Gettysburg's Wrestling Triumph: A New Chapter in Success
In the world of high school wrestling, the Gettysburg Warriors have long been a powerhouse, boasting a trophy case filled with Mid-Penn Conference divisional and District 3 Class 3A team titles. Yet, until recently, one accolade eluded them: the District 3 3A regional championship. That changed this past Saturday at Spring Grove High School, where the Warriors clinched their first-ever team title, crowning two champions and advancing six wrestlers to the 3A state tournament.
With a commanding 161 points, Gettysburg outpaced Wilson, who finished second with 116 points, and Boiling Springs, who took third with 86.5 points. This victory was a testament to a season-long goal for the Warriors.
"It's a huge accomplishment," said head coach Chris Haines. "We've had overwhelming success in duals and postseason team duals, but a team championship was always just out of reach. This year, we emphasized a team approach over individual accolades."
Gettysburg's strategy paid off as they sent four wrestlers to the championship finals, securing two gold and two silver medals. Junior Myles Grossman, with an impressive 27-1 record, claimed his third straight title by defeating Cumberland Valley’s Logan Maurer 8-4 at 145 pounds. Grossman, who finished sixth in last year's state tournament, is now setting his sights on a state title.
"Winning three years in a row is cool," Grossman said. "I'm focused on each match and aiming for gold at the state level."
In the heavyweight division, junior Nolan Reinert maintained an undefeated 32-0 record with a 10-2 major decision over Exeter Township’s Kevin Oswalt, earning his first sectional title.
Senior Isaiah Jackson and Reid Grossman faced challenges in their finals, with Jackson falling to Cedar Cliff’s Aiden Herndon and Grossman defaulting due to injury.
The top four wrestlers from each weight class will advance to the PIAA Class 3A Wrestling Championships at Hershey’s Giant Center from March 5-7.
Boiling Springs' Golden Moments
In a highly anticipated 152-pound bout, Boiling Springs’ Ian Longenberger faced Central Dauphin’s Luke Hitchcock. Both seniors entered with just one loss each, adding intensity to the match. Longenberger dominated with an 18-5 major decision, showcasing his prowess.
"I let it fly and wrestled my heart out," Longenberger said, surprised by the major decision outcome. The pair, soon to be teammates at Kutztown University, may meet again at the state championships.
Teammate Drew Scherer also shone, securing the 133-pound crown with a 12-3 major decision over ELCO’s Ashton Kriss. This victory marked Scherer’s first district title, a significant achievement after placing seventh at state last year.
"I'm excited and happy," Scherer shared. "I'm not content yet. I'm looking forward to Hershey."
Cedar Cliff's Dynamic Duo
Cedar Cliff’s Aiden Herndon and Kavin Muyleart continued their impressive careers with regional golds. Herndon, at 139 pounds, defeated Isaiah Jackson for his third consecutive regional crown. With 115 career wins, Herndon is a force to be reckoned with.
Kavin Muyleart, wrestling at 127, claimed his first district gold with a 7-0 decision over Manheim Township’s Frank Leanza. Muyleart, eager to return to Hershey, emphasized the importance of grit and determination.
Central Dauphin's Thunder Rolls On
Central Dauphin senior Thunder Beard captured his third district title in four years with a 15-0 technical fall over Zane Gardner at 114 pounds. Beard, now 44-2 this season, relishes the challenge of having a target on his back.
"Everyone wants to take it from you," Beard said. "I have to be ready every time."
Hershey's Burd Battles to Silver
Hershey senior Christian Burd, a defending district champion, faced a tough opponent in the 172-pound final, falling to Wilson’s McKaden Speece. Despite the loss, Burd remains focused on closing his high school career with a state medallion.
"The finals match was tough, but I'm pushing for top three at state," Burd said.
With the state championships on the horizon, these athletes are poised to showcase their skills on Pennsylvania's biggest stage.