The excitement is palpable as high school wrestlers from Baltimore prepare to compete in the NHSCA National Duals, set to take place from May 24-27, 2024, in Virginia Beach, VA. This prestigious event, organized by the National High School Coaches Association (NHSCA), brings together 208 teams from across the country, providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents on a national stage.

Event Overview

The NHSCA National Duals is one of the most anticipated wrestling tournaments in the high school circuit. It features a dual meet format where teams compete in various weight classes, ensuring a comprehensive and competitive experience. Each team is guaranteed a minimum of five matches, spread over the four-day event, which includes pool play and championship brackets.

Format and Schedule:

• Day 1: Arrival in Virginia Beach, Weigh-ins.
• Day 2: Teams in pools of four, based on seeds, will wrestle three times.
• Day 3: Teams are re-grouped based on Day 1 results; advancement based on pool placement.
• Day 4: Championship bracket for qualifying teams; re-seeding based on performance.

Weigh-In and Competition Times:

• Friday: Early weigh-ins begin at 2:00 PM; regular weigh-ins at 6:00 PM.
• Saturday – Monday: Doors open at 7:00 AM daily, with matches starting at 8:00 AM.

Team Baltimore

Representing Baltimore is a dedicated group of young wrestlers from various high schools in the area. Below is the roster for Team Baltimore, showcasing their weight classes and schools:

These young athletes have been rigorously training to represent Baltimore at the NHSCA National Duals. Each wrestler has shown exceptional dedication both academically and athletically.

Team Activities and Supervision

Aside from the intense competition, Coach Antonio McCree emphasizes the importance of team-building activities and ensuring a memorable experience for the athletes. “Our wrestlers, for starters, all have high achievements academically. They will compete for 4 hours per day in a dual meet format with thousands of participants. The rest of the time, we plan team activities such as riding bikes on the boardwalk, enjoying the beach, and meeting new people and making friends during one of the busiest holidays. It’s going to be a treat. We have wrestlers who look forward to nationals in Virginia Beach.”

Activities Include:

• Beach Visits: Supervised time on the beach, including swimming and games.
• Biking on the Boardwalk: Bike rentals for riding along the boardwalk (helmets are provided and mandatory).

All activities are supervised by coaches to ensure the safety and well-being of the participants. The team will be staying at an Airbnb approximately 20 minutes from the beach, providing a comfortable and supportive environment for the duration of the event.

Past Accomplishments

The wrestlers from Baltimore have a strong track record in Maryland wrestling competitions. Many of these athletes have clinched titles in regional and state tournaments, showcasing their prowess on the mat and their commitment to the sport. Their participation in the NHSCA National Duals is a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Looking Ahead

As Team Baltimore heads to Virginia Beach, the community’s support and encouragement play a crucial role in their journey. This event not only offers a platform for these young athletes to compete at a high level but also provides an opportunity for personal growth and the forging of lasting friendships.

Stay tuned for updates on Team Baltimore’s performance at the NHSCA National Duals and join us in cheering for our local wrestlers as they represent our city on a national stage.

For more information about the event and to follow the team’s progress, visit the NHSCA National Duals website.