Crusader Wrestling – 1

Wrestling Pioneers

Wrestling came to Esplanade Avenue in 1966-7 when a team of three members competed in local and state competition. Junior Mike McMenemon earned runner-up honors in both district and state competition. The other grapplers were senior Ralph Gaubert and junior David Engert. Nowhere does the Yearbook list the coach's name.

Unfortunately, the team did not continue the next year. Wrestling did not become a permanent Crusader sport until the second year of Brother Martin (1970-1).

Wrestling 1966-7
Mike McMenemon, Ralph Gaubert, and David Engert
Undefeated Wrestler
Michelli and Williams

P. Lindsey Williams had a great senior year on the mats in 1982-3. He pinned 31 of 35 opponents in an undefeated season to win the state championship in the 155-pound class. Joining him in the LHSAA winners' circle were juniors Kenny Spellman at 119 and Rene Colon at 132.

Rene Colon
Four Consecutive State Championships

The 1986-7 wrestling team won their fourth state championship in a row under Coach Ray Charbonneau.

  • The season started with a 107-106 win at the Brother Martin Invitational.
  • The Crusaders won their next 13 meets entering the Regionals.
  • BM won the Regional 180-122 over second place Jesuit. 12 Crusaders qualified for state.
  • Three Saders won state titles: Marc Devenport (112), Eric Anderson (155), and Brian Delatte (185).
  • The team easily outpointed second place Grace King 167 1/2 to 106.
  • Six seniors wrestled on all four state champion squads. In addition to the three state champs, this list includes Mark Bell, Daniel Buras, and Greg Schmidt.
Ray Charbonneau

 

CONTENTS

1966-7: Wrestling Pioneers

1982-3: Undefeated Wrestler

1986-7: Four Consecutive State Championships

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