Manhasset's Russell and Whitman's McGuinness Seek Redemption at State Wrestling Championships

After overcoming injuries, the two high school wrestlers look to make their mark at the state tournament

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Will Russell of Manhasset High School and Michael McGuinness of Whitman High School are both competing in the New York State wrestling championships after missing last year's tournament due to injuries. Russell, a sixth-seed, upset the third-seed to reach the semifinals, while McGuinness, a second-seed, also advanced to the semifinals in his weight class.

Why it matters

Russell and McGuinness' comebacks from injury showcase the resilience and determination of high school athletes. Their success at the state tournament also highlights the importance of perseverance and the ability to overcome adversity in sports.

The details

Russell missed last year's state tournament with a broken clavicle, but this year he pinned his quarterfinal opponent to reach the semifinals. McGuinness suffered a wrist injury last season that ended his lacrosse season, but he has bounced back to become Whitman's first Suffolk champion since 2017 and is now competing in the state semifinals.

  • On February 15, McGuinness became Whitman's first Suffolk champion since 2017.
  • On Friday, Russell pinned his quarterfinal opponent in 4:31 to reach the semifinals.

The players

Will Russell

A senior wrestler from Manhasset High School who is competing in the 118-pound weight class at the New York State wrestling championships.

Michael McGuinness

A wrestler from Whitman High School who is competing in the 150-pound weight class at the New York State wrestling championships.

Vincenzo Mannello

The third-seeded wrestler from Briarcliff/Byram Hills/Valhalla/Westlake who Russell defeated in the quarterfinals.

Kymah Gummow

The seventh-seeded wrestler from Indian River who Russell will face in the semifinals.

Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez

The top-seeded wrestler from Long Beach who is competing for his third state title.

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What they’re saying

“I'm having more fun with it. Last year and after my injuries, I was getting so nervous before my matches, more so than I should've been. I keep telling myself I just need to have fun and wrestle hard. If I'm not having fun, why am I doing this?”

— Will Russell (Newsday)

“A big thing for me was to remember where I finished last year. Even though I faced some adversity with that injury, that really motivated me to keep working and getting better.”

— Michael McGuinness (Newsday)

“I've been part of this program since I was 4 years old. Looking up at the banners in the gym, this has always been a big goal for me. I'm so grateful to be here and for the success I've had so far.”

— Michael McGuinness (Newsday)

What’s next

A potential rematch between Russell and top-seeded Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez, who defeated Russell in the Nassau final, could take place in the state championship match.

The takeaway

Russell and McGuinness' comebacks from injury showcase the resilience and determination of high school athletes. Their success at the state tournament highlights the importance of perseverance and the ability to overcome adversity in sports.