Advertise on podcast: "Takedown Talk" with Bob Matthews

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 !!!

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 👍

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 Shake and a Big Bundle Family Meal from McDonald's 😆

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.

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 !!

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 !!

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.

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 the ending was quick...we ran a little long, but it was worth it 🤔🤣👍💯

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 local athletes, Depew envisions big things ahead for these young Falcons as they fly into the spotlight of a growing and popular collegiate sport 👍👏💪

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 💪👍💯

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 female wrestling becomes the next great frontier 💪👏👏👍 We changed Tom's title to the "Governor of Pennsylvania Wrestling" 😁👍😉