By JOHN ANDERSON
It was a banner year for Wellsville wrestling as the team had an incredible dual meet record, won several tournaments and shined in sectionals and states.
One of the biggest underdog stories that captivated the region was Shane Davidson’s journey to the state finals and the movie-like ending, losing in the last second in overtime.
Jayden Acker also had a great season, going 30-10 with several tournament wins. Davidson finished 41-5 and pinned the No. 1 wrestler in the state.
Both had committed to continuing their wrestling and academic careers at the NCAA level with SUNY Brockport.
2022 Wellsville graduate John Layfield is wrestling at Alfred State College, a program that had a run at nationals as well.
“We had outstanding seasons from our senior leaders this year. I am proud of all our guys, but Shane and Jayden have been crucial components to our success,” said Wellsville Wrestling coach Tyler Carman. “With wrestling continuing to grow at Wellsville it is always a goal to help kids get to the next level in academics and athletics.
“John Layfield did a great job representing Wellsville this past season wrestling for Alfred State and we are looking forward to Shane and Jayden continuing to do the same at Brockport next season!” Carman added.
The SUNY Brockport coach is Sam Recco who won a state title in high school and wrestled Division I at Edinboro, where he was later an assistant coach.
He took over in 2022. This year, the Golden Eagles finished strong in the NCAA Mideast Regional Competition and wrestlers Elijah Sims and Joe Yanis earned spots in the NCAA III Championships in Roanoke, Virginia.
