for Williams and an immediate escape for Hubbard. Score is 10-4 with :10 left in the second period. Hubbard starts from the down position trying to obtain a reverse. Hubbard escapes to cut the lead to 10-5. The match ends with a final score of Williams 10, Hubbard 5.

Joe Spisak-Boiling Springs vs AJ Schoop-Tyrone Semi Final

Joesph Spisak (37-5) Boiling Springs vs AJ Schoop (38-4) Tyrone Area Semi Finals Match.

Spisak quickly secures a takedown to gain a 2-0 lead :13 into the match. Spisak with legs laced tries to work a power half to secure nearfall points. Schoop is defending Spisak's 0ffense very well as Joesph can't get any offense generated. The first period ends with Spisak leading 2-0. Schoop defers choice as Spisak choses to start the second period Neutral. Both wrestlers scrambling, it appears to be Spisak has a takedown but not granted. Period ends scoreless 2-0. Schoop chooses to start the third period on top. Spisak quickly reverses Schoop to take a 4-0 lead. Both wrestlers go out of bounds. Schoop is set as Spisak gets on top. Stalemate is called. Spisak needs some injury time for what apears to be his ankle. :36 of injury time used. Spisak starts back on top and is trying to turn Schoop. :20 left in the match with Spisak holding a 4-0 lead. Third period ends with Spisak making his first trip to the Finals with a score of 4-0.

AA Semifinals

Ladies and Gentlemen the Semifinals have begun. Please check back for results they'll be posted as they are available to us.

Zac Haynes-CRN vs Patrick Weiger-CD

Weiger shoots in on a double leg as Haynes sprawls but stalemate is called. Wrestlers get a fresh start from the middle as Weiger tries to drive Haynes forward to secure the takedown. First period ends scoreless. Starting in the Neutral position both wrestlers are again trying to secure a takedown. Weiger is again in on a deep single leg but rolled out of bounds. On the whistle, Haynes gets a takedown to go up 2-1 to only have Weiger escape immediatey to cut the lead 2-1. Blood time is called for Weiger. Wrestling resumes from the Neutral stance. Into the third period the match is tied 2-2. Weiger has a nice tie up with Haynes as they both go out of bounds. With :27 to go in the third period, Weiger gets a nice takedown to go up 4-2. Weiger cuts Haynes as time expires to win 4-3.

AAA Second Round Consolations

AAA Second Round Consolations are now underway. Please check back as results will be posted when avaliable to us. Enjoy!!!!!

AAA 215 lb Championship

Will the 215 lb. weight class be a battle of District 3 reps, District reps or will it be one of each battling it out? The potential of either of the three mentioned exist. Dan Utchel of Chartiers Valley, a Senior (38-3) and Mike Hull, a Sophmore of Cannon McMillen (35-5) are both from District 7 and in the Semifinals tomorrow morning. Chris Carabello, a Senior from Governor Mifflin (43-2) and Jordan Enck, a Senior of Manheim Central (40-1) are both from District 3. It will be exciting to see how the Semifinal Round bouts fair out to see what two wrestlers will battle each other for the PIAA State Championship. If we get an all District 3 final, it will be a rematch of the Regional Qualifier as Enck's only loss this year is from Carabello in the Regional Championship bout. It should be an exciting Finals, regardless of which two competitors are wrestling.

Steve Bosak-State College

State College Senior Steve Bosak (40-1) continued to show authority on his way to a State Championship in the 160 lb. AAA Championships. Bosak earned a 9-0 Major Decision over Adam Harold, (40-2) from North Hills High. Bosak will now face Ed Shupe, a Junior of Pennsbury (40-5) in tomorrow morning's Semifinal Round. Bosak, an earl signee, will take his wrestling to the next level as he is looking to attend Cornell University after graduation.

Robbie Robinson-Pittston Area

Robbie Robinson, (39-1) from Pittston Area continued making his way through the Championship Bracket in todays Quarterfinal round with a solid 7-3 decision over Don Smith (40-8) of Hatboro-Horsham. Robbie will now face Central Dauphin 152 lb ace Tony Dallago (44-6) in tomorrow morning's Semifinal round. Barnburner this match will be.

Matt Snyder-Lewistown (38-1)

Tied 2-2 with :25 to go in the second period, Snyder is riding Patrick Weiger of Central Dauphin (43-9). Action resumes the start of the third period in the Neutral position. After a little flurry, Snyder spins around behind to gain the takedown and go up 4-2 with :50 left in the match. Neither wrestler can do anything as Snyder rides Weiger tight for a final score of 4-2.

AAA Quarterfinals About to Start

Quarterfinal action is about to get underway shortly. Please check back for results. They will be posted as soon as they are avaliable to us. We hope you're enjoying the results as well as the States blog this year. Any suggestions, requests or comments are greatly appreciated. Thank you and happy reading.

Tyler Stambaugh-Bermudian Springs

Tyler Stambaugh (32-12) Bermudian Springs hopes to keep his quest toward a state medal alive in today's Second Round Consolations over Don Miller, a Senior of Cambria Heights (36-6). Both wrestlers are tied up in the middle trying to flurry to gain control for the first takedown of the match. Alot of hand flurries but no takedown :45 into the match. The first period ends scoreless. Miller for the escape to send Miller up 1-0. Stambaugh shoots in on a double as Miller counters. No control yet for either wrestler. Stambaugh attempts to hip over and gains control for the takedown to go ahead 2-1. Both wrestlers out of bounds. Fresh start in the middle once again has Stambaugh starting on top. Stambaugh releases Miller again for another escape to tie the score 2-2. Both wrestlers tie up, with the second period ending tied 2-2. Stambaugh starts the third period from the bottom position. Caution on Miller from the top position. Stambaugh tries to escape as he's nearly thrown to his back. Wrestlers are out of bounds with Stambaugh needing injury time. Match resumes with Stambaugh escaping, taking a 3-2 lead. Miller's in for a shot with Stambaugh sprawling. Referee calls stalemate. Both wrestlers go back to the middle for a fresh start in the neutral position. Stambaugh shrugs Miller to the side to slip behind for the takedown and take a 5-2 lead with :20 left in the match. Stambaugh cuts Miller to cut the lead to 5-3. Stambaugh throws Miller to his back for a takedown and to his back for nearfall as the buzzer rings to end the match. Stambaugh wins the match by a final score of 7-3. Stambaugh will now face the winner of of the Second Round Consolation bout between Kasey Lyons of Canton (36-2) and Tim McAndrew of Harbor Creek, a Senior, with a record of (44-6). Stambaugh's win in the Second Round Consolations guarantees him at least an 8th place medal.

Second Round Consolations

Second Round Consolations are about to begin. Results will be posted as soon as they are avaliable to us. Check back and enjoy.

Zeke Pyle-East Juniata

Down 2-1 in the second period, Zeke Pyle-285 lb. is trying to further his way through the 2008 PIAA AA Wrestling Championships. Zeke (35-4) is up against Phil Catrucco (39-0) of Sharpsville. Pyle just secured an escape to take the score to 4-2. Pyle adds an escape as Catrucco counters with another takedown. Pyle gets right back out to go back to the neutral position. The score is now 6-4 with :10 to go in the bout. Pyle trys a last minute shrug but falls a bit short 6-4. Pyle will now face Burrell's Brian Beattie (34-14) in today's Second Round Consolations, following today's Quarterfinal Round.

James Haynes vs Justin Peterson - 215 lb.

James Haynes, (45-2) Mt. Carmel vs Justin Peterson (40-2) Palmerton.

Both wreslters tie up in the middle of the circle. Little motion as each try to secure the first points of the bout. Haynes with a tie-up and attempted throw but both wrestlers go out of bounds taking a cameraman with them. Action resumes back in the middle. Peterson is in on a deep single leg but Haynes seems to be countering with the wizzer. Peterson attempts to change over to a double leg as Haynes appears to be too strong. Both wrestlers go out of bounds again. :15 to go in the first period and the score remains 0-0. Peterson again in on a deep single but time runs out to end the first period 0-0. Haynes starts the second period from the bottom. Haynes attempts a Peterson as he reverses Peterson and puts him on his back for three nearfall with :19 gone in the second. Hanyes secures the fall in 2:19.

Jordan Shields-Burrell - 140 lb.

As a returning State Champion, there has to be some added pressure on you because you're the one everyone is gunning for. Jordan Shields, (45-1) from Burrell is ready for that challange. As the returning State Champion AA 130 lb., Jordan is ready to face anything that steps in his way of repeating as a State Champion. Jordan advanced into today's Semi Final bout with a solid 12-4 major decision over Biglerville's Senior, Shay Shive (39-5). Jordan will now face Towanda's undefeated Senior, Caleb Vanderpool (47-0) in today's Semi Final Round.

Nick Hodgkins Continues to Roll

Wyomissing's Freshman Nick Hodgkins (36-3) continues to breeze through the 2008 PIAA Wrestling Championships like he's an experienced veteran. Hodgkins continued his winning ways in this morning's Quarterfinal Round with a dominating 8-0 Major Decision over Forrest Hills Senior Thomas McVicker (32-7). With Nick's victory in the Quarterfinals, he will now face Ryan Link (45-2), a Senior from Penn Cambria.

Josh Malick vs AJ Schoop

Josh Malick from Mt. Carmel records the first takedown after a bunch of hand flurries to the head of Schoop. Malick takes a 2-0 lead. Schoop takes an interesting reverse for 2 to tie things up 2-2. Schoop riding tough on top. Rolls Malick over in a tilt attempt but to no avail. Immediately hits another tilt for two back points to take a 4-2 lead at the end of the first period. Schoop escapes to make the score 5-2. Malick a Northeastern Regional Champion brings a record of (37-2) into the State Tournament. Schoop from Tyrone a Southwestern 2nd place qualifier brings a (37-4) record along with him. Working from the neutral position, both wrestlers try to gain control to record the takedown. Stalemate called by the referee. Several attempts by Malick but nothing given. Stalemate called again. Still in the neutral position, Schoop's in on a deep shot and spins for two. Malick escapes for 1. The score ends 7-3 with Schoop the victor.

Day 2 PIAA AA Championships

Today is day 2 of the 2008 PIAA AA Wrestling Championships. Plenty of exciting matchups in the Quarterfinal Rounds. Please check back for results as they will be posted as there avaliable. Enjoy!!!!

Tye Boyer-Indian Valley - 140 lb.

Tye Boyer (27-11) of Indian Valley advances to the Second Round Consolations with a solid 7-2 victory over Jared Dolde (28-14) of Connellsville in the First Round Consolations. Tye will now face the loser of tomorrow's Quarterfinal bout with Donnie Tasser (38-3) of Belle Vernon and Marshall Peppelman (38-2) of Central Dauphin.

Bryan Pearsall-Warwick - 125 lb.

Bryan Pearsall (40-4) kept his quest for a State medal alive with a Fall in 1:23 over Briar Malischewski (27-11) of Quakertown. Bryan will now face the loser of Kyle Bove (35-6) of Kennett and Chris Albright (39-2) of Red Lion, Quarterfinal Round match.

Estricher Gets Big Upset

Mechanicsburg Senior, Danny Estricher (34-4) just recorded one of the biggest upsets of the 2008 PIAA AAA Wrestling Championships with his 9-3 victory over Connellsville's highly-ranked Justin Haines (36-7). Estricher now moves into tomorrow's Quarterfinals where he will face David Osei (34-1), a Senior at Abington High School.

AAA First Round Consolations

AAA First Round Consolations have began. Results will be posted as soon as they are avaliable. Enjoy!!!!

Edwin Taylor-Strong Vincent - 189 lb.

The surprise match of the evening, in my opinion, was the dominating victory by Strong Vincent Senior, Edwin Taylor (26-1) over Northampton's 189 lb. ace Joe Piro (41-7) by a score of 11-6. Taylor will now face Norwin's undefeated Senior, Mike Salopek (32-0) tomorrow in the Quarterfinal Round.

Quentin Wright-Bald Eagle Area

2007 PIAA AAA 171 lb. State Champion Quentin Wright from Bald Eagle Area (36-0), picked up right where he left off from last year as he opened his Preliminary Round with a 0:16 Fall over Josh Homer of Downingtown West (40-6). Wright will now face Lance Bryson (41-1), a Senior, from Albert Gallatin in tomorrow's Quarterfinals Round.

Dallago of Central Dauphin (152 lb.) pulls off a close one

Tony Dallago from Central Dauphin (43-6), needed the Overtime Rideout period to beat James Sheptock from Northampton (36-4). A last second escape by Dallago tied the score up 2-2. The first minute of overtime went through with neither securing a takedown. Sheptock then started down for the first 30-second period but couldn't get out to keep the score tied 2-2. Dallago chose down for the start of the second-30 second period. Sheptock opted to give Dallago the free escape to start the period Neutral. Dallago basically ran circles for a few seconds giving up a stalling warning. With about 4 seconds remaining, Dallago rolled Sheptock to his back for two points as the buzzer ran out, giving Dallago the 5-2 win.

Peppelman Brothers-Central Dauphin

When you speak of Central Dauphin, many will speak of the Freshman Beast of the East Champion and OW at 135 lb. - Kenny Courts and the injury he sustained gaining his championship at the BOTE. On the other hand alot will tell you when they think of Central Dauphin wrestling they think of the Peppelman Brothers duo of Walter and younger brother Marshall. Having a combined record of (81-5) after today's Preliminary Rounds, the Peppelman brothers continue with winning fashion in the Prelim Round of the 2008 PIAA AA Wrestling Championship. Marshall (37-2) started things off with a 8-1 decision over Jonathan Hammond of Methacton (42-4) as older brother, Walter (45-3)-145 lb., came in and finished things off with a 9-4 decision over Owen J. Roberts' Junior, Nick Fuschino (40-4).

Donnie Tasser-Belle Vernon

140 lb. Senior, Donnie Tasser from Belle Vernon has to be one of the favorites going into this weekend PIAA AAA Wrestling Championships. Donnie, (38-3), barely survived today's Preliminary Round with a mere 1-0 decision over Conneaut Lake's Senior, Cash Horne (33-4). Entering tomorrow's Quarterfinal Round, Tasser will go to battle with Central Dauphin's Sophomore and returning runneruup in the 2007 State Championships, Marshall Peppelman (38-2).

Alton Twins - Central Mountain

Dylan (42-1)-135 lb. and twin brother Andrew (44-0)-140 lb. will keep their thrill of victory going into the Quarterfinal Round tomorrow, both winning by fall in the Preliminary round. Dylan started things off with a fall over Tevin Gibson of Easton (30-12) in 1:03 while Andrew finished things off with a fall just a bit quicker, pinning Eddie Stephenson of Northern York (32-6) in just :12. Dylan will now face Ryan Kemmerer of Spring Ford (37-1) as Andrew will face Nazareth stud, Bobby Ward (18-0) in tomorrow's Quarterfinal Round.

Top ranked Jordan Oliver - 130 lb.

Top ranked Jordan Oliver continues to dominate with fashion as he trys to obtain his third straight PIAA AAA Wrestling State Championship. Jordan from Easton sports a (37-0) record going into tomorrow's Quarterfinals Round. Entering today's Preliminary Round, Oliver took his perfect unbeaten streak up against Indian Valley Junior, Tyler Bedelyon (21-7) with Jordan coming out with a Technical Fall with a score of 20-5 3:04. Jordan will battle with Boyertown Sophomore Alex Pellicciotti (38-4) in tomorrow's Quarterfinal Round.

Nick Kristich vs Austin Sommer - 130 lb.

Nick Kristich, Lower Dauphin (33-1) vs Austin Sommer, Northampton (36-9)

Starting in the neutral position, we have alot of motion. Both wrestlers are flurrying to get the takedown with Kristich spinning behind for the opening takedown for 2. Sommer immediatley needs injury time but immediately gets up and is ready to go. He appears to have twisted his ankle. Kristich resumes on the top position, riding Sommer tough. Working his offense he is trying to lock up a cross-face cradle but to no avail. Kristich continues to ride tough on top but no points so far. Kristich remains in the lead 2-0. Locking up a cradle, Kristich gains three nearfall points to end the first period, 5-0. Kristich defers choice to Sommer who chooses the neutral position. Both wrestlers are circling, trying to gain the takedown. Sommer is in on a deep single leg but Kristich is countering. Stalemate called by the referee. Both wrestlers are again circling, as Kristich is in on a double leg for the takedown. Kristich leads 7-0. Kristich is again trying to lock up a cradle as Sommer breaks the grip. Kristich remains on top trying to get some offense working. The second period ends with Kristich taking a 7-0 lead into the third period. Kristich chooses the top position. Stalemate is called. Kristich again riding tough on top but not much offense. The score remains 7-0 with Kristich leading. Sommersreverses Kristich for two to bump the score to 7-2. Twenty seconds left in the period as Sommer rides Kristich, trying to start some offense. Wrestlers go out of bounds. Restart in the middle with Sommer on top. Kristich escapes to lead 8-2. Match ends with Kristich winning 8-2.

Rappo Enters Season Undefeated

Senior, Mark Rappo of Council Rock South enters this year's PIAA State Championships with an undefeated record of (46-0). A heavy favorite for this year's State Championship, Rappo is battling a broken nose which he received at practice the week before Regionals. In constant pain, Mark is continuously going out and giving it his all for six hard minutes. That's the sign of a true champion. Constent pain and still going hard. Best of luck to you, Mark, on your state championship!

Photos available!

Photos from the AA prelims are now online, for viewing and/or purchase. More photos from the prelims and first consolation round will be posted later in the day...so check back often!

Click here to view the photos

Chad Frankhouser-Indian Valley- 125 lb.

Chad Frankhouser, Indian Valley Senior (30-4), after three weeks of hurting from the stretched ligaments in his ankle is finally ready to forget about the pain and let it all hang out this weekend in the PIAA AAA State Championship. Chad, first ranked in the state, has been battling aN injury to his ankle for the last three weeks. An injury that isn't so hurtful at the start of the match but towards the end, it starts to hurt. This weekend is a time where he needs to focus one match at a time and go hard for six minutes. This is the State Championships. When asked if it was still bothering him, Chad replied, "Well it hurts a bit but not constantly." I would imagine come time to wrestle, the adrenaline will be flowing so that he won't feel a thing. Chad faces Warwick Senior, Bryan Pearsall (39-3) in the preliminary round.

Lesher sets new school record - 160 lb.

Josh Lesher (36-6) of Upper Dauphin has just set a new school record for most wins in a single season with his win by fall in 2:34 over Sam Guidi (29-11) of Fort Cherry in the First Round Consolations. Josh will now face the loser of the Caleb Kolb (35-4) of Grove City and Nick Venditti (42-3), Berwick in the Quarter Finals matchup. A win in the Second Round Consolations will secure Josh of a medal. Josh now has a season total of 36 wins, the highest in a single season ever at Upper Dauphin Area High School. Great job Josh! Let's keep adding to that win total on your quest to the Third place medal in Hershey.

Seth Beitz (39-10) Juniata advances - 119 lb.

Seth Beitz (39-10) Juniata advances to the second round consolations with his 7-6 decision of Zane McClaskey (40-8) of Wyalusing. Seth will now face the loser of the Tyler Erdman (41-1) Line Mountain vs Seth Ecker (37-2) Pottstown Quarter Final round bout. A win in the Second Round Consolations will guarantee Seth a medal as the top eight finishers in each weight class win medals.

Thanks to the comment from a viewer for the correction information!

Frank Martellotti - 112 lb.

Shady Side's returning State Champion from 2007 (103 lb.) advances to second round of the Consolations with a 4-2 decision over Reynolds Freshman Adam Matthews (29-17). Frank losing in the first round Preliminaries, isn't a common thing. I don't know if he is sick this week or nursing an injury but he's not looking like the Martellotti we watched win the State Championship last year. I plan to talk to him after the conclusion of this Consolation Round to see if there may be something that's keeping him from opening up to dominate like he did last year.

Consolations Round 1

Conslations Round 1 has begun. It will be interesting as a few of the Regional champions were beaten during the Preliminaries. Frank Martellotti from Shady Side Academy, returning state champion will be facing Adam Matthews of Reynolds. Should be some exciting matchups. Follow the live results at http://liveevents.nhscasportsnetwork.com/2008piaa-aa/

Lesher-Upper Dauphin vs Kolb-Grove City

An early takedown gives Caleb Kolb of Grove City (35-4) 160 lb. class an opening 2-0 lead in the first period. Josh Lesher (35-6) choses down to start the second period. An escape to start off the second period puts them in the neutral position. After a brief flurry, Kolb again secured another takedown to go up 4-1 with :45 to go in the second period. Injury time for Lesher. Lesher again escapes to make the score 4-2. Starting the third period on top, Lesher is looking to get his offense going for some offensive points. Kolb reverses Lesher to go up 6-4 and a late escape for Lesher takes the score to 6-5 with the win going to Kolb of Grove City.

Derec Sauve-Susquenita

Susquenita Blackhawk's dynamic duo kept up with winning fashion with a win in the preliminary rounds of the 2008 PIAA AA Wrestling Championships. In the 152 lb. class, Sauve (37-3) took a 10-3 decision over Chris Stay (28-9), a senior from Beth-Center. Susquenita Teammate Joe Harper (36-0) at 145 lb. also won his prelim bout by fall in 3:02 over Claysburg-Kimmel Senior Matt Aungst (32-7).

Schmelyun-Bermudian Springs

After a disappointing loss in the finals of the SE Regional tournament, Derek Schmelyun (135 lb.) is looking to avenge that loss with some destruction this weekend in the PIAA AA Wrestling Championship. This morning in the preliminary bout, Derek, a Junior, (43-4) faces David Ivashchenko of South Park, a Senior, (34-3). It's 2-0 after the first period, Ricky gains control on the top and is racking up some nice riding time. Derek is tough on top as he is a tilt master. It's very hard to get out from under Derek when he gains control and works his offense from the top position. Stalemate is called, as they get a fresh start from the middle. Working again from the top position, it appears that Derek is having problems getting the rhythm going as he can't seem to turn Ivashchenko. Schmelyen chooses bottom to start the third period with a 2-0 lead. After trying for the escape or reversal for the entire third period, Ivashchenko rides Schmelyun but can't produce any offense with the match ending Schmelyun the winner, 2-0.

Family Tradition

It seems anymore today that wrestling has developed into a family sport. Take for instance this year's PIAA State Championships. All together there are six sets of twins that are participating in this year's championships. Leading the sets of twins in AAA are the Alton brothers from Central Mountain, Dylan at 135 and Andrew at 140, as well as the Snyder brothers from Bellefonte, Addison at 125 and Preston at 130. In AA, there seems to be more as there are four sets of twins participating in this year's PIAA AA Championships. Derek at 125 and Devon at 135 from Troy Area, Evan 112 and Rob 130 Henderson from United, the Parliman twins from Lehighton, Ed at 160 and Eric at 189 and last the Ryan twins from Mt. Union, Kevin at 140 and Keith at 145.

112 lb. - Spisak battles returning State Champ

Frank Martellotti from Shady Side Academy in the first round preliminaries. After an early takedown, Martellotti went up 2-0 early on. :15 seconds in to the second period, Spisak earned a reversal to tie the bout 2-2. Spisak picked up some nice riding time before Martellotti needed to take some injury time. After a minute of injury time, the match resumed with Spisak again dominating the offense on the top. A low scoring bout with :42 seconds left still has the bout tied 2-2. With :25 seconds left in the second period. Martellotti was hit with a stalling warning. The second period ends 2-2. Starting Neutral in the third period, one could argue the call by the official as it appeared Spisak had a takedown at the edge of the match to be called off by the official. Continuing in the Neutral position . . . another injury time is called with 1:02 left in the match. A late flurry toward the edge of the mat provides no scoring again. With ten seconds left in the match, Spisak is awarded a takedown to go ahead 4-2. Joe Spisak defeats the returning 103 PIAA AA State Champion by the score of 4-2.

Wrestling about to begin

The 2008 PIAA State Championships are about to begin. Wrestling begins with the AA Preliminaries beginning at 9:00 AM. Wrestling continues at 12:15 PM with the first round consolations. Today promises to be a fun filled day of wrestling with alot of interesting matchups right at the beginning in the Preliminary rounds. AAA follows the AA with there preliminaries beginning at 4:00 pm followed by the first round consolations at 7:15 PM. Check back for play by play action as well as other related stories from the 2008 PIAA Wrestling Championships.

Freshman standout defeats seasoned veteran

In a highly anticipated matchup during this morning's semi-finals Nick Hodgkins of Wyomissing defeated Pen Argyl's Austin Williams. Hodgkins used a five point move in the second period and a takedown in the third period to defeat Williams 8-1. Hodgkins will wrestle Wilson's Destry Hartrum in tonight's final.

Mazza upsets Bise

In quite a turn of events Justin Mazza of Pius X secured a come from behind fall against District 3 champion Charlie Bise of East Pennsboro at103 pounds. Bise, up 8-1, seemed to be cruising to a spot in the Regional finals when when Mazza executed a beautiful peterson. Mazza was able to secure the fall pulling an upset of monumental proportions. Mazza becomes the first state qualifier of the day.

Brown defeats Palik

In what was expected to be one of the highly competitive matches of tonight's quarterfinal round Delone Catholic's Dallas Brown defeated Saucon Valley's Brandon Palik rather handily. After two takedowns and two sets of near fall points Brown locked up a 9-4 decision. Brown advanced to tomorrow's semi-final round where he will have a highly anticipated sectional finals rematch with Bermudian Springs's Tyler Stambaugh. Stambaugh won that match 2-1.

D3 Team Trophy may stay put

While talking with Coach Sam Lovello from Brandywine Heights in regards to the current situation with the error in scoring at the District 3 Championships. Brandywine Heights was originally declared the Team champions only to find out 48 hours later, that there was an error in the scoring software and Bermudian Springs mathmatically was really your 2008 District 3 Champions. After reviewing the results and recalculating the scores, Bermudian Springs should have been Champions but by rule Bermudian Springs only had 30 minutes after the match to file a protest. 48 hours after the champions were determined, Coach McCollum of Bermudian Springs decided something wasn't right. He approached the District 3 wrestling Chairman Jerry Schwillie and the District 3 PIAA rep John Zeigler about the error. Talk was that Coach Lovello of Brandywine Heights would return the district team trophy to Coach McCollum and the Bermudian Springs team at the SE Regional wrestling tournament this weekend at Wilson West Lawn High School in West Lawn, PA. After being made aware of the 30 minute rule, Coach Lovello of Brandywine Heights determined that a rule's a rule and felt since his Bullets were determined the District 3 Champions that he would offer Coach McCollum and the Bermudian Springs Eagles the opportunity to become Co-Champions. Coach McCollum's reply was "let me think about it." Any chance of returning the team trophy was eliminated after that comment. So I believe you will find that the District 3 Team trophy will remain in the Brandywine Heights trophy case in the lobby of the Brandywine Heights High School.

Solosky upsets Yocco

In the first major upset of the regional tournament Nick Yocco of Brandywine Heights, ranked 3rd in the state at 125 pounds, dropped a tough 9-5 decision to Saucon Valley's Jarid Solosky. An exchange of scrambles led to a 7-4 Solosky lead at the end of the first period. The second period went with no scoring, and the third period started with Yocco scoring an escape to make the score 7-5. Solosky earned a late takedown to secure the upset. In tomorrow's semi-final round he will wrestle Destry Hartrum of Wilson who won his quarterfinal match against Octorara's Mike Blankley by fall in 5:28.


In other action, Delone Catholic's Hunter Doan was able to secure three takedowns and an escape to defeat Juniata's Zach Bryan at 130 pounds.

Goodwin moves on

Derek Goodwin of Hamburg defeated Eddie Faust of Northwestern Lehigh in one of the highly anticipated quarterfinal matchups at 112 pounds. Goodwin was able to score an early takedown to take a 2-0 lead. The only scoring of the second period came on an escape by Faust. In the third period Faust was riding legs a bit high when Goodwin was able to "come out the back door" for a reversal. Faust scored an escape as the match ended, and Goodwin earned a 4-2 decision. Goodwin will wrestle Zane Yocco of Brandywine Heights in tomorrow's semi-final round. Yocco won his quarterfinal match via major decision.

Oxenrider defeats Leedy

In what was one of the more interesting matchups of the first round James Leedy of Hanover took an early 2-0 lead over Tri Valley's Andrew Oxenrider. Oxenrider, however, was able to score an escape, takedown, and two point near fall in the second period to take a 5-2 lead. He tacked on a stalling point in the third period to win a rather convincing 6-2 decision over Leedy. Oxenrider will take on Upper Dauphin's Josh Lesher in the quarterfinals in what should be another exciting matchup.

Bryan ready to go

In one of the burning questions among wrestling fans throughout the week, the question of whether or not Zach Bryan of Juniata would be ready to wrestle on his injured ankle, wrestling fans got their answer. Bryan won a convincing 12-4 major decision over Craemer Hedash of Northern Lehigh. Stay tuned for updates from the quarterfinals as Bryan takes on Junior standout Hunter Doan of Delone Catholic.

Wrestling is underway

Wrestling is underway at Wilson High School in West Lawn, PA. In one of the early anticipated matches Nick Blasone from Bermudian Springs beat Adam Phillippi of Saucon Valley. The match started with Phillipi securing a nice takedown and taking a 2-0 lead off of a quick double leg. Blasone was able to score a reversal to tie the match at two. Blasone had Phillipi in near fall criteria as time expired. The second period started with Blasone choosing the top position. Blasone was able to score two nearfall off a cross wrist tilt. Phillipi chose neutral in the third. He attempted a double leg takedown, but Blasone was able to snap and spin securing a takedown and making the score 6-2. The match ended with Blasone scoring another three point nearfall off a tilt to win it 9-2. Blasone advances to the semi-finals where he will meet Joe Spisak of Boiling Springs. Spisak defeated Blasone 10-2 last week at Districts.

2008 Blog Ready!

For the second straight year, we'll be blogging from the PIAA Wrestling Championships (and a little before states as well). Check back here this coming weekend (Feb 29-Mar 1) for info from the regional tournaments around the state. During the state tournaments (Mar 6-8) we'll be posting live from the Giant Center about anything from results, stories, predictions, and much more!

Don't forget about our live updates from many of the regional tournaments. Follow all the action thru our NHSCA Sports Network LiveEvents websites.

Regional 'guess the placers' predictions contests are also up and running for all 7 regionals this weekend. Click here to join in on the fun!

Full live result updates and prediction contests are coming next week for states as well!