Carson Walsh Breezes Through Sam Cali Tournament
Over the the holiday weekend, in what can be seen as New Jersey's most prestigious wrestling tournament, the 2024 Sam Cali Tournament took place. With 71 teams in attendance, it's no simple feat to be a champion in this tournament. Normally that would be the case, but nationally ranked senior Carson Walsh of Pope John had other plans. The #9 ranked 138 pounder, showed why he was worthy of this ranking all throughout this tournament.
- Round of 16: Walsh started off the action with an easy pin over Jack Drucker of Old Tappan. Walsh was asserting his dominance, as he took a 17-3 lead, then finished the bout off with a pin all in a minute's time.
- Quarterfinals: Walsh's next bout allowed him to showcase his talent, as he secured a tech fall victory over Abraham Amoako of St. John Vianney with a score of 71-1
- Semi-Finals: If Walsh's run wasn't already impressive enough, a statement was made in the semi-final matchup. Walsh took out a state qualifier Adrian Arbello of St. Augustine in 29 seconds. An early takedown led to a 5 point near fall which turned into a pin-fall mere seconds later.
- Finals: In the finals, Walsh matched up with the #2 seed in the tournament, Jake Nieto of Chaminade. Things started on a different note during this bout, as Nieto drew first blood, scoring a takedown right out of the gate. Unfortunately for Nieto, Walsh quickly returned to form with a quick escape and takedown of his own. After that exchange, it was once again the Carson Walsh show. The bout ended early by way of a 20-3 tech-fall, with Walsh once again getting his hand raised, earning his spot on the top of the podium.