Article by Phoenix writer Griffin Strauss ’25:
The Kellenberg Wrestling team made Firebird history from February 28 to March 1, having two wrestlers place top six in the New York State Federation Championship for the first time in program history.
Seniors “Juggernaut” Jonathan Hoffman and Elijah “Conquering” Carrington traveled to Albany to compete against the best wrestlers in New York in the 170lbs and 131 lbs weight classes respectively.
Jonathan Hoffman, who was the 13 seed in his bracket, won his first few matches pinning the 4th and 5th seeds. Losing his next match against the number one ranked wrestler in the country, Jonathon battled back to secure his 3rd place finish in New York State.
Elijah Carrington, the 8 seed, lost his first match against last year’s runner-up, but returned strong in the consolation rounds securing a 5th place finish with a score of 15-8.
Senior Jonathon Hoffman, Captain of the wrestling team, said, “I am proud and happy to see our team accomplish the goal we have been striving for all season. It was great to spend time with coaches and teammates in my last Kellenberg season.”
The firebird wrestling team finished 12th place in all of New York State, the best the team has ever performed. Jonathan and Elijah finished their Kellenberg careers strong, completing their senior season by placing in the most competitive tournament in NY State.
Congratulations to these fantastic wrestlers and to the team for their incredible season.
