Frank Galipo

Jaguars secure repeat sectional wrestling title

By Wayne Witkowski

Tanner Kelly won by decision at 182 pounds to wrap up Jackson Memorial High School’s repeat NJSIAA Central Jersey Group IV wrestling championship, 28-24, over Long Branch High School Feb. 12.

The Jaguars also got victories from Justin Martin-Culet (170), Carston DiGiatomasso (106, in a 2-1 tiebreaker decision), Mike Christie (138) and Tim Hamann (145) by decisions; Mike Spino (120) by major decision; and Matt McGowan (126) by pin.

The following day, the Jaguars lost in the Group IV semifinals to Phillipsburg High School, 46-19. Christie pinned his opponent and McGowan won by major decision, while Kelly won by decision and Spino by forfeit as the victories for Jackson Memorial (15-5), whose wrestlers compete in the District 21 tournament this weekend.