It was Senior Night for the Gloucester high wrestling team on Tuesday, and one of those fourth-year standouts made the night even sweeter by reaching a career milestone on the mat.
Zach Hashley, a team captain who also shines for the GHS football squad, recorded his 100th career win in front of a big home crowd, helping the Fishermen to a convincing 57-24 win over their rivals from Salem.
“It was a big accomplishment, one that I’ve been wanting to get throughout (my career) here,” said Hashley, who’s wrestled at GHS all four of his school years. He becomes just the second Gloucester High wrestler to reach the milestone without competing as an eighth-grader, with Rockport’s Dan Beaton being the only other.
“It’s great to get that done and now I can focus on (Division 3) Sectionals,” continued Hashley. “I really have to put my mind to that.”
A 190-pound standout, Hashley’s milestone victory came via forfeit, although the majority of his wins throughout his Fishermen tenure were very well earned and the century mark triumph was inevitable this season regardless.
This year alone, he’s now recorded over 30 wins, and in reaching 100 total he joins teammates Aiden DeCoste, Max Thomas and Joe Allen with that accomplishment. Overall, just eight GHS wrestlers have achieved the feat, with star brothers Jayden and Michael Toppan among the others.
“It’s pretty nice being in a group with those other guys,” said Hashley. “I work with them in practice every day to get better, so it’s really nice being a part of that list.”
“I have nothing but great things to say about Zach,” added GHS coach Matt Swanson. “The kid’s great, he’s got a chance to win sectionals this year for sure.”
Nate Stanley, Chase Ramos, Anthony Murawski and Thomas all picked up wins by fall against Salem, while Allen had a win by tech fall. DeCoste had the match of the night with a convincing win by tech fall against a highly ranked opponent in Connor Buckley.
In addition, Amero and Tyler Hopping both picked up wins by forfeit.
Sports Editor Nick Giannino may be contacted at 978-675-2712 or ngiannino@northofboston.com.