The Newtown Youth Wrestling Association won its third consecutive New England championship. Newtown totaled 99 team points with Franklin, Mass. in second with 82 points, and Danbury in third with 72 points; the competition took place in Fitchburg, Mass. March 16 and 17.

In the coed division Newtown had 18 wrestlers place, highlighted by five individual champs. Additionally, both of Newtown’s girls placed with Reilly Kling coming in fifth in 12U in the 131 pound division and Jane Anderson sixth in 12U in the 78 pound division.

Newtown had two grapplers recognized beyond their placement. Camron Veneziano was named Most Outstanding Wrestler across all of 12U while Maddox Wilson was named Most Dominant Wrestler across all of 10U.

Other champs from Newtown were Noah Blair, Allen Gaudenzi, and Tyler San Souci.

“As a program, what can I say other than what is said after [State Championships]. If we just keep our heads down and continue to trust hard work we will continue to exceed expectations. It sounds simple but with anything in life we all know what needs to be done to be successful, hit goals, etcetera. But it’s those that are willing to do those things to get there that will come out on top,” Newtown Youth Wrestling Association President Nick Veneziano said. “Above all the winning this lesson being learned by our youth by far is the most rewarding. Also, if we remember to not worry about winning and just shoot to continue to get better the wins will come.”

“Winning a third consecutive New England Wrestling Championship is truly a remarkable feat and a testament to the incredible dedication and hard work of the entire team. It’s evident that each member has poured their heart and soul into maintaining Newtown’s legacy in wrestling, and their collective efforts have paid off in the most rewarding way possible,” Head Coach Curtis Urbina added.

“The joy, pride, and satisfaction that come with such an achievement are immeasurable, and it’s clear that this victory will not only be cherished but also serve as a source of confidence and inspiration for each team member,” Urbina said. “Our pride in their accomplishment is well-deserved, and it’s a testament to the strong sense of community and camaraderie within our team. I am very proud of this team on this extraordinary achievement of a three-peat.”

Travel Coach Mike Long noted that the coaches emphasized hard work and dedication with the belief there would be plenty of success as a result.

“All season long, the coaching staff preached trusting the process, working hard and having fun. We knew that if we were hard working, dedicated and enjoyed the process, the wins would come. We didn’t prioritize winning, we prioritized improving. We are so fortunate to have a team that is more like a family; from our wrestlers, to their parents, to the coaches, we would win, lose and train as a group,” Long said. “While we are proud of winning our third straight New England team title, we are more proud of building a culture that develops great young men and women. The future is bright for NYWA and it’s an honor to be involved with it.”

Although the girls’ scoring is separate from that of the co-ed division, Newtown’s two female standouts make for a great sign for the future of girls in wrestling.

“Creating a supportive and inclusive environment for female wrestlers was crucial for their growth and success in the sport, and it’s wonderful to witness the positive impact of our ‘girls only’ practices. The fact that two girls from Newtown were able to place in the New England Championships speaks volumes about their dedication and the effectiveness of our program,” Urbina said. “Jane and Riley’s achievements not only demonstrate their individual talent and commitment but also highlight the strength and potential of the girls’ wrestling program in Newtown.”

Champions:

*Noah Blair 15U 74 pounds (two-time New England champ)

*Allen Gaudenzi 12U 91 pounds

*Camron Veneziano 12U 86 pounds (three-time New England champ)

*Maddox Wilson 10U 68 pounds

*Tyler San Souci 8U 72 pounds

Runners-up:

*Matthew Gaudenzi 8U 48 pounds

Third place:

*Joey Cotter 12U 81 pounds

*Chase Ibbitson 10U 72 pounds

*Evan Emard 8U 66 pounds

Fourth place:

*Ryder Symes 15U 124 pounds

*Drake Oatis 12U 103 pounds

*Wyatt Fournier 10U 77 pounds

*Jake Kennedy 10U 82 pounds

Fifth place:

*Charlie Langenus 10U 56 pounds

*Matthew Iacuone 10U 64 pounds

*Keegan Rosenschein 10U 68 pounds

*Reilly King 12U 131 pounds

Sixth place:

*Joey Skura 10U 64 pounds

*Gunner Fournier 8U 52 pounds

*Jane Anderson 12U 78 pounds

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.