Delsea Wrestling Cements Legacy as a Public Powerhouse with Fourth Straight Group Title

by NJ Athletics February 16, 2025

photo by: Tommy Maxwell Jr./coverage by: Antonio Morales

For the fourth year in a row, Delsea Wrestling has proven why it’s one of the premier public school programs in New Jersey. The Crusaders capped off a dominant season by defeating Brick Memorial 45-30 in the NJSIAA Group 3 Championship, securing yet another state title and solidifying their place as a powerhouse in New Jersey wrestling.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Tom Maxwell, Delsea finished the season 21-2 and went undefeated in the Tri-County - Royal Division (6-0). Their only two losses came against top-ranked St. John Vianney and St. Augustine, but neither setback derailed their mission. From start to finish, Delsea imposed its will on opponents, racking up double-digit victories in nearly every match.

The Crusaders put together one of the most impressive schedules in the state, with signature wins over top-ranked opponents:

Boresch Duals Champions – Sweeping North Hunterdon, Hanover Park, and Newton in dominant fashion.
Jack Welch Duals Third Place Finish – Taking down Egg Harbor (70-12), Morris Hills (78-6), and Kingsway (61-14) before falling to St. John Vianney in the semifinals.
Major Statement Wins – Victories over Paramus Catholic (44-23), St. Joseph (Met.) (46-20), and Kingsway (63-15) highlighted Delsea’s ability to take down quality competition.
Flawless State Tournament Run – The Crusaders steamrolled through Ocean City (56-17), Barnegat (76-6), and Lacey (69-6) before dominating Wayne Valley (50-21) in the semifinals and Brick Memorial (45-30) in the final round.

Delsea’s championship run was fueled by a talented lineup from top to bottom, featuring multiple ranked wrestlers who made an impact all season long:

Amari Vann (120, 3rd in NJ) – A dominant force in the lower weights, Vann consistently racked up bonus points and played a key role in Delsea’s dual wins.
Gage Summers (126, Honorable Mention) - A key lower weight in this lineup with a ton of high level experience under his belt
Jamar Dixon Jr. (144, 4th in NJ) – A senior leader who delivered clutch wins when it mattered most.
Greyson Pettit (113, Honorable Mention) – Steady and reliable in a crucial weight class, Pettit played a major role in Delsea’s success.
Zavier Stokes (144, Honorable Mention) – A tough competitor who contributed heavily in Delsea’s middleweight strength.
Riley Boos (165, Honorable Mention) – One of the key upper weights, Boos helped secure wins in the later stages of duals.
Salvatore Marchese (215, 7th in NJ) – A junior standout who helped anchor the upper weights.
Alex Grippo (285, Honorable Mention) – A heavyweight force who gave Delsea an edge in key matchups.

With their fourth consecutive Group 3 title, Delsea Wrestling has firmly established itself as a dynasty in New Jersey public school wrestling. The Crusaders continue to reload year after year, developing talent and competing with the state’s best. Their ability to dominate dual meets, grind out wins in tough matchups, and consistently produce top-ranked wrestlers has set them apart.

We spoke with Jamar Dixon after the match where he spoke more on the success this program what he has learned since he came in as a freshman: "It means a lot to me and it was amazing feeling, I’m still tryna process how fast it went by. The biggest lessons learned is to know my skill and my ability to go out there and get bonus and from those around me it’s all about scoring points. But it feels really good to make history!"

Even with key seniors graduating, Delsea isn’t going anywhere. The Crusaders have a strong core of returning wrestlers, led by Amari Vann, Salvatore Marchese, and Greyson Pettit, who will look to keep the streak alive in 2026.

One thing is clear—Delsea Wrestling isn’t just a contender anymore. They are a powerhouse.