Another Candela family member, freshman Vinny, is one of many promising underclassmen in the program. Vinny won the 99-pound crown at the Valley Stream North event, beating Tom Rohan of Wantagh in the finals, and could prove a handful for the competition come the county tournament. “Vinny went undefeated in Middle School and is extremely skilled,” the coach said. “Expectations are high.”

Quinn O’Rourke is another 99-pound freshman with skill and toughness. He’s also making noise already with a third-place showing at Valley Stream North.

Freshmen Mike Fishman and Paul Jacobs are developing at 106, sophomore Cash Calderon, a returning county qualifier, heads a deep group of 113-pounders that includes freshmen C.J. Kearney and Mike Pagona. Sophomore Gilbert Ruiz (145) reached the finals at Valley Stream North.

“The results have been favorable,” said coach Candela, who added the support of parents and Athletic Director Jeff Risener “couldn’t be better.”