Local Wrestlers Shineat Sectional Championships Setting Sightson States

Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, August 20th 2025 at 0:35 GMT by WGME
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The atmosphere was electric this past weekend as local wrestlers battled it out at the Sectional Wrestling Championships held at Webster High School. With a packed gymnasium and roaring crowds, athletes from across Wayne County showcased incredible skill, determination, and sportsmanship in pursuit of a coveted spot at the State Tournament. This year’s competition saw several familiar faces reach the podium, alongside some surprising upsets that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last match.

The Palmyra-Macedon Red Raiders emerged as one of the dominant forces of the weekend, securing an impressive team score and sending a significant number of wrestlers to States. Senior captain Ethan Smith continued his reign of dominance in the 182-pound weight class, claiming his third consecutive Sectional title with a commanding performance throughout the tournament. His technical prowess and unwavering focus were on full display as he navigated through tough opponents, ultimately pinning his way to victory. "Ethan's leadership and dedication are invaluable to our team," said Palmyra-Macedon Head Coach Mike Conroy. “He sets an example for everyone.”

Not far behind, the Newark Valley Cardinals also had a strong showing, with multiple wrestlers earning individual titles. Sophomore standout Olivia Jones continued to break barriers in the girls’ wrestling division, securing first place in her weight class and solidifying her position as one of the top female wrestlers in the region. Her victory was met with thunderous applause, highlighting the growing support for women's athletics within the community. "Olivia is an incredibly talented athlete," commented Newark Valley coach Sarah Miller. “She’s worked tirelessly to get where she is, and we couldn’t be prouder of her.”

Beyond the team scores and individual titles, several other athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and resilience throughout the competition. Marcus Brown from Williamson-Macedon showcased impressive strength and technique in the 138-pound class, earning a well-deserved spot at States after overcoming a tough semifinal match. Similarly, Sarah Thompson of Clyde-Savannah displayed remarkable grit and determination as she battled her way through the consolation bracket to secure an alternate position, demonstrating the unwavering spirit that defines high school wrestling.

The championships weren't without their share of upsets. In one of the most talked-about matches of the weekend, unseeded freshman David Lee from Lyons defeated a heavily favored opponent in the 152-pound weight class, sending shockwaves through the gymnasium and proving that anything can happen on the mat. His unexpected victory underscored the unpredictable nature of wrestling and highlighted the importance of perseverance and mental fortitude.

The Sectional Championships also served as an opportunity to recognize the contributions of senior athletes who are concluding their high school careers. Several wrestlers were honored for their years of dedication, hard work, and sportsmanship. These seniors leave behind a legacy of excellence and will be sorely missed by their teammates and coaches.

Looking ahead, the focus now shifts to the State Tournament, where these talented local wrestlers will compete against the best in New York State. The competition promises to be fierce, but these athletes are well-prepared and eager to represent Wayne County on the state stage. Coaches and fans alike are confident that they will make a strong showing and bring home some hardware.

The success of this year’s Sectional Championships is a testament to the dedication of coaches, parents, volunteers, and most importantly, the wrestlers themselves. The unwavering support from the community has created an environment where these young athletes can thrive and reach their full potential. As they prepare for the State Tournament, the entire Wayne County community wishes them the best of luck and looks forward to cheering them on every step of the way. The future of wrestling in Wayne County is bright, and these champions are paving the path for generations to come.

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Local Wrestlers Shineat Sectional Championships Setting Sightson States