Suriano Leads Paramus Natives from Parochials at State Wrestling Tournament

After three days and four opponents, Bergen Catholic freshman Nick Suriano walked out of Atlantic City with a state title to his name after a one point victory over rival Kyle Bierdumpfel of Don Bosco.

The two rivals had faced each other three times prior during Suriano's undefeated opening season with the Crusaders, and the Paramus native excelled each time. He defeated Bierdumpfel in the county-tournament final, 2-1 in double overtime, during the regular season and then 5-2 in the Region 2 final.

In Atlantic City, Suriano won with a 3-2 decision at 106 pounds to become just the second freshman in Bergen Catholic history to win a state title. Frank Cangina earned his freshman title in 2007.

The borough was also represented in Atlantic City by natives Tyler Casamenti (Bergen Catholic) and Austin Cantone and Matt Zovistoski who attend St. Joseph Regional of Montvale.

Casamenti (113) earned a shut out win in the first round but was unable to capitalize in the pre-quarterfinals for additional points. Casamenti earned a 3-0 first wrestlebacks victory and then lost 4-3 in the second round. 

Cantone earned a first round bye at 132 pounds and was handed a 6-3 decision by St. Peter's Prep Connor Burkert. Sent to the first round of wrestlebacks, Cantone saw his run come to an end as he was pinned in 1:40 by Garfield's Brian Robinson.

Zovistoski (138) was also granted a first round bye and unfortunately drew eventual champion Anthony Ashnault of South Plainfield in the quarterfinals. Ashnault defeated Zovistoski with a 17-2 technical fall to be sent to the consolation rounds. He would ultimately place just outside of medal contention after a 4-3 loss to Timber Creek's Brandon Keller even though he advanced through the earlier rounds over Max Elling (Phillipsburg), 6-5, and Laurien Anghelina (Bergen Catholic), 6:44 pin.