As of the end of November 2011 nears, the Brother Rice wrestling team will enter its 2011-2012 season. The team plans to build on the success of last season in which four wrestlers traveled downstate to the IHSA state finals. The Crusaders have high expectations for this season even with the loss of major contributors from last year. Seniors Max Malave and Brian Hanik believe this season will be great both individually and as a team. “I think our team will have great success this year in Catholic League and when we get down to state.” says Hanik.
Last year, Hanik placed third overall in the 2011 Catholic League Blue Championship. Hanik also had the experience of going down state, along with former teammates Malik Taylor and Mike Avelar. He had a solid junior campaign with a 28-14 record.
“I’m already working harder than I did last year. There’s too much at stake for me this year to not give it my all,” said Hanik.
Max Malave, a newcomer to the Crusader varsity team, transferred from St. Ignatius College Prep for his senior year. Malave compiled a 42-20 record at St. Ignatius and plans to wrestle in the 106 pound weight class. Malave is ranked nationally in the top 20 in his weight division and plans to win every possible match.
Other seniors including Austin Battaglia, Dan Dwyer, Zach Vaci, Brendan Bourke and Sam Jaros also plan to contribute to the team’s success with their own individual achievements over the course of the season. Major additions are also expected from juniors Nuntrae Jackson, Luke Leibforth, and Pat Rowe after their competitive sophomore campaigns.
According to Coach Weick, the Crusaders are poised to send another group of top wrestlers down state once again; only this time both coach Weick and the team hope to capture a team state championship in addition to individual accolades.
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