Progress for Hewlett wrestling

Hewlett’s wrestling program has made a triumphant return under coach Mike Jiminez, who’s counting on senior leadership and a handful of talented underclassmen to lead the way for the Bulldogs this winter.

“I’m excited about the leadership we have in the room,” Jiminez said. “The seniors know what’s expected of them and know what’s on the line. I’m glad we have this group to help the younger guys along.”

Of the four seniors, Jordan Browdy is off to the best start on the mat with a record of 11-1 and two tournament championships. In December, Browdy, who competes at 189 pounds, captured the Ralph Jansson Tournament at Valley Stream North as well as the East Meadow Tournament. “He’s a smart and strong wrestler, and a great leader,” Jiminez said.   

Like Browdy, seniors Mike Piri (130), Matt Applebaum (171) and Simon Turkin (215) are exceptionally hard workers sure to give opponents trouble. 

It’ll be five years before Owen Bachelder will be able to say he’s a senior, and by that time he could be well known in the Nassau County wrestling scene. A seventh-grader, Bachelder won the 96-pound title in the Jansson Tournament and was sixth at East Meadow. “I coached him in PAL and knew he’d be tough and competitive this year,” Jiminez said. “He knows all the ins and outs of the sport.”

Sophomore Simon Greebel (103) took the Jansson event as well, while first-year varsity performer Oren Revivo (119) already has seven wins as a freshman. Sophomores Aaron Weinberg (112) and Rob Rosenberg (125) will try to make noise in two traditionally tough weight classes.

Troy Smith is the team’s most-talented junior. The 160-pounder won the East Meadow Tournament and is one of a handful of Bulldogs the coach expects to see qualify for the county tourney in February.

“We’re pretty pumped about how things are going,” Jiminez said. “We’re in a tough conference, but it’ll be a good experience.”