The Charger Wrestlers showed their tenacity and the benefit of experience on their way to a seventh place finish at the Northern Region Championships this weekend. Of the eight wrestlers who participated, the Chargers had four individual placewinners. However, each wrestler was able to secure a victory at the regional tournament. An amazing accomplishment for any team.

They were once again led by Senior Heavyweight Chris Cabe who rode 2 convincing pins, as well as a technical fall, a rare feat for a big man, to the finals, where he secured a 2-1 double overtime victory. By going 4-0 for the tournament, Cabe avenged his loss in last year's region finals. He showed complete control and tremendous calm as he claimed the region crown.

Senior Captian Lloyd Tenaglia (125 lbs) and Junior Captain Jack Carlson (145 lbs) each placed 3rd in their respective weight classes. Both Tengalia and Carlson went 5-1 in the tournament and showed the benefit of their high level of commitment to the sport as they secured births in the state tournament next weekend. Each wrestler displayed the form necessary to do well at the state tournament in their medal matches; Tenaglia secured a reversal in the last five seconds to defeat his crosstown rival 6-5, and Carlson completely dominated as he kept his opponet down for a full two minutes in a thrilling 1-0 victory.

A pleasant suprise at the tournament came from Senior Zach Dratch (189 lbs). Despite a low seed in the regional tournament, Dratch won his first two matches, including a victory over a Patriot District Champion, to make it to the semi-finals, falling to the eventual regional champion. Dratch battled back and showed the heart that made him a leader on the team as he captured a sixth place finish; a tremendous accomplishment for the senior. During the tournament, Dratch also discovered he had been accepted to three different universities, including one offer for a full academic schlorship.

Although they ultimately fell one round short of claiming medals, Seniors Stephen Cobb (215 lbs) and Dan Hudson (135 lbs) showed the Northern Region the true essence of Chantilly Wrestling with their respective seventh place finishes. Each of the seniors overcame a major injury from last year, rehabilitated, and emerged stronger mentally and physically.

Next up for the Chargers is the State Tournament at Oscar Smith HS in Virginia Beach.