Jan. 17, 2024
By Emily Reed
Editor-in-Chief
The wrestling team, which is co-oped with North Arlington High School, hit the mat on Dec. 16 for the Caldwell Tournament at Caldwell High School. Among LHS’ wrestlers, sophomore Nate Boyd, who placed fourth in the 120 weight class, was the top finisher.
Sophomore Aitana Lozano, who joined varsity her freshman year, said the team needs to work on being consistent.
“[We] need to improve on keeping our heads up and maintaining stability after losses,” Lozano said. “We just need to not give up and fight until the end because you never know how a match could turn out.”
Lozano said the wrestlers have their sights set on earning a spot in the state tournament.
“We have been working very hard every day of the week as well as running and conditioning, so we should be prepared to take that victory,” Lozano said.
“If the whole team grinds in the wrestling room and stays good on grades, I think we could come out on top.”
Sophomore Chase Paglio, who joined varsity his freshman year, said being a good teammate means being responsible on the mat and in the classroom.
“[I am] making sure I am showing up on time to school [and] making sure my grades are up. [I am] also putting in max effort during practice and showing up on time,” Paglio said.
He said the wrestlers can end the season with a winning record by working together and winning independent matches.
“If the whole team grinds in the wrestling room and stays good on grades, I think we could come out on top,” Paglio said.
Junior Viktor Kanjuk, who is in his third year on varsity, said his goal for the season is to step up as a leader.
“As a varsity wrestler, I always have to make sure I am being a good partner during practice to help my teammates improve,” Kanjuk said.
He said the wrestlers need to focus on keeping their energy up for the duration of their matches.
“Our team is really passionate about the sport and everyone loves it, but when it comes to the last period, we need to be more aggressive and wrestle even harder,” said Kanjuk.
