American Stars Bommarito and Ferriter Emerge As Top Contenders To Watch
Porec’, Croatia- After another scorching weekend on the sand in Porec’, Croatia, its clear that American athletes are not just content to “attend” the Beach Wrestling World Series any longer. Several American athletes have already made it to both stops in Mexico and Croatia, and have posted strong showings that have them in contention for World Series Medals moving into the fall.
WHO’S THAT GIRL?
THAT girl is Eliana Bommarito! The most decorated beach wrestler to date in American history,and a reigning 2X World Champion. But the 2025 version of Eliana looks a little different that season’s past. With an emphasis on fitness and weight management for her college career, Bommarito has remade herself and is making adjustments to match her new athletic style. She finished third in Stop #1 and picked up another bronze in Porec’, losing to both athletes from Ukraine. The two bronze medals bring Eliana’s total medal count to eight, and have her in position for a run at a third consecutive title this fall.
IT PAYS TO BE FLEXIBLE
Kyle Ferriter is another young American talent that is hungry for higher finishes in this year’s series. Ferriter has displayed some of his potential in early matches this spring, with tight matches against several top opponents. He currently sits 3rd in the 90+ category, only 1600 points behind Daniel Ligeti of Hungary. The men’s unlimited weight is loaded with talent and returning champions, but Ferriter has the size, a gas tank, and the athletic explosiveness to give any opponent nightmares.
OTHER CONTENDERS
Alongside Bommarito and Ferriter, several other Americans are looking to etch their names in the record books if they can continue to improve and succeed at upcoming stops. Justin Benjamin had a breakout win over reigning world champion Levan Kelekhsashvili in Mexico, and continues to be gritty in one of the toughest weights on the tour. He has proven his ability to secure podium finishes, and with his current 4th place standing, it won’t be a surprise if Benjamin ends up on the final podium.
Rodney Love has also shown resilience on this years tour, with strong appearances at both stops. He currently sits top 10 in the series and shows improvement at each stop!
STILL TO COME
After a summer break in June and July, the tour will resume with stop #3 in Casablanca, Morocco, followed by a return to Katerini, Greece for stop #4 and the U17 and U20 World Championships. The series will culminate with the final stop in Alexandria Egypt. If the Americans, under the veteran leadership of Coach Tim Box, can continue to work hard and improve, then expect Americans to cash in when the final medal totals are tallied
