St. Vincent–St. Mary Athletics proudly recognized one of the most accomplished teams in program history on Saturday, February 7th, honoring the 2001 Division III State Championship Wrestling Team during the home wrestling match against Elyria Catholic.
This season marks the 25-year anniversary of a historic championship run that forever etched the 2001 Irish wrestling team into Ohio high school sports history. In March of 2001, the Irish competed on the sport’s biggest stage at the 64th OHSAA State Wrestling Tournament, held at the Schottenstein Center on the campus of The Ohio State University. Facing the top Division III programs from across the state, the team delivered one of the most memorable performances ever by an STVM athletics program.
Over the course of the tournament, St. Vincent–St. Mary captured the Division III State Championship with 129 team points, edging a talented Bedford St. Peter Chanel squad by a narrow margin of just 1.5 points. The championship was built on toughness, consistency, and poise throughout the lineup, exemplifying the values that define Irish wrestling.
The Irish crowned three individual state champions during the tournament:
Adam Buzek – 112 pounds
Angelo Caponi – 215 pounds
Ryan Hurly – 140 pounds
In addition, Mike Hurley earned a state runner-up finish at 135 pounds, further contributing to the team’s championship success.
Saturday’s celebration honored more than a title—it recognized a lasting legacy. The achievements of the 2001 state champions helped set the standard for excellence within the STVM wrestling program and inspired generations of Irish wrestlers who followed.
St. Vincent–St. Mary Athletics extends its sincere gratitude to the coaches for their leadership and dedication, to the families for their unwavering support, and to the members of the 2001 State Championship team for representing STVM with class, toughness, and heart.
Congratulations once again to our 2001 Division III State Wrestling Champions—your legacy continues to shape Irish wrestling today.
