WOODBURY — Some people just aren’t cut out for certain sports. That was the case for Nonnewaug senior Jeffery Bernardi and basketball. 

It all started when Bernardi was five:

“I was asked to leave the game,” Bernardi said. “I didn’t really find basketball enjoyable.”

But the end of Bernardi’s hoops career wasn’t because an official asked him to leave.

“My mom told me it was time to go,” Bernardi said.

But if not basketball, then what?   

“My dad was getting on to me about doing something,” Bernardi said. “Our neighbor [Tom Medonis] had a wrestling club in town. My dad and my uncle had wrestled, and so it really jump-started my career for wrestling. I found great success in little league, and it helped push [me] through.” 

Every athlete needs some sort of reason to keep going: Bernardi’s is the feeling of success.

“I’ve been motivated through many things, whether it’s my family support or the team cheering me on, but most of it is the thrill of winning,” Bernardi said.

Bernardi took second place within the BL his freshman year, first sophomore year, and back at second during junior year, 33-7. 

“There’s no other sport like it,” Bernardi said. “When you go out there, it’s just you and another guy. The lights are on, there’s a whole crowd watching, looking at you, cheering for you, booing you. It’s a great feeling, and it really puts you on the line.” 

Durkin Stankevich, a friend who’s been wrestling with Bernardi since fourth grade, states how much progress he has made. Bernardi goes to the gym every single day, right when he gets out of school. 

“He’s made a lot of progress both in and out of season, with strength and endurance which really sets him apart,” Stankevich said. “It’s been very fun getting to practice and compete alongside each other, especially since he’s one of my best friends.” 

Nearing the finale, Bernardi is making the most of his final season.

 “It’s bittersweet,” Bernardi said, “It’s been one hell of a ride.”