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However, two weeks into the season, Duran began a stretch where injuries and illness would hamper his success.
Duran has persevered, battled through the obstacles and put himself back on track by winning the Edgemont Tournament 170-pound championship with a 10-2 major decision against Edgemont’s Chris Kim Saturday.
It is the second consecutive week Duran has won a tournament title. Last week, he was the Yonkers’ Tournament 170-pound titlist.
“It’s been a crazy season,” Duran said. “At the Mamaroneck tournament I got hurt and then I got the flu. In the final of the West Islip tournament, I passed out and had a mini seizure and against Sleepy Hollow, I got hurt again.
“Coming into the season I had never been hurt before so that’s what makes it so frustrating. I had to work through it.”
What enabled Duran to overcome the setbacks was his love for the sport.
“Wrestling has been a big part of my life for the last five years,” Duran said. “Wrestling has taught me so much. I love this sport.
“I also knew I needed to get back because Ben (Miller) and I work together every day in practice and we make each other better.”
Mamaroneck coach Anthony Vitti, who was Duran’s science teacher in sixth grade, is happy to see Duran back on the mat.
“Even though Dion has been slowed by injuries, he is starting to find his way again,” Vitti said. “Dion has a great attitude and keeps everything in perspective. He loves this sport and just wants to go out and wrestle. To see him come back and win, especially these last two weeks, makes me feel like a proud parent.”
Duran, who took control of the final with seven points in the second period, credits Miller, his friend, fellow captain and drill partner, for helping him.
“Ben and I go at it every day and it’s great when you have a great wrestling partner like Ben,” Duran said.
Miller decisioned Scarsdale's Joe Koshakow, by criteria, to win the 160-pound title and earn most outstanding wrestler honors.
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