Many of New England’s best high school wrestlers will make their way to the Concord mats for Saturday’s Cap City Classic. The Classic is more than a midseason gauge on potential state champions. It is a milestone event that built a reputation over the past 30 years.
“We like to think it’s the toughest one-day tournament in New England. And it probably is,” long-time Concord wrestling coach Ham Munnell said. “The kids, when they graduate, they talk about a couple of things. How they did in states and if they won the Cap City. It’s a big deal for Concord kids, for sure.”
Twenty-eight teams will bring wrestlers to the mats. Many of the wrestlers are state champions already, and a win on Saturday will cement their place among the elite.
“People who win or place in this Classic go on to do well in the state tournament,” Munnell said. “New England champions lose in the finals here. It happens like that. If a wrestler does well here, they’re on the map.”
Concord has done exceptionally well in recent Classics. Last year, seniors Noah Giffard and Issac Gladey were both crowned champions in their weight class. A new wave of the Tide wrestlers hope to continue Concord’s success in their tournament.
Senior Sam Wagner has already proved himself by becoming New Hampshire’s state champion at 106 pounds. He, along with returning All-State teammate Ethan Comeau (120 pounds) and New Hampshire runner-up Jack Sargent (138 pounds) are just a few names on a talented Concord roster.
“I feel good about all 14 starters, and we have a number of seniors this year pushing themselves to do well at this event,” said Munnell.
The Crimson Tide continue to look strong this season despite losing last year’s talented senior class. Entering the Classic with a varsity record of 11-1, the goal is to prove themselves to the home crowd. Munnell points to the Concord wrestling community for the care they put into the Cap City Classic.
“The effort from the booster club and the parents is enormous. People have come for the food they bring in.” Munnell said. “They’ve taken it from a traditional tournament and created a celebration.”
Hundreds of matches will be held throughout the day, beginning at 8 a.m.. Final matches in each weight class will start at 4 p.m. Spectators can come through concessions at any time.