"Takedown Talk" with Bob Matthews

Sean Kinney, 3x Champ, Before the Run

This young man was so much fun to interview, Humble, thankful, and ready to rock the wrestling world, and high school football World here in Pennsylvania. I was able to talk to him before he went on his incredible run of three consecutive State heavyweight Wrestling Championships. See what motivated him back in 2021, and why he was the morning calls wrestler of the year this past season.

BO Knows NO Limits !!!

No Bassett has already won a World freestyle title, super 32 championship, and so many more honors, including a PIAA championship as a high school sophomore. The sky is the limit for this young man gets his fuel for his fire from his family, teammates and God!

BO (Bassett) Knows NO Limits !!!

Bo Bassett has already won a World freestyle title, a Super 32 championship, and so many more honors, including a PIAA championship as a high school sophomore. The sky is the limit for this young man who gets the fuel for his fire from his family, teammates, and God!

Darian Cruz - 2024 Olympian

Here's a young man whose career I got to follow on the elementary, high school, college, and now world levels. Darian Cruz is as great off the mat as he is on the mat. Listen to this podcast that I did a little over a year ago, and dairy and fulfilled several of his goals in his resting career. Valley Elementary wrestling league title multiple high school state championships, an NCAA championship, and possibly an Olympic championship !!!

Andi Bibeau makes E-burg North History

Andi has great examples at home and in the wrestling room. That, along with her tireless work ethic, propelled Andi Bibeau to first ever PIAA sanctioned District Xl and Southeast Regional Championships. Andi is driven to continue to get to the PIAA Championship Finals in 2025, after placing 5th this year.

Savannah Witt, Two-Time PA Champ

Savannah Witt is tough as nails, with the strength of a 190-pounder in the 118-pound weight class. Witt was 31-0 this season and 59-2 in wrestling high school girls and 23-24 against boys. She loves to lift, eat carrot cake with sprinkles, and support her teammates. Savannah gives a lot of credit to Pirates Head Coach, Nick LaFevre, for challenging her to be the best she can be...

Bo (Bassett) Knows "No Limits"

High school wrestling phenom, Bo Bassett, is one of the best young wrestlers in the USA, and in the world. However, despite his success in the Square Circle, he doesn't let his talent go to his head. He is very well-rounded as a Young Man, filled with respect for others in a deep humility. He finds what he needs the most through God, his family, teammates, and his wrestling community. This is one of my favorite podcast interviews to date !

Three Roads to Hershey

Three outstanding young wrestlers, Savannah Witt of Palisades, Andi Bibeau of East Stroudsburg North, and Bo Bassett of Bishop McCort, talk about their journeys to the 2024 PIAA Wrestling Championships in Hershey, along with their goals, support systems and making history !

Three Roads out of Hershey

Three outstanding young wrestlers, Savannah Witt of Palisades, Andi Bibeau of East Stroudsburg North, and Bo Bassett of Bishop McCort, talk about their journeys to the 2024 PIAA Wrestling Championships in Hershey, along with their goals, support systems and making history !

Gauge Botero - PIAA Champ

Meet a young man who as a sophomore for Faith Christian Academy, won a Pennsylvania state championship. Following knee surgery earlier this season, he is on a quest for a second state title. Please listen to hear about the development of this young man, where he is planning to go, and where he wants to end up -- as a multiple PIAA Champ, an NCAA Champ, and ultimately, an Olympic Champion !!!

Quakertown's Mason Ziegler finishes 2nd & 3rd, at PIAA States. Heading to Mountainhawk Country !

Mason Ziegler, Quakertown's 127 pounder, is an extremely talented and hardworking young man. He is pushed by his teammates, coaches and family to be the best he can be...and his efforts are paying off in a big way. I caught up with this energetic dynamo after his big semi-final win in Hershey. We'll be seeing him strive for gold next season and an NCAA Championship at the next level 👍

Quakertown's next PIAA Champ, Mason Ziegler, came so very close this season. The sky's the Limit !

Mason Ziegler, Quakertown's 127 pounder, is an extremely talented and hardworking young man. He is pushed by his teammates, coaches and family to be the best he can be...and his efforts are paying off in a big way. I caught up with this energetic dynamo after his big semi-final win in Hershey. We'll be seeing him strive for gold next season and an NCAA Championship at the next level 👍

Stupendous Beca Sophomore, Nate Desmond is on his way to possibly winning four PIAA Championships.

Nate Desmond turned on the jets at the end of the 2021-22 season to win a state championship as a Freshman. This season, Nate the Great didn't feel any pressure as he put together another stellar season, and cruised to his second State Championship in as many years. I caught up with him before he majored Trey Wagner of Northampton in the state final. Nate seems to care deeply about his teammates, which is the sign of a leader. Plus, he's a character. After his win, he was craving a Shamrock S...

Nate Desmond, BECA star, is on his way to possibly winning four PIAA Championships. Now going to Sem

Nate Desmond turned on the jets at the end of the 2021-22 season to win a state championship as a Freshman. This season, Nate the Great didn't feel any pressure as he put together another stellar season, and cruised to his second State Championship in as many years. I caught up with him before he majored Trey Wagner of Northampton in the state final. Nate seems to care deeply about his teammates, which is the sign of a leader. Plus, he's a character. After his win, he was craving a Shamrock S...

Ayden Smith, NDGP's 114 lb Junior, was on a mission to win a PIAA Title, and he succeeded !

This young Crusader wrestler told me after last years state tournament, he had a lot of work to do...and he made sure he did it ! His goal is to repeat as a State Champ next season as well. Ayden has a quiet demeanor, but when he hits the mat, he's all business. Please give a listen to this outstanding young man's post-match podcast interview with me in Chocolate Town, USA.

Keanu Dillard could be a Bethlehem Catholic PIAA Four-Time Champ - one down, three to go...

The arrival of this promising Freshman was much anticipated, but his regular season debut was delayed by injury. However, when he hit the mat, the hype was real. This young man, born in Hawaii, did not disappoint, winning District, Regional & State Championships in his inaugural high school season. His work ethic is paying dividends. Keep an eye on Keanu Dillard !!

Collin Gaj, a Super Sophomore from Quakertown, is the PIAA 145 lb. Wrestling Gold Medalist.

Super Sophomore, Collin Gaj, of Quakertown H.S., is a PA State wrestling champion after finishing 4th as a Freshman in 2022. He is a young man who believes in his incredible ability, his coaches, teammates and community. Expect even bigger things from this young Panther in the years ahead !!

Bethlehem Catholic's, Kollin Rath, wins his 1st state championship after a grueling Sophomore season

Sensational sophomore, Kollin Rath of Bethlehem Catholic High School had a stellar season, with only one tough loss at Super 32's. He put what he learned from former PIAA High School Superstar, Chance Marstellar, and a group of high school wrestling friends, (along with hard work and some challenges) and won a gold medal at Hershey, by knocking off two current PA state champions, en route to the top of the podium.

Kollin Rath of Bethlehem Catholic, wins his 1st state championship after a grueling Sophomore season

Sensational sophomore, Kollin Rath of Bethlehem Catholic High School had a stellar season, with only one tough loss at Super 32's. He put what he learned from former PIAA High School Superstar, Chance Marstellar, and a group of high school wrestling friends, (along with hard work and some challenges) and won a gold medal at Hershey, by knocking off two current PA state champions, en route to the top of the podium.

"Takedown Talk" with Bob Matthews (Trailer)

Darian Cruz PIAA & NCAA Champ

One of the most personable and talented young wrestlers to ever represent the Lehigh Valley, talks about the start of his wrestling career, his influences, his love and passion for his family and heritage, and his foray into the freestyle wrestling world. Darian has also become a role model, and he's humbled by that responsibility. Despite all his success at the high school and collegiate levels, his ultimate goals are a World Championship and Olympic Gold, and to expand his family. Oh, and t...

Darian Cruz 2024 Olympic Qualifier, PIAA & NCAA Champ, VEWL Champ

One of the most personable and talented young wrestlers to ever represent the Lehigh Valley, talks about the start of his wrestling career, his influences, his love and passion for his family and heritage, and his foray into the freestyle wrestling world. Darian has also become a role model, and he's humbled by that responsibility. Despite all his success at the high school and collegiate levels, his ultimate goals are a World Championship and Olympic Gold, and to expand his family. Oh, and t...

Former BECA & Lehigh Wrestling star, & new family man, Darian Cruz' freestyle career is taking off !

One of the most personable and talented young wrestlers to ever represent the Lehigh Valley, talks about the start of his wrestling career, his influences, his love and passion for his family and heritage, and his foray into the freestyle wrestling world. Darian has also become a role model, and he's humbled by that responsibility. Despite all his success at the high school and collegiate levels, his ultimate goals are a World Championship and Olympic Gold, and to expand his family. Oh, and t...

Cedar Crest College starts a Women's Wrestling Program led by former Wilson HS stand out, Alex Depew

Cedar Crest College becomes the first College in the Lehigh Valley to have a Women's Intercollegiate Wrestling team. Former Wilson Area HS PIAA place winner, Alex Depew, and Assistant Coach, Austin Warman, are starting from scratch, but the Falcons are making history. Listen to this entertaining and ground-breaking effort by the Allentown-based college as it builds a Wrestling program using young women from other sports backgrounds. With solid support from school administrators, alumni, and l...

New Freedom High School Head Coach, Anthony Marino, is ready to roll !!!

Former Liberty High School wrestling standout, Anthony Marino, is taking charge of the Freedom High School Wrestling Program. Marino is working with a really good nucleus, and says his wrestlers' hard work and dedication will pay dividends. Coach Marino is grateful for the opportunity after several years learning the ropes as a solid Assistant Coach 💪👍💯

Meet Tom Elling, the "Governor of Pennsylvania Wrestling", former wrestler, coach & sport historian.

Tom Elling has given, and continues to give so much to the great sport of wrestling, not only in Pennsylvania, but throughout the country. The former English teacher is the epitome of what a "wrestler is, and can become". Tom gives back to the sport in so many ways as he brings together coaches, youth wrestlers, accomplished wrestlers, officials, wrestling pundits and lovers of the sport. He's a big reason why the sport continues to thrive on so many levels, and will continue to expand as fem...

Takedown Talk with Bob Matthews (Trailer)

Three-time PIAA Champ, Ryan Crookham of Saucon Valley, ends his high school career on a up note !

Ryan Crookham of Saucon Valley High School perseveres despite injuries and Covid, to win his third PA State Championship, and a PIAA Team Title with the Panthers. He credits his strong faith in God, his coaches & teammates, and support system for his success, and his day to day outlook. Listen to the Lehigh University commit as he tells about his past, present and future 👏💪

Lehigh's Ryan Crookham, FLO #1, ends his high school career, winning a third PIAA Championship.

Lehigh Valley District XI 2A Scholar Athlete, Ryan Crookham, now with Lehigh, persevered despite injuries and Covid to win three PA State Championships. He also won a PIAA Team Title with the Panthers, and credits his strong faith in God, his coaches & teammates, family and support system for his success, and his day to day outlook. Listen to the Lehigh University's 133 pounder as he talks about his past, present, and future !

Saucon Valley's Ryan Crookham, ends his high school career on a up note, winning a third PIAA title.

Lehigh Valley District XI 2A Scholar Athlete, Ryan Crookham of Saucon Valley High School, perseveres despite injuries and Covid, to win his third PA State Championship. He also won a PIAA Team Title with the Panthers, and credits his strong faith in God, his coaches & teammates, family and support system for his success, and his day to day outlook. Listen to the Lehigh University commit as he tells about his past, present and future 👏💪

Notre Dame Green Pond's 5 PIAA medalists 🥇🥈🥉 with coach Matt Veres.

A round table podcast with AA State champions, Brandan Chletsos and Holden Garcia of NDGP, and their teammates, who joined them on the podium at Hershey this past season. The Crusaders won their the PIAA Individual Team Championship 🏆🏆🏆

Notre Dame Green Pond's FIVE PIAA medalists 🥇🥈🥉 with coach Matt Veres.

A round table podcast with AA State champions, Brandan Chletsos and Holden Garcia of NDGP, and their teammates, who joined them on the podium at Hershey this past season. The Crusaders won their the PIAA Individual Team Championship 🏆🏆🏆

Get to know Tom Housenick, the award-winning local wrestling writer/reporter for the Morning Call.

Learn more about the man behind the wrestling headlines here in Northeast, Pennsylvania. Hear why Tom loves the sport, and goes above and beyond to deliver the coverage and stories the region has come to appreciate. Get the matside insight and inner circle perspective from one of the region's very best sports writers, and why Tom loves the wrestling experience !!!

Steve Powell, Legendary Easton Wrestling Coach, is featured in this two part podcast interview.

Honored to sit down and talk wrestling, coaching, volunteering, a Covid year, and a near death experience with former Easton Area High School Head Coach, Steve Powell.

Legendary Easton Wrestling Coach, Steve Powell, is featured in this two part podcast interview.

Honored to sit down and talk wrestling, coaching, volunteering, a Covid year, and a near death experience with former Easton Area High School Head Coach, Steve Powell.

Nazareth HS Freshman Sensation, Sean Kinney, grabs the spotlight on this edition of Takedown Talk !

Blue Eagle, Sean Kinney, took the Pennsylvania Wrestling World by storm, and blew through the post season competition to take a PIAA Silver Medal. Sean loves contact sports and his mom's kitchen skills.

Nazareth HS (now) PA State Champ, Sean Kinney, grabs the spotlight on this edition of Takedown Talk.

Blue Eagle, Sean Kinney, took the Pennsylvania Wrestling World by storm, and blew through the post season competition to take a PIAA Silver Medal as a freshman, and then this year one of PIAA championship. Sean loves contact sports and his mom's kitchen skills.

Sean Kinney, Nazareth's 3x PA State Champ, grabs the spotlight on this edition of Takedown Talk.

Blue Eagle, Sean Kinney, was just getting started and took the Pennsylvania Wrestling World by storm, and blew through the post season competition to take a PIAA Silver Medal as a freshman, and then this year one of PIAA championship. Sean loves contact sports and his mom's kitchen skills.

Sean Kinney, Nazareth's (now) PA State Champ, grabs the spotlight on this edition of Takedown Talk.

Blue Eagle, Sean Kinney, took the Pennsylvania Wrestling World by storm, and blew through the post season competition to take a PIAA Silver Medal as a freshman, and then this year one of PIAA championship. Sean loves contact sports and his mom's kitchen skills.

NJ/PA State Champ Brett Ungar of NDGP, tells us what it's like to battle his way to the top.

Notre Dame Green Pond State Champ, Brett Ungar, travels a tough road on his way to winning his first PA Title 🥇, and ending his 2020/21 season as the top ranked 120 pound high school wrestler in the country. Training hard and learning from a tough loss, fueled Brett's fire to do great things on and off the mat !!!

Brandon Paetzell, P'burg star & Lehigh University All-American, on 2020 & his hopes for 2021 & 22.

Lehigh's 125 lb A-A, and former Phillipsburg star, Brandon Paetzell shares some wrestling insight, career history, and what's behind his quest for a National title run.

P'burg star & Lehigh University A-A, Brandon Paetzell, on 2020 & his hopes for 2021.

Lehigh's 125 lb A-A, and former Phillipsburg star, Brandon Paetzell shares some wrestling insight, career history, and what's behind his quest for a National title run.

Dave Crowell, Legendary High School Wrestling Coach at Nazareth in an informative 2-part podcast !

Nazareth Head Coach Dave Crowell sat down with me for several hours and shared his thoughts on life, and what makes him tick. Also, hear about his journey with his son David, as he navigated through some challenging high school wrestling seasons, and how he became somewhat of a Cinderella story (if she had wrestled of course ;-) Take a look inside the man as he pulled back the curtain to share many of his coaching philosophies, stories and beliefs, and his concept of TEAM ! Oh, and his life a...

Legendary High School Wrestling Coach, Dave Crowell of Nazareth. A two-part podcast !!

Nazareth Head Coach Dave Crowell sat down with me for several hours and shared his thoughts on life, and what makes him tick. Also, hear about his journey with his son David, as he navigated through some challenging high school wrestling seasons, and how he became somewhat of a Cinderella story (if she had wrestled of course ;-) Take a look inside the man as he pulled back the curtain to share many of his coaching philosophies, stories and beliefs, and his concept of TEAM ! Oh, and his life a...

Listen Northampton High School's future all-time wins leader, Jagger Condomitti.

Jagger gives me a half-hour during this quarantine to talk about wrestling, family, folkstyle vs. freestyle, and his stellar youth and high school career. One of the Lehigh Valley's best young stars.

Listen this week to Northampton High School's future all-time wins leader, Jagger Condomitti.

Jagger gives me a half-hour during this quarantine to talk about wrestling, family, folkstyle vs. freestyle, and his stellar youth and high school career. One of the Lehigh Valley's best young stars.

Listen to Jagger Condomitti, Northampton High School Wrestling star, and PIAA runner-up.

Jagger gives me a half-hour during this quarantine to talk about wrestling, family, folkstyle vs. freestyle, and his stellar youth and high school career. One of the Lehigh Valley's best young stars.

Northampton High School's potential all-time wins leader, Jagger Condomitti, is my guest this week.

Jagger Condomitti gives me a half-hour during this quarantine to talk about wrestling, family, folkstyle vs. freestyle, and his stellar youth and high school career. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Delaware Valley (PA) H.S. Junior, Lily Sherer joins me for a candid interview on Takedown Talk.

This delightful and entertaining 2-time PA State Champ spends some of her quarantine time to chat with me about her wrestling journey, her influences, Covid-19, and her life

Lily Sherer, Delaware Valley PA H.S. State Champ, joins me for a candid interview on Takedown Talk.

This delightful and entertaining 2-time PA State Champ spends some of her quarantine time to chat with me about her wrestling journey, her influences, Covid-19, and her life