Ramapo wrestler's last-second pin clinches first sectional title

Oakland resident's dramatic comeback victory sends Ramapo High School to state semifinals

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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An Oakland resident played the hero role in Ramapo High School's first-ever sectional wrestling championship, clinching the title with a dramatic third-period pin. The Feb. 18 comeback win over River Dell capped a 21-3 season and sends Ramapo into the Group 3 state semifinals, with coaches and teammates praising the hard work behind the historic moment.

Why it matters

Ramapo High School's wrestling program has never won a sectional title before, making this an important milestone for the school and community. The dramatic fashion of the victory, with an Oakland resident securing the win in the final seconds, has generated excitement and pride among local residents.

The details

In the Feb. 18 sectional final match against River Dell, the Ramapo wrestler from Oakland trailed late in the third period before securing a pin to clinch the 21-3 team's first-ever sectional championship. The comeback victory sends Ramapo to the Group 3 state semifinals.

  • The sectional final match took place on February 18, 2026.
  • Ramapo High School finished the season with a 21-3 record.

The players

Ramapo High School

A public high school located in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey that has never won a sectional wrestling championship before this year.

Oakland resident

A wrestler from the town of Oakland, New Jersey who secured the dramatic last-second pin to clinch Ramapo's first-ever sectional title.

River Dell

The opposing team that Ramapo defeated in the sectional final match.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Ramapo High School wrestling team will compete in the Group 3 state semifinals after winning their first-ever sectional championship.

The takeaway

Ramapo High School's historic wrestling victory, secured by a last-second pin from an Oakland resident, showcases the hard work and determination of the team and highlights the pride and excitement within the local community.