Jeffersonville Wrestling Battles Tough Competition at Capital City Classic and Jennings County JV Tournament This weekend, Jeffersonville Wrestling embraced a packed schedule filled with competition, camaraderie, and early-season challenges. On Friday afternoon, the Red Devils departed with 53 athletes for an overnight stay in Edinburgh, Indiana, designed to build team unity and foster lifelong memories. “Travel is a great way for kids to bond and create conversations they might not have in the wrestling room or classroom,” said Coach Danny Struck. “These moments help them grow as individuals and as a team.” The weekend’s marquee event was the Capital City Classic, hosted by Perry Meridian High School. Jeffersonville, the sole out-of-area team, competed against seven powerhouse Indianapolis-area schools. The tournament featured top-tier talent, offering an excellent opportunity for the Red Devils to measure themselves against some of the state’s best. Varsity Placements Jeffersonville placed sixth as a team, scoring 152 points, with 13 of their 14 wrestlers earning wins in this grueling early-season test. • 106 lbs: Tim Wilkins (1-4) placed 6th • 113 lbs: Will Honaker (16-15) placed 6th • 120 lbs: Aiden Stellato (28-17) placed 2nd • Quarterfinal: Won by fall over Colton Fetty (Anderson) (2:42) • Semifinal: Won by decision over Bryce Beckham (Perry Meridian) (6-4) • 1st Place Match: Lost by fall to Porter Temples (Westfield) (1:20) • 126 lbs: Elijah Lahrman (2-2) placed 5th • 132 lbs: Brandon Chestnut (22-16) placed 5th • 138 lbs: Elijah Snow (28-12) placed 4th • 144 lbs: Isa Santos (27-18) placed 4th • 150 lbs: Quintin Smith (14-21) placed 5th • 157 lbs: Mekkhi Cooper (16-20) placed 6th • 165 lbs: Adrian Carillo (23-15) placed 4th • 175 lbs: Xander Hobb placed 7th • 190 lbs: Sire Minggia placed 5th • 215 lbs: James Dyer placed 7th • 285 lbs: Ben Land (47-6) placed 1st • Quarterfinal: Won by fall over Vincent Abbott (Indian Creek) (2:38) • Semifinal: Won by fall over Lincoln Getts (Edgewood) (3:01) • 1st Place Match: Won by fall over Eli Addington (Perry Meridian) (1:01) Coach Danny Struck praised the team, highlighting standout performances. Senior Ben Land dominated his way to his second Capital City Classic championship, pinning all three opponents, including his finals opponent from Perry Meridian, in just over a minute. “Ben was possibly the most impressive wrestler there, showcasing new takedowns and exceptional mat control,” said Struck. Aiden Stellato, competing at 120 pounds, reached the finals with a gritty performance, including a thrilling 6-4 semifinal win. “Aiden might be disappointed to lose his first finals match this season, but this is invaluable experience for him moving forward,” noted Struck. Seniors Elijah Snow, Isa Santos, and Adrian Carillo also made strong showings, each placing fourth in their respective weight classes. Sophomore Elijah Lahrman exhibited remarkable resilience, battling back from a 14-14 tie to secure a fifth-place finish with a dramatic overtime pin. Team Results • 1st Place: Westfield High School (228.5 points) • 2nd Place: Edgewood High School (206.5 points) • 3rd Place: Perry Meridian High School (191.5 points) • 6th Place: Jeffersonville High School (152 points) “Competing here gives our wrestlers a chance to see what the best teams in the state are doing and motivates them to work harder,” said Coach Struck. “We’re proud of how they fought today.” JV Success at Jennings County While the varsity squad battled in Indianapolis, 29 junior varsity wrestlers competed at the Jennings County JV Tournament, with many earning their first-ever high school wins. The Red Devils racked up victories throughout the day, demonstrating the depth and future promise of the program. Wrestlers who won matches: • Jackson McClemore: 2 wins • Chandler Cooke: 2 wins • Bryce Treat: 1 win • Ari Santos: 1 win • Cooper Spaulding: 1 win • Jak Rose: 2 wins • Miguel Damon: 1 win • Angel Juarez: 2 wins • John Steele: 2 wins • Bryan Juarez: 3 wins (3-0) • Dylan Grismer: 3 wins (3-0) • Isaiah Gatton: 3 wins (3-0) • Montana Northern: 3 wins (3-0) • Malachi Monts: 2 wins • Larry Sherman: 3 wins • Julian Alvarez: 2 wins • Liam Jackson: 1 win • Xavier Hayes: 1 win “The JV wrestlers showed tremendous effort and gained valuable experience,” said Struck. “The future is bright with this group.” Looking Ahead The Jeffersonville Wrestling team now sets its sights on hosting the Turkey Tussle next Wednesday at Jeffersonville High School. This exciting event will feature boys’ varsity and JV teams alongside the girls’ team. With a strong start to the season, Jeffersonville Wrestling continues to grow as individuals and as a team, ready to tackle the challenges ahead.