Star wrestler Gavin Mangano led the Shoreham-Wading River Wildcats at the state championships this past week, capturing his third New York State title and cementing his place among the elite wrestlers in program history.
Mangano didn’t just win another championship — he completed an impressive three-peat, claiming state titles in back-to-back-to-back seasons. After winning last year’s championship in Albany while competing on a broken leg, Mangano returned this season fully healthy and wrestling with confidence. Competing in the 144-pound division at the NYSPHSAA Wrestling Championships, he dominated the field on his way to the top of the podium.
His tournament run began with a convincing 17–1 victory in the opening round. Mangano followed that performance by knocking off rival Alex Southworth of Miller Place by a decisive 21–5 score in the quarterfinals. In the semifinals, Mangano showed complete control, cruising to a 16–0 win to earn his spot in the championship bout.
The finals proved to be his toughest challenge of the tournament. Mangano faced Ashten Haley of Cobleskill/Richmondville in a hard-fought matchup that tested both wrestlers. Despite the pressure, Mangano remained composed and executed when it mattered most, securing a 7–5 decision to claim his third consecutive state championship.
Mangano was not the only Wildcat to make an impact on the state stage. Andrew Dolson delivered a strong performance, finishing sixth in the 103-pound weight class. Thomas Matias also earned a spot on the podium, placing fifth at 110 pounds. Their success highlighted the depth and strength of the Shoreham-Wading River wrestling program.
Perhaps most encouraging for the Wildcats is that Mangano, Dolson, and Matias are all set to return for the 2026–27 season. With experienced state placers leading the way, the future is bright for Shoreham-Wading River wrestling, as the Wildcats look poised to remain a force at the county and state levels.