The Albany Academy wrestling team is off to a formidable start this season. After only losing one regular dual-meet last year, expectations for a similar performance this year are certainly high.

In the first match of the season, held last Thursday in Mechanicville, Academy prevailed with an easy 51-18 win. The annual Mohonasen tournament took place the following Saturday, and Academy placed 4th out of 12 schools. While the team was one place short of earning a trophy, several individual wrestlers did leave with one. Senior captains Nick DiCaprio and Stuart Curtis both came in 1st place in their weight classes, freshman Cameron Milliken got 3rd place in his class, and freshman Sam DeLarge and sophomore Garrett Esper earned 4th place. In addition to the five individuals who placed in the tournament, junior Mory Gueye (who, due to an injury, was unable to wrestle in either the match or the tournament) is also expected to have a successful season.

After losing six seniors at the end of the last year’s impressive season, some questioned how the team would fare without several key wrestlers. However, their absence has opened the way for new, younger players to have their chance in the spotlight. For instance, the two freshman (Milliken and DeLarge) who placed in last weekend’s tournament started wrestling only last year, and Esper had never wrestled before this season about.

Coach Buran is also confident in the team’s talent and ability. He said, “We are looking forward to a successful season with strong leadership from senior captains Stuart Curtis and Nicky DiCaprio. They, along with a solid nucleus of wrestlers, are looking to continue the improvement of the wrestling program.”

The wrestling team’s home opener is Wednesday, the 8th, at 6pm against Ichabod Crane, and the 3rd annual Academy tournament will be held on Saturday the 18th.