9th Grade Student Wins Wrestling State Championship [Video]

NFA 9th grader, Cooper Merli, is the New York State Division 1 State Champion (NYSPHSAA - 102lb weight class)! Merli is the first NFA state champion since Al Favata in 1968. Teammate and opponent in the weight class, Will Soto (Meadow Hill, 8th grade) placed 3rd in the State Championship.

Joe Ponesse, a senior, advanced to the state tournament as the eight seed in the 172-pound bracket, but did not advance to the finals. 

NFA Wrestlers are coached by Christopher Leggett, William Parks, and Frank Dinnocenzio.

Watch the end of Cooper Merli's match and celebration here:

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!