Colts Neck Wrestling Aims for Another Strong Season with New Challenges Ahead

Coming off a standout 17-dual win season, Colts Neck wrestling is gearing up for an exciting 2024 campaign. The Cougars, who claimed their third division title in school history by securing the B-North Title, enter the season with high expectations despite a few key graduations. With a solid core returning from last year's team, they are poised to take on the new C-Division and a revamped CJG4 Section.

A strong group of wrestlers returns to lead Colts Neck's efforts, particularly in the 138-165 weight classes. The Cougars’ junior trio, Brody Kaplan, Matt Anderson, and Dean Natale, all made an impact at last year's District 24 Tournament, where Colts Neck took home its second-ever team title. Kaplan and Anderson each earned 2nd-place finishes, while Natale secured a 2nd District bronze. These three, along with returning seniors Michael Borao and Christian Cleary, form a well-rounded and experienced middle lineup.

The Cougars also have a standout wrestler in junior Ethan Michaels. After a stellar sophomore year, which included becoming the first underclassman in school history to win a Region Title, Michaels is aiming to continue his impressive rise. He became the program's 8th-ever Region Champion and is coming off a 31-win season. Michaels’ presence down low, along with returning wrestlers Alex Yale and Nico Zecchino, strengthens the Cougars' lower-weight lineup.

In the newly structured C-Division, Colts Neck faces stiff competition from Lacey, Wall, Holmdel, and Jackson Liberty as they aim for back-to-back division titles. While the team has appeared in the CJG4 Finals several times, the elusive sectional title has remained just out of reach. With 2024 Section Champion Brick Memorial moving to CJG3, Colts Neck's path to the sectional crown is expected to be more open, and they are hopeful that this year could be the one they finally break through.

With a talented group, strong leadership, and the momentum from last season, Colts Neck wrestling is ready to make a push for another successful season, aiming to secure both division and sectional titles in the 2024 campaign.