2020-2021 Saucon Valley wrestlers enjoying their annual banquet.
It was a slightly watered-down setting at the Steel Club on Sunday as the Saucon Valley Wrestling Club celebrated another season of success. Missing from the annual event were the members of the youth program who, due to COVID concerns, had their Valley Elementary Wrestling League (VEWL) season cancelled. Nonetheless, those present relived and rejoiced with another memorable year of wrestling success.
Guest speaker Mark Getz lets the Saucon Valley family know that they are doing it the right way.
Saucon Valley Wrestling Club president, Dave Spirk served as master-of-ceremonies and Mark Getz was the featured speaker. As Spirk pointed out, Getz has an impressive and lengthy rap sheet that includes, 1994 PIAA state champion, college wrestler, high school wrestling coach, college wrestling coach and current PIAA official. Getz, no doubt, has pretty much seen and experienced all that can be seen in the world of wrestling. After poking a little fun at the Saucon Valley wrestling staff, Getz emphasized the importance of family and the value of having a solid support system. Getz credited his mother and father for guiding him to success. Getz’ late father Bob, who was also a PIAA official, passed late last year. Just recently, the Lehigh Valley wrestling officials established a scholarship fund in his name. Bob Getz is also a co-founder of the Valley Elementary Wrestling League which started in 1987. In his closing remarks to the Panther faithful, Mark Getz stated that what Saucon Valley wrestling does is impressive and that the program is on the right track.
Chad Shirk poses with seniors Aaliyana Mateo and Sophia Riehl.
Coach’s Quote
“This past season was like no other, but the wrestlers on the team were one of the best groups of student-athletes that I have ever been able to coach. From top to bottom, this was an incredible group of kids that came to practice every day wanting to get better.”
Saucon Valley wrestling coach, Chad Shirk
Panther High School Wrestling Awards
- Seniors: Aaliyana Mateo, Sophia Riehl, Nick Bortz and Mick Sullivan
- Rookie of the Year: So. Mason Beckowski
- Most Improved: So. Liam Scrivanich
- Outstanding Wrestlers: Jr. Ty Csencsits, Jr. Dante Mahaffey and So. Jake Jones
- MOM-WOW Award: Sr. Aaliyana Mateo
Cathy Liebensperger and Curt Bowers recognize senior Aaliyana Mateo as the 2021 “MOM-WOW” award winner.
Sophomore Liam Scrivanich was named by Shirk and staff as Saucon Valley’s “Most Improved” wrestler.
Dante Mahaffey and Ty Csencsits were recognized as two of the season’s “Most Outstanding” wrestlers.
SVWC President Dave Spirk served as Master-of-Ceremonies.