UPDATE: In an electrifying showdown on November 3, 2023, the Nazareth Blue Eagles triumphed over the Northampton Konkrete Kids with a decisive 37-28 victory in their first home dual meet of the season.
Senior wrestler Elijah Simak made headlines by bumping up two weight classes, dominating the match at 215 lbs with a remarkable 22-6 tech fall win over Northampton’s Joell Small. Simak, who weighed in at 173 lbs, proved his speed was unmatched, securing seven takedowns in just 3:21.
Simak’s relentless energy was palpable from the start. “I knew I had the speed on him,” he stated confidently, reflecting on his strategy to push the pace against a heavier opponent. His performance not only highlighted his skills but also set the tone for the Blue Eagles, giving them a 31-28 lead heading into the final bout.
In a dramatic finish, senior Brayden Zuercher followed suit by also bumping up two weight classes. He pinned Northampton’s Brandon McEntire in a swift 48 seconds, sealing the victory for Nazareth. Coach Dave Crowell commended his athletes for their willingness to adjust for the team’s benefit, stating, “Anything we can do for the team, we’re all in.”
Despite the challenges, the Konkrete Kids displayed resilience. Northampton’s coach, Joe Provini, acknowledged the impact of missing weight at 107 lbs, which forced a forfeit and disrupted their lineup. “We hurt ourselves tonight,” Provini remarked, emphasizing the need for his team to learn from their mistakes as they move forward.
Both teams showcased remarkable talent, with Northampton’s Benjamin Schoenberger and Brayden Werich each earning wins by fall, demonstrating their potential despite the loss. The match was marked by intensity, with Nazareth winning the takedown battle 25-10.
This victory places Nazareth at 2-0 for the season, and they are gearing up for another competitive match against Easton on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Simak expressed the team’s aggressive mindset, stating, “We want to finish on top, finish with all of it on the mat.”
With the stakes high and rivalries intensifying, fans can expect more thrilling action as Nazareth continues to build momentum in the season ahead. The urgency and excitement surrounding this match highlight the fierce competitive spirit within local wrestling.
