The Chaminade Flyers wrestling team continued their 2025 season with a string of impressive victories, including notable wins in dual matches and strong performances at the prestigious Eastern States Tournament. The Flyers continue to dominate league play and strengthen their reputation as a program to be reckoned with in the division.Â
In a crucial league matchup, the Flyers varsity squad secured a hard-fought 32-26 victory over the Kellenberg Firebirds on January 8. Coach Cole called the victory "a big win for the varsity boys" while also acknowledging the importance of the W for the team's morale.
The junior varsity team, facing a stacked Kellenberg varsity lineup, put forth an admirable effort in a 34-23 defeat.Â
The Flyers then faced the Holy Trinity Titans on January 15 in a dual meet. The varsity Flyers cruised into a 56-14 victory, while the JV squad enjoyed a commanding win of its own, topping the Titans' JV team, 44-15.Â
Two days later, on January 17, the varsity team narrowly prevailed against Wantagh, 33-29. Meanwhile, the junior varsity team showcased its strengths with a massive 46-15 victory, solidifying its spot as a top team to keep an eye on.Â
The highlight of the month came at the Eastern States Tournament, one of the most renowned in the region. Held from January 9-12, the tournament showcased top teams from across nine states. Chaminade's performance at this event suggested that they are a team capable of competing at national-level events.Â
Freshman Finn O'Brien delivered a standout performance, earning eighth place in the 131-lbs. weight class, continuing to prove himself to be one of Chaminade's rising stars.
However, it was sophomore Jake Nieto who stole the show for the Flyers. Nieto, wrestling at 138 pounds, had previously suffered a tough-fought loss to a Shendehowa wrestler the day prior. In a dramatic twist, he earned redemption the next day, defeating the same wrestler and ultimately finishing fifth in his weight class.Â
With two wrestlers finishing on the podium, Chaminade finished an outstanding 14th out of 149 teams from nine states, a tremendous accomplishment for the Flyers.
As the Flyers head deeper into the season, they will look to build on these early successes. With a strong varsity lineup and impressive prospects at the JV level, Chaminade is in position to make a run for the league title. Although the road ahead will be difficult, Chaminade's program is primed for an exciting road ahead.Â