Frenship High School’s wrestling team recently concluded a remarkable season marked by record-breaking achievements, unprecedented growth, and significant milestones. Under the leadership of Coach Harley DiLulo, the Tigers faced numerous challenges but emerged stronger, setting new program records and making history along the way.
“The growth I saw this season was immense and it was fun to watch as the season progressed. Our guys team went from never winning a tournament or taking second last year to winning the last tournaments of the regular season as well as our district tournament for the first time in program history which was awesome,” said Coach DiLulo.
The team also saw a dramatic increase in regional qualifiers, jumping from seven boys last year to thirteen this season. In total, Frenship Wrestling had a program-record 22 regional qualifiers between the boys and girls teams.
Two standout moments defined the Tigers’ season. First, the boys team secured their first-ever tournament victory at the Tussle at the Trail in Dallas. The second defining moment came when the boys team won the district championship for the first time in program history. Coach DiLulo, who was named Coach of the Year, credited the team’s hard work, dedication, and belief in one another for this historic achievement.
“The first standout moment was when our guys team went to Dallas to wrestle in the Tussle at the Trail and ended up winning the tournament. This was two weeks before the District tournament and this was the first team tournament victory our guys had achieved in program history and I feel this really helped solidify the belief that our guys have been doing the right things, and we felt that we now had a really good chance at winning the district tournament,” said Coach DiLulo. “The second stand out moment was winning the district tournament for the first time on the guys side and winning coach of the year.”
Among the team’s standout wrestlers, seniors Noah Zuniga and Kyren Ramos made their mark at the state tournament. Zuniga, a four-year team member, captured his second district title, placed in the top three at regionals for the second consecutive year, and reached the state tournament once again. He finished his high school career with over 100 wins.
Ramos, in only his second year of wrestling, showed incredible progress, winning a district title and placing third at regionals. His journey from not winning a match at regionals last year to making it to the round of 12 at state speaks volumes about his determination and growth.
“Kyren and Noah are for sure two of the best wrestlers in the State of Texas, only taking 2-3 losses all regular season. I am very proud of both of them,” said Coach DiLulo.
Coach DiLulo is already focused on building upon this year’s success. With returning district finalists and multiple third-place finishers, the goal is to develop these wrestlers into district champions and continue the winning tradition.
“I plan to build on this success by keeping the team moving forward right away. Even with the season just ending we are right back to work getting bigger, faster and stronger, looking forward to the Freestyle and Greco season and the Freestyle state tournament in May,” said Coach DiLulo.
Additionally, the girls’ team, which narrowly missed a top three district finish despite missing three weight classes, aims to strengthen its roster and compete for a district title next season.
As the seniors conclude their high school wrestling careers, Coach DiLulo wants to encourage them to keep chasing success in all things.
“Thank you for giving me a chance to coach y’all. I hope I was able to give you the tools not only to be successful on the mat but also in life,” said Coach DiLulo. “Never stop chasing your goals/dreams and keep working as hard as you can till you get to where you want to be. And like always, have fun and sling the biscuit!”
The 2024-2025 Frenship Wrestling season will be remembered as a turning point for the program. With multiple champions, record-setting achievements, and a growing foundation of talent, the Tigers are poised for continued success in the years to come.
Congratulations to all district finalists and champions, including Kyren Ramos (120), Noah Zuniga (126), and Austin Thompson (190), as well as runner-ups Davin Franco (132), Chinagorom Ukelegharanya (157), and Ezra Robinson (165).
Way to go, Tigers! The future of Frenship Wrestling looks brighter than ever.