The semifinals of the Gold Pool at the second annual N.J. Catholic School Wrestling Duals didn’t go as planned for No. 4-ranked St. John Vianney. The Lancers fell 47-17 to No. 1 Delbarton, suffering a tough defeat. However, they bounced back in commanding fashion to secure third place.
Facing off against Shore Conference rival Christian Brothers Academy in the consolation match on Saturday, St. John Vianney delivered a dominant 49-25 victory, making a strong statement ahead of their next meeting on Jan. 15.
Head coach Michael Notte saw immense value in the competition, emphasizing how it provided a true test for his team.
“It’s a great litmus test,” Notte said. “We know what we need to work on. We could wrestle mediocre teams, but events like this expose the finer details that need sharpening. We lost a match today, but we’re not hanging our heads. We know where we can improve, and I’m happy about that.”
Bonus-Point Performances Lead the Way
Eight Lancers wrestlers secured bonus-point wins against CBA.
- Pins: Pat O’Keefe (Sr.), Ryan Gavrish (So.), Thomas Foley (Jr.), Riley Correal (So.), Anthony Knox (Sr.)
- Forfeits: Jake Zaltsman (Sr.), Rocco Dellagatta (Sr.)
- Major Decision: Cole Stangle (Sr.)
- Decision: Dezmond Lenaghan (Sr.), 8-1
Anticipation Builds for the Rematch
With the rematch on the horizon, Notte expects an intense battle when these two teams meet again.
“Both sides are going to rise to the occasion,” he said. “For some kids, that night will feel like their Super Bowl or state final. The guy facing Knox is going to push even harder—that’ll be his championship match. The energy from both crowds will be electric. Strap in, it’s going to be a great one.”
Before they square off with CBA again, St. John Vianney faces another crucial test, hosting No. 5 Southern on Wednesday in a matchup with major Shore Conference implications. The Lancers will also wrestle No. 10 Rumson-Fair Haven the following week before their rematch with CBA.
For Notte, these high-level matchups are exactly what he wants for his team.
“This is what we love to see,” Notte said. “Some people miss certain tournaments, and there are always ‘what if’ questions about matchups. But in the Shore Conference, we get to see it play out. Now that this week is behind us, all our focus is on Southern. We’re really excited.”
