H.S. wrestling: Spencerport sets standard across the state
By James Johnson Democrat and Chronicle
E-mail address: jjohnson@DemocratandChronicle.com

Bill Jacoutot Sr. has led Spencerport to the top ranking in the state the last two seasons. [Day in Photos]

(December 20, 2002) — While the names in the weight classes change, the team’s attitude does not.

Spencerport’s team poster proclaims that the Rangers are “Old School” this season, but it’s old news that the perennial Monroe County West Champions are among the best in the state again.

The Rangers, coached by Bill Jacoutot Sr., finished on top of the state’s large-school rankings for the second consecutive season in 2001-02 after they reclaimed the Section V Class A title from rival Canandaigua.

They have their eyes on a third consecutive state title and the large amount of work needed to earn the program’s fifth New York season-ending No. 1 ranking overall.

“Working toward the state title helped bring us closer together,” said 112-pound senior Josh Fuller, who qualified for states last season at 96 pounds. “We want to keep it going.”

Spencerport has a 90-0-1 record in dual meets against area teams since 1994 and won the Section V Class A championship 13 of the last 14 seasons.

“None of it is any more mind-boggling than what other programs are doing,” first-year assistant coach Bill Jacoutot Jr. said about the team’s methods. “There’s been a standard set, and these guys and my dad want to live up to it.”

Holley’s sectional run in Class C is shorter but also impressive. The Hawks are two-time defending champions and have four sectional trophies since 1998 under John Grillo.

Wayne has emerged as the team to beat in Class B early this season after the Eagles finished second to Newark at sectionals last season.

Coach Scott Freischlag has a state finalist in his group, 215-pounder Mike Patterson, as well as his brothers Josh and Nate.