The Cranston West wrestling program is in the thick of its regular season and has jumped out to a 2-3 start.
The Falcons continue to boast some of the best numbers in Rhode Island with a handful of athletes eying big runs in next month’s state championships. West, though, has struggled to find its footing in the early going between grapplers missing time with injuries and illness. The team is just starting to return much of its full lineup and hopes to get back on the right track in the second half of the slate.
“I tell the kids to just focus on themselves and work hard in the practice room. The driving force for us is seeing these kids become better people both on and off the mats. If they work hard, stay healthy, they’ll have a chance at reaching the championship podium. That’s what it’s all about. Making states and improving is what it’s all about,” said West coach Tom Lynch. “We’ve had a rough start that doesn’t depict what Cranston West truly is, we just haven’t had the full lineup.”
Leading the way for West have been senior captains Zach Jean-Philippe, Ben Jawharjian and Dylan Bowry.
“They’ve been doing good, they’re definitely leading the charge both on the mat and in the classroom. All three of them are honor roll level students,” said Lynch.
Along with the aforementioned seniors, a few Falcons will have a chance to make some noise at states and potentially reach the podium, if not win it all in their respective weight classes.
Jayden Soy has jumped out to a big start as a junior, while Gian Richardson looks to finish strong in the 190-pound weight class after taking All-American honors last year. Dante Richardson won the freshman title last year at 170 and reached the varsity podium, so an all-state repeat is in the cards. Freshman Kaiden Cook has also been enjoying a breakout season for West as well.
The Falcons took on Ponaganset on Wednesday but the results were unavailable at press time. The team will also be traveling to Methuen, Mass. to take part in a tournament that will feature some of the best teams throughout New England.