Simply judging by the numbers, the RCGC wrestling team should take a big step forward this winter under first-year head coach Dan Antonelli.
The former Clayton-Glassboro High coach has already accomplished one of his primary goals before the new season has even started – building the roster up to respectable numbers. On that point, Antonelli begins the season with a solid team of 20 wrestlers, many of whom have the talent to flourish in collegiate post-season competition later this winter. Of the current group of 20, only one wrestler – second-year standout Dylan Skidmore – returns from a year ago.
"The interest has been phenomenal, and these kids are excited to represent RCGC this season," said Antonelli. "Right now we are in a good place – we've revived the interest in the program, and we're all having a good time getting to know each other and taking it one day at a time."
One key decision that Antonelli has already made is that every single wrestler on the roster will see action in matches. "Everyone will wrestle and have a chance to contribute," said Antonelli. "I know when we get to the GSACs (Garden State Athletic Conference meet) in January, we should be able to rely on everyone on the roster if needed."
The Roadrunners open with a match vs. Temple University (Club) at home on Saturday, Nov. 3, at 12 noon. That match will be followed with tournament appearances in the East Stroudsburg Open on Nov. 10 and the Green Terrier Duals at McDaniel College on Nov. 18th.
Coach: Dan Antonelli, 1st Year. Led Clayton-Glassboro wrestling program to more than 300 career wins.
Last Season: Four individual RCGC wrestlers, including current standout Dylan Skidmore, advanced to the NJCAA National Championships in Council Bluffs, IA last season.
Season Opener: The Roadrunners open with Temple University (Club) at home on Saturday, Nov. 3, at 12 noon.
Key Returnees: Antonelli has just one returnee from last season's roster in second-year starter Dylan Skidmore, who will see action primarily at 157 this winter. Skidmore qualified for nationals a year ago at 165 and performed well in the tournament with a 2-2 record.
Promising Newcomers: Joshua Antorino (Lower Cape May), heavyweight; Tyler Baer (Pitman), 174 pounds; Justin Boylan (Williamstown), 149; Jared Carr (Millville), 149; Jordan Cottrell (Cumberland Christian), 157; Dylan Fischer (West Deptford), 165; John Fountain (Deptford), heavyweight; Matthew Gray (Clearview), 174; Brandon Johnson (Williamstown), 197/heavyweight; Noah Little (Gateway), 197/heavyweight; Pat Locantore (Overbrook), 184; Tate Merlino (Pitman), 125/133; Bubba Norris (Gateway), 197; Riley Onarato (Paulsboro), 165/174; Anthony Pencook (Cinnaminson), 141; Joshua Polite (Eastern), 125/133; Tony Prosperi (Clayton/Glassboro), 174; Michael Rubino (Northeast HS), 141; Evan Vandzura (Delsea), 149.
Outlook for 2018-19:. The Roadrunners have plenty of quality wrestlers, but are youthful. They will be challenged in several early meets, and should be battled tested and competitive in time for the GSACs in January and Districts in February. Expect this team to contend for the District championship and to send several individuals to the National Tournament.
Coach Dan Antonelli on 2018-19 season: "We are very young, but we are also strong in certain areas, especially the middle of our lineup. I only see us improving as we head toward the post season -- and hopefully we will peak at the right time."