2/26/2020
Makayla Carrafiello '21 had quite a month! On February 21, the first-year wrestler capped a remarkable season with a trip to the
National Prep School Championships at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Penn., where she placed fourth after going 2–2 in the tournament. She won her third match in an overtime thriller. Her strong finished earned her All-American status.
A week earlier, Makayla prevailed in the 106-pound weight class at the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) tournament in Hartford, Conn., by pinning her final opponent from Lawrence Academy in dramatic fashion in the third period after being behind on points.
"The only achievement I thought I was going to have this season was making some friends and learning more techniques with each move," Makayla said. "I ended up succeeding more then I dreamed of, and I made a family among the entire wrestling team."
She persisted throughout the season by recalling a quote from the U.S. Marine Corps: "Pain is weakness leaving the body."
Landmark School Athletic Director praised Makayla's perseverance and remarkable ascent.
"With the support of her coaches and teammates, Makayla has worked incredibly hard and became a real trailblazer for the Landmark girls wrestlers as well as an inspiration to her entire team," he said. "It's been amazing to watch her start out as someone just looking for a new challenge and then ending up placing fourth at the Prep Nationals! Makayla has a remarkable competitive drive!"
