Class of 2024 Hall of Fame

Triumph over adversity for the 1968-1969 Wrestling Team

“Kids leading kids,” is how Patrick Romano ’71 describes the dynamic of the 1968-1969 Wrestling Team that took home eight individual titles at the 1969 NJ State Prep Championship and two second-place finishes, setting a Benedict’s record for individual championships that year. The finish is even more remarkable considering the team could only fill 11 of the 12 weight classes and forfeited one weight class at every event.

Following in the footsteps of legendary wrestling coach John Allen ’54, college-aged coaches Bob DiQuollo ’65 and Mike Pennella ’67 were only a few years older than the team members they coached. Relying on Benedict’s values of duty and loyalty, the novice coaches guided the program to its historic feat.

“[Mike and Bobby] became our second set of parents, teaching, disciplining and encouraging us every step of the way. Not an easy task but they were very successful,” said Carl Biello ’70, who spoke on behalf of the entire team at the Hall of Fame. Mr. Biello collected memories from his teammates (“Victory was savored but defeat was a priceless teacher,”) and shared how wrestling continued to impact their lives. Several on the team went on to wrestle in college, one became a premier wrestling referee in New Jersey, while another has served as a longtime coach.

“Wrestling is truly a team sport,” said Mr. Biello. “You can’t be successful without everybody that goes out on the mat, whether they are representing the team at that moment or in the room.”