Coming up short, four Spartan seasons end at sectionals

CLINTON - On Sunday morning, three St. Joseph-Ogden wrestlers who qualified for sectionals are grappling with season-ending losses, just one victory away from competing at the IHSA Individual Wrestling State Finals this coming Thursday through Saturday. After two days and 18 matches among the four Spartans, their chance for individual glory will have to wait, at least for two of them.

Freshman Ben Wells rebounded from his quarterfinal loss on Friday, winning his next two matches at the Clinton sectional on Saturday. Facing Olympia's Brandon Gaither (40-9) in the 106-pound consolation semifinal, he struggled and fell 17-1 in the second period, concluding his first season with a 38-13 record. Gaither went on to finish third in the division.

Sophomore Cam Wagner also experienced a tough loss in his consolation semifinal to Peoria Notre Dame's Brady Mullen, who defeated him in just 42 seconds. Wagner, in his debut varsity wrestling season, achieved 37 wins against 15 losses.

Senior Jackson Walsh, finishing his final season with over 40 wins, lost his consolation semifinal to PORTA's Kainin Fillbright, who finished fourth in the 113-pound division. Walsh's prep career ended via pin just 57 seconds into the match.

The fourth SJO wrestler at sectionals, senior Landen Butts, faced a challenging draw and concluded the tournament with a 0-2 record. He wraps up the season with a 35-15 record.

Below is the summary of how all four wrestlers performed at the Clinton sectional tournament:

SJO Sectional Summary

144 - Landen Butts (35-15)

Champ. Round 1 - Hayden Washum, Normal University won by decision over Landen Butts - Dec 10-8

Cons. Round 1 - Landen Butts received a bye

Cons. Round 2 - Austin Kisner, Olympia won by tech fall over Landen Butts TF-1.5 5:05 (17-1)

113 - Jackson Walsh (41-10)

Champ. Round 1 - Jackson Walsh received a bye

Quarterfinal - Briley Carter, Clinton won by decision over Jackson Walsh Dec 13-8

Cons. Round 2 - Jackson Walsh won by fall over Jackson Buehler, Camp Point Central - Fall 3:53

Cons. Round 3 - Jackson Walsh won by fall over Bryan Islas, Beardstown - Fall 4:28

Cons. Semi - Kainin Fillbright, PORTA won by fall over Jackson Walsh - Fall 0:57

285 - Cam Wagner (37-15)

Champ. Round 1 - Cam Wagner won by fall over Liam Dodsworth, Williamsville - Fall 2:33

Quarterfinal - Darian Holloway, Olympia won by fall over Cam Wagner - Fall 0:53

Cons. Round 2 - Cam Wagner won by tech fall over Dawson Thayer, Clinton - TF-1.5 1:44 (15-0)

Cons. Round 3 - Cam Wagner won by fall over Joey Humphries, Dee-Mac - Fall 4:56

Cons. Semi - Brady Mullens, Peoria Notre Dame won by fall over Cam Wagner - Fall 0:42

106 - Ben Wells (38-13)

Champ. Round 1 - Ben Wells won by fall over Cayden Bostic, Clinton - Fall 2:53

Quarterfinal - Jaxsun Owens, Canton won by fall over Ben Wells - Fall 1:43

Cons. Round 2 - Ben Wells won by fall over Jayden Schmider, Farmington -Fall 0:50

Cons. Round 3 - Ben Wells won by fall over Kole Petta, El Paso-Gridley - Fall 3:37

Cons. Semi - Brandon Gaither, Olympia won by tech fall over Ben Wells - TF-1.5 2:37 (17-1)

Spartans dominate on the mats at IPC conference wrestling meet

CHILLICOTHE - The St. Joseph-Ogden Spartans showcased their dominance during the first day of the two-day Illini Prairie Conference wrestling meet on Jan. 17 at Illinois Valley Central High School, going undefeated with a 3-0 record. The Spartans capped their performance with a commanding 66-12 victory over the St. Thomas More Sabers.

The Spartans also notched decisive wins against Prairie Central (54-12) and Pontiac (48-35) to complete their sweep of day one.

The meet began at 106 pounds, where St. Joseph-Ogden’s Ben Wells set the tone with a first-period pin over RJ Cinnamon of St. Thomas More in just 1:30. Wells’ performance was one of the few contested matches, as the Sabers forfeited 10 of the 14 weight classes.

St. Thomas More found success in two of the three matches wrestled. Philip Christhilf earned a pin at 157 pounds, defeating Jonathon Moore of St. Joseph-Ogden in 1:23. James Schmidt added another win for the Sabers at 215 pounds, pinning Nathan Phillips in 1:32.

The Spartans’ depth was evident throughout the meet, with wrestlers like Jackson Walsh (113 pounds), Camden Getty (120 pounds), and Devan Swisher (175 pounds) earning points through forfeits. Aiden Hundley (138 pounds), Landen Butts (144 pounds), and Thomas Ware (150 pounds) also were present to help dominant scoreline.

With the victory, St. Joseph-Ogden improved its season record and solidified its position as a top contender in the conference. The team’s strong showing highlights its potential as postseason tournaments approach.

Next on the Schedule

The Spartans will host a multi-quad meet this Saturday, facing Decatur Unity Christian, Decatur MacArthur, Hoopeston, Cumberland, and St. Thomas More. Matches begin at 8:30 a.m.

St. Joseph-Ogden then hits the road for dual meets at Champaign Central High School on Wednesday, Jan. 29, and at GCMS on Thursday, Jan. 30.

Box Score

106 - WELLS, BEN (SJO) over Cinnamon, RJ (STM), Fall 1:30; 113 - WALSH, JACKSON (SJO) over Forfeit, (STM), FORFEIT; 120 - GETTY, CAMDEN (SJO) over Forfeit, (STM), FORFEIT; 126 - BIRT, ELI (SJO) over Forfeit, (STM), FORFEIT; 132 - Forfeit, (STM) over Forfeit, (SJO), Double Forfeit; 138 - HUNDLEY, AIDEN (SJO) over Forfeit, (STM), FORFEIT; 144 - BUTTS, LANDEN (SJO) over Forfeit, (STM), FORFEIT; 150 - WARE, THOMAS (SJO) over Forfeit, (STM), FORFEIT; 157 - Christhilf, Philip (STM) over MOORE, JONATHON (SJO), Fall 1:23; 165 - VAUGHN, ALEX (SJO) over Forfeit, (STM), FORFEIT; 175 - SWISHER, DEVAN (SJO) over Forfeit, (STM), FORFEIT; 190 - Carter, Liam (SJO) over Forfeit, (STM), FORFEIT; 215 - Schmidt, James (STM) over PHILLIPS, NATHAN (SJO), Fall 1:32; 285 - WAGNER, CAM (SJO) over Forfeit, (STM), FORFEIT.

Related articles:

St. Joseph-Ogden secures hard-fought victory over Pontiac at IPC meet

CHILLICOTHE - The St. Joseph-Ogden wrestling team had an impressive run during the first day of the two-day Illini Prairie Conference wrestling meet on Jan. 17 at Illinois Valley Central High School, defeating the Pontiac Indians 48-35 in a closely contested dual.

The Spartans, who went 3-0 on day one, also secured commanding wins against Prairie Central (54-12) and St. Thomas More (66-12).

The meet began at 106 pounds, with Ben Wells earning a forfeit victory for the Spartans. At 113 pounds, Jackson Walsh notched the first of several key first-period pins for St. Joseph-Ogden, defeating Pontiac’s Sophia Mussari in 1:49. Cam Wagner, a standout sophomore heavyweight, capped the match with a first-period pin over Hunter McCullough in 1:35 to seal the victory. Wagner, who is enjoying a stellar debut season, is also a top-rated football player in Illinois with Division I scholarship offers from Nebraska, Illinois, Louisville, Miami of Ohio, and Iowa.

Other Spartans who delivered standout performances included Aiden Hundley (138 pounds), who pinned Kooper Wiles in 5:35, and Landen Butts (144 pounds), who recorded a fall over Cale Christenson in 5:60. Jonathan Moore (157 pounds) also added a pin, defeating Hunter Christenson in 3:02.

Pontiac kept the meet competitive with wins in several weight classes, including Noah Davis’ technical fall at 126 pounds and pins by Brayden Quas (150 pounds), Lucas Maier (165 pounds), Carlito Lattin (175 pounds), and Jackson Crawford (190 pounds). Despite their efforts, the Indians fell short as the Spartans’ depth and ability to secure bonus points proved decisive.

Box Score

106 - WELLS, BEN (SJO) over Forfeit, (Pontiac), FORFEIT; 113 - WALSH, JACKSON (SJO) over Mussari, Sophia (Pontiac), Fall 1:49; 120 - GETTY, CAMDEN (SJO) over Forfeit, (Pontiac), FORFEIT; 126 - Davis, Noah (Pontiac) over BIRT, ELI (SJO), Tech Fall 18-2; 132 - Hoegger, Alex (Pontiac) over Forfeit, (SJO), FORFEIT; 138 - HUNDLEY, AIDEN (SJO) over Wiles, Kooper (Pontiac), Fall 5:35; 144 - BUTTS, LANDEN (SJO) over Christenson, Cale (Pontiac), Fall 5:60; 150 - Quas, Brayden (Pontiac) over WARE, THOMAS (SJO), Fall 4:13; 157 - MOORE, JONATHON (SJO) over Christenson, Hunter (Pontiac), Fall 3:02; 165 - Maier, Lucas (Pontiac) over VAUGHN, ALEX (SJO), Fall 3:39; 175 - Lattin, Carlito (Pontiac) over SWISHER, DEVAN (SJO), Fall 8:28; 190 - Crawford, Jackson (Pontiac) over Carter, Liam (SJO), Fall 4:49; 215 - PHILLIPS, NATHAN (SJO) over Forfeit, (Pontiac), FORFEIT; 285 - WAGNER, CAM (SJO) over McCullough, Hunter (Pontiac), Fall 1:35.

Related articles:

SJO rolls past Prairie Central at IPC Meet, Walsh notches first period-pin in rout

CHILLICOTHE - Michael Jackson sang "Don't Stop 'til You Get Enough" and the St. Joseph-Ogden wrestling took the song to heart, going undefeated during the first day of competition and the Illini Prairie Conference wrestling meet last week.

SJO grapplers delivered a commanding performance on Jan. 17, overwhelming the Prairie Central Hawks 54-12 at the two-day Illini Prairie Conference wrestling meet at Illinois Valley Central High School. The Spartans also claimed victories over Pontiac (48-35) and St. Thomas More (66-12).

Despite a few competitive bouts, including a 10-7 overtime decision at 138 pounds in favor of Prairie Central’s John Traub over Aiden Hundley, the Spartans’ depth and ability to secure bonus points proved decisive. Other key contributors included Eli Birt (126 pounds), who earned a 4-1 decision, and Devan Swisher (175 pounds), who posted a 10-3 decision.

Ben Wells (106 pounds) won the dual opener for the Spartans by pinning Prairie Central’s Andrew Patino in 1:37. Jackson Walsh (113 pounds) followed with another first-period pin, defeating Julius Smith in 1:33. Camden Getty (120 pounds) kept the momentum going, recording a fall over Prestin Gero in 2:08.

Landen Butts (144 pounds) added to the Spartans’ strong showing with a pin over Daemian Spisak in 4:20, while heavyweight Cam Wagner capped the dual with a forfeit victory. Wagner, a sophomore enjoying a standout debut season, is also a top-rated football player with Division I scholarship offers.

Day one conference meet standouts

Several Spartans delivered standout performances across all three matches on day one. Walsh (113 pounds) was a force on the mat, securing two first-period pins, including a 1:49 fall against Pontiac’s Sophia Mussari. Getty (120 pounds) also recorded two pins, showcasing the improvement he has made through the hard work he put in during the off-season.

Wagner (285 pounds) continued to impress with two falls, including a decisive 1:35 pin over Pontiac’s Hunter McCullough. Butts (144 pounds) added two pins to his tally, further highlighting the Spartans’ dominance in the middleweight classes.

Box Score

106 - WELLS, BEN (SJO) over Patino, Andrew (PC), Fall 1:37; 113 - WALSH, JACKSON (SJO) over Smith, Julius (PC), Fall 1:33; 120 - GETTY, CAMDEN (SJO) over Gero, Prestin (PC), Fall 2:08; 126 - BIRT, ELI (SJO) over Clemons, Drake (PC), Decision 4-1; 132 - Forfeit, (PC) over Forfeit, (SJO), Double Forfeit; 138 - Traub, John (PC) over HUNDLEY, AIDEN (SJO), Decision 10-7 (OT); 144 - BUTTS, LANDEN (SJO) over Spisak, Daemian (PC), Fall 4:20; 150 - WARE, THOMAS (SJO) over Forfeit, (PC), FORFEIT; 157 - Ziller, Ethan (PC) over MOORE, JONATHON (SJO), Decision 9-6; 165 - Martin, Jaxson (PC) over VAUGHN, ALEX (SJO), Fall 1:02; 175 - SWISHER, DEVAN (SJO) over Mowery, Elijah (PC), Decision 10-3; 190 - Carter, Liam (SJO) over Forfeit, (PC), FORFEIT; 215 - PHILLIPS, NATHAN (SJO) over Forfeit, (PC), FORFEIT; 285 - WAGNER, CAM (SJO) over Forfeit, (PC), FORFEIT.

Related articles:

St. Joseph-Ogden ties Monticello at conference wrestling meet, Wagner averts SJO loss

CHILLICOTHE - St. Joseph-Ogden wrestling showcased resilience and grit on January 18 during the Illini Prairie Conference at Illinois Valley Central High School, battling Monticello to a dramatic 40-40 tie.

After defeating Rantoul earlier in the tournament, the Spartans started strong against the Sages, jumping to a commanding 17-0 lead. Jackson Walsh set the tone with a dominant 17-0 tech fall over Aiden Komnick at 113 pounds, while Camden Getty followed with a lightning-fast 34-second pin against Monticello's Kellan Lamb at 120 pounds.

Monticello responded with a string of victories, including Nick Litchfield’s 18-2 tech fall at 126 pounds and a forfeit at 132 pounds. Despite SJO's Aiden Hundley and Landen Butts securing key wins at 138 and 144 pounds, Monticello mounted a comeback. Russ Brown’s 16-1 tech fall at 190 pounds tied the score at 34-all, and Hunter Romano’s second-period pin at 215 pounds gave the Sages their first lead of the match, 40-34.

The Spartans’ hopes rested on sophomore heavyweight Cam Wagner, who delivered under pressure. Wagner pinned Nate Darnell in just 55 seconds, tying the match at 40-40 and preserving SJO’s unbeaten record for the day.

With Monticello behind them, the Spartans faced two more challenges on Saturday: Unity, a 2023 IHSA Class 1A Elite 8 team, and host Illinois Valley Central.

Summary of Key Results

106: Ben Wells (SJO) pinned River Young (Monticello), 1:32
113: Jackson Walsh (SJO) tech fall over Aiden Komnick (Monticello), 17-0
120: Camden Getty (SJO) pinned Kellan Lamb (Monticello), 0:34
138: Aiden Hundley (SJO) pinned Daniel Moore (Monticello), 1:31
144: Landen Butts (SJO) tech fall over Drake Weeks (Monticello), 16-0
190: Russ Brown (Monticello) tech fall over Carter Liam (SJO), 16-1
215: Hunter Romano (Monticello) pinned Nathan Phillips (SJO), 4:38
285: Cam Wagner (SJO) pinned Nate Darnell (Monticello), 0:55

Box Score

106 - WELLS, BEN (SJO) over Young, River (Monticello), Fall 1:32; 113 - WALSH, JACKSON (SJO) over Komnick, Aiden (Monticello), Tech Fall 17-0; 120 - GETTY, CAMDEN (SJO) over Lamb, Kellan (Monticello), Fall 0:34; 126 - Litchfield, Nick (Monticello) over BIRT, ELI (SJO), Tech Fall 18-2; 132 - Osborne, Will (Monticello) over Forfeit, (SJO), FORFEIT; 138 - HUNDLEY, AIDEN (SJO) over Moore, Daniel (Monticello), Fall 1:31; 144 - BUTTS, LANDEN (SJO) over Weeks, Drake (Monticello), Tech Fall 16-0; 150 - Ducker, Isaiah (Monticello) over WARE, THOMAS (SJO), Fall 0:35; 157 - Shubert, Colton (Monticello) over DALY, NATHAN (SJO), Fall 1:08; 165 - MOORE, JONATHON (SJO) over Mikulich, Christian (Monticello), Fall 5:51; 175 - Sinkosky, Max (Monticello) over SWISHER, DEVAN (SJO), Fall 0:55; 190 - Brown, Russ (Monticello) over Carter, Liam (SJO), Tech Fall 16-1; 215 - Romano, Hunter (Monticello) over PHILLIPS, NATHAN (SJO), Fall 4:38; 285 - WAGNER, CAM (SJO) over Darnell, Nate (Monticello), Fall 0:55.

Related articles:

Unity topples SJO in conference meet wrestling showdown

CHILLICOTHE - In a clash between perennial rivals, Unity soared to a commanding victory over St. Joseph-Ogden in a dual meet that showcased the prowess of Unity's senior wrestlers. The match, held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, underscored Unity's dominance as they clinched a decisive 49-17 win over their opponents on the way to the Illini Prairie Conference title.

Unity, boasting a lineup featuring four seasoned seniors who were all state finalists last season, delivered a masterclass performance from start to finish. Leading the charge was Hunter Eastin, the defending state champion who stepped up in weight to 215 pounds for this encounter. Eastin's technical proficiency was in play as he pinned his opponent from SJO, Nathan Phillips, in 2 minutes and 10 seconds, contributing crucial points to Unity's overall score.

Hunter Eastin declared state champion

Unity's Hunter Eastin is declared winner after his 5-2 win over St. Thomas More's Brody Cuppernell in the 190 pound title match at the 2024 IHSA Individual Wrestling State Finals. See more photos from his state victory here. Eastin made short work of St. Joseph-Ogden's Nathan Phillips in their 215 pound match at the Illini Prairie Conference Meet.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Joining Eastin in Unity's formidable senior quartet were Kaden Inman, Holden Brazelton, and Ryan Rink, each bringing their own stellar track records to the mat. Inman, a senior standout who narrowly missed the state title last year, left no room for doubt in his match at 144 pounds, securing a dominant technical fall victory over SJO's Landen Butts with a commanding score of 19-4. Brazelton, who recently transferred to Unity from St. Joseph-Ogden, won his 150-pound match with a convincing tech fall, earning 17 unanswered points against his opponent, Thomas Ware.

Ryan Rink, another integral part of Unity's senior cadre, demonstrated his resilience and skill at 175 pounds, overpowering his counterpart from SJO with an 18-3 tech fall victory. These performances highlighted Unity's depth and experience, underscoring their status as a force to be reckoned with in the conference and beyond.

The dual meet began with early momentum swings, as SJO claimed forfeit victories at 106 and 113 pounds, courtesy of Ben Wells and Jackson Walsh, respectively. However, Unity quickly turned the tide with a series of strategic victories, starting with Zayden Mansfield's hard-fought decision over Camden Getty at 120 pounds, setting the stage for Unity's dominant run.

St. Joseph-Ogden's only bright spot was once again at heavyweight. Sophomore Cameron Wagner stuck Unity's Jaden Dene at 5:45 to give the Spartans their only contested win against the Rockets.

Throughout the match, Unity's conditioning and mental toughness, exemplified by Bryce Martin's controlled decision over Eli Birt at 126 pounds and Taylor Finley's decisive pin at 138 pounds. Keegan Germano and Abram Davidson continued Unity's winning ways with pins at 157 and 165 pounds, respectively, solidifying their team's dominant victory.

As the final whistle blew, Unity celebrated a resounding 49-17 triumph over St. Joseph-Ogden. With the postseason around the corner, Unity looks locked and loaded for another trip to Bloomington for the state team dual championships.

With state-ranked seniors Inman, Brazelton, Rink, and Eastin leading the Rockets, the program is poised take this year's Class 1A team title.

Box Score

106 - WELLS, BEN (SJO) over Forfeit, (Unity), FORFEIT; 113 - WALSH, JACKSON (SJO) over Forfeit, (Unity), FORFEIT; 120 - Mansfield, Zayden (Unity) over GETTY, CAMDEN (SJO), Decision 14-8; 126 - Martin, Bryce (Unity) over BIRT, ELI (SJO), Decision 11-4; 132 - Forfeit, (Unity) over Forfeit, (SJO), Double Forfeit; 138 - Finley, Taylor (Unity) over HUNDLEY, AIDEN (SJO), Fall 4:28; 144 - Inman, Kaden (Unity) over BUTTS, LANDEN (SJO), Tech Fall 19-4; 150 - Brazelton, Holden (Unity) over WARE, THOMAS (SJO), Tech Fall 17-0; 157 - Germano, Keegan (Unity) over DALY, NATHAN (SJO), Fall 3:55; 165 - Davidson, Abram (Unity) over MOORE, JONATHON (SJO), Fall 3:58; 175 - Rink, Ryan (Unity) over SWISHER, DEVAN (SJO), Tech Fall 18-3; 190 - Winfrey, Desmond (Unity) over Carter, Liam (SJO), Maj Dec 16-2; 215 - Eastin, Hunter (Unity) over PHILLIPS, NATHAN (SJO), Fall 2:10; 285 - WAGNER, CAM (SJO) over Dene, Jaden (Unity), Fall 5:45.

SJO wrestlers still in the mix at sectionals for a spot to the IHSA state wrestling tournament

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

St. Joseph-Ogden Landen Butts heads back to the bench after his match during the Spartans' home dual against Hoopeston last month. The 144-pounder lost his opening match on Friday. He needs two wins today to advance to the IHSA state wrestling tournament next weekend. Butts and three other sectional qualifiers are still active at the Clinton sectional, hoping to advance to state on the consolation side of their brackets.

CLINTON - Four wrestlers from St. Joseph-Ogden launched their sectional campaigns yesterday at Clinton High School, aiming for a spot in this year's state tournament at State Farm Center on Friday. Here's a recap of their performances:

Jackson Walsh fell 13-8 in his quarterfinal match against Clinton's Briley Carter in the 113-pound weight class. Walsh started strong, leading 4-2 in the first period with a takedown and a penalty point. In the second period, he maintained control, extending his lead to 6-5 despite conceding a reversal. However, Carter turned the tide in the final period, securing a takedown and nearfall to take a decisive 13-6 lead. Walsh fought back with a reversal in the closing seconds but ultimately moved to the consolation bracket, now aiming for a third-place finish. Today, he faces sophomore Jackson Buehler (25-22) from Camp Point Central.

Cam Wagner began his sectional debut with a victory, pinning Williamsville's sophomore Liam Dodsworth in 2:33. He faced a first-period defeat in his second match against Olympia's Darian Holloway. Wagner advances to the consolation round in the 285-pound bracket, where he will meet Clinton senior Dawson Thayer (26-6).

Another Spartan, Ben Wells, also contends for a third-place finish today. He is set to wrestle Farmington freshman Jayden Schmider (19-24) in the consolation bracket. Wells secured his sectional opener with a second-period pin against Clinton's Cayden Bostic. In his subsequent match, he was pinned in the first period by Canton's Jaxsun Owens.

Today, senior Landen Butts (35-14) continues his pursuit through the 144-pound consolation bracket. Butts narrowly lost his opening match to Normal University's Hayden Washum, 10-8. Washum took an early lead with a takedown and near fall in the first period, leading 5-0. Butts responded in the second period with a reversal, closing the gap. Washum earned an escape point, countered by Butts with a takedown, making it a one-point match. In the third period, Butts briefly led 8-6 with a takedown but was outscored by Washum, who secured a reversal and near fall in the final seconds to win 10-8.

Receiving a bye in the second round of the consolation bracket, Butts faces Olympia's Austin Kisner today. He needs two victories to secure a spot in next week's state tournament in Champaign.

Spartan wrestlers advance to IHSA sectionals after big day at Monticello regional

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

St. Joseph-Ogden senior Jackson Walsh wrestles MacArthur's Tristan Green during their 120 pound match last month. Walsh was one of four Spartan wrestlers who advanced out of the Monticello regional meet on Saturday to sectionals.

MONTICELLO - Four St. Joseph-Ogden wrestlers advanced to this year's IHSA sectional meet at Clinton this Friday and Saturday. Ben Wells, Jackson Walsh, Landen Butts, and Cam Wagner, each with over 34 wins this season, wrestled their way out of the regional meet at Monticello High School last Saturday.

Wells, who is 35-11 for the season, finished second at 106 pounds for SJO, losing the title bout to Hoopeston Area's Charlie Flores (44-3) a minute and two seconds into their match. Finishing 2-1 for the day, the SJO freshman standout pinned St. Thomas More's RJ Cinnamon (19-15) in their quarterfinal match and notched an 18-3 technical fall against LeRoy's Austin Pacha.

At 113 pounds, Jackson Walsh went 3-0 to win a regional title for the Spartans. After a bye in the quarterfinals, Walsh faced Prairie Central's Julius Smith, whom he pinned a minute and 11 seconds into their match. His title match pitted him against LeRoy's Jake Baughman (23-21). With his best technical performance of the season, Walsh built a 15-point advantage for a tech fall, improving his season record to 39-8.

Senior Landen Butts was on the mat four times on his way to third place and qualifying for the sectional championships. After a first-round bye and cruising past Pontiac's Cale Christenson, Butts went toe-to-toe with Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley's Ethan Lowe in the 144-pound semifinal.

Lowe led on the scoreboard, going up 3-0 with a late first-period takedown. Neither wrestler could score in the second period. Lowe scored an escape and another takedown in the final period before getting the pin at 3:29. In the consolation bracket, Butts won his last two matches to finish the day 3-1 and in third place.

Cam Wagner also punched his ticket for a sectional appearance wearing the Spartans' maroon and Columbia blue. The coveted nationally recruited D1 lineman finished the day 2-1 and second in the 285-pound division. After the sophomore won his first two matches by pin, he was pinned himself in the division's title bout against LeRoy's Tate Sigler (41-5).

Also scoring major team points for the Spartans were Nathan Phillips (23-17) and Aiden Hundley (26-25), both finishing fourth in the 215- and 138-pound divisions, respectively.

Phillips went 2-2 with both losses to Unity's Chason Daly (21-21), concluding his final season with the SJO wrestling program with 23 wins and 17 losses.

If there were an award for the most matches wrestled, Hundley easily would have won it, having wrestled six matches. The sophomore won four matches via pins, totaling four minutes and 46 seconds, with three lasting an average of 45 seconds.

App created to help LGBTQ+ reduce debt and increase savings

Photo: StatePoint

StatePoint Media - While many Americans have financial concerns about the future, these anxieties are far more prominent among the LGBTQ+ community.

LGBTQ+ adults 60 and older earn less money and have more trouble paying their rent, mortgage, and other expenses than their non-LGBTQ+ peers, according to research from the Leading Age LTSS Center @UMass Boston and the National Council on Aging. SAGE, the world’s largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ elders, reports that 51% of LGBTQ+ elders are very or extremely concerned about simply having enough money to live on, compared to 36% of their non-LGBTQ+ peers.

Economic experts say that this financial security gap is a direct legacy of past governmental policies that put LGBTQ+ adults at a financial disadvantage, as well as ongoing discrimination that makes it harder for members of this community to secure employment, inclusive healthcare, family support and other fundamentals many take for granted throughout their lives and as they age.

Recent efforts are helping improve outcomes for the most vulnerable members of the community. For example, SAGECents is a digital financial wellness tool created specifically for the estimated 3 million LGBTQ+ Americans currently over 50, to help increase financial stability and reduce economic stress.

Launched in 2020, SAGECents is a collaboration between SAGE and LifeCents, a financial wellness technology and consulting firm, with the tool fully funded by the Wells Fargo Foundation.

This groundbreaking program is putting financial wellness into the palm of people’s hands. By creating a free account, SAGECents assesses each participant’s financial health, giving them much needed insights into their financial lives and a starting point to help them make financial decisions that improve their financial wellbeing. This includes information such as what benefits are available through Medicare, how to create a health proxy and a living will, and tips for increasing credit scores.

The app can also pair users with certified, LGBTQ-proficient financial counselors. Nearly 50% of SAGECents participants report saving an average of $571, more than 38% have reduced their debt an average of $591, and 39% have raised their credit score an average of 26 points. To learn more, visit sageusa.org.

“This is the generation that fought at Stonewall, and beyond, for the rights that so many of us enjoy. But sadly, this also is a generation that faced years of discrimination and underemployment and they are struggling financially in their later years,” says Christina DaCosta, SAGE chief experience officer. “Through the comprehensive resources and tools offered by SAGECents, we aim to empower and support these elders to achieve financial prosperity.”

In addition to widening access to financial tools for individuals, the Wells Fargo Foundation also supports SAGE’s efforts to break down the barriers responsible for this financial security gap, such as advocating against housing discrimination.

“At the root of the financial security gap is systemic discrimination. Tackling those issues is at the heart of our company’s efforts to create a stable financial future for members of the LGBTQ+ community,” says Ben-James Brown, Financial Health Philanthropy, Wells Fargo Foundation.

Wow! 42% of the student body earned academic letters at SJO

While St. Joseph-Ogden High School may be known outside of the community for its competitive prowess in sports like softball, baseball and football, all which receive a healthy dose of media attention through out the year, the student population is equally impressive when it comes to their studies and classroom pursuit.

Friday morning, SJO held an awards ceremony to recognize current students and May graduates from the Class of 2019 for their academic performance during the 2018-19 school year.

SJO students cheer for the football team at Friday's homecoming game against Pontiac. Despite a rigorous academic standards and plenty of opportunities for extracurricular activities, nearly half of the student population at the high school enjoys a GPA of 3.6 or better. Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks

One hundred and ninety-one individuals from last year's student body of 452 earned an academic letter. When you do the math, that is a remarkable number statistically and even more so when you compare it to other public schools not only in the area, but around the state.

"(It) means 42% of our students earned at least a 3.6 GPA for the entire school year, had no D or F’s, and was enrolled in at least five academic classes," said Principal Gary Page, III, in his address to students, parents and family members in attendance at an all-school assembly. "To put that in perspective if a student takes six academic classes they need an A in four classes and at least a B in the other two to achieve a 3.6."

Noting that the majority of the students are involved in two or more extracurricular pursuits like the performing arts, FFA or are multi-sport athletes, the number of students receiving an academic letter is certainly impressive.

"When you combine that statistic with our high standards for classroom rigor it screams excellence," Page said, proud of the accomplishment made by not only the students who earned the awards, but also the teachers and staff who work hard to create an environment of high expectations. "There is no substitute for showing up and working hard when it comes to success."

Below is a list of this year's academic letter winners by class.

Class of 2019 • Graduates

Gage Atwood, Cassidy Bagby, Erin Beyers, Kaylee Blanchard, Joel Branson, Rebecca Campbell, Kayla Canas, Daniel Carlson, Sarah Chahine, Peyton Crowe, David Cummins, Emmy Daniels, Liam Davis, Abigail Dunham, Avery Edwards, Nathan Emmert, Emory Ericksen, Jasmine Febus, Michael Foreman, Emilie Fox, Cole Franzen, Adam Frerichs, Rachel Gherna, Mikayla Harshbarger, Kaitlyn Hess, Zach Hill, Kalli Ingram, Kenneth Lahners, Hannah Lewis, Nathan Logan, Erinn Miller, Caroline Moore, Eve Owens, Angela Palmer, Ben Reitmeier, Adam Rose, Madison Rubin, Abigail Schlueter, Elizabeth Schluter, Samantha Schmidt, Ben Setterdahl, Jacob Shaw, Kaitlin Shoviak, Grant Siegmund, Rylee Sjuts, Brianna Suits, Maclayne Taylor, and Nathan Walden.

Class of 2020 • Seniors

Lindsey Aden, Jenna Albrecht, Mallory Ames, Taylor Barnes, Katelyn Berry, Emily Bigger, Kaylee Blackburn, Erin Bridgewater, Ginny Bytnar, Payton Cain, Trevon Carr, Kristen Costa, Drew Coursey, Kathryn Cramer, Andrea Cunningham, Faith Dahman, Hannah Dukeman, Asjah Fonner, Jaiden Freeman, Robert Gebbink, Payton Grimsley, Lucas Grindley, Erica Guelfi, Emily Hardimon, Ethan Hinrichs, Chance Izard, Cody Johnston, Lacey Kaiser, Danielle Kelso, Nathan Maier, Ava Mills, Carson Mills, Alivia Norem, Nolan Peacock, Taddy Pettit, Eric Poe, Hannah Rajlich, Lexi Ribbe, Jenna Schaefer, Joshua Sexton, Rylee Stahl, Kenly Taylor, Stephanie Trame, Anna Tranel, Isabelle Vliet, Brayden Weaver, Sam Wesley, Zoey Witruk, and Jackson Wooten.

Class of 2021 • Juniors

Isabelle Brooks, Crayton Burnett, Josh Buttjer, David Bytnar, Taylor Campbell, Kylie Duckett, Hanna Eastin, Nadirah Edwards, Emily Fisher, Dakota Franzen, Alexandra Frerichs, Emily Froman, Atleigh Hamilton, Emmy Houston, Lukas Hutcherson, Logan Ingram, Cailer Kellenberger, Shelby Kofoot, Spencer Lahners, Ethan Lane, Aiden Livesay, Alyssa Maddock, Tyson Madsen, Sophia Martlage, Flannery McCorkle, Garren Meeker, Abigail Moberg, Samantha Naylor, Alec Painter, Erin Patton, Aidan Roberts, Indira Robinson, Mazie Ronk, Evan Schmitz, Max Shonkwiler, Tessa Smith, Payton Vallee, Nora Walden, Brayden Wendt, Rachel Wilson, and Logan Wolfersberger.

Class of 2022 • Sophomores

Addison Allen, Tyler Altenbaumer, Kailyn Anderson, Ella Armstrong, Madison Atwood, Abigail Behrens, Ella Besson, Andrew Beyers, Brandie Bowlin, Mara Burkhalter, Kennedi Burnett, Angela Chahine, Braden Clampitt, Anastasia Conerty, Deanna Cummins, Ben Cunningham, Sidney Davis, Zander Dressen, Ashley Eldridge, Jared Emmert, Hannah Fox, Zella Fuqua, Avian Gerdes, Brennan Haake, Liam Hamer, Lauren Harper, Claire Huffman, Payton Jacob, Alison Kearney, Ava Knap, Kelsey Martlage, Sophia McDade, Conrad Miller, Coby Miller, Elijah Mock, Jett Morris, Keaton Nolan, Jessica Palmer, Emma Parkinson, Hope Rajlich, JoLeena Reynolds, Kendra Riddle, Taryn Sexton, Alyssa Shoviak, Luke Stegall, Rebecca Steinbach, Mackenzie Trame, Ethan Vanliew, and Taylor Wells .

Prep Sports Notebook: 3 Spartans commit, Urbana volleyball loses non-conference match at home

Three Spartan basketball players commit

Back in August, St. Joseph-Ogden basketball standout Taylor Wells announced her plans to continue her academic and athletic career at Mount Mercy University. The senior, who is making waves with the Spartan volleyball team this fall, joined the basketball program at the private institution of about 1,488 students.

The Mustangs are members of the Heart of America Athletic Conference and have made NAIA national tournament appearances six times since 1991. In the previous season from November through February during the Coronavirus pandemic, the program played 20 games and finished 7-13 overall.

On September 12, teammate Payton Jacobs announced on Twitter that she will pursue her dream to play college basketball at Illinois Wesleyan University. She is no stranger to the Shirk Center or the Bloomington-Normal area where she has played basketball at the State Farm Holiday Classic.

Late last week, a third Spartan announced a verbal commitment continue their basketball career. Senior Ella Armstrong join the Truman State University program in 2022. Located in Kirksville, Mo.. The Bulldogs finished the 2020-2021 season with a record of 17 wins and 5 losses. The Bulldogs are members of the Great Lakes Valley Conference.

Ben Brown delivers hat trick

Ben Brown scored three times in Hoopeston Area's home match against Unity. The senior was also credited with a pair of assists in the 8-0 shutout.

Spartans defeat Tigers, 2-0

The St. Joseph-Ogden volleyball team rolled past Urbana High School on the road in two sets, 25-11, 25-12.

Senior Kennedi Burnett led the offense with nine kills. Shayne Immke delivered another six while Ashley Eldridge contributed another five kills. Becca Steinbach was credited with 24 assist, seven digs and a pair of aces.

The Spartans host the Unity Rockets in what is expected to be a dramatic match between the two conference frontrunners.

SJO's Armstrong commits

St. Joseph-Ogden shooting guard Ella Armstrong announced her verbal commitment continue her basketball career at Truman State University located in Kirksville, Mo..

The Bulldogs finished their previous season 17-5 and are members of the Great Lakes Valley Conference.

Parkland College Dean's List

CHAMPAIGN - Parkland College announced the names of students whose academic performance landed them a spot on the Spring 2025 Dean's List. One of the highest honors a student can receive for their academic performance, the Dean's List is awarded to Parkland College students who earn a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 grade scale for the semester in 100-level courses or higher.

Below is a list of students in our area who earned academic honors last fall. The complete current list can be found on the Parkland College website.

Catlin
Joseph B. Kedas

Champaign
Andrea C. Abbas
Dalal M. Abudayya
Micaela A. Adams
Philip F. Agbo
Paola DJ. Aguilera Lathulerie
Jonathan V. Alanis
Juliana Nicole G. Albarracin
Michael D. Allen
Megan N. Allen
Ethan J. Alvares
Nathalie H. Amisi
Yolanda E. Anaya
Levi E. Atang
Hiroshi M. Avila
Grace O. Bailey
Shaquita F. Baker
Hans Matthew R. Banaga
Josiah T. Barlow
Jillian R. Barlow
Makenna J. Beaulin
Rebecca A. Benedetti
Robin M. Betka
Jaiden Biggers N. Biggers
Harrison A. Biggs
Gabrielle M. Bilo
Sydney C. Blackwell
Kristine R. Bowe
Thomas R. Bradley Jr.
Joseph J. Brown
Nathan C. Brozak
Hayden T. Bui
Iris Burov
Raquel A. Butts
Cecilia S. Cahoon
Eric M. Campos
Matthew D. Carley
Jasmine D. Catchings
Katrina R. Catizone
Josenia T. Celda
Kara M. Charney
Jierui Chen
Ho Kwan Cheng
Alexis M. Clark
Catherine Clavey
Joshua A. Cleveland
Shapree F. Connley
V. H. Cronenberg
Austin T. Crytzer
Charlotte N. Dalton
Terriiayonna N. Davidson
Ryan A. Delehanty
Jasmine Diep
Gavin D. S. Dorsla
Elana R. Duden
Aaron Dunn
Jacob D. Dupre
Megan R. Eastham
Radwa K. Elrouby
Cameron E. Endsley
Lilian I. Eziefule
Ariadne Fagundes Luiz
Jesse L. Fewkes
Quinn Fisher
Maiyah N. Flemons
Jordan M. Foreman
Julia Foster
Destiny V. Frickensmith
Myah E. Funneman
Dalila C. Garcia
Carrie J. Garner
Victoria L. Garrett
Kylie L. Gerdes
Taylor M. Gladden
Leslie F. Godinez
Nakamoza N. Gondwe
Sloan C. Gordon
Abigail E. Grena
Justin D. Gudeman
Alyssa N. Guzman
Keira J. Hadley
Jonathan S. Hahn
Johnathan A. Haines
Elva Hajialiakbarifini
Capris A. Hale
McKenzie L. Hamer
Nicholas R. Hasty
Miles R. Haug
Leo J B. Havey
Zoey D. Hayes
Kaia A. Helbling
Gabriel T. Helstrom
Isabella Hernandez
Michelle Hernandez-Hernandez
Dylan R. Hill
Tara J. Holycross
Samuel L. Hopkins
Jakob A. Hopper
Jad B. Hreish
Johnnesha L. Hunt
Weddie D. Jackson
Rudolph A. Johnson
Madeline R. Jones
Juana R. Juan Pedro
Nitasha Julka
Yunsoo Jung
Eunjoo Kang
Isaac M. Kanyinda
Shounok Kar
Alper Karakurt
Fefe M. Kayembe
Betty A. Kennerly
Gabriella A. Kiel
Patrick K. Kileya
Laura Kim
Seoyeon Kim
Nasja G. King-McDonald
Mathias J. Kirkland
Jarred M. Koerner
Jialei Kong
Adrian M. Kraut
Gianna M. Kreps
Iver I. Krogstad
Otto Krueger
Logan J. Kurtz
Titus A. Kyles
Angel R. Lambert
Deprice H. Lee
Dohyung Lee
Eunseong Lee
Dorcas D. Lepighe
Marc C. Levi
Michael Li
Evan A. Li
Jackson W. Liong
Bolin Liu
Reyna J. Livengood
Dominic A. Loftus
Joshua R. Loftus
Brynn L. Logsdon
Kristin J. Lopez
Christopher Lopez
Aly A. Lopez-Mendoza
Jason P. Lu
Allison M. Ludolf
Jakob A. Luhrsen
Meme Lukadi-Tshibola
Karen J. Maher
Esther Mambo
Sakeena O. Mansuri
Nusayb N. Mansury
Kenneth R. Mantell
Erica G. Markell
Kim R. Marquie
Emmanuela J. Martinez
Josh A. McCarty
Greyson P. McDonald
Elijah McIlvain
Bailey R. McMahon
Breanna J. McQuinn
Lane K. McVicar
Taryn K. Melvin
Melissa Meza
Joseph D. Middleton
Grace M. Miller
Shaylie G. Miller
Richard H. Miller
Andrew Miranda
Kennadie C. Mitchell
Colin A. Monti
Ian A. Moriarty
Jasmine L. Morris
Daisy M. Mueller
Braden A. Muhlstadt
Michelle Narciso
Jemima N. Ndeni
Ngoc Tran Quang Nguyen
Tommy T. Nguyen
Katelynn N. Nguyen
Adrian Nguyen
Vincent M. Nguyen
Kenny Nham
Arianna M. Nichols
Immanuel C. Nwosu
Jemima N. Nzeza
Roan V. O'Brien
Nathaniel G. O'Connor
Samuel O'Connor-Shoresman
Zoe A. Oates
Lily M. Owen
Folashade F. Owojori
Kristin E. Palazzo
Jessica N. Palmberg
Jion Park
Carleigh D S. Parks
Mahi A Patel
Arthur B. Pawlik
Ashley R. Phillips
Kylia E Pierson
Jude N. Pisarczyk
Emily G. Pitcher
Trevor R. Plattner
Tabitha R. Qualls
Vanessa Ramirez
Joseph Rath
Delaney R. Record
Riley A. Ries
Keaton L. Roberts
Landon T. Robinson
Jaycee E. Ross
Ruthy Rouwet
Jenna N. Royer
Samantha I. Ruggieri
Elijah R. Ruggieri
Sylvan L. Rummenie
Burak Safaker
Michael I. Sage
Estella M. Samii
Jaquonte V. Sanford
Ainmere L. Sangster
Theran N. Schmitt
Finn G. Scott
Lizbeth Serrano-Betanzos
Leo P. Severin
Mahakksh Shah
Grace M. Shanholtzer
Vagish Sivaramakrishnan
Michael I. Skaj
Wyatt M. Small
Avery H. Smith
Noelle R. Smith
Missy L. Smith
Cameron P. Smucker
Gustavo D P Soares
Adrianna N. Spinks
Ria G. Sumitro
Christian M. Swanson
Grace Y. Swiney
Mariana A. Taboada-Reategui
Ben R. Talbott
Madison E. Taylor
Chanh N. Thi
Zoie D. Thomason
Pierce M. Thompson
Raina C. Tongren
Lucius Tran
Johnny J. Tran
Serena J. Tran
Ramsey B. Treadway
Thuan H. Trinh
Tobias D. Tschetter
Ekaterina Tsytsarina
Ayaan N. Unni
Anthony L. Urquijo
Avery P. Valencia
Jason D. Vassos
Bryan A. Vaughn
Shanley Ross P. Vega
Daniel Villa-Mejia
Anna M. Viser
Scout A. Voyles
Nicole Vozovoy
Jessica L. Wadley
Calvin E. Wetzel
John P. White
Lauren White
Bayleeella Brooke Whitney
Ryan W. Williams
Rachelle D. Winfrey
Robyn D. Wood
John R. Woodard
Micaiah R. Wright
Emma K. Wurl
David L. Yakoub
Joshua S. Young
Syafino Yunalfian
Taohe Zhan
Yixing Zhang
Qiongmei Zhang
Chuyu L. Zhang
Artie K. Zhang
Robert J. Zufall

Fithian
Jack E. Nero

Homer
Gerhard Alant
Lara D Copass
Gwendolyn M Happ
Jessica A Headley
Robert A Holloman
Melissa R Hudson
Roni N Jones
Kenneth Earl Lindsey
Loran R Tate
Sean J Taylor
Addison G Weisman

Oakwood
Jessica E. Boyd
Skylar A. Dillow

Ogden
Canyon D. Alwes
Grace A. Osterbur
John M.Taylor
Landon A. Brown
Makennah L. Hamilton
Rylee L. Huson
Tayton G. Gerdes

Penfield
Gavin J. Parkerson
Jarrod E. Liffick

Pesotum
Jackson L. Grimm

Philo
Avery J. Alagna
Bailey E. Rice
Brenlee G. Dalton
Cole J. Newell
Elijah L. Langley
Jocelyn C. Lefaivre
Monica A. Rivas-Parker
Reagan M. Little

Royal
Samantha S. Uden

Sadorus
Victoria L. Wells

St. Joseph
James R. Barron
Rylie J. Barton
Mason P. Behrens
William T. Besson
Taylor E. Burch
Miguel A. Chacon
Preslee C. Christians
Ella M. Dietiker
Addison K. Funk
Grace R. Goldenstein
James A. Harbourt
Robert M. Jeffries
Kendrick D. Johnson
Kya N. Jolley
Sara B. Kearney
Owen T. Knap
Aiden S. Krall
Sophia A. McDade
Gabriel E. Mortlock
Carter A. Nauman
Chayse S. Palmer
Addison E. Roesch
Zachary B. Rubin
Tanner C. Siems
Logan T. Smith
Kyler R Swanson
Collin S. Thomey
Jill C. Uken
Lili A. Wentzloff
Reese M. Wheatley

Savoy
Omar M. Abdel-Razaq
Emma Z. Angelo
Emmalee W. Atkins
Sophia M.N. Bengtson
Carter W. Bleakney
Siarah Y. Brown
Zoe L. Bryan
Eva K. Cottrell
Pavel Y. Didenko
Tauliya A. Figures
Ludvig J. Granlund
Makenna N. Gray
Hayat Hadjsaid
Kaitlyn D. Helm
Daniel U. Kang
Moon Su Kang
Kaitlyn L. Kinkelaar
Jazzlyn K. Lynch
Jonathan Manzengo
Leyton G. McGeary
Kendall M. Meredith
Thiziri Mohammed
Isaac D. Molloy
Kyle Moon
Marcos J.W. Park
Josh T. Price
Diamond I. Rainey
Trinity J. Rogers
Jaquelin Salg
Abdelhamid Sammane
Hyunjune Seong
Brando Signorini
Rylee G. Smalley
Matthew R. Sparrow
Aidan T. Williams
Davi J.S. Yoo
Sage O. Young

Sidney
August E. Niehaus
Brooklyn M. Haas
Emma D. Fish
Kadence L. Goff
Lauren E. Cooke
Mason J. Perry
Piper M K Steele
Samuel C. Gilbert
Tyler S. Liffick-Worrell

Thomasboro
Mason E. Conner
Darian I. Figueroa
Paige L. Johnson
Chase P. Knock
Paige M. Schoonover
Austin J. Seals
Adam G. Wilson

Tolono
Eric W. Anderson
Maria G. Buffo
Calli A. Chandler
Shelby R. Hoel
Caleb J. Hoewing
Dallas A. Hollingsworth
Callie M. Lytel
Gracie M. Meharry
Tatum E. Meyer
Connor D. O'Donnell
Meredith K. Reed
Maci M. Richmond
Alexander M. Stahl
Sara J. Steffens
Madelynn Swisher
Luke I. Williamson
Abigail C. Woolcott
Emberly M. Yeazel
Madysen A. York
Logan A. Zumbahlen

Urbana
Dilichukwu C. Agu
Khatera Akmal
Adrian Alcazar
Adrian I. Alcazar
Eli M. Allison
Luciana Alvarez
Alex D. Ambrocio
Kiana Amindavar
Urooj Anis
Brenda L. Ascencio
Deanna K. Auxier
Tevi C. Balekita
Juliano L. Baptiste
Galina A. Bello
Karla J. Beltran-Hernandez
Hany Claire P. Bombales
Angel R. Bond
Ebenezer Boti
Audrey J. Boudreau
Montrell X. Brooks
Stacey R. Brown
Evan J. Bullock
Nick D. Burbules
Ryan M. Burns
Taniyah T.I. Burns
Jason W. Carter
Ariana R. Chambers
Kathryn R. Choate
George F. Clancy
Yali Cohen
Dylan A. Cosper
Joshua Hernandez
Desiree A. Devero
Eduardo O. Diego Andres
Nadia R. Eberhardt
Mohannad N. E. Eltinay
Tarynn K. Enghausen
Jake R. Essner
William J. Eubig
Jamira D. Faust
Sofiia Fedina
Antonio K. Flemons
Stephen Folley-Amuzu
Morgan A. Frush
Lisette C. Gasser
Ella C. Gilmore
Santiago Gonzalez Ahuerma
Nicole K. Gremer
Nicholas J. Grove
Changjun Guo
Katherine N. Halbig
Mallie A. Hanner
Skylar C. Hartley
Emily J. Hartsell
Nathaniel J. Herche
Amaya M. Holmes
Holden A. Huisinga
Andrew V. Iffland
Maryam O. Ikhuoriah
Robert M. Jenkins
Marcus E. Johnson
Toby Johnson
Beatrice A. Kennison
Willow I. Keys
Taehoon Kim
Daira A. King
Eleanor R. Klein
Minh K. Le
Ryan J. Lee
Morgan M. Mackert
Sebastian D. Major
Christ Vie N. Makengo
Alondra G. Martinez
Max J. McCracken
Benjamin S. McLeskey
Michael Mendoza-Perez
Lauren M. Miller
Ronald J. Miller
Emilia H. Muckenhirn
Zenobia D. Mulero
David M. Mushengezi
Kelly Nsenga Mutole
Ian A. Nelson
Noa Nounou
Lucas M. Oldfield
Henry C. Olheiser
Oscar I. Orozco
McKynzie Painter
Claudia E. Paisley
Youngeun Park
Jared D. Peddycoart
Santiago Pinilla Leon
Dragos I. Popa
John A. Powell
Matteo L. Puli
Justin M. Pulver
Tajia R. Ragel
Lula C. Randolph
Bruce E. Rexroad
Grace H. Rice
Emma V. Robben
Natalia Rodriguez
Edwin Rodriguez Barrios
Leire Rodriguez Najera
Noah T. Ruffner
Kayla M. Sabim
Olive K. Salem
Malkah S. Scher
Manuela M. Sebastian Juarez
Kalika E. Shapiro
Adam B. Skousen
Joseph C. Solava
Yang Song
Nathanial Stewart
Janelle J. Tardy
Ashlee K. Thompson
Sumaya Islam Tonney
Chioma P. Ugwu
Quonikka C. Underwood
Stacie L. Vonderheide
Levi A. Walker
Joslyn R. Warfel
Brianne E. Weiss
Alexandria K. Westfall
Maurion Wicks
Gage Dorian Wiggins
Autumn Williams
Chico B. Wilson
Lera L. Wilson
Samantha T. Wiltfong
Qilin Xie
Nathan R. York
Jianbo Zhang
Jacob A. Ziska

SJO continues to dominate IPC foes at conference meet, defeats Rantoul 58-16

CHILLICOTHE - In a commanding display of prowess, the St. Joseph-Ogden wrestling program continued their winning streak at the Illini Prairie Conference wrestling meet, triumphing over the Rantoul Eagles with a resounding 58-16 victory on day 2 of competition.

After a stellar performance on the opening day against Prairie Central, Pontiac, and St. Thomas More, SJO entered the match against Rantoul with justifiable confidence. The Spartans wasted no time asserting their dominance, securing wins in nine of the 14 weight classes. Almost every contested match ended in a pin, serving notice of SJO's rise back to its former reputation as a formidable small school wrestling program with the return of the Gallo family as coaches.

Leading the charge for SJO were standout wrestlers who delivered exceptional performances throughout the tournament. Landen Butts maintained his undefeated streak, going 3-0 over the weekend with impressive victories including a decisive pin against Daemian Spisak of Prairie Central and a quick takedown of Cale Christenson from Pontiac. Eli Birt also showcased his prowess with a solid decision victory over Drake Clemons from Prairie Central.

Aiden Hundley added to SJO's tally with a commanding fall over Kooper Wiles from Pontiac, while Jackson Walsh displayed his dominance with a pin over Sophia Mussari from Pontiac, solidifying his 2-0 record for the weekend.

Taking a look at their overall performance, SJO has outscored their opponents by a notable margin, tallying an impressive 226-75 since the start of the conference tournament. With three matches to go, the Spartans positioned the team for a top-three finish at this year's tourney.

Looking ahead, the Spartans are gearing up for their upcoming matches. Tomorrow, SJO will host a Multi-Quad event featuring Decatur Unity Christian, Decatur MacArthur, Hoopeston, Cumberland, and St. Thomas More, starting at 8:30 AM. Next week, they will face off against Champaign Central High School in a dual meet on Wednesday at 6 PM, followed by a visit to GCMS on Thursday at 5:30 PM.

Box Score

106 - WELLS, BEN (SJO) over Forfeit, (Rantoul), FORFEIT; 113 - WALSH, JACKSON (SJO) over Hench, Emmett (Rantoul), Fall 1:20; 120 - GETTY, CAMDEN (SJO) over Forfeit, (Rantoul), FORFEIT; 126 - BIRT, ELI (SJO) over Taylor, Ryker (Rantoul), Tech Fall 22-6; 132 - Forfeit, (Rantoul) over Forfeit, (SJO), Double Forfeit; 138 - HUNDLEY, AIDEN (SJO) over Beach, Bryson (Rantoul), Fall 1:29; 144 - BUTTS, LANDEN (SJO) over Dunner, Nicholas (Rantoul), Fall 4:35; 150 - WARE, THOMAS (SJO) over Buck, Wyatt (Rantoul), Tech Fall 21-3; 157 - Almanza, Brandon (Rantoul) over MOORE, JONATHON (SJO), Fall 4:03; 165 - Williams, Darius (Rantoul) over VAUGHN, ALEX (SJO), Fall 7:14; 175 - SWISHER, DEVAN (SJO) over Mager, Alex (Rantoul), Fall 1:52; 190 - Schultz, Harley (Rantoul) over Carter, Liam (SJO), Maj Dec 14-6; 215 - PHILLIPS, NATHAN (SJO) over Nutter, Alexander (Rantoul), Fall 0:41; 285 - WAGNER, CAM (SJO) over Forfeit, (Rantoul), FORFEIT.

Related articles: