Southern Regional Dominates Once Again in the Group 5 Championship

As Southern and Phillipsburg meet once again in the Group 5 Championship, the Stateliners were out for revenge after an impressive 18-0 season. However, they would be tasked with defeating the defending champs who only suffered losses to the #1 and #4 team in the state. Southern looked as dominant as ever and fans were in for a treat.

The meet opened up at 190 where Southern's Brad Birch was challenged with setting the tone. Phillipsburg's Derek Stone was looking to prevent any momentum and came out firing. In the third, Stone had a comfortable lead what looked like would be in the Stateliner favor. But in the closing period, Birch picked up a takedown to ultimately tie the match. With a 6-6 score, Stone went in for a throw (or maybe trip) that got clamped down on leaving him on his back. 6 points for Southern and that was all the Rams needed to get going. 

Collin French of Southern then delivered a critical pin at 215 and was answered by one of the states best John Wargo who picked up a quick pin at HWT. 

The lower weights were where Southern truly rallied. Anthony Mason notched a major decision with a 9-0 score, showcasing dominance and control. The consistency continued with Scottie Sari's decisive 4-0 victory at 138 pounds and Wyatt Stout's sudden victory in a nail-biting 144-pound class matchup over returning state medalist Luke Geleta.

As the match approached its end, Southern's wrestlers refused to relent. Phillipsburg's Gavin Hawk quickly pinned at 150 pounds to ease the gap but Matt Henrich's major decision win put any ideas to rest. Hayden Hochstrasser continued the trend with a major decision victory, further extending Southern's lead.

The match went on ending with a score of 45-21 and Southern Regional once again became champions.The wrestlers from Southern Regional High School have not only carved out a memorable win for this season but have also etched their names wrestling history as once of the best programs in New Jersey.