Baldwinsville Wrestling: A Resurgence and What It Means for Section III
Baldwinsville boys wrestling has roared back to prominence, capturing the Section III Class AA crown this past Saturday at PSLA @ Fowler. This victory, the program’s first class title in over a decade – since the 2015-16 season – signals a shift in the competitive landscape of Section III wrestling and highlights a growing trend of focused program building.
The Bees’ Winning Formula: Lightweights Lead the Charge
The Bees’ success wasn’t a fluke. They amassed 208.5 points, outpacing West Genesee (186), Fayetteville-Manlius (185.5), Cicero-North Syracuse (161.5), and J-D/CBA (132). Coach Tony Burkinshaw emphasized the team’s depth and resilience, noting that wrestlers battling back through brackets to secure third-place finishes were crucial to their win. “We’ve got a tough team,” Burkinshaw stated. “We had guys battle back in their brackets and accept third. That set the nail in the coffin for us.”
A key component of Baldwinsville’s triumph was the performance of their lightweights, described by Burkinshaw as being “lights out.” This focus on developing strength and skill in the lower weight classes is a strategy increasingly seen in successful wrestling programs.
Individual Stars Shine
Several Baldwinsville wrestlers delivered standout performances. Zach Boudreau, currently undefeated with a 33-0 record, secured a pin against C-NS’s Grady Ellsworth in just 1:39. William Lamson (118-pound), Cael Bruce (126-pound), and Scotty Warner (144-pound) also claimed individual titles, demonstrating the breadth of talent within the Bees’ roster.
Other notable results included West Genesee’s Aiden Wright winning at 103 pounds, J-D/CBA’s Dominic Schiano taking the 132-pound crown, and Latest Hartford-Saquoit Valley-Utica’s Victor Petronella winning by forfeit at 138 pounds.
Looking Ahead: The Inter-Class Tournament and Beyond
Baldwinsville has qualified 11 wrestlers for the upcoming inter-class sectional tournament at the SRC Arena at Onondaga Community College. Burkinshaw views this tournament as a second chance to compete for a team title, especially given the program’s inability to compete for the Section III Division I dual championship in January due to weather conditions.
The coach expressed confidence in his team’s ability to make an impact. “I’d like to win because I believe we have a team that can do it,” Burkinshaw said. “This is our opportunity to see if we have a chance. I think the guys we’re sending will make some noise, so it’s going to be fun next Saturday.”
The Rise of Competitive Wrestling in Section III
Baldwinsville’s victory isn’t an isolated event. The strong performances from West Genesee, Fayetteville-Manlius, Cicero-North Syracuse, and J-D/CBA demonstrate a rising level of competition throughout Section III. This increased competition is likely driven by dedicated coaching, increased participation, and a growing emphasis on year-round training.
FAQ
Q: Where did the Section III Class AA wrestling tournament take place?
A: PSLA @ Fowler.
Q: How long had it been since Baldwinsville last won a class team trophy?
A: Since the 2015-16 season.
Q: What is Baldwinsville’s next major tournament?
A: The inter-class sectional tournament at the SRC Arena at Onondaga Community College.
Q: Who is Baldwinsville’s coach?
A: Tony Burkinshaw.
Did you know? Zach Boudreau is currently undefeated this season with a 33-0 record.
Pro Tip: Consistent effort and a strong team dynamic are key to success in wrestling. Baldwinsville’s recent win demonstrates the power of both.
What are your thoughts on Baldwinsville’s wrestling success? Share your comments below!
