SBP CAPTURES TWO VICTORIES IN THE NHSCA FESTIVAL IN PENNSYLVANIA

January 17, 2010

Rob Ranalli highlighted St. Benedict’s showing in the National High School Coaches Association Festival by picking up his 100th career victory on Saturday in Pennsylvania.

The Gray Bees lost its first match to Pocono Mountain East before reeling off victories over Mansfield and Pocono West at Pleasant Valley High School. St. Benedict’s is still seeking a pair of lower weight wrestlers and had to forfeit the 103- and 112-pound bouts in all three matches, something coach Solomon Fleckman has had to do for most of the season.

“It’s emotionally disheartening when you have to give up 12 points every match,” admitted Fleckman. “It’s very tough to battle back from that, but we did well by getting at least a split in the bouts wrestled in all three matches.”

Ranalli, a senior, racked up career victory No. 100 against Mansfield. He swept all three bouts during the Festival and ran his career record to 101-65 and his season mark to 20-5.

“Robbie is really have a solid season,” said Fleckman. “He’s learning and getting better by working hard every day.”

– By Ron Jandoli