Two Wrestlers Move to State Competition

Two East Brunswick wrestlers qualified for the state tournament after placing in regional competition this weekend.

Sophomore John Schliefer took first place while Greg Krueger, a senior, took third. Rounding out the strong showing were Mike Quinton, a sophomore, and Sean Glasgow, a freshman, who took fourth.

“The kids did a great job during the region tournament. Several Coaches, said Coach Matt Pazinko. “Officials and parents from other teams commented on how the team look very good and even the matches that they lost, they were very competitive.”

Schleifer (won by decision over David Bergida (Montgomery) 6-1, and over Beauregard Vrancken (North Hunterdon) 3-2.

“John is a very skilled and tough wrestler. His competition tries to fend him off looking for mistakes to take advantage of, but he doesn't make many of them,” said Pazinko.

Krueger (won by tech fall over Joe Pietrefesa (South Brunswick Hs) 5:37 20-5, by decision over Aaron Saavedra (Bound Brook HS) 6-5, and by decision again over Daniel Pepe (North Hunterdon) 12-3.

“Greg really got on a hot streak during the wrestle backs to finish 3rd in a weight class he never wrestled till the district,” said Pazinko.

Pazinko said that Glasgow, did well in the face of stiff competition.

 “Sean wrestled his best three matches of the year on Saturday against very tough competition,” he said.

Sophomore Quintin also got some great experience under his belt.

 “Mike Quintin took a step forward and gained a lot of experience of competition on this high level,” said Pazinko.

Other solid showings were registered by Mike Nicolaro, who squared off in one of the toughest weight classes, and Mike O'Kane, who lost one point matches to the 1st place finisher and the 3rd place finisher.

 “With all but Greg Krueger coming back next year we look to improve on this year’s performance,” said Pazinko.