By Tom Nader

Publisher and Editor

THE TEAM

Head Coach: Anthony Anderson, 3rd year.

Coaching Staff: Al Marzec, Matt Damsa, Dan Gnabah.

2024-25: Portage Trail Conference champions.

Returning Lettermen (9): Mason King, Alex Ely, Nate Marzec, Tyler Davis, Aiden Moyer, Rylan Campbell, Braxton DeAngelis, Carson Saltsman, Logan Wilson.

Lettermen Lost (7): Dominic Duvall, Nathan Lee, Nick Malek, Tristan McKibben, Aiden Dixon, Mason Fleck, Brian Youngblood.

League: Chagrin Valley Conference.

TEAM OUTLOOK

The Rovers have graduated a group that made significant contributions to the team’s accomplishments in 2024-25, but a well-balanced mix of talent returns.

The lineup will include 10 freshmen, eight sophomores, six juniors and four seniors, showing a level of depth, but also future potential.

Led by third-year head coach Anthony Anderson, Rootstown’s focus is to “achieve a successful season by reaching both team and individual goals, while continuing to represent Rootstown High School with pride and determination.”

LIGHTWEIGHTS

(106-132 POUNDS)

Rootstown returns a talented group of lightweights, with Mason King and Logan Wilson highlighting the group.

King was a state qualifier last year.

“Mason sets the tone in the practice room with his relentless work ethic and determination,” Rootstown head coach Anthony Anderson said.

Wilson is described by Anderson as a “young and promising competitor, who has already shown tremendous grit.”

“Logan is known for his persistence and never-quit attitude. It inspires his teammates.”

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

(138-165 POUNDS)

Seniors Alex Ely and Nate Marzec anchor the middle weight classes with their experienced leadership.

Ely qualified for the state championships last year.

“He brings valuable experience and the ability to win close, hard-fought matches.

“Nate is a powerful and disciplined athlete, who uses his strength and conditioning to dominate opponents and score pins when it matters most.”

UPPERWEIGHTS

(175-HEAVYWEIGHT)

The pair of Rylan Campbell and Kiel Reuting are the Rovers’ top performers in the upper weights.

Both provide “toughness and depth,” according to Anderson.

Campbell was another one of the program’s state qualifiers last year.

“Rylan stands out for his exceptional athleticism and mobility. He has rare qualities for a heavyweight.”

Reuting adds strength and determination to the lineup.

“He is always ready to battle for team points and contribute to our continued team success.”

WHAT MAKES THIS YEAR’S TEAM SPECIAL?

“This year’s squad has the potential to be something special. The team’s collective attitude, discipline and commitment to hard work embody the winning tradition that has long defined the Rootstown wrestling program.”

UNDERCLASSMEN TO WATCH

“A new wave of talent is emerging,” Anderson said.

Young wrestlers that the coach said bring toughness, determination and a relentless work ethic include Austin Mullaly, Aiden Long, Matt Galen, Chase Moyer and Braxton DeAngelis.

“They will help shape the program’s future success.”

SENIOR CAPTAINS

Nate Marzec, Alex Ely and Mason King.

“These three standout seniors lead by example both on and off the mat. Their experience, leadership and competitive drive set the tone for the rest of the team and the program looks forward to seeing them close out their careers with great success.”

TEAM MOTTO

“Work harder and be in better shape than anyone else.”

CAUSE FOR CONCERN

“While the team’s potential is high, the lack of experience and overall youth of the roster will present challenges early in the season. However, with continued growth and the leadership of seasoned veterans, these young athletes are poised to gain experience quickly and rise to meet expectations.”