Honesdale Hornets boys wrestling makes history taking the triple crown
HONESDALE, Pa. — It all started in late January when the Hornets clinched the Lackawanna League Division ll title against Valley View. They celebrated senior night with a shutout victory of 69-0 and a perfect 4-0 in their league.
The journey continued in early February when the Hornets took on Berwick. The team came out victorious with a score of 41-18, making them the District 2 AA Team Duel Champions.
Finally, it all came down to the PIAA District 2 Championships. Overcoming Berwick by one point, the Hornets became the Individual District 2 Tournament Champions. For the first time in history, the Honesdale Hornets Boys Varsity Wrestling team had a clean sweep and won the District 2 AA Triple Crown!
It was an event to remember as the celebrations were plentiful. For junior Mason Avery, not only did he capture his (160lb) title by pinfall, but he also secured his 100th career victory. Senior Joey Giannetti medaled 1st with a 4-2 decision at 172lb; and the winning pin came from senior Joel Landry (189lb), securing the team title with a score of 205-204.
Head Coach Ryan Chulada says that these three crowned champions, all captains, were momentous in the overall success of the team. “They are our rocks and huge catalysts throughout the season. They focused on the process, and enjoying the process, and have done a great job over their careers.”
Ryan took over the coaching reigns for his father when he retired after thirty-two years. Now in his 19th season, joined by Assistant Coach Joe Arnone, Ryan says it has been a really cool journey. “It’s something that you’re lucky to experience and it’s just so fun to be a part of. I am ecstatic for the kids and the program.”
While at the PIAA District 2 Championships, the Hornets also medaled 11 out of 13 wrestlers and qualified 8 to the Northeast Regional Championships held in March. “At this point it’s a battle of attrition,” Ryan says. “It’s been a long season. They want to finish strong, and as a coach the challenge is to keep them positive.”
Ryan expresses how grateful he is for the opportunity to coach and see the kids having such success. “We’re also so thankful for the families, small businesses and community that continuously donate their time and resources to support us,” he says.
Ryan, and the entire coaching staff, received Coaches of the Year Award.
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