This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Schools

Wrestling Fan Base Growing to New Levels

While Paulsboro's fans are the envy of the Colonial Conference, West Deptford is gaining a reputation of its own.

Wherever the Paulsboro High School wrestling team goes, its loyal fan base follows. It’s the way it has been for decades and likely the way it will continue to be in the future.

While it's not at that level yet, the fan base for West Deptford wrestling has been ever-growing. Hundreds of Eagles fans packed the gym Monday night to watch West Deptford take on Paulsboro, highlighting just how big the sport has become locally.

West Deptford wrestling coach John Craig has taken notice and is grateful for the support.

Find out what's happening in West Deptfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“Paulsboro, they always have a big crowd, and these last few years we have really stepped up with our crowds too,” said Craig. “During the big meets our fans come out in numbers and that’s a big thing not only for the atmosphere, but it’s great for the kids.

"The kids see that there are people who are really interested in what they’re doing. It lets them know that all the work they put in across the hall (in the practice room) isn’t for nothing. These people care.”

Find out what's happening in West Deptfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The crowd was standing room only Monday and was the Eagles biggest at home this season.

“It gives you a lot of motivation, you get really pumped,” said junior Evan Zuzulock of the crowd. “You know you have to go out there and win it for them and for yourself. It keeps you motivated.”

Junior Drew Spector added, “I love the crowd and I love the pressure. I love everything about Paulsboro-West Deptford matches.”

Well everything, maybe, except the results.

The Eagles haven’t fared well against the Red Raiders over the last 40 years, but then again, who has? The Red Raiders faced Haddon Township Wednesday night looking to record the 1,000th win in program history. Over 68 seasons, Paulsboro is a staggering 999-77-12. In that time, the Red Raiders have won 40 Colonial Conference championships (15 combined others in the Delaware Valley and South Jersey League) and 27 Group I Championships.

It’s clear to see why so many fans would want to get a front-row seat when the Raiders came into town. However, it’s also becoming apparent that West Deptford fans are proud of their own team, something Craig said has been given his wrestlers great confidence.

“It’s good to see that,” said Craig. “You have to start somewhere. In Paulsboro, their fans are part of that tradition. They are kind of like another part of the lineup. We are getting to that point now and that’s exciting.”

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?