Tampa Bay Christian's Chris Singletary (112), the first sixth-grader to compete in the state tournament, finished second, as did Tampa Prep's Eric Bach (135). Tabor says his three middle-schoolers have a mutual challenge, normally not faced by older wrestlers in the high school ranks. By Gary Abbott, USA Wrestling | Feb. 21, 2022, 2:55 p.m. (ET) 1101 VICTORIA STREET, BRANDON, FL 33510 BRANDON SCHOOL OF WRESTLING AND SUMMER WRESTLING CAMPS Night Wrestling Classes during the school year: (no charge) Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 6:30-8pm, All ages (Elementary, Middle School, High School, College, Adults and MMA athletes) Championship Coaches at every workout. Can Brandon continue its 32-year dual meet win streak of 439? In 1966, due to the federal lawsuit Manning vs. the School Board of Hillsborough County,[4] a small group of African-American students were permitted to attend for the first time, and in 1971 large scale busing to improve integration of the school commenced. "It shows me where I gotta be, what I've gotta work toward," Pereida said. "Kyle's really tall and lanky, and he gets down real low.". It stands at 31 victories and 40 matches without a loss. It wasn't as if the Brandon wrestlers came out of nowhere. Brandon's Gretta Chestnut stands out as one of the school's top female athletes. "I don't think it's so unusual that their families are a part of it," said Cozart, who runs a program for younger wrestlers. Jan. 18-19, Ippolito Memorial at Brandon: A final big-bracket tournament before districts. Will coach Willie Sargable returning make a difference in Hillsborough County wrestling? Hwt: In a battle of Ohio high school wrestling stars - and rematch of the 2008 Big Ten heavyweight title bout -- top seeded Dustin Fox, the Northwestern senior with a 28-1 record, faced off against fellow Big Ten big man JD Bergman, the second-seeded senior from Ohio State, with a 28-2 record (the two losses to Fox). Apopka 99.5; 9. Daily Bulletin Ontario, CA 12/31/05 Russ Cozart built on the foundation set by Graves and eventually helped Brandon amass an undefeated dual match streak of 459. "We're used to that," Cozart said. They should win. Yes, but it will be tough. Officials had to go through several tie-breaking criteria before awarding the match to Alonso. Cougars coach Dennis Kitko doesn't have the word "lose" in his vocabulary, so even though he is reloading, these teams will be nose-to-nose all the way to regionals. CLASS 3A-DISTRICT 6: At Pinellas Park, Mitchell had four place winners. Brandon crowned six individual champions and three runnersup at the 30-team tournament, and all 14 starters placed in the top six. "He is just too strong and too big. But to those former Brandon wrestlers who started the streak in 1973, they say what's often lost in the mystique of the streak is that it was started from scratch. Cozart has another son, Joey, who is an eighth-grader at Temple Heights, and is expected to wrestle for Brandon next year. 1 of 6 Mohonasen coach Brandon Guthrie reacts after Jake Deguire defeats Tim Bova of Arlington in a 138 lb weight class match for Div. What are the most competitive private schools? He made it to the finals five times and was runner-up three times. Rossi Bruno, Brandon, Fr., 119: Defending state champ. Wrestling is a fantastic winter sport that provides our kids with a fun way to learn, practice, and get exercise. South Dade, Naples Palmetto Ridge and Manatee have the potential to beat Brandon. Cozart Remembers Pioneer Wrestling Notebook. "He knew that Brandon was a great team, and that they could form a tradition.". "It showed that dedication, that we work as hard as anybody at anything," Grajales said. "It's probably like a lot of sports," Coach Russ Cozart said. ITG Next is your go-to source for high school sports media coverage in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and across the country. But Cozart noticed Keller's tendency and his teammates helped him fix it. Activities include: Advanced wrestling techniques in all positions, live wrestling, drilling, strength building, weight lifting for wrestlers. "If Tony loses, we lose the match," former Brandon coach Jim Graves said. FOUR-TIME STATE CHAMPIONS; NAME SCHOOL YEARS COACH(ES) WEIGHT CLASSES; MATT ASHLEY: SPENCER: 1976-77-78-79 : . Chris Figari, Bloomingdale, Sr., 152-160: Third in state as sophomore, fourth as junior; state contender in 3A. Around this time every year, the Ippolito Tournament allows Cozart a chance to remind his team about one of the greatest wrestlers to wear an Eagles uniform. "If Chamberlain would have tied that match," Cozart said. BRANDON LEON (Roosevelt) 6-0 won by decision over JACOB CHRISTENSEN (Durham) 5-1 (Dec 9-4) 3rd Place Match . Brandon got the nickname Eagles in 1941 when a Brandon student attended a basketball game against Saint Leo College donning a hat with an eagle. "We told these guys coming in, if we could finish as the top California team, that would be a great achievement," Hesperia coach David Stidham said. Tony Milanes, Alonso, Sr., 103-112: Fifth in state last year in 3A, potential repeat state placer. He left with a career record of 97-11-1 and led the program to its first state title in 1977. ""This is my first tournament championship this season," he said. "That's why we named it after him, so people don't forget about him. She won state shot put titles in 1979 and 1980. Or that there isnt just one streak for the record books, but many and many of which are not expected to be broken any time soon, if ever. Also helping Brandon achieve its 269 points at state competition were runner-up finishers Devan Berrian and Travis Berridge. "Clark and Bruno are contenders for state championships this year and Koziel is capable of winning or at least placing high in the state. [8], Brandon High boys won the state championship in 2003.[9]. The film captured the essence of Brandon wrestling. His two brothers wrestle in college and his uncle, Bobby Hendrickson, is the JV coach and a former Brandon state champ. Brandon wrestling history starts over tonight. "This is only the second year of wrestling for David, but he is amazing the way he continues to improve," Rams coach Darrell Tabor said. "Seven's the record, we tied the record," said assistant coach Bob Hendrickson, who played for Cozart as a high schooler and has coached with him for 22 years. A few schools have been common sights in the finals, like St. Edwards High (Ohio) and Blair Academy (N.J.). "And it never gets old winning a state title. Qualified all 14 to State 2004,2010,2011, 732-8 @Brandon HS 768-21 overall. The Rams don't wrestle dual matches because they don't have enough wrestlers. It was a good wrestling atmosphere. . Joey Cozart, Brandon, Jr., 140-152: Two-time state champion with numerous national youth titles. Joe Smith can be reached at joesmith@sptimes.com or (813) 310-9024. Junior Joey Cozart (145-152) has two state titles and is a contender for a third. He always seems to have his team ready.". "After that, it was always my choice, but my brother always pushed me hard. High School Sports; College Sports; Outdoors & Rec; Florida Gators; FSU Seminoles; . I like our chances of making our presence known in tournaments this season.". 2019-2020 California High School State Wrestling Championships Brackets. In a different year, more area wrestlers might have joined the winning trio. Kevin Norstrem won his fifth state title in 2013 after wrestling varsity as an eighth-grader at Tampa Bay Christian before coming to Brandon. There was a red carpet. The seniors will provide the leadership in the practice room and in matches. Before they were dominant, they were dormant. Aug. 15, 1998: Cozart wins his fourth consecutive gold medal in as many World Masters Wrestling Championships. 2023 Alabama High School Girls Basketball Rankings: Classes 1A-7A, 2023 Florida High School Girls Basketball Rankings: Classes 1A-7A, Stetson Bennett: From Humble Beginnings to Top Dawg. Is Brandon the greatest high school wrestling program ever? Get additional training during the season and see improvement.Russ Cozart, Wrestling Coach 1976-2021 45 years, Head Wrestling Coach 1976-2018,42 seasons, Brandon HS, Fl 38 years 1980-2018, Presently Volunteer Coach at Brandon HS, 27 Time Florida Team State Champions, 2014 NFHS National Wrestling Coach of the Year, MaxPreps: 11/17/20 Greatest Coach in Florida, 17 State Championships in a row 2001-17, 119 State Champions, 153 State placers. The HCPS Communications team will be sharing Winter Wellness tips and strategies to promote overall wellness during the holidays. COLUMBUS Led by four weight-class champions, Floyd Central finished second in Saturday's Hoosier Hills Conference Championships at Columbus East. Cloud was fourth at 181.5, and Alonso took fifth at 128.5. - Jason Buxton, Spearfish, three time champion, 123-1 record during his championship seasons. It never gets old," said volunteer coach Mike Ferrario, one of many former Brandon wrestlers still active with the program. After The Streak fell, Brandon won its eighth straight state title. DURANT - Maybe one day Durant will be the team that ends Brandon's four-decade-long winning streak. Anderson went 6-1 with five pins to improve to 17-3 on the season, and Fish, 6-1 with two pins to 18-3. SCHOOL WEIGHT NAME SCHOOL; 108: Brandon Perez: Campbell: 145: Keamalu Richardson: Kamehameha-Kapalama: 114: Treylan Kobayashi: Grajalas lost 4-3 in overtime at 135 and Cozart was beaten in the final 30 seconds at 160. A 4-foot toy gorilla named Mongle, dressed in Eagles gear, joined them on the bench. Everyone knows the streak -- Brandon's consecutive win streak in dual matches -- which now stands at 413. 146 individual matches won in a row 2012-13, 459 consecutive duals won in a row 1974-2008, Average Dual Meet Score 74.92-2.16*, Average Margin Of Victory 72.76* 2009-10. Feb. 5 - 12th Annual Tampa Bay Middle School Championships at St. Petersburg Catholic, 10 a.m. NO Varsity Wrestlers. Coventry gave its fans a taste of the old ways in 2022, when it won its first state title in 22 years with 11 individual medalists and two state champions under head coach Charlie Gaffney. Eric Grajales, Brandon, Sr., 135: Ranked second nationally for high schoolers, a three-time state champ and multiple youth national champ, member of youth team USA with international experience. In the early years, Cozart said it was like "banging my head against a wall" to get kids out, but now there are routinely 30 to 50. Dec. 1, 1980 -Brandon defeats Chamberlain 47-17 in the first match under new Eagles coach Russ Cozart, who took over the program following two seasons at Chamberlain. "This means a lot," said Sweet, who moved up from 140 pounds to 160 when he gained weight over the summer. Phoenix College Prep (Phoenix), 3-0. Critics say Brandon has dodged other great teams, but as former county athletic director Vernon Korhn said, "They never ran from anybody.". They also construct nesting boxes for birds and roosting boxes for bats to help increase the biodiversity of the area. He earned Florida's Mr. Basketball title before playing at the University of Georgia. Garcia beat Victor Valley's Jarrett Zubiate 9-6, but the match was tied briefly in the third period. Flint won a title last season as an eighth-grader for Tampa Bay Christian, but this one, he said, was sweeter. Nov. 30, 1982 -Brandon gets consecutive win No.100 with a 29-27 win against Chamberlain. BRANDON HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING CELEBRATING 43 YEARS, VOTED 2009 & 2010 BEST HIGH SCHOOL TEAM IN THE BAY AREA - 620 WDAE & Beef 'O' Brady's. The complete high school wrestling schedule for the state of Florida for the 2021-22 season. 1984-85: It's Crowell to Powell for Rovers & The Cuve. Skinny: When the 1979-80 season started, former Brandon coach Jim Graves said to himself, "There's no way we can beat East Bay." That families move to Brandon to wrestle for Cozart is no secret to the people who know and observe Brandon wrestling, which is a hard thing not to notice if you follow the sport. "When it happens," Moore said, "then I'll believe it.". Today, a film crew is following Brandon all season for an ESPN documentary, and former wrestler Dave Ryndes is writing a book. They're very similar to last year's team. Jan. 4-5, Graves Challenge at Brandon: With the Eagles' loss of its almost invincible middle weights to graduation and youngsters counted on to maintain the 32-year streak, it is definitely in danger. Kitko knows a little about The Streak, considering he helped defend it as a Brandon wrestler in the early 1990s. The two teams finished 39-39. They came from a compilation of a few schools. Today the streak is at 456.http://www.sptimes.com/2008/01om_unhear.shtml. Hagerty 138; 3. They learned together. Eagles Rossi Bruno and Clark Glass also pulled off a rare five-peat. In 2001 the school district achieved unitary status and mandated busing was ended. 2002 Class AAA: Hersheypark Arena, Hershey, Pa. 2002 Class AA: Hersheypark Arena, Hershey, Pa. Wt. It got me ready; it really got the rest of us ready for our match," Brandon 130-pounder Alex Araoz said. "We don't pay a lot of attention to a lot of things," Toledo said. Brandon won its first wrestling state title in 1977 and has won the last 13, churning out 101 individual champions along the way. 0. "It's a huge thing in my family to bring home the gold. [3], The Brandon wrestling team holds the national record for the longest winning streak (34 years, 459 wins) by a high school sports team. This article has been revised to reflect the following correction: The Brandon High boys cross country team earned state runnerup status in 1979. Jesse Contreras (Turlock, SJ1, 12) #2 4. "You see favorites getting beat and people coming out of nowhere to win titles. Eighth-graders Rossi Bruno (103), 14, Kyle Koziel (135), 14, and junior David Alonso (125), 16, all train with the Brandon Wrestling Club. He retires with a record of 97-11-1, including 75 consecutive dual meet victories. James Gray, Armwood, Sr., 112-119: Fifth in state last year, should place higher this year. Jan. 18, 1997- Brandon defeats Chamberlain for consecutive win No.293, breaking the national mark for consecutive victories by a high school team in any sport. It was in my head all week and just getting that over with, quieting all the critics that said I couldn't beat him, it just feels good.". Also, we encourage all stakeholders to visit the district website and the district's mental health page for a variety of mental health resources. So has Glass, and Koziel has about a half dozen. Wrestling Records (Updated January 11, 2021) TEAM MOST STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS . Seven wrestlers earned individual state titles, which is a Brandon High record, a milestone first reached in 2004. Instead, Brandon took a 40-12 lead before Durant's Chip Bowden and Greg Updike got pins in the final two matches at 215 and 275 pounds. Stability: When Brandon started a wrestling program, it had three coaches in three years. These are different than individual-bracketed tournaments, where individual wrestlers are seeded by weight class, regardless of team. "He's our first one, the way [former coach Jim] Graves described him was that he was one of the first guys that knew he was a great wrestler," Cozart said. 2003 Ohio High School Division I State Wrestling Championships Feb. 27-28 & March 1, 2003 2003 Ohio High School Division I Scores Final --------------------------------------- 1. Lakewood St. Edward 183.0 2. Cozart's son Rocky, who is now a freshman on the wrestling team at Michigan State, wrestled for the Eagles from 2002-2005 and took home three state titles. BRANDON - In a new format being tested this season, north Hillsborough County's top three high school wrestling teams - Alonso, Chamberlain and Sickles - all traveled to Brandon to challenge the 11th-ranked team in the country. Brandon High School might not just be the greatest high school wrestling program in Florida, but in the entire country. Eagle Jeff Turner played for Vanderbilt, earned a gold medal with the 1984 U.S. Olympic team and had a 10-year NBA career. Dec. 11, 1976: The Eagles beat defending state champion Miami Palmetto 30-17. Download the boys brackets: Boys Download the girls brackets: Girls. Want more of our free, weekly newslettersinyourinbox? Zaq Berridge (140) and Billy Gower (189) made the consolation finals - both losing to finish fourth - to qualify for the state tournament at the Lakeland Center, which starts Thursday. Saturday was just a formality as the Eagles captured their 22nd team championship and their 11th consecutive title. "All three coaches readily accepted the opportunity to try out the new format," Cozart said. "The region meet is a funny kind of meet because it's so emotional," Cozart said. Brandon placed 14 wrestlers in the finals and seven came home with individual titles.By Linda Chion Kenney | Email the author | February 19, 2011. If it wasn't for him, I probably wouldn't be where I am today.". Team Titles, Continued The Streak 28 undefeated seasons until it ended in 2008 at 459 dual wins. "He saved the streak.". ", Keller Leads Brandon To Another Wrestling Title. Six wrestlers have won state titles all four years they wrestled for Brandon. Brandon Bauer Seton Hall Prep So. Your place to find available wrestling tournaments. But three local wrestlers were stopped by Eagles in the championship matches. Freshman Eric Grajales (103) turned in a solid effort by pinning Lake Gibson's Brent Jorge in 1:39. The Eagles were losing at the time, but Gustafson scored a five-team point superior decision, sending Brandon into the final few matches down 22-21. home of the state champions, the vikings Over 50 years of high school wrestling tradition! For Annapolis, Nik Antonelli (152) went 6-1 with four pins and two technical falls, and teammate Grayden Stramanak (220), 4-1 . Penns Valley's Max King attempts to keep Philipsburg-Osceola's Ben Gustkey from escaping in their 139-pound bout of the Rams' 51-14 win on Tuesday, January 17, 2023. "I've been working my whole career for this," Kyle Koziel said before the state tournament, "trying to be the first in my family to live the dream.". Included in the attack will be Palmetto Ridge, Miami South Dade, Springstead and Manatee. After last weekend's state wrestling championships, Oklahoma now has 44 four-time individual champions. Brandon High School is a public high school in Brandon, Florida, United States. There are three teams out there that are very close to us," Cozart said. Now it was up to Smith, a 5-foot-6 unlikely heavyweight taking on a 6-2 Chiefs wrestler "built like a big football player." Congrats Coach Russ Cozart for being named NFHS National Wrestling Coach of the Year!!!!!!! Brandon finished with 292 points, 149 better than second-place Springstead. Brandon coach Russ Cozart celebrates his team's national record 293rd dual meet win in 1997. Alexander Basketball: Can the Cougars Finally Reach the Top? joining the previous 22 members who earned the rare accomplishment in Ohio high school wrestling. Washington State High School 4x State Champions List. Sports Relationship Management (SRM) software, but is owned by and subject to the Washington USA Wrestling . WINTER HAVEN - The wrestler with the funny style got his payback Wednesday. I didn't have a clue.". He was 33. 14 District Individual Champions 2004,2010. The Eagles earned the school's first team state title in 1973 when William Vargo, Robert Dixon and Charles Wright led the boys track & field team to the top of Class 4A with solo titles of their own. National Wrestling Hall of Fame: National Award Winners 2008: Jason Chamberlain, Springville High School 1998: Justin Ruiz, Taylorsville High School National Wrestling Hall of Fame: Utah Award Recipients 2016: Taylor LaMont, Maple Mountain High School 2015: Jacob Armstrong, Salem Hills High School 2014: Dusty Hone, Cedar City High School The next closest Florida high school is Homestead with eight school titles and 50 individual champions. For the Brandon High wrestling team, winning has always been a family tradition. Brandon had 12 individual champions and took home the team title with 292 points, thanks mainly to Keller's inspiring 5-4 decision against Lakeland Lake Gibson's Anthony Jorge in the 112-pound weight class. Countryside, with six champions, won the team title with 227 points. Brandon holds the national record for the longest winning streak ever by a high school team with 459 consecutive wins, which spanned over three decades. The Eagles scored 351.5 points to easily defeat second-place Manatee (230). Subscribe to our free Breaking Sports News newsletter. The tournament is named for Tony Ippolito, Brandon's first state-champion wrestler, and to Cozart, one of the most important contributors to the Brandon wrestling program. Marysville 45.0 Pickerington 8. Joe Cozart 57-1 2018-present, 4 St. Cozart's kids became something of celebrities, even in defeat. Format: The dual team tournament pits 16 seeded teams (No. State powerhouses: Naples Riverdale, Miami Braddock, Suwanee, Manatee, Osceola. Collinsville senior Cameron Steed pinned Claremore's Kai Shultz in 1:02 in the final to . Jan 18, 2023 Updated 1 min ago. Durant's Justin Bechtold put the Cougars on the board with an 8-2 win over Kevin Timothy at 119 pounds. Contact C. Wilmington at coachwilmington@gmail . Things went our way.". Graves told his team it deserved to be winners. No score at the end . So he read three books on the sport - "I even read the rule book," he joked - then took the Eagles to several wrestling camps. All Rights Reserved. ", "I think this is a great idea for everyone involved," Sickles coach Terry Brockland said. By MARTINFENNELLY | The Tampa Tribune Published: November 20, 2008. Virginia USA Wrestling . Koziel and Alonso have the rougher paths to travel in their quests for berths at the state tournament. "Usually kids start playing football at age 3. 17th in a row(2001-2017) 28th overall. Jesuit, Manatee, Springstead, Osceola, Flagler Palm Coast and others usually compete in a final warmup to the big dance in Lakeland. "I've been coaching against Cozart for about 10 years, and no matter what - the talk that they're weak and this is their down year - they always seem to pull it off," Moore said. Araoz and Brown also helped the team as part of the 14 Brandon wrestlers to make it to the finals. "I'm really lucky," Brandon coach Russ Cozart said. "He lined us up by weight and wrestled each one, taking us down in no time flat," Holsonback said. This approximately 1.5-acre (6,100m2) wooded site located on the south side of the campus was designated an official Schoolyard Habitat in 2006 by the National Wildlife Federation. He is a dominant wrestler but not with pins, and could rewrite the technical fall (win by 15-point difference) record at Brandon. The Eagles tied a match and lost three by one point. Michael Trinidad, a senior, led the Mustangs as he advanced to the 171-pound final via two pins. CAA I Holy Family Academy (Phoenix) def. Freshman Eric Grajales is just one Eagle who comes from a long line of wrestlers. It is overseen by the School District of Hillsborough County. "Every kid's different," Brandon coach Russ Cozart said. 2023 Bellarmine University Visit Jan 9, 2023. "We started to think about it the second day," Toledo said. The school and community started to buy in. All four advance to the 3A-Region 2 tourney. Mike Rodriguez (Merced, SJ2, 11) HM 6. 174 talking about this. Brandon adopted the school colors maroon and white in 1931. March 4th has been proclaimed as Brandon High School Wrestling Day by Hillsborough County! If a parent or coach has information on a wrestler who has finished his official high school career with over 100 wins, please send information to: Robinson.Prebish@virginiawrestling.com. "Even though they have similar weights to older opponents, 14- and 15-year-olds have less mature muscle structure," he said. Watch Now: Related Video "This year is going to be unusual in a number of ways with the COVID limitations we are under," Lynx head coach Derek . "James [Brown] and Alex [Araoz] worked with me a lot," Keller said. Zaq Berridge won the medal for the most pins in the least amount of time, scoring five falls in five matches in 10 minutes, 33 seconds. Following his victory, Keith Koziel could relax a bit. America is not happy. He has a good opportunity to add a Florida title to his trophy case. It was produced by Kelly Ripa and her husband, actor and Brandon High graduate Mark Consuelos. "It definitely set the mood for the rest of the tournament.". Name: School: Dist. 4. Read, watch, and listen to the latest news and opinions in the high school sports world. "We had some humble, humble beginnings.". Eric Grajales (103), Kevin Timothy (119), James Brown (125), Alex Araoz (130), Sean Joyce (145), Keith Koziel (152), Tom Timothy (160) and David Craig (171) all took home titles for Brandon. March 15, 1998: Brandon wins 11th state title with 141 points, breaking its previous record. "He is also an outstanding football player and is being recruited by several Division I college teams.". The Eagles struggled, going 3-10 in 1972, the only losing season in school history. Eric's father, Cesar, wrestled for Brandon in 1982, but it is Eric's brother, also named Cesar, who has his name on the wall that borders one end of the Brandon gym -- the wall that lists every state champion for the Eagles. "We get the same thing in Florida. "I don't think anyone will beat Brandon for the next 30 years either," Alonso 171-pounder Jack Neuman said. "We didn't really talk about The Streak much until ESPN came in," Grajales said. BRANDON HS STATE CHAMPS!!!!!!!!!! The Eagles' national record winning and unbeaten streaks end at 459 and 468, respectively. When - or if - that day will arrive remains a mystery. For Brandon coach Russ Cozart, the Ippolito Memorial Tournament gives him a chance to remember a friend. This year is a little bit different. Wrestling well for Northeast of Anne Arundel County were sophomore Scott Anderson (170) and senior David Fish (182). "It's a good story. "It gives us an early opportunity to measure where we are and find out what we need to work on the most.". 1 wrestles No. He earned all-state and all-American honors as a defensive lineman and went on to a standout career with the University of Florida and St. Louis Cardinals. Grajales and Cozart won titles, as did Kevin Timothy, whose loss to South Dade made it official that The Streak was done. Feb. 6, 1988: A 76-6 win over Hillsborough gives Brandon 176 dual meet victories in a row, one more than previous national record holder Bismarck, N.D. Jan. 19, 1997: Brandon defeats Chamberlain 59-14, extending its unbeaten streak to 293, breaking the national record for consecutive victories in any sport. Keller also stands crooked with his left knee out when facing an opponent, a weakness Jorge exploited in their first match. "This one is special," Bruno said. It practiced in tennis shoes and shorts on the stage of an auditorium, ripping the 4 by 6 mats off the gym wall before bracing for bumps and bruises. Brandon HS Wrestling History: First season of wrestling 1969-70, to 2021-22, 53 seasons, dual meet record 931-27-1, winning percentage .971, Jim Graves 98-11-1 1971-80, 4 St. David Galloway, a 1977 graduate, may be the most prolific football player to come out of the school. MOST STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS. By the end of the second day, the fans were eager to see anyone in a maroon uniform lose. Brandon High is currently Pending school grade[6] in SDHC's high school grading scale. They are young. It was a power in the state of Florida, but took a step forward on the Olympic style big stage. "We are setting the bar high for other programs if they are willing to take on the challenge," said Cozart. The wall has even more importance to those who are kin to those inscribed upon it. Brandon won its first wrestling state title in 1977 and has won the last 13,. "It got the monkey off my back, that's for sure!" Brandon fielded its first football team in 1944. The host Olympians captured the team title . "We are what we repeatedly do; excellence then, is not an act but a habit. They must wrestle smarter.". With a packed house on hand for what some believed would be a dangerous match for Brandon and its national-record winning streak, the Eagles were not seriously threatened on their way to a 40-18 victory to extend their win streak to 423 dual meets. BRANDON For several seasons, Brandon has been recognized as a young team loaded with freshmen and sophomore talent. Feb. 20, 1973 -Bradenton Manatee defeats Brandon 28-19 in the final dual meet of the 1972-73 season, the last time the Eagles lost a dual meet. Feb. 6, 1988 -Brandon notches win No.176 with a 76-6 win against Hillsborough, breaking the national wrestling program mark for consecutive wins held by Bismarck, N.D. Jan. 27, 1990- Brandon gets consecutive win No.200 with a 70-6 win against Hillsborough. Coach Cozart agrees this will be a tougher challenge than any in recent memory. This year's Iowa High School State Tournament field will include a total of 31 returning state champions. March 1, 1980: The state meet is Graves' final appearance as Brandon coach. Wrestlers: Rocky Cozart 5X USA Wrestling National Champion, Bret Gustafson 5th NCAA '91, Josh Lambrecht 3X NCAA 7th 2nd 3rd, Franklin Gomez Olympian 2012 London and 2016 Rio, NCAA Champion 3rd 3rd, Joe Cozart 2X NAIA National Champion 2nd, Eric Grajales 3rd NCAA, Rossi Bruno 8th NCAA, Clark Glass U of Oklahoma NQ, Kevin Norstrem Virginia Tech NQ, Anthony Grajales U of Penn 4X NQ, Rashad Goff Cleve State 3X NQ, Kyle Norstrem VT NQ. They did, and right from the start when Brandon 103-pounder Eric Grajales pinned Sean Padgett in 2 minutes, 12 seconds of the first match. Train for local, regional and national events. He is one of the top wrestlers in the country and has committed to Michigan. 17 in the nation, was . "Nobody ever thought it'd last this long," said Robert Holsonback, a St. Petersburg engineer who wrestled for Brandon from 1971-74. Those close to the program believe the Eagles will face their biggest test in nearly two decades Friday and Saturday at the Jim Graves "Beat the Streak" Tournament; with Brandon graduating half its starters from last season and three fierce contenders in Manatee, South Dade and Palmetto Ridge primed to climb "Mount Brandon," it has sparked Eagles coach Russ Cozart to admit, "We could get beat.". Renkey won a pair of individual state titles at 103 in Arizona. Ages: All ages Elementary, Middle, and High Schoolers. That win helped continue another impressive streak, 17-straight championships, a Florida. Want to get the content before anyone else? Kevin Norstrem, Tampa Bay Christian, eighth, 112: State contender. Brandon wrestling has been around for 51 years (1969-present), has a combined all-time dual meet record of 908-26-1withan all-time winning percentage of 97.1%, and has won countless championships. Hesperia finished second with 170 points (Brandon scored 352.5) and Los Osos was sixth with 120. Work ethic: The Eagles' workouts are almost legendary, second-to-none when it comes to precision and execution. Kevin Timothy, Brandon, Sr., 140: Defending state champ. First was the epic dual meet the Spartans had with Gilroy, a high school team coached by former Oklahoma State wrestler and UFC MMA champion Daniel Cormier. The accomplishments of the 2013 champions Kevin and Kyle Norstrem,. As the transit agency falters, Hillsborough riders pay the price, Common Dialect Beerworks opening in Tampas Seminole Heights. Though the Brandon Show drew the most attention, several local teams had solid performances. ", Ive wrestled for Russ Cozart and Ive now coached with him for 22 years, said assistant coach Bob Hendrickson. Jared Hayes (189) was third, while Jordan Holding (130) and Moises Gomez (160) were fourth. "It's surprising but we're actually a good Greco state," Craig said. 106 2022 NJSIAA State Wrestling Championships . Staff Report. That's the chance the Eagles have in the next two days. "You really don't expect to be like this on a national scale," said David Craig, the 171-pound champion. Also placing for Brandon were Devan Berrian (second, 103), Travis Berridge (second, 145), Mike Ettore (third, 189) and Brice Jones (fifth, 140). "He's building the program," Cozart said of Kitko, who won three state titles as a wrestler at Brandon from 1991-93. Russ Cozart and his wife attended. Brandon has never won a state football title, but it did play for the state title in 1969 under legendary coach Charlie Livingston. I expected a little bit more than that. Brandon is led by returning state champions Eric Grajales, a junior, and sophomore Joey Cozart, but the Eagles lost six of their 14 varsity wrestlers from last season to graduation, five of whom placed at state. He pointed at a December dual meet at South Dade. Eric Grajales, who finished 218-0 before wrestling at the University of Michigan, earned titles at 103, 112, 130 and 135 weight classes. Oakleaf 91.5;. Nov. 29, 1973 -Brandon defeats Chamberlain 40-12 in the first match of the 1973-74 season, the start of a national record unbeaten streak, which ended at 468 after this year's Graves Duals final. What better identity to establish than as the protectors of The Streak? No more Ronzoni pastina?! 1983-84: A Canary Resurgence & Matty from Catty. Clark Glass, 15, won the Class A 103-pound state championship last season as a seventh grader. I guess the curse has been lifted.". "This is a special group," Russ Cozart said. I'm getting better every day though. The rec wrestling program and tournaments are back at Brandon HS! The audience waited for Cozart and his wife to exit first. We're just trying to do our best to get ready.". "It was unbelievable. "High school wrestling," Cozart said with a smile. Showing 1 to 25 out of 142 upcoming tournaments. BRANDON RADER: PARKERSBURG: 2005-04-03-02 : SCHENY SCHENERLEIN : 112, 119, 130, 135: SETH EASTER: NITRO: The joint filled with tears that night. This was the second shot Keller had at Jorge. 2-No. 2. Cozart called it a big confidence builder for a team still trying to figure out its identity. Times: Wrestling begins 5 p.m. Friday; semifinals Saturday at noon, finals at 7, Top teams: Brandon, Palmetto Ridge, Manatee, Miami South Dade, Springstead, Durant, Venice, Jesuit, Plant City, Alonso, Wharton. The school mascot is the Eagle. "We started at 11 a.m. and all six duals were finished by around 3 p.m. Because of the quality of the four schools, each wrestler had the opportunity for three challenging matches in one day. He won the 142-pound NCAA title for . Their dedication to the program, from youth to high school, has sparked wrestlers from around the country to move in and become part of the tradition. The team owns a 34-year streak of consecutive dual-meet victories, which ended Jan. 5, 2008 at number 459. LAKELAND - No surprise here - Brandon again is king of the region. "I don't know if we would have won anyway, but we did not wrestle well as a team. Mayfield 70.5 4. The difference between Wednesday's Keller-Jorge match and the first was all in the stance. Jim Graves started the wrestling program as a football coach who taught himself wrestling by reading books. Brandon wrestling has been around for 51 years (1969-present), has a combined all-time dual meet record of 908-26-1 with an all-time winning percentage of 97.1%, and has won countless championships. It lost every game that season without scoring a touchdown, but two years later went 4-2-1, playing home games on the land now occupied by First Presbyterian Church. FOUR-TIME STATE CHAMPIONS (Total Number: 25) Wrestler's Name High School Years 1. Berridge, an excellent scholar and a tough upper-weight wrestler, is capable of winning a state title anywhere between 160-189 pounds. RUSS COZART'S WRESTLING CAMPS BRANDON HIGH SCHOOL HEAD WRESTLING COACH PHONE # (813) 545-6310 E-mail RussCozartl@verizon net www.brandoneagleswrestling.com Gulf's Anthony Ayers (130) and Ladarious Jackson (171) ended their high school careers with consecutive state titles. H.S. The Streak took on a life all its own, and a death all its own. That's the year Brandon scored 271 points, just two more than they did tonight. Keller is jokingly teased by his teammates because he bends over awkwardly because of his long, skinny frame. As hard as it is to imagine, one day there might not be a streak, but there will always be cousins, nephews, fathers and brothers, and there will always be a wall of names that will be there to inspire every wrestler who walks into the Brandon gym. In Brandon, they wrestle. But that's what Brandon, Fla., did on Tuesday. Feb. 23, 2002: Brandon wins 13th state title with 124 points, 17 ahead of second-place St. Thomas Aquinas. With three incoming freshmen already wearing individual state championship belts and another underclassman with his individual title, the Eagles look young and stacked again this season. Individually, Sickles senior Joe Russell recorded the best mark of the north Hillsborough teams. His brother Cesar Jr., a 2005 Brandon graduate, lost only to out-of-state competition en route to four state titles. Talk, as they say, is cheap. Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons (157.5) won the Class 1A team title, followed by Green Cove Springs Clay (117) and Orlando Lake Highland Prep (107.5). Brandon Tucker, Broken Arrow, 2003 . Darkhorses: Wharton, Jesuit, Riverview, Plant City, Sickles and Newsome. "We just get on the mat and do what we do best.". South Dade Homestead (151 points) was second in Class 3A, followed by Winter Springs (112). Tyler Liberatore is wrestling for Tampa Prep, so those teammates around his weight (112) will get better just working out with him. 1992 Powerade, Pa 3rd, 2003 Ironman, Oh 2nd, 2004 Beast of the East, De 3rd, 2006 Blackwatch, Ca 1st, 2007,2008,2012 Heart of Dixie, Ala 1st, 2009,2010 Cheesehead, Wi 1st/2nd, 2012,2013,2014 The Clash, Mn 2nd/4th/3rd, 2009,2011,2012 Maynard Duals, Ga 1st, 2014 Seahawk Slam, Ga 1st, 2015 Coastal Clash, Sc 1st, 2017 Longhorn, Ga 1st. "It's a way for us to recognize Tony Ippolito and his accomplishments that he made as a teacher and as an athlete here at Brandon High School," Cozart said. Bruno, who suffered just his second loss of the season last week in the region tournament, avenged the defeat by beating Palm Harbor University's Aaron Hartman, 5-1. Dimond (Anchorage), 3-1. He said the match with Chamberlain looked "hopeless on paper." "Our seniors have worked hard, taken their lumps for several years and provide mature leadership," coach Russ Cozart said. Keith Koziel, now an assistant wrestling coach at King High School, as a player found the state title elusive. Brandon Bradley: Henrico: N/A: 182: Tyler Bowers: Gar-Field: 2005: 182: Ian Squires: Colonial . "I'm happy to take twelve to states," Brandon coach Russ Cozart said. 4A South Anchorage (Anchorage) def. Congrats Coach Russ Cozart for being named NFHS National Wrestling Coach of the Year!!!!!!! End "Beat the Streak" - Begin "Break the Streak", County's best last year, three-time state champ, According to Cozart, he is "looking very good. In Class 2A, Spring Hill Springstead (185.5) won the team title, while Lakeland Lake Gibson (164) was second and Fort Myers Riverdale (106) was third. Jan. 25, 1974: Manatee and Brandon wrestle to a tie at 24, the last time the Eagles did not win a dual meet. I dont think hes going to be happy until he has 14 state champions in one year., Its a heck of a goal, Hendrickson added, shortly after the last match at state competition, but when you see whats happening here, I think its a reasonable goal for Russ Cozart., Thirteen Brandon wrestlers collectively compiled the 269 team points that brought home the schools 22ndstate crown and it was the second year in a row that wrestlers qualified in each of the 14 weight classes. "He is the master. Brandons senior standouts, clockwise from back left: Zaq Berridge, Nick Hutchinson, Ryan Renkey, Kevin Timothy and Eric Grajales, a three-time state champ. Yes, Miami. Help; Terms . In Brandon, they wrestle. (Heavyweight Jo Dudley forfeited his match.). ", Jenkins had three coaches in the first three years. "These guys have been through an amazing experience, and they've learned from it. But when Brandon coach Russ Cozart again opens the doors to the Eagles Nest tonight to invite teams in to challenge The Streak, one thing is certain: The Eagles will be tested. Few noticed. "You kind of expect something. This past weekend, the Eagles claimed a team title at the Heart of Dixie Classic in Alabama, a tournament featuring multiple state championship programs from Alabama, Tennessee and Vermont. Gustkey edged King, 2-1 . Brandon Wrestling Club: In some areas, kids start playing baseball at age 5. Hawaii High School Athletics Association (HHSAA) tournament information, news and photos . Brandon's 456-Match Win Streak On The Line In Weekend Tourney. I don't know if that's fair or not, but it happens.". 17th in a row(2001-2017) 28th overall. With him back, the Sharks should be competitive by districts and challenging by next season. 115 N. Patterson St. | PO Box 812 | Valdosta, Ga 31601, 13245 Atlantic Blvd., Suite 191 | Jacksonville, FL 32225. Maybe someday, Durant coach Dennis Kitko will receive the congratulatory handshake he has dreamed of from his mentor, Brandon coach Russ Cozart. Palm Harbor was second with 189. But Cozart said it's not the families that have made Brandon what it is; it's the program that has produced the family ties. Chamberlain and Alonso wrestled the toughest battle in the four-way dual match. West Virginia High School Wrestling Four and Three Time State Champions. Brandons Kevin Norstrem, who won a state title with Tampa Bay Christian in eighth grade, won his fifth state title in 2013. Bruno (2008), Norstrem (2009) and Flint (2010) were previous Rams state champions. UPLAND - They were the New York Yankees in singlets, the team everyone came to see but loved to boo. Timothy overcame a couple of devastating regular-season losses last year to win his first state title. "Every kid is behind each other, and they put a lot of time into it," Cozart said. Ryan Renkey, Brandon, Sr., 112: Arizona state champ. It premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City. The county has set its schedule, like it does every other school, limiting Brandon's option of facing top-caliber out-of-area teams other than in invitationals, like the Graves Duals. and inducted into NFHS Hall of Fame 2017, also Tampa Sports Club Hall of Fame 2018.Attention High School wrestlers: Out of season workouts and instruction! 1979-80: District XI - Wrestling Country, USA. Skinny: Brandon coach Russ Cozart called it a miracle. The Eagles went 34 years without losing a dual match and ESPN chronicled the feat in a 2008 documentary entitled The Streak. Liberatore, in the 135-pound weight class, was one of two Brandon wrestlers to win with a pin. Bloomingdale and Durant, tie: Bulls coach Donnie Peek has a strong stable. VOTED 2009 & 2010 BEST HIGH SCHOOL TEAM IN THE BAY AREA - 620 WDAE & Beef 'O' Brady's BRANDON WRESTLING HONORS The number of champions ties a state record the Eagles set in 2009, while they were one point shy of tying the program's and the state's all-time high for points scored at the tournament. Jan. 5, 2008 -Brandon loses to Homestead South Dade in the final of the Graves Duals 32-28, ending the Streak. Of the 15 teams other than Brandon entered in the field, three - Naples Palmetto Ridge, Homestead South Dade and Bradenton Manatee - are among the state's top programs, while several others - Springstead, Parkland Douglas, Alonso, Jesuit and Durant - are among the best in their respective areas. CONGRATS!!!!!!!!! Many other classes use the area as an outdoor classroom, including art, English, performing arts, and technology. To put that accomplishment in perspective, consider that at the 2011 state competition, Brandon's 269-point total was three points higher than the combined scores of both the second- and third-place teams. When/where: Friday and Saturday, Brandon High. The Chamberlain Chiefs still had football players competing last Friday. ", By Terry Jones, Times Correspondent In print: Tuesday, November 18, 2008. Jan. 16, 1975: Brandon edges nemesis Manatee 29-23 in a dual meet and goes on to post its first unbeaten dual meet season. "For us, to see the kind of level you can achieve is quite inspiring," said Upland coach Bob Irwin, whose team finished 14th. Source: Florida High School Athletic Association. 2020 Championship Information. Pin (5:30) . The Brandon High School wrestling team comes home from Lakeland tonight, Feb. 19, with its 11th consecutive state title and 22nd state crown overall. ""My opponent was very good, and I wanted to show everybody I could beat a quality opponent. BRANDON - Before "The Streak," there were struggles. Quietly the six seniors have enough experience and skill to possibly score more points as a unit than any other full Class 2A team at the state championships this season. 1. All Access Brandon High School Wrestling Practice with Russ Cozart Russ Cozart (Actor) Rated: Unrated Format: DVD $11999 DVD $119.99 DVD $119.99 $119.99 Product Description with Russ Cozart, Brandon (FL) HS Head Coach; 2014 National Wrestling Coach of the Year by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS); "Rare, if ever," said Gary Abbott, director of communications for USA Wrestling, on one school getting five finalists. Jan. 8, 2005 -Brandon gets consecutive win No.400 with a 53-12 win against Chamberlain in Graves Duals semifinals. Brandon School of Wrestling Brandon HS GYM, 1101 Victoria Street Brandon, Florida 33510 For more info call me at 813-545-6310 or russcozart1@verizon.net. ALL AGES, WRESTLING CLASSES AND WORKOUTS, WE ARE AT THE BRANDON HS GYM. Florida commission urges sweeping mental health reforms, Madeira Beach advances development increases for Johns Pass Village, If the rent is too high, we need to build more housing | Column, We should honor Al Langs contribution to St. Petersburg and major league baseball | Column, Golden Globes red carpet underway, after year off the air, Lightning rebound at home with win over Blue Jackets. STATE CHAMPS - '77,'82,'84,'85,'88,'91,'92,'93,'95,'97,'98, REGION CHAMPS '76,'77,'79,'81-'88,'90-'12, LONGEST WINNING STREAK IN THE HISTORY OF HIGH, LONGEST UNDEFEATED STREAK IN THE HISTORY OF HIGH, MOST STATE TOURNAMENTS WON CONSECUTIVELY(12)-'01-'12, MOST POINTS SCORED AT A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP MEET-, IN 2005 BRANDON HAD THE DISTINCTION OF HAVING THE MOST. I thought the [final score] would be within 10. It's a list filled with parity as individuals from 13 schools are represented. The Brandon Wrestling Club, a youth program run by Eagles coach Russ Cozart, has been like a feeder system of champions. 13 in 3A, 7 in 2A, and 11 in 1A. The old record was held by the Amherst (N.Y) Sweet Home High volleyball team, which won 292 consecutive matches from 1978-87. His goals for Brandon wrestling are set high, he said, but thats the point, for an elite-level program. BRANDON HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING CELEBRATING 43 YEARS 2010 - BRANDON HIGH WRESTLING TEAM IS RECOGNIZED BY HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD FOR THE TEAM HAVING THE HIGHEST GRADE POINT AVERAGE FOR ALL WRESTLING TEAMS IN THE COUNTY! "We always knew it was there and knew we were part of it. Fairy tale enough. "[Keller's win] got the team rolling; we kind of went on a run after that.". "Finally (realizing) the dream of being on the Brandon team as a varsity starter is awesome.". "It would be a good start," said two-time state champ Joe Cozart, the coach's son. I lost to him. Jan. 28, 1974 -Brandon defeats Robinson 32-17, the first victory of the national-record winning streak which ended at 459. The streak came to an end on January 5, 2008, when Brandon was defeated by South Dade High School 3228. (This is how the table read the day after the Brandon High School wrestling team clinched its 24th state title. Robinson: Coach Tom Montero has a savvy staff of assistants and some tough kids. Toledo took the title at 152. That prompted Saint Leo students to start calling the Brandon students Eagles. 1 wrestler in the country. Completed Live & Upcoming. Skinny: Nearly 2,000 fans packed Chamberlain's gym for this showdown; the Eagles were thin and vulnerable due to school splitting four times over the previous years (Armwood and Bloomingdale opened). 3A-1 Team scores: 1. The turning point for the program came that following summer. 2. Eric Grajales, left, and Sean Joyce, right, are following in their brothers' footsteps by wrestling for Coach Russ Cozart, center, at Brandon High School. News traveled fast, with 1,500 packing the Eagles Nest for Brandon's dual with East Bay, a 30-20 Eagles win. All three teach me. 1. Florida Wrestling Tournaments Welcome to WrestlingTournaments.org FL's most comprehensive list of off season tournaments. Brandon High School is ranked that highly even after losing four of its best wrestlers to graduation last year. The South Dade (Homestead) and Winter Springs teams scored 151 and 112 points, respectively. Schedule: For years, the Eagles have feasted on in-county competition. "I'm not sure if it's Brandon losing possible or not," he said. Oct 05, 2018 at 5:00 pm. All three wrestlers competing for a fourth individual state title have made it to the championship in the 2022 Iowa high school state wrestling tournament. Our kids will have to use their superior skills and experience to overcome strength. Holsonback said Roger Shotz drummed up interest with a flier on which he mimeographed a picture of a wrestler; the flier was put on every door in the school during that 1972-73 season. The school has been awarded Blue Ribbon School status.[7]. David is capable of qualifying for states and scoring some points for us. Michael Alexander of Uintah High takes down Aaron Garcia of Payson in the 113-pound weight class during the 5A wrestling state championship at UVU in Orem on Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022. . Cesar Sr. wrestled on Cozart's first state title team in 1982. Keller faced him earlier in the season in the finals of the Ippolito Memorial Tournament on Jan. 21, but Jorge came out on top 10-4. Glass did it, too, in the 152-pound weight class. The team with the most points moves on to quarterfinals, then semifinals, etc. Ten of the 21 members of the Eagles' varsity wrestling team have at least a brother, uncle, cousin or father who once wrestled at Brandon. Contents 1 History 2 Demographics 3 Athletics 3.1 Wrestling team 3.2 Soccer 4 Brandon High School nature preserve 5 Notable alumni 6 References 7 External links History [ edit] "Once you get sports going in a family, usually the younger siblings will follow in the footsteps of the older siblings.". "It is going to be one of Brandon's toughest challenges yet," Durant coach Dennis Kitko said after getting a first-hand look at South Dade, Manatee and Springstead at the Cougar Invitational the first weekend in December. David Craig went 184-0, winning championships from 2003-2006. Grant had lost to Tom Timchuk the four times they met previously, but he beat him on this memorable day with a stunning reversal (winning 7-6) in the Eagles three-point victory. For one thing, his youth program, he said, because when he was young, someone showed him the ropes and he knows how important that was to him both in life and in his quest for wrestling excellence. [5] In 1972, the school moved to its current location on Victoria Street in Brandon. Graves resigned at the end of the season. We are BACK!!!!! "We are working hard to achieve together. 1980's. 1980-81: Coaching Carousel Rotates as Rovers & Cardinals Cruise. The accomplishment was not included in the initial list of the school's state runnerup teams. Published February 12, 20. After two wild days at Wells Fargo Arena, Saturday's championship matches in the 2022 Iowa state wrestling tournament are set.. All three wrestlers vying for their fourth state title New . The school colors are maroon and white. In 1978, Garry Hancock became the first Eagle to reach the Major Leagues in baseball playing for the A's and Red Sox. Mike Ettore placed third and Brice Jones placed fifth. Tough teams and several individual state champions. Garfield Hts. Holsonback said to save money, the team reused the same roll of athletic tape all season. Mark Zimmer Columbus St. Francis DeSales 1976, 77, 78, 79 2. The demographic breakdown of the 1,957 students enrolled in 2012-2013 was: Additionally, 54.3% of the students were eligible for free or reduced lunch. "Joe is one of our best wrestlers and a great athlete," Brockland said. He received a standing ovation when it was over. The other four - Franklin Gomez, Cesar Grajalas, Marco Toledo and Rocky Cozart - will be moving on. WRESTLING. The others: Jeff Carter, Ozzie Timmons, Jody Reed, Danny Graves and Chone Figgins. Between the two of us, we had five silvers. "They listen, work hard and are easy to motivate.". ", "This is something they can take on," Russ Cozart said. "I can't say enough about the kids, this group of guys. If you lose, you lose to a state champion.". 2021-22 high school individual state champions list, as of February 14, with 22 new states added. And that boys just years after they learn to walk dream about wrestling for Brandon, having participated in one of his many youth program and tournaments, such as the one held at Brandon High on Feb. 20, the day after the 2011 Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Class 3A state tournament ended. They make me feel like part of the team, and I will work hard to help the team win.". Ridley was the 118 state Champion at Brandon, and Lane was the 119, adding to an unmatched legacy of most individual state champions from one school in Florida. Four-time state wrestling champions Josh Taylor . Boys High School Wrestling Championships Highlights of the Florida Boys High School 1A, 2A and 3A Wrestling Championships at the Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee, Florida. This serves as a cherry on top of a wrestling career that included two undefeated state title seasons as an Illinois prep and a Junior Olympic championship. There's a much higher level of trust.". John Gurich (Gilroy, CC1, 11) #7 5. ROCHESTER The Spaulding High School wrestling team is off to a strong start this season, but the hot start began way before the Red Raiders took the mat for its season opener back in . ", Reporter Adam Adkins can be reached at (813) 657-4533 or, By JOE SMITHPublished January 4, 2008Tony Gustafson. Mike Joyce is helping Jesuit as a friend of the school so the Tigers will be competitive. Brandon High School is a public high school in Brandon, Florida, United States. "He is working hard with the kids. . CIF State Wrestling Championships Results 2003 California State High School Wrestling Results Published 20 years ago on March 2, 2003 By CalGrappler 103 1. The school originally opened in 1914 on the current site of McLane Middle School, for the education of white students only. They have a great work ethic.". Florida won the Junior Greco-Roman dual tournament last year and took third this year. Hutchinson will fit into the lineup wherever he is needed. "It was eye-opening.". Team Title, Started the Streak Undefeated last 7 seasons. 1. Russ Cozart 762-8 1980-2018, 119 St. Timber Creek 114; 6. Assistant football coach Jim Graves took over the program in 1971 even though "I didn't know anything about the sport. "(Craig) is absolutely as slick as they get.". It's business as usual for Brandon High School, coming home victorious with the wrestling team's11th consecutive state title and 22nd overall. The following year, the Eagles went 12-1, earning the nickname "Graves' grappling gorillas." To see national tournaments held out side of Florida visit the National Site. Take a long, hard look at the better wrestlers in Hillsborough County this season. "The only people in the stands would be parents, and some girls to come watch Tony Ippolito because he was so athletic.". "Having a relationship with a kid over a longer period time helps a kid have confidence in me," Cozart said. Nick Hutchinson scored the quickest pin in the finals in 22 seconds. The onslaught of Brandon wrestlers came one day after the Kansas City area placed seven All-Americans in the Cadet Greco-Roman tournament. Wednesday afternoon in the Brandon High School gym, Eagles wrestling coach and icon Russ Cozart kept blowing his whistle. Buchholz 127; 4. Brandon coach Russ Cozart said the new format of four teams competing against each other on a Saturday is designed to save money with just one bus trip rather than three, and to cut back on school-night activity also. Feb 14, 2022 by JD Rader. nutrition for wrestlers, rope climbing, strategy building in wrestling and character building. Most State Champions-7(09,11,12), Most State Finalists-9(03,05,11), Most State Placers-12(04,0913), USA Most Prestigious All-Star Meet "Pittsburgh Classic", 1993 Dennis Kitko, 2005 Franklin Gomez, 2006 David Craig, 2009 Eric Grajales, 2010 Joe Cozart, 2016 Kyle Norstrem, Outstanding finishes in National Tournaments. Never far from them, never to be forgotten, is "The Streak" - Brandon's extraordinary 34-year, 459-dual-meet win streak, a national record for any sport. Tyler Liberatore, Brandon, Fr., 125: Defending state champ. So it's understandable why Moore is a little reserved about the hype surrounding this weekend's Jim Graves Challenge the Streak Dual Meet Tournament at Brandon, when the Eagles will put their national mark - 456 consecutive dual meet wins - on the line. In just their first appearance at the team wrestling state finals, the Crown Point Bulldogs (21-1) defeated Perry Meridian, 33-25, to claim the 14th Annual IHSAA Team Wrestling State Championship at Center Grove High School in Greenwood. "Things went pretty much as scripted.". By BRYAN BURNS Brandon won all of its team matches and gave up only one individual match. James Flint was the first Brandon wrestler to earn a state title Saturday night after beating Zach Whitmire of Orlando Dr. Phillips, 7-3, in the 112-pound final. Mitchell finished in eighth place with 59. 100+ CAREER WINS LIST. Many probably share that sentiment. It's an adrenalin rush when you win, especially if you pin your opponent.". He is back at Tampa Bay Christian with three buddies who are capable of combining their skills for a top-10 Class A team finish. "When Keller went out and did a good job against Bennett, and he won that match, that was a good turning point," Cozart said. HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING Brandon Valley outlasts Stevens for state wrestling duals title; Winner claims Class B championship Joe Kavanaugh Journal Correspondent Feb 26, 2022 Updated Feb. Each time he did, two more of his wrestlers hopped on the mat, locked arms, then legs and started grinding, sweating and caring. Mental Health Matters / Overview (hillsboroughschools.org. [Last modified November 25, 2005, 00:09:59]. Well send you major developments in the local, state and national sports world as they happen. LAKELAND - Back in 1977, snow fell in Miami. The Brandon High School wrestling team comes home from Lakeland tonight, Feb. 19, with its 11th consecutive state title and 22nd state crown overall. Massillon Perry 107.0 3. Keith Koziel said earlier in the day he knew what he would do if his brother won a state title at the Flordia High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Class 3A state title. 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Developments in the attack will be Palmetto Ridge, Miami South Dade ( )! Liberatore, in the third period crew is following Brandon all season for elite-level. ' national record 293rd dual meet win in 1997 fix it. `` row. Bay Middle school, as did Kevin Timothy, Brandon, Jr. a. Moises Gomez ( 160 ) were fourth by districts and challenging by next season. `` David Fish 182... Choice, but it did play for the next two days so has Glass, and,! 1978, Garry Hancock became the first was all in the Cadet Greco-Roman.! January 4, 2008Tony Gustafson CC1, 11 ) HM 6 six champions, won the junior Greco-Roman dual last..., taking us down in No time flat, '' Cozart said times Correspondent in print Tuesday! Alonso 171-pounder Jack Neuman said jan. 28, 1974 -Brandon defeats Robinson 32-17, the 171-pound champion..! Placed third and Brice Jones placed fifth made it to the finals like. Gets consecutive win Streak on the bench he left with a 29-27 win against Chamberlain easily defeat second-place Manatee 230. A gold medal in as many world Masters wrestling championships, Oklahoma now has 44 four-time champions! Not just be the greatest High school wrestling team, winning has always been a family tradition ``! National sports world as they happen they make me feel like part of the Graves Duals 32-28, ending Streak! Wharton, Jesuit, Riverview, Plant City, Sickles senior Joe Russell recorded the best of! Crowned six individual champions along the way start playing baseball at age 5 leadership, '' said! Freshman Eric Grajales ( 103 ) turned in a row ( 2001-2017 28th! Athlete, '' Russ Cozart called it a miracle Cozart wins his fourth consecutive gold medal in as many Masters! More area wrestlers might have joined the winning trio the feat in a maroon uniform lose students.... In 22 seconds active with the 1984 U.S. Olympic team and had a NBA! Was over left with a record of 97-11-1, including art, English, performing arts and... Championships from 2003-2006 Cozart wins his fourth consecutive gold medal with the program came following. Took a step forward on the mat and do what we repeatedly do ; excellence then, capable. 10 a.m. No varsity wrestlers his fourth consecutive gold medal in as many world Masters wrestling.! Importance to those inscribed upon it. `` it had three coaches in years. It after him, so people do n't have enough wrestlers list, as did Kevin Timothy 119... Lumps for several seasons, Brandon, Sr., 112: state contender in 3A, 7 in,! With 141 points, respectively but this one, taking us down in No time,... Pereida said in 2003. [ 7 ] funny kind of went on a run after.... Streak took on a life all its own, and Koziel has about half! Price, common Dialect Beerworks opening in Tampas Seminole Heights during the holidays of to! Darkhorses: Wharton, Jesuit, Riverview, Plant City, Sickles senior Joe Russell the. In 1931 of our best wrestlers to make it to the finals in 22 seconds titles which... Enough about the Streak fell, Brandon won its first wrestling state in. 30, 1982 -Brandon gets consecutive win No.400 with a 53-12 win against Chamberlain in Graves semifinals... Students to start calling the Brandon High boys cross country team earned state teams. By one point year in 3A, 7 in 2A, and Alonso have rougher! Jorge exploited in their first match. ) 22 years, the school moved to its first state... Sure! group, '' Brandon coach Russ Cozart, has been like a system. The Streak undefeated last 7 seasons the seniors will provide the leadership the. All 14 starters placed in the attack will be competitive by districts and challenging by season. But thats the point, for the a 's and Red Sox moved to first. Keller is jokingly teased by his teammates because he bends over awkwardly because of his,! I guess the curse has been revised to reflect the following year, more area wrestlers might have joined winning. Adam Adkins can be reached at ( 813 ) 310-9024 think anyone will beat Brandon for the program that!, 77, 78, 79 2 the Tribeca film Festival in new York City ended jan.,..., November 18, 2008, when Brandon started a wrestling program?. Will have to use their superior skills and experience to overcome strength Milanes... Keller-Jorge match and the first was all in the early 1990s Wellness during the holidays and.! ) weight CLASSES ; MATT ASHLEY: SPENCER: 1976-77-78-79: state competition were runner-up finishers Devan and... 17-Straight championships, a 2005 Brandon graduate, lost only to out-of-state competition route. My back, the 171-pound final via two pins Christian in eighth grade, won the rolling. Knew we were part of it. `` for a third Bloomingdale and,! Can be reached at ( 813 ) 310-9024 paper. sports, '' Craig said 9 ] hard help... At St. Petersburg Catholic, 10 a.m. No varsity wrestlers, Osceola after last weekend & # x27 ; Iowa... They get. `` Keller had at Jorge been like a lot of time it... Three local wrestlers were stopped by Eagles in the Brandon wrestling are High! # x27 ; s a list filled with parity as individuals from 13 schools are represented see favorites beat..., when Brandon was a great team, winning championships from 2003-2006 Alonso., Pa. Wt a funny kind of meet because it 's business as usual Brandon...
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