Bedford

District/Class: 5-AA.

Conference: Laurel Highlands.

Coach: Brian Creps, eighth season.

Last season: 15-5, 7-1 LHAC.

Returning letterwinners: 15.

Coach’s outlook: “We are looking forward to a new year,” Creps said. “The kids are working hard to build on last year’s success at the end of the season. We are hoping to be very competitive in the LHAC and District 5. A return trip as a team to Hershey is one of our main team goals. We recognized that this is a new year and we need to keep improving to meet our goals.

“We are very banged up from the fall sports seasons,” he continued. “As the kids get more healthy we will become better and better as a team.

“Individually, Ryan Easter has looked good in practice and is working hard to improve on his fifth-place state finish from last year,” Creps said. "Garrett Thomas, Toby Brett, Caleb Grimes, Zach Dudek, Tanner Williams, Josiah Koontz, Cody Yingling, Dylan Evans, Michael Brett and Jacob Krupa continue to improve and should be forces to reckon with at the end of the season."

Roster

Seniors-Dylan Evans (152), Ryan Karns (152), Jacob Krupa (220), Aaron Lafferty (160), Jesse Martin (125), Andrew Miller (130), Cody Yingling (152).

Juniors-Michael Brett (170), Devin Clark (132), Zach Dudek (138), Justin Easter (220), Caleb Grimes (132), Robert Minnick (170), Shayne Rininger (132), Kyle Swindell (132), Tanner Williams (145).

Sophomores-Toby Brett (126), Cody DeMoss (145), Ryan Easter (113), Josiah Koontz (160), Brandon Martin (106), Garrett Thomas (130), Jake Warren (106), Chance Williams (170).



Berlin Brothersvalley

District/Class: 5-AA.

Conference: WestPAC.

Coach: Jason Cornell, seventh season.

Last season: 13-10, 5-1 WestPAC, conference champion.

Returning letterwinners: 10.

Coach’s outlook: “The team heads into the season with high expectations,” Cornell said. “After finishing 13-10 last season and only losing one senior, it should prove to be yet another successful season. We are led by a solid group of returning seniors and seasoned underclassman which includes multiple district placewinners. We’re looking to defend our WestPAC title.” 

Roster

Seniors-Cole Butler (138), Jacob Craig (220), Andre Dauphinais (182), Trace Heffner (160), Ben Miller (160), Dillan Wilson (152).

Juniors-Joel Ansell (120), Eric Darr (138), Blake Miller (138), Chris Miller (126), Austin Thompson (126), Mitchell Walker (285).

Sophomores-E.J. Custer (132), Tommy DeArmitt (106), David Krouse (145), Stew Trulick (195).

Freshman-Bryce Fochtman (145).

Berlin-Brothersvalley preview video

Cambria Heights

District/Class: 6-AA.

Conference: Laurel Highlands.

Coach: Mike Eckenrode, fourth season.

Last season: 12-6, 4-4.

Returning letterwinners: 11.

Coach’s outlook: “Hopefully we can improve on last year’s great season and place a few wrestlers at states,” Eckenrode said. “Our three returning regional qualifiers – Ryan Dupas, Brad Thomas and Ross Inzana – and our two 20-match winners – Joe Davis and Tyler Crawford – will be the bulk of our strength this year. Jake Beach and Jeff Brahim should each get 20-plus wins.”

Roster

Seniors-Jake Beach (195), Jeff Brahim (120), Ryan Dupas (113), Drew Hollern (152), Ross Inzana (170).

Juniors-Tyler Crawford (182), Domonic Novella (285), Brad Thomas (132), Travis Yahner (145), Michael Zabinsky (138).

Sophomores-Aaron Gill (220), William Hoover (170), Richard Legros (138), Raymond Niebauer (145).

Freshmen-Levi Niebauer (138), Dalton Waksmunski (160).



Central Cambria

District/Class: 6-AA.

Conference: Laurel Highlands.

Coach: Bob Nikolishen, fourth season.

Last season: 8-16, 1-7.

Returning letterwinners: 8.

Coach’s outlook: “I think we are bringing heart and effort to the mat this year,” Nikolishen said. “We are a group of blue-collared professionals who have strong backs and disciplined morals. We are very happy with the work ethic this year and very anxious to see some competition. This team gets along with one another. When these few elements exist on a team, the possibilities are endless.”

Roster

Seniors-Cameron Long (120), Ben Rager (132), Tony Risaliti (160), Cody Slebodnick (171), Brodi Snyder (195), Evan Sokira (285), Luke Zearing (220), Brad Zeman (152).

Juniors-Geno Berdomas (138), Tyler Bilonick (145), Calvin Crow (182), T.K. Karlinsey (138), Luke Kozorosky (171), Mike Long (171), Kyle Smiley (126).

Sophomores-Kevin Bednar (145), Austin Block (126), Devyn Bowser (120), Justin Jeffers (120), Cordale Kline (138), Coltin Makin (126), Jordan O’Farrell (220), Steve Pennington (126), Brad Taylor (113).



Chestnut Ridge

District/Class: 5-AA.

Conference: Inter-County.

Coach: Greg Lazor, fourth season.

Last season: 16-12, 4-1.

Returning letterwinners: 15.

Coach’s outlook: “We are a good team with a few holes,” Lazor said. “If we can improve in these areas and dominate in a couple others, we could have a solid team at the end.”

Roster

Seniors-Matt Dull (160), Zac Etterman (126), Luke Fochtman (145), Kavan Holderbaum (160), Justin McDannell (120/126), Shane Pfaunmiller (132/138), Tyler Weyandt (160).

Juniors-Dan Albright (220), Teddy Albright (145), Dustin Bence (138), Bradie Bollman (152), Tyler Dibert (170), Jerimiah Zimmerman (126/132).

Sophomores-Gray Benton (145), Austin Butry (285), Dustin Ickes (113), Sam Shank (106), Dakota Taylor (145), Kyle Winegardner (145).

Freshmen-Derreck Claar (106/113), Trent Crouse (120/136), Colby Hillegass (138).



Conemaugh Township

District/Class: 5-AA.

Conference: WestPAC.

Coach: Jarod Feathers.

Last season: 10-13.

Returning letterwinners: 9.

Coach’s outlook: “The team is excited for another season,” Feathers said. “They have been working hard at practices and are getting prepared for the 2011-2012 season. The team is centered around a nice core of seniors. Their leadership skills will help the team grow throughout the season. Individually, the wrestlers have set their goals high. They hope that all of their hard work pays off at the end of the season and they are wrestling in March at Hershey.”

Roster

Seniors-Cory Berchick (152), Kyle Drenner (195), Luke Gindlesperger (220), Jusdan Griffith (160), Nick Holsopple (285).

Juniors-Matt Bridge (132), Tanner Cahill (145), Ryan Grosik (145), Andrew Gowarty (182), Kris Knotts (132), Cody Stahl.

Sophomores-Brett Bradybaugh (138), Kody Ofsanko (113), Ryan Smolk (106), Zack Svencer (182).

Freshmen-Casey Berchick (126), Taylor Cahill (138).

Conemaugh Township preview video

Forest Hills

District/Class: 6-AA.

Conference: Laurel Highlands.

Coach: Jake Strayer, second season.

Last season: 8-7, 4-2.

Returning letterwinners: 8.

Coach’s outlook: “Hopefully, we can stay injury-free, get a little better every day and have a successful season,” Strayer said.

Roster

Seniors-R.J. Brydon (145), Kenny Corle (126), Warren Grambling (151), Sam Michuk (182).

Juniors-Ean Bopp (138), Kevin Kabo (138), Cody Law (152), Matt Marra (195), Ian McClelland (132), Zach Pinkus (170).

Sophomores-Tyler Cambell (145), Dustin Hornbake (132).



Greater Johnstown

District/Class: 6-AAA.

Conference: Laurel Highlands.

Coach: Bill Bassett, first season.

Last season: 5-18, 0-8.

Returning letterwinners: 8.

Coach’s outlook: “We have an outstanding group of kids with some experience,” Bassett said. “Our numbers are up across the board and everyone is excited for the season. We are working extremely hard on the discipline, desire and hard work needed to succeed in this sport, and the wrestlers are will to put forth the extra effort needed. Our coaching staff hopes to have a good start and even better finish.”

Roster

Seniors-Quan Butcher (195), Trey Leeth (138), Malcolm Harris (132), Jerimiah Mitchell (195), Gervon Simon (182), Evan Smith (145), Conan Stiffler (152), Javon Vuckovich (170).

Juniors-Ray Beuregard (285), Jacob Gittens (152), Rodney Hall (126), Issac Triplie (182), Dylan Walker (152), Melik Walker (106), Zac Weaver (126).

Sophomores-Dwayne Chatman (113), Jacob Goas (132), Dustin Stephens (113), Richard White (220).



Ligonier Valley

District/Class: 6-AA.

Conference: Heritage.

Coach: Tom Bridge, second season.

Last season: 3-12.

Returning letterwinners: 7.

Coach’s outlook: “We’re young in experience but mature in attitude,” Bridge said. “This group of young has a great work ethic and attitude that should make them better as the year carries on.”

Roster

Seniors-John Brant (182), Jonathan Davis (145), Mark Ebberts (285), Brandon Laydon (220), Dakota Peters (182), Joey Puschnigg (195), Dylan Youngblood (152).

Juniors-Dylan Jackman (160), Josh Patrick (120), Dominick Shawley (220).

Sophomores-Mitchell Brown (120), Dan Croyle (126), Derek Croyle (138), Justin Patrick (106), Jeremy Withrow (170).

Freshmen-Tyler Smith (132).



Meyersdale

District/Class: 5-AA.

Conference: WestPAC.

Coach: Chadd Sines.

Last season: 10-4, 5-1.

Returning letterwinners: 5.

Coach’s outlook: “From 106 to the middle of the lineup, we’re going to be tough,” Sines said. “Our upper end, we don’t have a lot of experience or the numbers.”

Roster

Seniors-Devin Felker (132), Andrew Lenhart, (195) Tyler Mayhugh (182), Stephen McKenzie (126), Drew Yoder (145).

Juniors-Billy Charlton (113), Collin Day (120), Billy Dunbar (160), DeAndre Eggleston (145), Timothy Hines (132).

Sophomores-Gavin Berkley (160), Kenny Christner (152), Seth Deist (138), Tanner Hetrick (126), David Stanton III (152).

Freshmen-Brady McKenzie (106), Ty Smith (220).

Meyersdale preview video

North Star

District/Class: 5-AA.

Conference: WestPAC.

Coach: Pat Berzonski, sixth season.

Last season: 12-8.

Returning letterwinners: 10.

Coach’s outlook: “The 2011-2012 Cougar contingent has shown great tenacity early in the season,” Berzonski said. “Their work ethic has been phenomenal and leadership noteworthy, as well. While the boys from Boswell boast one of the school’s largest senior classes in recent memory, they do have many on the roster who lack any varsity experience at all. So far, leading roles have been shouldered by defending PIAA champ Nick Roberts and two-year letterman Lance Shawley. Added contributions are expected from three-year starter Neil Yoder and returning District 5 runner-up Tanner Revak. If these seniors are will to lead, a talented group of sophomores will benefit greatly. Not to be lost in the shuffle, although their numbers are scant, are the members of the junior class. Tayte Mostoller and Austin Connor bring a dogged passion to the sport, which is exciting for the fans and coaches to watch.”

Roster

Seniors-Brett Benedict (195), Stephen Darr (138), Ryan Horner (126), A.J. Ohler (182), Tanner Revak (152), Nick Roberts (120), Lance Shawley (170), Gearmo Smeak (145), Max Strasiser (195), Neil Yoder (160).

Juniors-Austin Connor (145), Tayte Mostoller (126),

Sophomores-Levi Albright (285), Lenny Beeman (113), Joe Berkebile (138), Ray Burley (182), Colton Gennett (106), Kevin Horner (285), Mason Jamieson (138), Luke Lepley (138), Thomas Miller (182), Nick Stahl (152), Shane Supanick (220), Austin Updyke (120), Zach Updyke (113).

Freshman-Tevin Mostoller (132)

North Star preview video

Northern Cambria

District/Class: 5-AA.

Conference: Heritage.

Coach: Joe Chunko, first season.

Last season: 4-16.

Returning letterwinners: 8.

Coach’s outlook: “This season is going to be one where our guys are going to learn a lot about themselves,” Chunko said. “We have great numbers, but they do not fit into the new weight classes. Some guys are really going to need to step it up for the team for us to compete in dual meets. I am looking forward to seeing what they learn about themselves.”

Roster

Senior-Casey Brown (145/152).

Juniors-Darren Mitchell (195), Tony Yates (106).

Sophomores-Derek Baker (132/138), Joe Frontino (182), Tyler Gaston (126/132), Reis Hill (138/145), Brad Mikitko (138/145), Brian Nealen (132/138), Nolan Paronish (126), Cody Wissinger (138/145), Gus Yahner (138/145).



Penn Cambria

District/Class: 6-AA.

Conference: Laurel Highlands.

Coach: Todd Niebauer, 10th season.

Last season: 13-8, 4-4.

Returning letterwinners: 5.

Coach’s outlook: “We are very low in numbers,” Niebauer said. “We lost nine seniors who combined for over 200 wins last season. That is very difficult to replace. However, we have some nice senior leadership and some very hard workers in the room.”

Roster

Seniors-Henry Spangler (145), Jon Stoy (138), Nick Szala (132).

Junior-Brandon Nelson (120).

Sophomores-Nathan Gates (113), Devin McMahon (195), Seth McLendon (285), Zack Rhone-Hatch (120), Henry Schlosser (170), John Wilkinson (220), Matt Wyland (145).

Freshman-Mike Eckenrode (126).



Portage

District/Class: 6-AA.

Conference: WestPAC.

Coach: Adam Whetstone, second season.

Last season: 6-13.

Returning letterwinners: 10.

Coach’s outlook: “We look to improve our record from last year and keep improving every day,” Whetstone said. “My concern is our depth and lack of leadership.”

Roster

Seniors-Galen Nelson (145), Donnie Watters (160), Randy Wisen (170).

Juniors-Shane Baker (126), Bryce Davis (285), Paul Davis (160), Cody Kephart (160), Tyler Strong (220).

Sophomore-Chase Fox (132).

Freshmen-Kyle Davis (160), Bryan Husar (126), Caleb Kephart (138), Nick Lutz (120), B.J. Michaels (106), Kevin Nagle (113).

Richland

District/Class: 6-AA.

Conference: Laurel Highlands.

Coach: Tom Smith, fourth season.

Last season: 12-11, 2-6.

Returning letterwinners: 13.

Coach’s outlook: “This year we are returning 13 wrestlers and look to build upon last year’s strides,” Smith said. “We will be relying on the leadership of returning veterans Dan Devan, Adam Rager, state champion John Rizzo, Mike Merriman and Mac Long. We have a solid group of underclassmen with plenty of mat time. This group’s goal is to win a championship.”

Roster

Seniors-Dan Devan (138/145), Mac Long (145/152), Adam Rager (220/285), John Rizzo (220/285), Mike Merriman (170/182/195), Eric Seth (120),

Juniors-Marcus McKool (120/126), Robert Spiker (145), Keith Warshel (160).

Sophomores-Justin Cinko (113), Mike Derricott (145, 152), Josh Haymaker (182), Trevor Henry (145/152), John Li (138/145), Matt Moose (285), Nick Naglic (132/138), Nico Pecora (145/152), Mario Rizzo (152/160), Elizah Metzgar (170/182), Mike Somiari (106/133), Alex Kot (106/113/120).

Freshmen-Adam George (106/113), Stephen Rouser (106/113), Killian Snopko (195).



Shade

District/Class: 5-AA.

Conference: WestPAC.

Coach: Adam Bourdess, first season.

Last season: 17-11.

Returning letterwinners: 6.

Coach’s outlook: “Our numbers are few, but those who are out are committed to their team and school as well as hard work, with mental toughness as one of our major goals,” Bourdess said.

Roster

Seniors-David Dietz (126), Austin Grosik (132), James Otten (160), Joe Pakstis (106).

Juniors-Jim Kostick (145).

Sophomores-Phil Aikey (170), John Baublitz (195), Mike Ohler (285), Jon Reynolds (120).

Freshman-Mike Manges (113).



Somerset

District/Class: 5-AA.

Conference: Laurel Highlands.

Coach: Brian Barron, fifth season.

Last season: 17-6, 6-2.

Returning letterwinners: 11.

Coach’s outlook: “We’re excited to get started,” Barron said. “We didn’t lose too many last year and we still have the same core with us, so if they come together and work like they did last year, we should fare well.”

Roster

Seniors-Jon Baer (195), Patrick Blough (195), Josh Darr (145), Jake Hayman (220), Tyler Walker (120).

Juniors-Jacob Nickelson (182).

Sophomores-Garret Foster (106), Damian Jano (113), Donald Kabina (152), Mike Laue (138), Landon Lohr (145), Levi Schrock (126), Michael Sutton (160).

Freshmen-Logan Eller (170), Jon Fabian (126), Sheldon Wagner (120).

Somerset preview video

United

District/Class: 6-AA.

Conference: Heritage.

Coach: Nathan Bevard, second season.

Last season: 3-16.

Returning letterwinners: 9.

Coach’s outlook: “Our emphasis the last two years has been on recruiting,” Bevard said. “We’ve got our numbers back up. We should have a full lineup. As a team, we’re looking to finish above .500.”

Roster

Seniors-Josh Bealonis (220), John Blankenship (160), Dillon Hemming (160), Steve Johnston (170), Tanner Rape (195).

Juniors-Trevor Holupka (160), Chuck Hropovich (182), Seth Knapic (113), Brendon Layton (138), Scott Marsh (120), Ben Mountan (285), Tom Rager (152), Miles Stahl (160).

Sophomores-Gaige George (132), Tyler Mack (145), Troy Matson (126).

Freshmen-Adam Henry (106), Brant Ingalls (126), Warren Lowther (120), Tyler Oliver (195).



Westmont Hilltop

District/Class: 6-AAA.

Conference: Laurel Highlands.

Coach: Matt Beaujon, seventh season.

Last season: 14-1, 8-0 (Laurel Highlands champion).

Returning letterwinners: 13.

Coach’s outlook: “As always, we’ll be focused on individual improvement,” Beaujon said. “If we make a dedicated effort to improve, everything else will take care of itself.”

Roster

Seniors-Ryan Burnheimer (195), Jonah Cramer (170), Josh Duplin (285), Andrew Garrison (145), Ian Helsel (152), Eric Kowalewski (220), Travis Kushner (138), Justin Mills (132), Tanner Patton (160), Jake Stefan (182).

Juniors-Kari Jones (113), Jeremy Nestor (220), Don Shovestull (220), Mike Walsh (138), Stephen Zipf (126).

Sophomores-Colin Barron (160), Logan Blackburn (113).

Freshmen-Drake Dorian (106), Nick Mical (120).



For wrestling updates throughout the season, check out Eric Knopsnyder's blog