WNY Athletics Wrestler of the Week: Simon Lingle

Newfane senior Simon Lingle has been selected as the WNY Athletics Wrestler of the Week for the third week of the 2021-2022 season (Monday, December 13th – Saturday, December 18th).

Lingle captured the Linda Knuutila Memorial Tournament 189-pound title on Saturday at Niagara County Community College and in doing so helped the Panthers to a first place finish in the team standings. Lingle entered the tournament as the 2-seed in the weight class and earned three championship round pins and a semifinals decision to advance to the final. Going into the 1st place bout, Newfane trailed Niagara Falls by half a team point. Lingle’s late takedown and pin in overtime of the 1st place match secured the 189-pound individual title and pushed the Panthers ahead of the Wolverines for good in the team race.

Lingle (13-1) has been a huge part of the Panthers’ early success this season. The Panthers currently sit at 10-1 overall and atop the the latest WNY Athletics dual meet power ranking among the area’s small schools.

Lingle’s coaches credit his work ethic and perseverance for Simon’s success. Lingle’s coaches noted his ‘never quit’ attitude and the leadership role amongst his teammates that he has earned through his efforts.