Every year, Patriots dedicate their first home league match to our alumni. This year that alumni night was against Crawford Colts. It was set to be a tough battle as last year Patriots one by a single point.
This year Patriots were also extra hungry because of a narrow loss against St Augustine. At first, girls won their matches (losing by forfeits) with Teagan Samimi (10th), Aubrey Lund(11th) and Maverick Garcia(10th) and Kinsley Bannister(9th) winning their matches with solid pins. The girls were followed by Patriot Boys.
The boys began down by 12 due to forfeits. Patrick Henry freshmen Dominic Pavone lost his match and the lead extended 0-18. Next was Patrick Henry senior and past state qualifier Ethan Vinoray (126lb), who got a pin followed by senior Abdullah Alshami (132lb) with another pin. Alistar Santos (10th, 132lb) lost his match as did Anthony Mokhov (11th, 144lb). The score was now 12-26. Junior Nicholas Arambula (150lb) turned the tide with a minor that gave Patriots 15-26. Patriots next match was a pin by freshman Ayden Ventura (157lb) followed by a pin from team captain Justin Willard (165lb) and another pin from freshman Will Soares (175lb). Senior Cole Setphenson (190lb) pinned his opponent and with a forfeit at 215 the score was now 39-36. A loss could tie the teams or give victory to Patriots, a win would win the dual. The crowd was electric, the noise war roaring as senior Zakaria Safi (275lb) stepped on the mat. The two giants began to wrestle. It was clear that Zakaria had better skill and drive, but anything can happen. Zakaria managed to get a take down, but got turned and nearly pinned. He then got back to top, and pinned his opponent. The team jumped in the air, the gym noise went off an the team rushed the mat to congratulate Zakaria.
Patriots pulled off the win on alumni night with a 45-36 win.
On Friday varsity Patriots compete at El Cajon Invitational and JV will attend Helix Duals. Next dual will be at Mira Mesa High School on January 7th.
Henry-Wrestling 