The Edison Eagles wrestling team delivered a strong performance at the GMC in Piscataway on January 24, placing 5th overall with 126 team points. This marked a historic achievement for the program, as it was the first time since 1974 that Edison had four wrestlers reach the finals.
Standout Performances
Leading the team was Fernando Avellan ‘26, the 1st seed at 144 lbs, who dominated the bracket and claimed his second GMC title. In the finals, Avellan secured a victory over South Plainfield by technical fall (2:50), which further cemented his undefeated record. His performance earned him the Outstanding Wrestler award for the lower-weight classes.
“The road to being a two-time GMC champion was strenuous as I was injured my freshman year and then I came into my sophomore year with something to prove,” said Avellan. “Every day I was always trying to be better than the day before, always dedicated to my craft and working hard to improve.”
Jeremy Negron ‘26, 1st seed at 132 lbs, battled his way to the finals but fell to Saint Thomas Aquinas by fall (5:51), finishing as the runner-up. Despite this loss, his strong performance helped Edison secure key team points.
Candie Northern ‘27, the 3rd seed at 113 lbs, made a deep run to the finals but ultimately lost to Old Bridge by technical fall (17-2), finishing 2nd in the whole county.
Nick Campanelli ‘28, who entered as the 7th seed at 120 lbs, exceeded expectations by reaching the finals. He fell to Saint Joseph’s by technical fall (18-0) but still secured a 2nd-place finish.
Other top performers included Caleb Gluchowski ‘26 at 150 lbs and Sean Eagle ‘26 at 126 lbs, who both finished 6th in their weight classes.
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Fernando Avellan ’26 prepares for his next upcoming match.
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Fernando Avellan ’26 pins a wrestler at Piscataway during the GMC tournament.
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Jeremy Negron ’26 is presented as the winner of his weight class at the GMC tournament.
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Fernando Avellan ’26 stands with Varsity Boys Wrestling coach, Coach Scott Gerba.
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Sean Eagle ’26 showcasing his strength and talent as he works towards another win during the GMC tournament.
Team Reflections
Edison’s performance at the GMC Championships showcased the program’s continued growth, with multiple wrestlers exceeding their seed placements.
“I feel the team did really well. We had a lot of big wins, had four guys in the finals, and a bunch of other guys placed as well,” said Negron.
With strong individual performances and a historic number of finalists, the Edison wrestling team looks to build on this success as they move forward in the season.