Blair Academy Wins 27th Straight National Prep Championship

Bethlehem, Penn.: The “Boys of Blair” were on fire this past weekend (February 23-25) on the campus of Lehigh University where Jared Platt flattened six opponents in 4:34... where Eric Medina rolled through his bracket capturing his third national title... where Mario Mason sent out
the message to all college coaches that he is the consensus #1 recruit in America next year. (Mason thrashed nationally-ranked Luke Silver of Bishop Lynch, 9-3).

How about Kyle Hanson at heavyweight who came away an All-American by way of a sixth place finish? Hanson had two matches that could have gone either way; and he could have just as easily placed third.

What about Kellen Russell, who came away with his third National Prep title? And don't forget about Max Shanaman-who won his third title at 135 lbs? Then there’s Chris Villalonga at 112 lbs. who battled hard straight through the finals where he won 4-0 over a tough Nicky Gordon of Wyoming Seminary. Cory Peltier showed why he is NCAA Division I material as he finished 2nd to Chris Henrich-a fifth year senior from Germantown Academy.

“The seniors (Jared, Eric, Kellen, Max) were all dominant as (Eric, Kellen and Max) won their third titles; and Jared {Platt} pinned down diabetes single-handedly with six falls in 4:34 earning the most falls in the least amount of time award,” said Head Coach Jeff Buxton. “We look forward to watching these student-athletes compete in college.”

The “Boys of Blair” wrestled tough, stayed focus and ran away with the team race, which finished as follows:

• Blair Academy: 345
• Wyoming Seminary: 186.5
• St. Benedicts of Newark: 145.5
• Germantown Academy: 144

Joe Stanzione had a nice tournament falling to the competition’s MOW in the finals Danny White. (Stanzione is now a two-time finalist.) Tony Buxton and Adam Hogue earned their first All-American finishes at 103 lbs and 152 lbs. Wes Rosamilia (189 lbs.) and Carter Lorant (160 lbs.) had fine tournaments as well as both made the round of 12. Missing from action was Anthony Valles – the defending 112lb. champion. He’ll be back next year, most likely at 125 lbs.

“It’s great to see our younger kids step up and gain valuable national experience. These are our leaders for next year. Add Anthony Valles to this crop and the future is bright,” said Buxton.