Friars Split Friday Duals

Fenwick Friars began the day with a dual against Chicago Catholic League foe De La Salle. The Meteors have had their share of success with multiple state champions over the last few years, including 2012 AAA HWT Champ James Busse (Loras College). One thing they have not been able to accomplish is a dual meet with against a Ruffino led wrestling team.

With this history on the line, new head coach Chris Ruffino was eager to continue this run of success against the Meteors. This would prove to be a difficult task with the Friars forfeiting 106, 113, and 120.

To accomplish this the coaches would have to adjust the lineup to get favorable match-ups, the wresters would have to seek bonus points, and there would need to be some big wins from some of the more inexperienced wrestlers. With this in mind, Mike Kozyra bumped up to 170 to wrestle Collin Farley, currently ranked #5 in AA by illinoismatmen.com. Kozyra was able to secure a win by major decision. Sr. Dubem Ikedeonwu and So. Chris Hawthorn also secured wins wrestling up a weight class.

Next up, it was up to the light weights to get the bonus points. After giving up 18 pts in forfeits, Jr. Emerson Harris and Jr. were up at 126lbs and 132lbs. Each was able to get 6 for the team with first period pins. 

Finally, the time came for a wrestler new to the varsity lineup to step up and win the dual for the Friars. With the team score at close, Mike Perez made his varsity debut at 138lbs. Perez's shot reaction proved to be the difference in the match. In the opening of the dual, Perez used a headlock off of shot reaction to go up 5 right off the bat. From there, he added to his lead and his win sealed the deal for the Friars! 

GREAT JOB FRIARS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!