Westbury Varsity wrestling head coach Pat McGovern is feeling very optimistic about this year’s season. And with good reason.
“This is the strongest program we’ve had in the last couple years,” said McGovern. “It’s a strong team with lots of seniors and a good underclassman group.”
Among the promising seniors returning this season is Raeco Jackson. Through his four-year wrestling career at Westbury, Jackson has had a remarkable winning record in the 113 and 120 weight classes. Last year, he became the school’s first Nassau County Champ in 38 years and advanced to the state championships.
Jackson is one of a dozen seniors on the team. McGovern noted that having such a talented group of seniors has had a strong influence on the underclassman.
“The underclassman have really taken to the commitment level that wrestling takes with those leaders in the room. They’ve really taken to the seniors, which has helped them have a good start,” said McGovern. “The seniors have been tremendous. They work with the younger guys and it’s like having 12 extra coaches in the room. Bringing that experience and expertise has been phenomenal.”
The team won one match against Port Washington last Wednesday, Dec. 3 (45-42), getting off to a strong start. McGovern predicts that their biggest competition this season will be Bellmore JFK, Mempham and Garden City. And several of the seniors, including Jackson, are eyeing the state championships this year.
“We’re looking to work hard. It’s a determined group and we’re looking forward to the challenge,” said McGovern.
Read more about the wrestlers to watch out for this season here.
