Montville Township High School wrestler Nick Lizza believes hard work and intense workouts make for success on the mats.

When he's not practicing with his Mustang teammates, the 103-pound freshman is  working out with a personal trainer.

The result has been a 14-3 record this season, including the 103-pound championship at the Lenape Valley Holiday Tournament over the Christmas/New Year's break.

"I'm always practicing to become the best," Lizza said following his victory Wednesday in Montville's match against High Point, the No. 1 team in the state. "If I'm not practicing with the team, I'm working out with my own personal trainer."

Success during the season and a trip to the state championships in Atlantic City are Lizza's goals for the 2010-11 season.

"Making it to Atlantic City is my main goal," he said. "I have a decent record and  I'm working to stay on top."

Lizza's coach, John Krip, said Lizza has what it takes to be a top wrestler in only his first year on varsity.

"He's a tough competitor," Krip said. "He's a good size and stays in control, stays focussed during his bouts.

"He doesn't make too many bad decisions," Krip continued. "He's a good, solid wrestler who doesn't make mistakes."

Lizza recorded his14th career win Wednesday when he defeated High Point's John Torppey 4-1. Despite his win, the Mustangs (6-4) fell to the Wildcats 43-12.

"I wrestle smart and conservatively," he said. "I'm feeling like I'm up there with everybody else."

 There is still a long way to go before the postseason tournaments, but Lizza feels he can continue to improve.

"It's been a good year, and I'm feeing good about the rest of the season," said Lizza, who also plays football and baseball. "I'm feeling confident."

Krip also sees added success for his young matman.

"Wrestling is his sport. He goes out of his way to get better," Krip said. "He is only going to get better."