FALCONER – After two days of competition in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Section VI Division Wrestling Championships in Albany, Falconer Central School senior Robbie Penhollow took home first place in the 195 lb. division.
During an interview with WNYNewsNow at the Falconer Moose Sunday night, Penhollow said he’s still processing taking home first place.
“Honestly, it still hasn’t completely sunk in yet,” Penhollow said. “It’s pretty surreal, it’s hard to keep telling yourself you’re a state champ.”
When asked on what he first did after taking home his respective title, Penhollow stated, “I gave my coach a big hug and we just started celebrating.”
Penhollow also addressed his future plans, saying he’s hoping to possibly play football as a linebacker for Edinboro University, with a final decision for a college not being made yet.
With his wrestling career for Falconer now over, Penhollow said, “I’d like to give thanks to my coaches, my past and present practice partners. I couldn’t have done it without my friends and my family.”
Penhollow also gave credit to his father, whom he said always had the desire to one-up.
WNYNewsNow also had an interview with Assistant Coach Scott James.
A coach for three years, James spoke about what he did after Penhollow emerged victorious.
“I went to the Falconer Moose and I cried tears of joy,” said James. “I want to say thanks to the coaches at Falconer, the parents, and the wrestlers.”
WNYNewsNow also interviewed Wilcox. When asked about the morale of the team after Penhollow’s title win, Wilcox stated, “We’re feeling great, we’re excited for him (Penhollow). He’s earned it, he’s worked extremely hard the last three, four years.”
Wilcox also explained how his athletes inspire him to get to where he is today.
“I like watching kids achieve their goals.” Wilcox said. “I try to put in the work and put them in the best opportunity to help them achieve their goals.”
Wilcox also gave thanks to the assistant coaches who have helped the team to get where they are at today.
“They’re the ones doing the grunt work, and I just steer the ship,” said Wilcox. “They deserve more credit than I get.”
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