Longwood High School junior Anthony LaGala-Ryan shined brightly on the national stage this past week, showcasing his exceptional talent and hard work.
This year's 2025 Section XI champion delivered one of the most impressive performances of his wrestling career, earning a 6th-place finish at the Super 32 Wrestling Challenge — one of the most prestigious and competitive high school wrestling tournaments in the country. The event attracts the nation’s top athletes, making LaGala-Ryan’s showing even more remarkable, and putting all of Suffolk County, and New York State on notice.
Entering the tournament unseeded, LaGala-Ryan battled through a challenging bracket, advancing all the way to the semifinals before suffering his first loss. He finished the weekend with a stellar 6-2 record, earning victories over multiple elite opponents, including state champions from Iowa, North Dakota, Maryland, and Michigan, as well as a Pennsylvania state runner-up.
His determination, conditioning, and technical precision were on full display throughout the tournament, further establishing him as one of New York State’s premier wrestlers heading into the 2025 season. Coaches and supporters praised his composure under pressure and relentless drive to improve.
The 5'4" 120-pound Middle Island native has been training intensely throughout the offseason at KD Training Center, where he continues to refine his technique and strengthen both physically and mentally for the upcoming season. His dedication to his craft has inspired teammates and elevated the Longwood wrestling program’s visibility on the state and national levels. Last year he won the Section XI championship, placing third in the state and earning his third All-State honor.
In recognition of his performance, Longwood celebrated his achievement on Facebook, posting, “We’re expecting another outstanding season from him. Incredible work, Anthony!”
With his continued growth, discipline, and competitive spirit, Anthony LaGala-Ryan looks poised to make an even deeper run this winter.