Arlington wrestling coach picks up 200th victory

By Evan Sporer, Globe Correspondent

When Arlington high school wrestling coach Kevin Cummings began the school’s program in 1996, he had eight wrestlers.

Now, 16 seasons later, Cummings and his team of 30 wrestlers are celebrating the program’s and its coach’s 200th win after host Arlington defeated Melrose, 39-38.

“We started off slow, and then we built it up every year,” said Cummings.

In his first year of coaching, Cummings and his eight wrestlers went 1-2. His captain, and first wrestler, Mike Covel, is now one of his assistant coaches, along with Sam Cafferson. Cummings credited his success to his assistants' help.

“They have been absolutely fabulous. I cannot say enough about how much they have helped this program develop,” said Cummings. Covel and Cafferson have been on the staff for 13 years.

Over that span, the team has not had a losing season. Two years ago, it finished 20-3, the most victories in a season. Last year Arlington was the Dual-County League champion, and Cummings was the Sectional Coach of the Year.

Cummings though, was quick to credit the contributions of others.

“We have had tremendous support from the administration, the parents, and the alumni,” the coach said.