The ultimate personal goal was reached when senior captain Austin Roche (138 lbs) and junior captains Bryce Finnegan (126 lbs) and Drew Cozzolino (132 lbs) competed in the NHSCA (National High School Coaches Association) National Wrestling Tournament on March 27 in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Even though anyone can qualify for this tournament, there is a special privilege to being among the best in the nation and trying to become the best of the best.

“It feels good to be able to hang with some of the top kids in wrestling,” Finnegan said.

Making nationals was extra special for Roche, who qualified for senior nationals by becoming a state finalist.

“It meant a great deal to me,” Roche said. “After losing a tough match in the state semi-finals to the eventual champion, I came up third, but was fortunate enough to receive a wild card spot.”

Although none of the wrestlers placed in the tournament, they are satisfied with making it as far as they did.

“It was tough, but I think I performed well,” Cozzolino said. “I think the experience really showed how difficult the national level is and what I need to work on to place next year.”

Now they are ready to take aim at next season and look to improve on what was already a phenomenal year.

“I did well, but I want to work for a more successful season next year, personally,” Finnegan said.

“I didn’t go as far as I had aimed to, even though I did have many accomplishments this season,” Cozzolino said. “Next year I’m hoping to win states and place in the New England Tournament.”

As Roche heads to Western New England University and Finnegan and Cozzolino return for their senior season, they take pride in the fact that they were on the mat with the best wrestlers in the country.