Cornwall 57 Washingtonville 20
The 2018-2019 season marks the end of an era. Friday night’s 57-20 victory over Washingtonville was the last dual meet for Cornwall head coach Don Blaine. A NYSPHSAA and National Wrestling Hall of Fame inductee, Blaine has coached wrestling for 36 years and has never had a losing record! More than the wins and losses, Coach Blaine is the embodiment of what high school sports should be. Throughout his career Blaine has led his teams with integrity and has emphasized the importance of hard work, sportsmanship, and fair play. Apparently the formula has worked – Blaine finishes his dual meet career with an incredible record of 529-182-1. Blaine will coach in his final Section 9 Tournament next Friday and Saturday, 2/8 and 2/9, and then will wrap up his career two weeks later up in Albany at the NYSPHSAA Championships on 2/22 and 2/23.
An Email From One Legend to Another
The following email was sent to Coach Blaine from former Minisink Valley AD and wrestling coach Frank Carrozza.
Don,
Just read article on Section 9 site! It is hard to believe you have been coaching for so many years! I can remember when you were in the Dragon line up on those tough Cornwall teams. I was a rookie coach then at MV.
You have affected many young wrestlers at Cornwall. You have taught them many things not just how to wrestle, but how to be a gentleman as well. You were a fine example for all the young grapplers you have coached along the way.
You will be missed, but I am sure you will be now watching matches from the bleachers and cheering on the Green and White. You are truly one of Cornwall’s treasures!
Still Bridging,
Frank
PS- Regards to your family.
Congratulations “Donnie” on an absolutely remarkable career and thank you for all you have done for the sport of wrestling!