Ericson "EJ" Coney Makes a Statement at Districts, Takes Down #2 in the State
The stakes were high at yesterday’s district tournament, but Everglades High School’s Ericson "EJ" Coney showed up ready to silence the doubters. Competing in the 138-pound weight class as a freshman, EJ not only proved he belongs among the best but also delivered one of the most dominant performances of the event.
Coney was the highest scorer for Everglades, racking up 21 points for his team. However, his biggest moment of the tournament came when he took down Somerset’s Matteo Gonzalez, the #2-ranked wrestler in the state. The match wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. Coney left it all on the mat, overwhelming Gonzalez to the point where he had to be carried out, and couldn't continue. The upset sent shockwaves through the tournament and solidified Coney’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
Seeded third, Coney defied expectations and battled his way to the finals. Though he ultimately fell to Miramar’s senior standout Famous Nealy, finishing as the district runner-up as a freshman is no small feat. This marks the third year in a row that EJ is advancing to regionals, a testament to his consistent growth and hunger for success.
Coney’s transition from 113 pounds last season to 138 this year shows that he’s not just moving up in weight—he’s taking on bigger challenges and embracing them head-on.
When asked about his mindset and preparation, EJ shared his philosophy on wrestling:
How do you stay motivated when things get tough? “Think about a match that hurt me when I lost.”
What’s your go-to move or strategy in a match? “Think positive and think next score.”
How are you preparing for the championship season? “Focusing on what I can control.”
With a mindset like that, it’s no surprise EJ continues to rise to the occasion. As he heads into regionals, he carries momentum, confidence, and a chip on his shoulder. The wrestling world better take notice—Ericson "EJ" Coney is just getting started.
