Long layoffs have affected Bethlehem’s wrestling teams as well heading down the final stretch run of the season.

Liberty saw both of their bouts with Easton and Freedom postponed last week, while Freedom was cut short with their city showdown against Bethlehem Catholic and the Hurricanes. Becahi also had their match with Northampton canceled.

Trying to keep track of all the latest cancellations and team schedules at this point of the season has become a frustrating aspect for coaches.

Freedom (0-1) hasn’t been able to practice since January 19 in part because of a rash of COVID cases in the school, prompting a shutdown of athletics. This week’s snowstorm further pushed things back for head coach Dante Terenzio.

“To be clear, we have zero positive cases within our program and zero exposure to COVID,” said Terenzio. “With that said, we are the only team in the EPC unable to practice at this time. I think that’s what makes it frustrating. We’ve done everything correctly and still lost another huge chunk of our season.”

If things work out well for the Pates this week and next, they’ll be set to wrestle against Nazareth (2/5), Becahi (2/9) and Liberty (2/12) to round out the season.

Liberty (0-2) has Easton (2/6), Nazareth (2/8) and Freedom (2/12) left, while Becahi (2-0) has Nazareth (2/3) and Freedom (2/9).

The District 11 dual meet tournament is scheduled for the weekend of February 13 with teams able to enter under their own admission, but it’s not certain that Freedom or Liberty will be attending.

The Hawks will certainly be expected to participate as they will be favorites for the team crown.