News & Events 2003-2004

Blair Wrestlers Win Prestigious Ironman Tournament

Blair Academy entered the 2003 Ironman Tournament December 12 and 13 at Walsh Jesuit High School (Ohio) as returning champions, a #1 ranking in the country, and with several wrestling pundits doubting Blair’s capabilities in the 2003-2004 season. Blair Academy placed all 14 of its wrestlers in the top six and ran away with the team title by 90 points. The Ironman is considered to be one of the toughest high school wrestling tournaments in the country. The final team standings were (national ranking precedes school name): #1 Blair Academy (273); # 8 Brandon, Florida (183.00); #11 St. Edward’s, Ohio (182); #7 St. Paris Graham, Ohio (166.50); and #6 Great Bridge of Virginia (158.50).

“This was a total team effort, from top to bottom. The competition at this year’s Ironman was the toughest I have ever seen; and that didn’t deter our guys. Everyone faced their competition straight on,” said Jeff Buxton, Blair Academy head coach.

Adam Frey led the way for the Bucs with a title in the 130-pound weight division. Alex Maciag (189 lbs.), Kellen Russell (103 lbs.), Mike Galante (152 lbs), and Travis Blasco (119 lbs.) all finished in second place. Hudson Taylor, a nationally ranked 171-pounder, placed third in the toughest weight class of the tournament. Coming in fourth were Greg Romano (145 lbs.), Eric Medina (135 lbs.), John Kane (275 lbs), and Ben Kinerson (215 lbs.). Ross Gitomer (112 lbs.) and Charlie Clark (160 lbs.) each finished in the fifth place slot. Also gaining important team points were Chris Frederick (125 lbs.) and Chris Stout (140 lbs.) who both placed sixth.

Blair travels to Wilmington, Delaware, next weekend for the 11th annual “Beast of the East” wrestling tournament. Blair will face St. Edwards again, along with a host of nationally-ranked prep teams. “We are going to take the momentum from the Ironman into the practice room this week. We are going to work really hard, then head to Delaware, where I am hoping we can win the Beast,” Buxton said in closing. Blair is the returning “Beast of the East” team champion.

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