Sibling Success in Wrestling: The Unique Family Dynamic at JFK High School

A Powerful Team of Relatives at JFK High School

At John F. Kennedy High School in the Bellmore-Merrick district, wrestling is more than just a sport—it’s a family affair. The wrestling program boasts an impressive seven sets of siblings, including three sets of twins and a pair of cousins. This familial bond among the wrestlers not only enhances team morale but also fosters a deeper sense of accountability both on and off the mat.

Coach Brian DeGaetano’s Insights

Head coach Brian DeGaetano has seen his fair share of sibling pairings over the years, stating, “I’ve had a lot of brothers through the years, but not seven.” With a tradition of brotherhood in wrestling dating back to the 1960s, the combination of shared experience and family support plays a significant role in the team’s success.

“Wrestling is a pretty tough sport, and when you have so many brothers on the team like this, it just adds to the accountability of the kids,” said DeGaetano.

Undefeated Season and Team Dynamics

This year, the Cougars are on fire, entering the dual meet playoffs with an undefeated record of 16-0. The brotherly competition within the team allows for a unique training environment.

• Senior Thomas Pearse wrestles at the 150-pound weight class, while his brother Justin is a freshman at 118 pounds.
• Cousins Ian Garcia (senior, 285 pounds) and Evan (sophomore, 190 pounds) also bring diversity in weight classes.
• The Loccisano twins, Giovanni (126 pounds) and Francesco (110 pounds), demonstrate how sibling rivalry can drive motivation.
• Freshman Lucas Capo weighs in at 157 pounds, while his brother Hendrick competes at 144 pounds—showcasing varied body types and classes in wrestling.

The Impact of Older Siblings

Older siblings significantly influence their younger counterparts, pushing them to strive for excellence. According to DeGaetano, these relationships organically enhance overall team performance.

“Some of these brothers are the best kids on our team, which just makes the younger guys want to work harder,” DeGaetano noted.

This dynamic not only strengthens individual skills but also promotes teamwork and camaraderie among the entire wrestling squad.

Key Benefits of Sibling Pairings in Sports

Sibling involvement in team sports offers several advantages:

• Motivation: Siblings push each other to improve.
• Trust: Family members communicate effectively, fostering better practices.
• Shared Experience: Brothers train together, learning valuable techniques side by side.
• Resilience: Competing against each other prepares them for bigger challenges.

The Future of JFK Wrestling

With the momentum building, Coach DeGaetano is optimistic about the future. He emphasizes that as younger brothers look up to their older siblings, they become more determined, ultimately enhancing the entire team’s performance.

In closing, the familial ties running through the JFK High School wrestling program create a unique culture of encouragement and excellence. This is a team united not just by a shared love for wrestling, but also by deep, personal connections.

For more insight on sibling dynamics in sports, check out this NCAA article on sibling athletes.

Conclusion

The story of the JFK High School wrestling team serves as a remarkable example of how family members can elevate one another to greater heights. As the team embarks on its playoff journey, the strength of these relationships continues to shine, offering a testament to the power of unity in sports.