Calhoun, Mepham Pin Down Alumni in Wrestling Match

The Sanford H. Calhoun High School wrestling program celebrated its history by hosting an alumni match versus intradistrict team Wellington C. Mepham on Jan. 21.

“The match was very well attended and proved to be a great day for everyone involved in the Calhoun wrestling community,” said John Hamilton, Calhoun’s head wrestling coach.

More than 45 Calhoun wrestling alumni from 1960 to 2015 attended the match and reconnected with their friends and family.

Former Calhoun head wrestling coaches were also in attendance including Gregg Muscarella and Steve Romano. Coach Bob Bury, who is known as the “Father of Calhoun Wrestling” and has been recognized at a state and national level, was the featured guest of honor.

The day started with a junior varsity match and was followed by Calhoun Principal Nicole Hollings singing the national anthem. The varsity match immediately ensued and proved to be a tight contest with Mepham edging out Calhoun in bouts and eventually winning, 7-5.

“Much gratitude and thanks are extended to coach John Hamilton for all of his hard work in organizing the event and turning Mr. Caballero’s idea of hosting an ‘Alumni Wrestling Match at Calhoun’ a reality,” added Sean Arresto, Mepham’s head coach. “Coach Hamilton also organized an after-match gathering that proved to be a wonderful time for all who attended.”

Calhoun’s coaching staff wants to make the Alumni Wrestling Match an annual event.

Photos: Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District