ITHACA – Over 1,400 wrestlers took the mat at the Ithaca College Athletics and Event Center March 14-15 at the NYWAY State Wrestling Championships. 

All corners of the Empire State were represented in the boys' and girls' competition from ages six to 18.  When all was said and done, Long Island Elite earned the overall team championship, with G2 World Wrestling Academy and Gladiators School of Wrestling taking second and third respectively. 

Gladiators School of Wrestling had 24 team members qualify to represent the Southern Tier at the regional qualifiers. Four Gladiators won state titles and 15 placed this year. 

State Champions were Ryan Ferrara D1-46 pounds; John Drapaniotis D1-60 pounds; Dante Geislinger D4- 70 pounds; and Troy Spratley D4-75 pounds.

Runner-ups were Alexis Thayer girls G2 55-62 pounds; Trevor Thayer D2-51 pounds; Nate Merwin D3-65 pounds; Joey Rumola D3-70 pounds; Michael Squires D4-85 lbs; Brody Oleksak D4-90 pounds; and Austin Eggleston D4-98 pounds.