It’s been 20 years since Ben Dineen captured the state title at 171 pounds.
He’s the last Whitman-Hanson Regional High wrestler to be named a state champion.
This year, the Panthers will have plenty of chances to snap that drought.
That’s because they’re sending eight wrestlers to compete in the Division 2 state tournament, which will take place this Friday and Saturday at Game On in Fitchburg. They’ll also bring two alternates.
“I am beyond ecstatic to be bringing eight wrestlers to the 2022 D2 state wrestling championships,” said W-H head coach Gary Rabinovitz.
Those eight are: freshman Charlie Lussier (106 pounds), sophomore Austin Gamber (126), junior Aidan Guiliani (132), junior Braden Kain (138), senior captain Pat Collett (145), freshman Cooper Lussier (152), senior captain Rocco Ruffini (220) and junior Maddox Colclough (285). Freshman Christian Grimaldi and junior Rocco Hanaphy (160) will serve as alternates.
Pay attention to both Charlie Lussier and Guiliani. After going a perfect 29-0 during the regular season, Charlie Lussier will look to rebound from his first loss of the winter, which he suffered at last weekend’s South Sectionals. Meanwhile at 132 pounds, Guiliani looks to keep it rolling after capturing first place at sectionals, the only Panther to hit the top of the podium on the day.