Half Hollow Hills West's Tyler Grimaldi wins state title
Half Hollow Hills West's Tyler Grimaldi gets set for the takedown during his 160 lb match with John Jay East Fishkill's Dale White. (Feb. 23, 2013) Credit: Pat Orr
"I thought about it all the time and used it as motivation," the Half Hollow Hills West senior said. "It was unfinished business. I had to stay focused to get back to that spot and win it this time."
Mission accomplished.
Grimaldi became the first state wrestling champion in Half Hollow Hills West school history Saturday night when he upended Steve Schneider, 9-3, to capture the title at 160 pounds. The Harvard-bound Grimaldi acknowledged his huge fan base as he rose from the mat in victory pointing into the upper deck at Times Union Center. He improved his record to 45-1.
"This is an outstanding individual who has put it all out there to win the state tournament," Hills West coach Mike Patrovich said.
Toribio met St. Anthony's John Vrasidas in an action-packed title bout. Toribio had a late takedown and held on for a 4-3 win and the crown. "This is such a great feeling to win the state title," Toribio said.
He said last year's experience as an alternate in the state tournament was helpful.
Said Syosset coach Mike Murtha: "After his first two matches, I thought he was going to be a state champ. He's a special kid."
