Solid Newton wrestling program ready for winter season

There’s no doubt about it. Eric Bollette, the veteran and knowledgeable head coach for the well-established Newton High School wrestling program, knows what it takes to lead his teams as well as individual student athletes to victory on the mat.

Even against the toughest of competition, the Braves are well-prepared to compete to the best of their abilities as has been demonstrated time and again with Bollette at the helm.

The Braves are scheduled to begin the season with a tournament Saturday, Dec. 17 at Bayonne High School. They are scheduled to host Jefferson for a dual meet Tuesday, Dec. 20.

“We are very excited about the upcoming season and hope to be able to contend in our league and section,’’ Bollette said.

Key returning students to the varsity line-up include sophomore Keegan Murtagh (120 pounds), sophomore Mason Bucci (132 pounds), senior Michael Melillo (144 pounds), junior Demarius Posey (150 pounds), senior Thaylor Sibblies (157 pounds), sophomore Aaron Stone (165 pounds), senior Brody Guerra (215 and 285 pounds) and senior Danny Barry (215 and 285 pounds).

Among the newcomers to the varsity roster are sophomore Ryan Bollette (113 pounds), sophomore James Marotta (126 pounds), freshman Tyler Morodan (138 pounds), senior Brayden Nolan (175 pounds) and senior Matt May (190 pounds).

“Michael Melillo, Thaylor Sibblies and Brody Guerra are this year’s captains,’’ the coach said. “They, along with the rest of the returning starters, will be expected to provide leadership throughout the year. They have been in the program for three years and understand what is expected of our wrestlers.’’

Last season, Newton tallied an overall record of 11-7 and advanced to the NJSIAA North 1 Group 1 Sectional Tournament semifinal round, where they were defeated by High Point. The Braves toppled Pascack Hills in the quarterfinal round of the sectionals last winter.

The Braves wrestle in the Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference Freedom Division.

“We are in a tough division with High Point, Kittatinny and Jefferson,’’ Bollette said. “We always expect to contend. All four teams in our division (counting Newton) lost some very talented seniors to graduation. It will be interesting to see how everything shakes out this year.

“In addition to our boys team, we also have 16 girls this year and will be wrestling a full girls schedule that includes duals and tournaments.’’