For the first time since 2016 and the second time in program history, Christian Brothers Academy Wrestling is the Shore Conference Champion.

The Colts defeated St. John Vianney and Howell in the semifinals and finals to win the title on January 31. It was the championship match against Howell that had seemed to be brewing throughout the season, coincidentally a rematch of the 2016 conference final.

Christian Brothers jumped out to 32-9 lead over Howell, but a talented Rebels team closed the gap. The Colts did enough scoring early to hold off a comeback, winning 38-29.

"The boys showed up and earned the team title by continuing to get better each day," said head coach Billy Ashnault. "The team has been fired up since our dual meet with Howell last month and that showed on the mat. I told the boys to keep coming together as a team, holding each other accountable and good things will happen."

CBA lost to Howell by just one point in early January, but the team's upperclassmen leaders made sure that would not happen again.

Tyler Venet, Julian George, Tyler Barrett, and Zander Silva each won by fall, while Garrett Totten notched a technical fall. CBA ultimately won eight of the match's 14 bouts, including wins by Robert Canterino, Alex Nini and AJ Falcone.

CBA will try to continue its winning run in the state tournament, which starts on February 9. The Colts earned the number one seed in the Non-Public A South section. They will host the winner of St. Joseph (Metuchen) and Camden Catholic.