After an outstanding performance at Districts crowning five District champions, the Mater Lakes Bears wrestling team continued their hot streak at the Regional tournament at Cardinal Gibbons High School with five wrestlers qualifying for state. Having five wrestlers qualifying for state marks the most state qualifiers the Bears have had since the program started five years ago.
Senior captain Cole Schwartzberg led the Bears claiming his second consecutive Regional title with an exciting win over Somerset’s Daniel Miranda. Junior Omar Armengol also made consecutive Regional finals matches claiming second place losing a double overtime match to No.1 in Florida, Darian Estevez, from Somerset Academy.
Senior Haniel Suris had an outstanding tournament as well avenging losses to three different opponents throughout the District and Regional playoffs. Suns pinned all three opponents he had previously lost to claim third place in the Region. Junior, David Alvarez also qualified winning his third place match in an overtime thriller. Junior, Rafael Alvarez placed fourth to secure his ticket to this year’s FHSAA State Wrestling Tournament at Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee.
Seniors, Douglas Boutemy and Steven Altamirano came within one match of qualifying for States and finished off their careers leaving their mark on the school and program.
“Every single member of this team has worked extremely hard throughout the season. That is something we take pride in as a program, hard work and conditioning,” said coach Brandon Neifeld. “I am blessed to have such dedicated individuals to work with and nothing makes me happier than seeing them reach some of their goals as student athletes.”
“We are so proud of what our Bears are doing and cannot wait for them to come back with some State Championships,” said principal Rene F. Rovirosa.