Pasco County Wrestlers Gear up for SAC Tournament

Just in time for the February district tournaments, Pasco County wrestling teams will compete in the annual Sunshine Athletic Conference Championships this weekend at Fivay High School.

"The SAC is a great tuneup for the district tournament we have great competition in Pasco county," said Mitchell wrestling coach Dan Gigantelli.

While not affiliated with the FHSAA district, regional, and state competition, the SAC Tournament is an accurate measuring stick for student wrestlers hoping to make it to states.

"These kids take conference very seriously and feel the same pressure that is felt in the state series," said Gigantelli. "So, it prepares them to be able to handle the pressure of a big tournament."

"We're gonna have all 13 Pasco County schools over there and it's going to be big," said Sunlake wrestling coach Rus Schenk.

Gulf High School won last year's tournament decisively. They are the odds-on favorite but several other Pasco County schools will vie for individual titles and potentially push Gulf for the team title.

Sunlake High School returns 2011 state finalist John Ortiz. They also have several other wrestlers that have emerged this year. The Wood brothers, Wes(112) and Ben(142)have proven themselves legitmate contenders at their respective weights. Senior Austin Lopez should make some waves at 162 pounds.

"Jarret Frisbie(152), David Hayes(170) , Austin Smith(195) and Seattle Nelson(HWT) should all be in the running to be district champions," said Mitchell coach Gigantelli.

"Fivay is one of the toughest teams we've wrestled against," said Schenk.

If you go:

What: The SAC Wrestling Championships

Where: Fivay High School, 12115 Chicago Ave., Hudson , FL 34669

When: Saturday, Jan. 28. Starts at 9 a.m.