Thoughts from the week of wrestling

1. I didn't give Trinity much hope of defeating Canon-McMillan Wednesday night but I like the energy and optimism Mark Powell brings to the match. The head coach is fun to talk to and sometimes says things that make you scratch your head. It was a close match for a while -- Trinity trailed only 17-15 after 8 bouts -- but C-M's heavyweight were dominant in a 43-18 win.

2. The Big Macs have some injury problems - 3 starters were out against the Hillers - so it is a little hard to evaluate them until their performance in Powerade. Head coach Jason Cardillo has a tough job because I am sure everyone compares this team with the ones Chris Mary led to five state titles in three years. They might not want to but it's human nature. Just make sure you don't overlook the talent. It's there and the Big Macs will have a strong season. If healthy.

3. I thought Peters Township would struggle this season because of the wrestlers lost to graduation -- 81 wins from three wrestlers -- but Jason Carpetta has a nice team. It was apparent in their second-place finish in the Chartiers-Houston Tournament that the Indians will have a nice run in the team portion of the season.

4. First upset of the season: Seneca Valley 37, North Allegheny 36. It came down to the final bout and Francis Duggan needed a pin. He got a tech. fall. Duggan is a transfer from Cumberland Valley. Seneca Valley chewed NA up in the lighter weights.

5. Spencer Lee, the undefeated two-time state champion from Franklin Regional, is expected back in late January. Lee is out with a shoulder injury, suffered in the preseason.

6. How much difference does a year make? Gavin Teasdale, fresh from a win at the Eastern Invitation Tournament, is 14 pounds heavier and looks even strong on the mat, if that's possible.