Wrestling leaves it all on the mat

Izzy Bohanek, staff writer

Joliet West Wrestling has certainly made a name for themselves from the JV team to Varsity. The guys put in work everyday and it’s nearing sectionals and state; the meets that will truly test their stength and desire to succeed. With the post-season anticipation and drive they had all season, I know they’ll leave it all on the mat.

The JV team had many successes this season, although one in particular, the SWSC Tournament was a hit. The team finished 9th overall, and had eight JV wrestlers place 8th place or better in their weight classes. Alex Shott, a freshman on the JV team was very pleased with his first year as a Joliet West wrestling tiger, he said, “My first year as a Joliet West wrestler was very fun and could be one of my best wrestling years yet.” Schott was one of the placers at the SWSC Tournament, finishing 8th.

The Varsity wrestlers also had a good run. Meekah Ben-Isreal is the regional champion for his weight class (195lbs) and qualified for sectionals. Sophmore Austin Poch (113lbs) is also a regional champion and on his way to sectionals. Roman Johnson (132lbs) got 3rd , and Darvell Flagg (106lbs) getting first and earning himself a regional champion title, both qualified for sectionals.

It is evident that every wrestler works hard, whether or not they make it to sectionals or state. When asked about how he thinks the guys will do at sectionals shot said, “The guys that are going to sectionals will do well, but there is going to be a lot of competition, so they will have to perform at their best.”

The wrestlers have been working their hardest all season, and now it’s time to see if they have what it takes to wrestle IHSA state wrestling meet on February 19-21. Sectionals will be a tough fight, but with a positive attitude and passion they haven’t failed to show, I believe the boys will be taking a well-deserved ride to state.