Dover High School’s wrestling team secured a narrow 40-36 victory over Sparta High School on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, in a tightly contested match. The win brings Dover’s record to 14-10 for the season, while Sparta falls to 8-19, according to results reported by NJ.com.
The match featured several key performances from both sides, with Dover ultimately prevailing through a combination of pins, major decisions, and strategic wins. The outcome highlights the competitive nature of wrestling in New Jersey and the dedication of both programs. This contest was particularly notable as it showcased a clash between non-public wrestling powers, as noted in the NJ.com report.
Match Highlights and Key Results
The match began with a major decision win for Dover’s Alexander Lupercio over Madox Giannantonio at 126 pounds, setting an early tone for the competition. Lupercio’s performance was a significant contributor to Dover’s overall score. Alexander Lupercio’s wrestling profile shows a sophomore record of 9-6, demonstrating consistent performance throughout the season. Matthew Le followed with a pin at 132 pounds, further extending Dover’s lead. Leo Lorenzo also secured a pin at 138 pounds, showcasing Dover’s strength in the lower weight classes.
Sparta responded with a pin from Ryan Hrenenko at 144 pounds, and Landon Ekeland secured a decision at 150 pounds, narrowing the gap. Benjamin Garcia added another pin for Sparta at 157 pounds, continuing their momentum. However, Dover’s Dominic Fritts answered with a pin at 175 pounds, and Christopher McKenzie followed with a pin at 190 pounds, regaining control of the match. Liam Hassloch of Sparta earned a pin at 215 pounds, and JuanPablo Valero secured a pin at 285 pounds, keeping Sparta within striking distance.
The match remained close throughout, with Kellen Shearer of Sparta earning a pin at 106 pounds, and Anderson Vigil of Dover securing a forfeit at 113 pounds. The final result hinged on the last bout, with Dover ultimately securing the 40-36 victory.
Individual Match Results
Here’s a breakdown of the individual match results, as reported by NJ.com:
- 126: Alexander Lupercio (D) — Major DecisionMD 14-1 Madox Giannantonio (S)
- 132: Matthew Le (D) — PinPin 1:06 Francesco Digioia (S)
- 138: Leo Lorenzo (D) — PinPin Patrick Bruseo (S)
- 144: Ryan Hrenenko (S) — PinPin Oziel Moreno (D)
- 150: Landon Ekeland (S) — DecisionDec. 10-5 Alex Roman (D)
- 157: Benjamin Garcia (S) — PinPin 2:58 Jayden Lopez (D)
- 165: Trevor Ekeland (S) — Major DecisionMD 16-3 Jonathan Carmona (D)
- 175: Dominic Fritts (D) — PinPin 2:25 Sebastian Chiong (S)
- 190: Christopher McKenzie (D) — PinPin 1:28 Tyler Metternich (S)
- 215: Liam Hassloch (S) — PinPin 1:14 Camilo Ochoa (D)
- 285: JuanPablo Valero (D) — PinPin 0:08 Mason Battifarano (S)
- 106: Kellen Shearer (S) — PinPin Kendall Franco (D)
- 113: Anderson Vigil (D) — ForfeitFor.
- 120: Finn McGurrin (S) — Technical FallTF (24-9) Roberto Gonzalez (D)
Sparta previously faced a close contest against Clifton on February 4, suffering a 40-39 loss, as reported by TAPinto. Ryan Hrenenko of Sparta was recently recognized for achieving his 100th career victory, according to jerseywrestling.com.
The Dover wrestling team continues to demonstrate its strength within the NJAC – Colonial division, while Sparta competes in the NJAC – American division. Both teams will look to build on their performances as the season progresses.
The outcome of this match underscores the competitive landscape of high school wrestling in New Jersey. Fans and athletes alike will be watching closely to spot how both Dover and Sparta perform in their upcoming matches.
Please share your thoughts on this exciting match in the comments below.
