The Paly Girls and Boys’ wrestling season ended last week after making it to CCS. While the team did not make it to States, Paly wrestling still had an excellent season.

At the start of the season, the wrestling program received many new participants from freshmen to newcomers. One may think this set the team back, however, these new recruits thrived throughout the season. One such wrestler is Junior Jessie Slafsky, who after never competing before this year, was top 16 in the 116-pound girls league in CCS.

“I think we had a great season with lots of wins and also lots of losses. I really enjoyed bonding with everyone on the team and I felt really welcomed as this is my first season on the team,” Slafsky said. “I feel like we all put in the work and the season just felt really rewarding,”

The wrestling season officially started with their first match against Mountain View on January 10th. The team dominated this match winning 47-33 overall.

“The first match was the best,” Junior Griffin Sturino said. “Everyone really came together to work their hardest. I loved the energy and intensity we all showed that day.”

The season went on with many epic wins and lots of good spirit and positivity on the team. Matches like Los Gatos and Freemont really brought the team together and bonded them as they preserved throughout.

“The season was thrilling. All of the wrestlers put everything they had into the sport. Along the way, we created super strong friendships and the sport has taught us a lot. Overall the team did really well and I’m really proud of every wrestler,” Senior Philip Santiago said.

Senior night was an electrifying night for Paly wrestling. Fans boosted the team to its victory winning 66-10 overall. Senior night celebrations were especially memorable as the team honored its 5 seniors.

“Senior night was so fun and exciting for everyone,” Jessie Slafsky said. “Obviously it was tough to say goodbye to the seniors but I loved being there to celebrate them.”

Overall the Paly wrestling team had a great season filled with wins and good energy. While the team is losing 5 seniors, next season is sure to be just as riveting.