The Cedar Cliff wrestling program distinguishes itself with a philosophy deeply rooted in teamwork and providing opportunities for every wrestler. This approach, championed by coach Rob Rapsey, emphasizes the importance of collective goals, a stark contrast to the growing trend of individual tournament focus in the sport.
While many programs struggle with participation, Cedar Cliff boasts a roster where the vast majority of its 30 wrestlers have significant experience. A strong pipeline from youth ranks through junior high ensures a steady influx of talent to the varsity level.
Rapsey instills in his wrestlers the school's rich wrestling history, emphasizing that everything they do before the individual postseason is for the benefit of the team. “I truly believe when kids can take their mindset off themselves and relax and wrestle that way, it makes us better individually,” Rapsey said. “It takes a lot of pressure off the team. We all have to do our parts.”
In an era where strategic lineup choices often determine the outcome of close duals, Rapsey enjoys the advantage of having multiple options, a luxury not all programs possess. After a successful season with a 16-1 regular-season record and a District 3 team title, the Colts' lineup in 2018-’19 was even stronger, deeper, and more talented.
The Colts feature a formidable lineup, including returning state medalists J.J. Wilson and Donovon Ball, forming one of the best 1-2 punches in the Mid-Penn. Michael Cassidy, who narrowly missed a state medal as a junior, and sophomore Aiden Lewis, a District 3 champion at 106 pounds, further bolster the team's strength.
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Beyond the star power, Cedar Cliff benefits from dedicated role players who consistently deliver in crucial moments. Creed Bogardus, a sectional champion at 113 pounds, and Danny Sigue, who secured an overtime victory in the District 3 title match despite a torn ACL, exemplify the team's depth. Isaiah Auman, a promising sophomore, contributed key bonus points in the same match. Anthony Shires, Christian Prestil, Cole Baer, and others have all stepped up when needed, thanks to the program's emphasis on preparing every wrestler for their opportunity.
The Importance Of Teamwork
“We build each other up because we all have our jobs and know what to do,” Prestil said. “And if something needs to change, we bump up and throw someone in the lineup. We know our jobs.” This depth and support network alleviates pressure on the team's top wrestlers, allowing them to perform without feeling solely responsible for the team's success. However, these wrestlers are also prepared to do whatever it takes, including adjusting their weight class to maximize the team's scoring potential.
“Oh my gosh, it’s so important,” Ball said. “Especially with the way Coach Rob is able to flip the lineup with matchups and put the team in the best situation to win the match. And with the depth, it gives us a lot more versatility.”
This approach also provides valuable opportunities for wrestlers who might otherwise spend the season on the sidelines. This focus on inclusivity contributes to long-term program development, according to Rapsey.
“In the past, without building a sense of team and investment in the program, kids think if they’re not going to make the team, they won’t come out,” Rapsey said. “We limited that. We say, ‘Look how we wrestle. In big matches, if you’re the Nos. 15 or 16 or 18 kid on the team, you will get an opportunity in the lineup. We popped many kids in the lineup last year in districts, states, everything.”
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The Colts aim to capitalize on their final season with Ball, Cassidy, and Wilson in the lineup. The program hopes that the wealth of opportunities provided to all wrestlers will propel them to success in District 3 and PIAA competitions, both this season and in the years to come.
“You can’t just rely on the same guys each time, then how are your backups going to get any experience?” Wilson said “How are they going to get better.
| Wrestler | Achievement |
|---|---|
| J.J. Wilson | State Medalist |
| Donovon Ball | State Medalist |
| Michael Cassidy | Near State Medalist |
| Aiden Lewis | District 3 Champion |
| Creed Bogardus | Sectional Champion |
| Danny Sigue | District 3 Title Match Winner |
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