SANBORN — Larry Aceti went to the National Junior College Athletic Association Wrestling Championships as a freshman last season. This year, just getting there won’t be enough.

“My goal is to be an All-American,” the Niagara County Community College sophomore and Niagara Falls High School graduate said. “Going to the tournament was a good learning experience. I realized what I had to work on.”

NCCC coach Eric Knuutila isn’t worried about Aceti not putting in enough work.

“He came in ready to go this year,” Knuutila said. He conditions every day.”

Knuutila told of how Aceti won his weight class at the Muskegon Tournament last weekend, then went right out the next day to run three miles.

“Only two of our wrestlers ran, and Larry was one of them,” he said. “Some of our wrestlers said they were too tired or too sore after the weekend, but while they were in bed, Larry was out running. That shows you his determination.”

And it’s not as if Aceti couldn’t have used the rest. In addition to wrestling, Aceti is taking a full load of classes at NCCC and working part-time at the Seneca Niagara Casino to help pay for his education.

“I’m doing well in school this year,” Aceti said. “I’d like to be an All-American and win the President’s Cup (given to the top student-athlete at NCCC).”

Knuutila feels that goal is achievable for Aceti, who posted a 33-17 record last year. Aceti won the Region III title and went 1-2 at the national championships.

“He’s a wonderful kid,” Knuutila said. “He’s capable of being an All-American. Winning the Muskegon Tournament is an impressive way to start the season.

“It’s a team accomplishment,” Aceti said. “We have a lot of wrestlers who can do well at nationals. As long as we work together, we can do well.”

This might be Aceti’s last hurrah in wrestling. After graduating from NCCC, he plans to major in physical education at Canisius College, a school that does not offer wrestling.

“I’d like to get involved in coaching at some level,” Aceti said. “Perhaps working with young kids.”

Not only will Aceti be able to teach them the finer points of wrestling, he’ll also be able to teach them the value of hard work.

n Aceti kept up his winning ways Wednesday, defeating Aaron Boland to help lead the Trailblazers to a 44-9 win over visiting Brock University of St. Catharines in an exhibition match.

NCCC returns to action this weekend with a dual meet at Alfred State on Friday before competing in the Alfred State Open Tournament on Saturday.

Contact Pat Murray at (716) 282-2311, Ext. 2258.