Jackson wrestles its way to top of district once again
Jaguars win for 11th straight year
BY MIKE WHITE Staff Writer
The Jackson High School wrestling program didn't let setbacks suffered in the Shore Conference Tournament and NJSIAA Group IV championship let it affect its chances of capturing a district crown.

JEFF GRANIT staff Jackson Memorial's Sean Byrnes pins Jackson Liberty's Matt Beane in their 145-pound bout during the semifinals of the NJSIAA District 21 wrestling championship at Manalapan High School. Byrnes went on to beat Howell's Jesse Holzhauer 1-0 in the final.

The Jaguars showed resiliency in easily outdistancing Howell to win its 11th consecutive District 21 championship last weekend at Manalapan High School. Jackson crowned five champions en route to amassing a total of 227 ½ points. Howell was runner-up with 179 ½ points.

"We were pretty excited about taking the district title," first-year Jackson coach Doug Withstandley said. "Our guys were really focused for this meet.We did a good job of preparing both physically and mentally for this event. There is still work left for us to do this season."

Of course, Withstandley is referring to the Region VI event that takes place this week.

"We need to make sure that we advance as many as possible to at least the quarterfinals on Friday," Withstandley said. "I feel we have a number of guys who can do very well in this meet. We're looking to send as many as we can to the state tournament."

Wrestlers need to place first, second or third in Region VI to advance to the state tournament.

"We're confident that we will make a good showing," Withstandley said. "Although we have a lot of young guys on this squad, the veterans we do have are quite capable of doing a lot of damage. We need to continue to work hard and stay focused for a couple more weeks."

Jackson's champions at the District 21 event included sophomore B.J. Young (119 pounds), juniors Derrick Russell (125) and Tyler Wilton (140), and seniors Sean Byrnes (145) and Scott Winston (160).

Russell's win marked his second district title, while Winston, who has remained undefeated throughout his high school career (130-0), captured his third. Winston was sidelined with a wrist injury his freshman year and did not compete.

Withstandley was particularly impressed with Russell and Winston.

"Both guys have had great careers here at Jackson," Withstandley said. "They have meant a lot to this program. Russell dominated his match from the start. He is an extremely smart wrestler and has great technique.

"Winston is one of the best to ever come through here. He moved very well on his feet. His speed, strength and technique are by far the best around. He is going to be very difficult to beat in the region and states. He has been a great role model for the younger guys on this club."

The Jags had a number of grapplers finish runner-up. Senior Zach Huxford finished second at 112 pounds, while Tyler Biscaha took second-place honors at 103 pounds.

Third-place finishes went to Nick Tetro (171 pounds), Justin Georgiano (215) and Ryan Byrnes (heavyweight).

"The region event is going to be a challenge," Withstandley said. "We have incorporated a new attitude since the end of the season. The postseason always brings out the best in athletes. We're hoping we have a number of guys place and make it to the states."