As the snow could not stop the 2014-2015 PIAA Wrestling Championships in Hershey, PA, Downingtown East Wrestling marched forward and captured its second state medal in its 11 year history. Co-captain and 126 lb. standout Wade Cummings, claimed the 4th place prize and the honor of highest placing Chesmont League and Chester County wrestler with a tournament record of 4-2. Congratulations also go out to senior co-captains James Meyer (152, 1-2) and Billy McGinley (220, 3-2) who battled the toughest wrestlers in the commonwealth to etch their names in Downingtown East Wrestling history. The 14-15 season marked many milestones for the Cougars and their coaches, and their PIAA finish is a testament to their diligence and belief throughout the year. We’ll celebrate a memorable season next Sunday 3/15, with our annual banquet at Whitford Country Club, 5 to 8pm. Come with fond memories, an appetite for celebration, and a curiosity for what lies next for Cougar Wrestling: It’s never too early to plan for the next campaign! INVICTUS
The District 1 Regional tournament plays host to wrestlers from 63 of the represented schools in the four-county area, Chester, Delaware, Bucks, and Montgomery. Some consider it a “meat grinder,” where the best of SEPA come to fulfill their destiny, or meet their fate. Downingtown East wrestling attended with 10 charged hearts, but only 3 remain. The team finished in 6th place with 51pts, and placed 3 athletes in the top five of their respective weight classes to qualify for the PIAA State tournament this coming week at Hershey. Wade Cummings won the 126 lb. class with a 3-2 victory over highly-ranked Zach Trampe from CR South. Their match was held till last as the premier event of the night. James Meyer took 2nd at 152 falling in the 2nd tie-breaker with a score of 2-1 to another CR South foe, Dylan Schwartz. Lastly, Billy McGinley took 4th place at 220 losing to Pennridge’s Ezra Outlaw 3-1. Congratulations must also go out to the other regional qualifiers who put forth hard efforts, but came up short: Nik Zimmerman (120, 0-2), Jude McDowell (132, 0-2), Austin Lillis (138, 0-2), Alec Horne (170, 0-2), Jason Gibson (182, 2-2), Brent Czajkowski (195, 0-2), and James Strommer (113, injury withdrawal). The weekend definitely drew some tears, but also shed light on future possibilities for the DE wrestling program, especially for those who have gotten a taste of the regional. Good luck to the state qualifiers as they brave the toughest high school championship in the nation! Bring home some hardware gentlemen!!!
Downingtown East Wrestling 