by Cassidy Ronk

On National Letter of Intent Day, Woodbridge High School had two student-athletes sign to play their respective sports in college. Senior wrestler Bryan McLaughlin and senior baseball player Harry Rutkowski each confirmed they were going D1 as they officially signed during a small ceremony in school.

McLaughlin, who signed to Drexel University, credited most of his success as a wrestler to his coach and his hard work during the offseason. “I worked hard to be able to wrestle in college and finally everything paid off,” he said.
“I’m proud of Bryan,” Varsity Wrestling coach Mr. Carbone said. “He puts in the work 12 months of the year, not just the wrestling season. He’s the first wrestler to go D1 in 12 years. This is a huge weight off his back and I’m happy for him.”

Since sophomore year, McLaughlin has been looking at colleges. Last year, coaches from colleges all over the country began to contact him. McLaughlin is the first Woodbridge wrestler to win a state championship, and he also has over 100 wins during his high school career.

Senior Harry Rutkowski, who plays baseball, also signed his letter of intent after verbally committing to play after his sophomore year.

Rutkowski signed to Rutgers University, becoming the second D1 baseball player varsity baseball coach Mr. Urbano has coached. “[I feel] good about signing. There’s no more worries about choosing where I want to go now,” Rutkowski said.

“It’s an honor to coach a D1 athlete like Harry,” Coach Urbano said. “They don’t come around here too often.”
Rutkowski, who dreams of one day making it to Major League Baseball, always knew he wanted to play college baseball. “I knew I wanted to possibly go to Rutgers and play D1 [baseball],” Rutkowski said. “I want kids to remember my name when I leave WHS.”

“Harry is already on his way to break records in this school,” Coach Urbano said. “I’m very proud of him.”

Both athletes are preparing for their upcoming senior seasons and are looking forward to what the future holds for them.