Genoa’s Nino pins Notre Dame College as his destination

Genoa’s Jay Nino started planning to wrestle in college when he placed at the prestigious Medina Invitational Tournament as a freshman. Nino will continue his career at Notre Dame College.

“I really liked it there, the coaches were awesome and it’s a winning program so it was easy,” Nino said of his decision. “I know I have the talent to compete at the next level and wrestling is my life.”

Nino won a sectional crown last weekend. He will never forget the feeling of having his hand raised as a state champion in a special environment but is hungry for more.

“I want to finish my career with another state championship and be a four-time All-American in college,” he said.

Nino is extremely nimble for his size in the 220-pound division.

“He’s very quick,” Comets coach Bob Bergman said. “He’s explosive. He’s a tactician. With the way he moves and his strength is solid – it makes him a great package.

“Jay is a pinner. He finds ways to put you on your back. He strikes and makes it count.”

Nino developed his skills from the top position and improved his conditioning over the years.

“Now, he can pin people from there,” Bergman said. “He’s able to end more matches.”

Bergman will miss Nino’s personality.

“He’s pretty jovial,” he said. “We’ll miss the six points he brings to just about every dual meet. He’s been an anchor at the upper weights and a guy we could count on.”

Nino was part of the equation as Genoa established an impressive foundation the last several years. Ten Comets will compete at districts this week.

“We’ve built Genoa up,” he said. “Jake Sheehy, Max Reeder … all the guys who went to Columbus. We tried to make Genoa a force to be reckoned with.”

mhorn@gannett.com

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Twitter:@MatthewHornNH