Faith Christian Cruises to Fourth Straight PIAA AA Dual Title

Defeats Bishop McCort 46-18 in State Championship Match

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Faith Christian Academy, the defending PIAA AA Dual State Champions, cruised to their fourth consecutive title with a 46-18 victory over Bishop McCort in the championship match. The Lions, who were ranked No. 1 in the state to start the season, powered through the tournament despite some lineup changes, while the Crushers were hampered by injuries and absences.

Why it matters

Faith Christian's dominance in the PIAA AA Dual State Tournament over the past four years cements their status as one of the top wrestling programs in Pennsylvania. Meanwhile, Bishop McCort's struggles highlight the challenges some teams face in maintaining a championship-caliber roster from year to year due to factors like graduation and injuries.

The details

The Lions jumped out to an 18-12 lead through the first six matches, getting wins from nationally-ranked wrestlers Joe Bachmann, Nick Singer, and Shane Wagner. But Faith Christian then reeled off five straight victories, including bonus point wins from Adam Waters, Cael Weidemoyer, and Mark Effendian, to clinch the title. Bishop McCort was missing several key contributors, including national #1 ranked wrestlers Bo Bassett and Melvin Miller, which proved too much to overcome against the deep and talented Faith Christian lineup.

  • The PIAA Dual Meet State Tournament finals were held on Saturday, February 8, 2026 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
  • Faith Christian had previously won the PIAA AA Dual State Championship in 2023, 2024, and 2025.

The players

Faith Christian Academy

The defending PIAA AA Dual State Champions, ranked No. 1 in the state to start the 2025-26 season.

Bishop McCort

The No. 10 ranked team in the state entering the season, but hampered by injuries and absences that prevented them from reaching their full potential.

Bo Bassett

A nationally ranked wrestler for Bishop McCort who was unable to compete in the state dual final.

Melvin Miller

Another nationally ranked wrestler for Bishop McCort who was forced to move up a weight class due to the Crushers' lineup issues.

Adam Waters

The No. 2 ranked wrestler at 189 pounds who contributed a technical fall victory for Faith Christian.

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What they’re saying

“We're banged up and losing some guys to early graduation.”

— William Bassett, Bishop McCort Head Coach (Private Correspondence)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.