OHIO CITY, OH - The Varsity Gold and Blue Wrestling season begins this weekend, and the 2024-25 teams promise to be a dynamic blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent. With nine seniors anchoring the squad and a group of 12 promising freshmen joining the roster, the wrestling program is primed for a competitive season under the direction of third-year coach Sean Gill '08.
Among the standout underclassmen is sophomore Stefan Drabiak (106 lbs), who made waves last season as a district qualifier and will look to build on that success.
Leadership will be a strong emphasis on the new campaign as the Mat Cats roll out a strong core of captains that will lead the charge this year, bringing experience and proven success to the mat:
- Josh Novak (SR, 113 lbs): A two-time district qualifier and 2024 Perrysburg District placer.
- Brendan McGraw (SR, 126 lbs): A two-time district qualifier and 2024 state alternate from the Perrysburg District.
- Tommy Ruppe (SR, 150 lbs): Another two-time district qualifier with a reputation for consistency.
- Talen Blogna (JR, 144 lbs): A district qualifier last year, rounding out the team's leadership.
These captains combined for an impressive 111 wins last season and have set the tone for a team-first mentality.
"Our captains and seniors lead by example daily," explains Gill. "They all create a strong team culture."
The Wildcats will face early challenges right out of the gate, and they are looking to pick up early momentum as the season begins. The team's first tests will come at the Varsity Gold North Coast Classic and the Varsity Blue Coventry Comet Classic, allowing the wrestlers to showcase their off-season improvements.
Varsity Gold will begin their season on Friday, December 6 at 3 p.m. from Independence High School. The North Coast Classic features some of the area's best wrestlers from programs that include Solon, Lake Catholic, and Revere and will be a good litmus test for the Gold squad.
This program is primed for success, and the focus on hard work and development is already paying dividends. "I'm very much looking forward to seeing this team compete," says Gill. "These guys have worked hard this offseason, done things the right way, and are ready to take the next step and compete at a high level."
With a blend of seasoned competitors and fresh talent, this team has the potential to deliver a memorable season. Alumni and parents alike are encouraged to support the squad as it aims for new heights.
The Gold squad will open the season with back-to-back weekends at tournaments at the North Coast Classic and Solon Comet Classic before opening their dual-meet schedule when they host St. Edward on Thursday, December 19, at 7:30 p.m.
