St. Joe's senior makes history winning fourth-consecutive CHSAA championship
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- With his win at the NYS Catholic High School Athletic Association (CHSAA) Wrestling Championships earlier this month, Austin Zimmerman etched himself in into history books.
St. Joe's says Zimmerman is the the first-ever Monsignor Martin athlete to win four consecutive CHSAA State Championships in any individual sport, boys or girls.
Zimmerman beat his first two opponents at the state meet by pin before continuing on to win the 116-pound title by a 10-4 decision, making him the first MMHSAA wrestler to claim more than three championships.
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"After the match it didn't hit me until I hugged coach. When I was in his arms was when the emotion hit me and I realized what had truly happened," said Zimmerman.
The senior became just the 16th wrestler in state history to win four All-Catholic Championships since the tournament began in 1967.
"I've known him (Zimmerman) since he was in sixth grade. It's been a privilege to watch him mature and learn what it takes to become a champion, said St. Joe's Wrestling coach Pete Kennedy.
"This accomplishment is due to Austin's incredible work ethic, drive, determination and wrestling ability."
Zimmerman, a Niagara Falls native, will now head to the NYS Federation Tournament for the third consecutive time, with his latest appearance resulting in a fifth-place finish. The tournament starts on Friday in Albany, with the championship finals on Saturday.
"Ever since freshman year I've had a goal written down to win the Fed. I came up short last year but with the tournament being as wide-open as ever, I'm hoping this year is the year I win," Zimmerman said.
After graduating in the spring, the record-holding wrestler will continue his career at Edinboro University.