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Jeffersonville Wrestling Battles Through “The Stretch” to Prepare for Postseason Glory

By Danny Struck | Dec 15, 2024 1:34 PM

Jeffersonville Wrestling Battles Through “The Stretch” to Prepare for Postseason Glory The Jeffersonville boys wrestling team has faced a brutal schedule over the past eight days, competing against some of the top-ranked programs across Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois. Wrestling against the #1, #2 (twice), #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #10, and #16 teams in their respective states and classes is no easy feat, but for the Red Devils, it’s all part of the plan. “We trust the process and embrace the grind,” said Jeffersonville Head Coach Danny Struck. “This stretch isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about becoming battle-tested gladiators by the time sectionals roll around.” Grinding Through the Gauntlet The week started with a dual against Kentucky’s #16-ranked Moore High School. While the Red Devils fell 24-50, Coach Struck sees this annual matchup as more than just a scoreline. “This is a program showcase night,” he said. “We wrestle elementary, middle school, girls, and boys all in one night. It’s a celebration of the sport and a way to prepare our athletes for the future.” The team then traveled to Evansville for a weekend tournament featuring four powerhouse teams. After a night of team bonding that included swimming, shared meals, and video games, Jeffersonville took on the gauntlet of Indiana’s #4 Mater Dei, #5 Avon, #7 Bloomington South, and Illinois’ state runner-up Civic Memorial. The day was grueling, but the Red Devils kept their heads high and their spirits strong, finishing with a decisive 60-23 win over Castle High School. Standout Performers Despite the challenging competition, several Jeffersonville wrestlers shined. Junior Ben Land showcased his grit, going undefeated at 5-0 over the weekend, while senior Cander Hobbs led the charge with three wins. On the JV side, Chandler Cooke proved his potential with an impressive 3-0 record against some of the best backup wrestlers in the state. The Road Ahead The Red Devils’ focus now shifts to the second half of the season and the prestigious 47th Annual Jeff Classic, where they will host 32 teams from Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, and Illinois. With their battle-hardened squad and an unshakable belief in their process, Jeffersonville is determined to make waves in the postseason. “Facing the best teams in the region is tough, but it’s the only way to grow,” said Coach Struck. “We want our wrestlers to be ready for anything, and this schedule guarantees that.” Jeffersonville wrestling isn’t just about the wins—it’s about embracing the grind, trusting the journey, and proving that they are ready for whatever challenges come their way.

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