New era at Spencerport
Rebecca De Wind . December 3, 2009
www.whec.com

There's a new era for the Spencerport wrestling team. The Rangers rich tradition of success was due to 28-year legacy of Bill Jacoutot who retired earlier this year. A lot of weight is now on the shoulders of the teams new coach Tony D'Ambra.

The routine is similar, the drills the same, but there is a new man in charge of the room at Spencerport. Tony D'Ambra says, "The expectations have always been high and will remain high it's a matter of bringing the kids in and working hard and trying to work towards our goals day in and out."

D'Ambra takes the baton from legendary coach Bill Jacoutot, as the Rangers face their first match of the season. D'Ambra says, "I'm more mellow in personality. I still have the same expectations the intensity in those areas we need to perform and stay on task. I hold them accountable just like bill would hold them accountable."

D'Ambra has big shoes to fill Spencerport placed in year end national rankings five times under Jacoutot - 21 sectional titles, no doubt the finest in Section V history. He treated his kids like they were his own; he built relationships and a dynasty.

D'Ambra knows this all too well. He coached under Jacoutot his final year, being asked to take over was his dream since high school. He says, "I started out envious of the program and now I'm in this position, it's a dream."

This young coach comes with his own credentials. A SUNY Brockport graduate and NCAA Divison III All American, Rochester College Athlete of the Year - a relatable fine example for these young men, who may still be longing for what they know.

D'Ambra says, "He was their man for the last three or four year for them to come and tell me that just reaffirms their confidence in coach "J" and now I have to earn that trust at the same time." Senior Captain Enzo Zargi says, "He's not big shoes to fill I think he's nervous I think he's gonna do good."

Captain Paul Morabito adds, "I'd say, more anxious than nervous. We want to send him off with a good start so he'll have a good career."