Wrestling News & Views By Tom Elling
New Year’s Resolutions? Most of us at least think of one or two. If I may suggest a small addition to your list: recognize the importance of YOU. Do one good thing for a wrestler or for wrestling in general. No deed is too small. Often, we (and I speak as a former coach and teacher) don’t realize the impact we have on young people’s lives.
I see my former wrestlers and students and am so pleased with the good people they’ve become. Do I take credit for their success? Maybe for one or two, but I know someone like YOU also made a difference. Know that YOU matter.
Many of you know or have heard of Bob Hower from Lewistown. Bob has done and continues to do so much for PIAA wrestling. Although retired and struggling with his eyesight, he dedicates himself to researching the history of top high school wrestling programs across Pennsylvania. He recently pointed out that Pitt great Joe Solomon started his high school career with a 0-4 record as a sophomore in 1949. However, Solomon rebounded to go 7-7-1 in duals that season, later won the WPIAL title at 145 pounds, and reached the state semifinals. His overall record that year was 12-8-1 with three falls. He went undefeated the following year, 18-0-1, and won it all during his junior season.
Jeff Walter, a former two-time PIAA State Champion from Shikellamy, shared with our wrestling breakfast group that he also started out 0-4 in elementary wrestling. It was either get better or quit. His later achievements, including an NCAA title at Wisconsin, show the path he chose.
These stories remind us that many wrestling journeys begin with struggles. To those who are finding it tough: keep your goals in sight, don’t give up, and trust your coach!
Rich Vetock, co-owner of the Pittsburgh Gift Shop on Route 22 in Ebensburg, has a knack for connecting with people. Recently, he met Walter Bilski, a former Lock Haven wrestler under Hank Hawkins. Walter had kind words to say about me, which I appreciate. Rich also reconnected with Whitie Williams, former head football coach at Mount Carmel. Sports have a wonderful way of building lifelong friendships.
Dave Clelland, now living in Richmond, Virginia, is heading back to Greenville to watch his alma mater wrestle. Dave has been a significant supporter of Greenville’s program and remains close friends with former Greenville state champ and coach Bob Robbins. Bob, who wrestled for Army, is spending the winter in Texas with his wife Cindy.
Demonte “Spike” Temple, a former Lock Haven wrestler, recently announced his retirement as head computer operator for the PIAA State Championships. His contributions have been invaluable, as have those of his partners Ray Bennett, Gimp Brownell, and Todd Stine. Together, Temple and Stine founded Triple J Bout Masters, LLC, the program that runs the state tournament. Temple also organized and directed the “Wrestling for PA Wounded Warriors,” raising significant funds for a worthy cause.
Bishop McCort Dominates PowerAde
Bishop McCort showcased their strength by winning the team title at the prestigious PowerAde Tournament held at Canon-McMillan High. They crowned three champions: Jax Forrest (133), Bo Bassett (145), and Melvin Miller (160). Additional top finishes included Sam Herring (139) and Devon Magro (152) in third place, and Keegan Bassett (107) taking fourth. McCort also claimed the team title at the National Hall of Fame Duals Classic in Stillwater, Oklahoma, defeating Delbarton, NJ, 37-28.
Other Pennsylvania teams in the top 20 include: Malvern Prep (4th), Wyoming Seminary (6th), Bishop McDevitt (8th), Thomas Jefferson (9th), Notre Dame GP (14th), Connellsville (15th), State College (16th), Kiski Area (17th), Germantown Academy (19th), and Chestnut Ridge (20th).
PowerAde and Other Results
Most PowerAde results, along with other tournament outcomes, are available on Tom’s Wrestling Page on Facebook. The group is family-friendly, and respectful wrestling fans are welcome to join.
“Iron Maidens” Documentary
Chad VanDiver, assistant women’s wrestling coach at Gannon, recently shared news about the documentary Iron Maidens – Wrestling for Glory. This feature-length film follows two high school girls competing for Pennsylvania’s inaugural girls wrestling championship. The documentary premiered on December 28th at The Parkway Theater in McKees Rocks.
