By Bob Badders - Senior Staff Writer
TOMS RIVER -- There was never any question that Howell senior Joey Langel had the talent to one day become a state champion. Now it is more than just a possibility that Langel will be standing on top of the medal stand next week, as he has been the favorite at 112 pounds for months. He took the next step towards his ultimate goal by winning his first Region VI title on Saturday at the Ritacco Center.
After finishing second to Toms River East's Vinnie DelleFave in each of the last two seasons, Langel was finally able to capture that elusive region crown by defeating Toms River South's Mark Maestry, 9-3. Langel had two takedowns in the first period to set the tone for an aggressive, attacking bout against Maestry, who emerged as a finalist in a very competitive weight class.
'It's great to finally win it and to now know what it feels like," Langel said.
Langel was in control except for a brief moment in the third period when Maestry clamped down on a headlock and nearly turned the Rebels senior to his back. Langel was able to not only avoid going to his back, but thwarted an attempt for a takedown as well.
"That was just experience," Langel said. "Knowing that I was in good position helped me get out of there."
Langel's transformation from contender to favorite started at the NJWCA All-Star Invitational in January when he defeated Bergen Catholic's Frank Cagnina, who is the defending state champion at 103 pounds. Since then, an obvious rise in confidence has put Langel high on the list of possible state champions.
"I feel I've had confidence all year, but having already beat the state champ from last year has me expecting to be pushing kids and also lets me know I'm at that caliber (of a state champion)," Langel said.
Gonig into the region tournament as the favorite was different for Langel, but nothing he couldn't handle.
"It was some pressure but I tried to use it against them (his opponents) because they had pressure on them having to wrestle me," Langel said. "I just went out and wrestled my match."
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