- April 23, 2024
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After the varsity lineups were announced Wednesday, Jan. 26, a group of “bad boys” walked onto the mat.
They were members of the Flagler youth wrestling program, and they were there for a serious purpose: the coin toss.
The group of aspiring wrestlers was invited to be honorary captains of a match between Flagler Palm Coast and University’s varsity teams.
Coach of the Bad Boy youth wrestling program Rob Fries said it’s important for the kids in the program to watch the varsity wrestlers and mimic what they do so they can one day be on varsity.
But that was not their first time on the mat that night.
The Bad Boys competed against University’s youth program earlier in the night and won 34-30.
First-year wrestler Manny Ripandelli pinned his opponent in 1 minute, 25 seconds clinching the win for Flagler.
“I was thinking I have to do it for my team because they’re counting on me,” he said.
Ripandelli, nicknamed “The Silent Assassin” by his coaches because he is so quiet and shy, said he likes competing against people and learning from watching the varsity wrestlers, but winning isn’t everything.
“It’s about having fun and doing your best,” Ripandelli said.
The program
The youth program, started two years ago by FPC head coach Bobby Bossardet, now has 64 kids, ages 5 to 14.
“We’re real fortunate to have someone dedicated to the youth program full-time, year-round,” Bossardet said.
With an estimated 95% of the program comprising first-time wrestlers, Fries teaches the basics of the sport.
Bad Boy wrestling practices 6-7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, at FPC. The cost to participate is $35 for the year or $10 if the student is on free or reduced lunch. New wrestlers are welcome at any practice.
“I want to give an outlet for these young kids,” Fries said. “They can build up and feed into the program, and FPC will be a powerhouse again.”
