Newtown High School sophomore wrestler Anthony Falbo won a national championship during the weekend of March 27–29. Falbo claimed the 160 pound weight division title in the Sophomore Division of the 26th Annual National High School Coaches Association High School National Wrestling Championships, held at the Virginia Beach (Va.) Convention Center.

Falbo won a 6-4 decision over Brandon Kui of New Jersey in the finals after a 10-3 decision over Angel Solis of California in the semifinal round.

Teammate Ed Lovely garnered All-American status by placing eighth at 126 pounds, also in the sophomore division.

“I’m so proud of Anthony and what he’s been able to accomplish, and Ed too — all my boys,” Newtown Coach Chris Bray said.

Joe Accousti, at 152, went 5-2 and came one round away from placing as an All-American. Alex Stavola, who also competed in the 152 bracket, Tom Leuci (113), and Andy Hubina (195), all won a match, and Tom Long (220) participated in the tourney.

The national event featured 3,200 grapplers representing 46 states. It unfolded on 36 mats, and there were on average about 60-65 competitors per weight division for each grade, Bray said.

Falbo already garnered South-West Conference, Class LL, and State Open crowns, and was runner-up, along with 113-pound Newtown wrestler Luca Crudo, in the New England championships. The Nighthawks, as a team, captured conference, Class LL, and State Open championships this season.