Misty Kendrex

Date: Saturday February 10th, 2024
Admission: $12 per person. Children age 5 and younger admitted free.
Streaming: A bundled package that includes access to all four semi-state sites, as well as next weekend's state finals, is available via IHSAAtv.org and the IHSAAtv suite of apps (iPhone, Android phone, Roku, Amazon Firestick, AppleTV, and Android TV) for $25. Access to all four semi-states only is available for $15. If you have a FloPro+ plan, you may also view the livestream at FloWrestling.com.
 
1. East Chicago Central (John C. Baratto Athletic Center) | 9 am CT 
Feeder Regionals: Crown Point, Hobart, Logansport, Penn.
TrackWrestling Brackets
IndianaMat Brackets
EastChicago.pdf
Pick'ems Link
 
2. Fort Wayne South Side (Allen County War Memorial Coliseum) | 8:30 am ET 
Feeder Regionals: Carroll (Fort Wayne), Goshen, Jay County, Peru.
TrackWrestling Brackets
IndianaMat Brackets 
FortWayne.pdf
Pick'ems Link
 
3. New Castle (New Castle Fieldhouse) | 9 am ET 
Feeder Regionals: Frankfort, Pendleton Heights, Perry Meridian, Richmond.
TrackWrestling Brackets
IndianaMat Brackets 
NewCastle.pdf
Pick'ems Link 
 
4. Evansville F. J. Reitz (Ford Center) | 9 am CT 
Feeder Regionals: Bloomington South, Castle, Jeffersonville, Mooresville.
TrackWrestling Brackets
IndianaMat Brackets 
Evansville.pdf
Pick'ems Link
 
Pick'ems History
Click here for a full pick'ems history
 
Articles and Podcasts
#MondayMatness with Steve Krah: DeKalb’s Waldon heading back to Fort Wayne Semi-State with focusHigh School Wrestling Weekly
#WrestlingWednesday with Jeremy Hines: Thornton ready for another trip to state
Lake Central’s Mason Jones Drives Into Potential State Finals Run with Renewed Confidence
Gorilla Radio 172- Fort Wayne Semi-State
Gorilla Radio 173- Evansville Semi-State
Gorilla Radio 174- New Castle Semi-State
Gorilla Radio 175- East Chicago Semi-State
State Finals streak on the line
 
Gorilla Radio Schedule
Monday- Mike, Joe, and a special guest talking about Fort Wayne Semi-State 
Wednesday- Mike, Joe and our southern correspondent talking about Evansville
Thursday- Mike and Joe talking about East Chicago and New Castle
 
 

The phrase you hear 100's of times during a seeding meeting is always "who are your losses to?" This year 17 wrestlers will enter the state finals without a blemish on their record. On top of that there are about five wrestlers entering the tournament without a loss to an Indiana opponent. This year we have three weights without an undefeated wrestler, 160, 182, and 220lbs. In total the state qualifiers have 1047 losses of which 657 are to Indiana state qualifiers. Many of the wrestlers with out of state losses will be to eventual state qualifier also.
 
As always if you can help with the missing data it is greatly appreciated.
 
Random Stats
Most losses to state qualifiers
Gavin Bragg- 10
Jason Rooney and Logan Haney- 9
Max McGinley, mason Day, Isaiah Wilson, and Sonny Sessa- 8
 
Most wins over state qualifiers
Ashton Jackson- 11
Eddie Goss, Aidan Torres, and Revin Dickman- 9
Beau Brabender, Devin Kendrex, Charlie LaRocca, Luke Penola, Christian Chavez, Sam Goin, Jake Hockaday, and Leighton Jones- 8
 
Non-State Qualifiers with the most wins over state qualifiers
Trevor Gallagher- 7
Evan Roudebush- 6
Hosia Smith, Anthony Rinehart, and Luke Rioux- 5
 
Undefeated Wrestlers106 Ayden Bollinger- Delta
113 Jalen May- Kokomo
120 Ashton Jackson- LaPorte
126 Tylin Thrine- New Castle
132 Joey Buttler- Whiteland
132 Easton Doster- New Haven
138 Tony Wood- Jay County
138 Michael Major- Carmel
138 Cheaney Schoeff- Avon
145 Aidan Torres- Chesterton
145 Wyatt Krejsa- Center Grove
152 Bryce Lowery- Roncalli
170 Delaney Ruhlman- Bloomington South
195 Christian Chavez- Mishawaka
195 Alex Deming- Rochester
195 Luke Hansen- Roncalli
285 Titus Waters- Muncie Central
 
#WAYL2
Who are your losses to?
 
Key
*- State Qualifier
(Losses/ State Qualifier Losses/ State Qualifier Wins)
106lbs
Ayden Bollinger- Delta(0/0/2): 
Mason Jones- Lake Central(1/1/7): Julianna O'Campo*
Layne Horn- Rochester(1/1/4): Ayden Bollinger*
Matthew Baylor- Milan(1/1/1): Hruai Lian*
Julianna O'campo- Fort Wayne Snider(2/1/5): Ayden Bollinger*, Baker(MI)
Hruai Lian- Perry Meridian(4/2/5): Jeff McGuise, John Bissmeyer, Nathan Rioux*, Revin Dickman*
Cameron Meier- Bloomington South(4/4/4): Isaac Campbell*, Mason Jones*, Nathan Rioux(2)*
Isaac Campbell- Floyd Central(4/4/1): Cameron Meier(2)*, Nathan Rioux*, Revin Dickman*
Revin Dickman- Brownsburg(5/0/9): Harrison(OH), Seacrist(OH), Smith(PA), Timar(OH), Yarbrough(OH)
Nathan Rioux- Avon(5/5/4): Revin Dickman(5)*
Kaleb Salazar- Wawasee(5/3/3): Cameron Meier*, Hunter Douglas, Julianna O'Campo*, Kealen Fuller, Mason Jones*
Rex Moore- Manchester(6/6/0): Julianna O'Campo*, Layne Horn(4)*, Levi Johns*
Xavier Chavez- Mishawaka(8/4/1):  ???(2), Benton Kanable, John Bissmeyer, Julianna O'Campo(2)*, Kaleb Salazar*, Mason Jones*
Gunner Butt- New Palestine(8/3/1): Gavin Ash, Heather Crull, Hruai Lian(3)*, Jett McGuire(2), Joey Cline
Connor Bayliss- Mount Vernon (Fortville)(8/5/0): Cameron Meier*, Cole Vandygriff, E'Shawn Tolbert, Gunner Butt*, Jackson Elliott*, Jett McGuire, Joey Cline, Kaleb Salazar*, Matthew Baylor*
Logan Haney- Crown Point(14/9/0): Benton Kanable, Cameron Woods, Garcia(OH), Hruai Lian*, Kaleb Salazar*, Marinopoulos(IL), Mason Jones(4)*, Revin Dickman(2)*, Talon Jessup, Xavier Chavez*
113lbs
Jalen May- Kokomo(0/0/5): 
Charlie LaRocca- Center Grove(2/1/8): Cichocki(MI), Gavin Jendreas*
Gavin Jendreas- Crown Point(2/1/5): Mendoza(IL), Preston Haines*
Drew Waldon- DeKalb(2/1/1): Blake Byerley, Jalen May*
Ryan Taylor- Perry Meridian(3/2/4): Gavin Jendreas*, Preston Haines*, Quinten Schoeff
Levi Johns- Bluffton(3/1/2): Daniel Moore, Isaiah Fye, Jalen May*
Aiden Dallinger- McCutcheon(4/3/3): ???, Gavin Jendreas*, Isaac Ash*, Jalen May*
Jackson Heaston- Indian Creek(4/2/1): Charlie Larocca*, Eddie Goss*, Luke Rioux, Toby Billerman
Isaac Ash- Monrovia(6/4/2): Charlie Larocca(2)*, Luke Rioux(2), Preston Haines(2)*
Seth Aubin- Hobart(6/3/1): Aiden Dallinger*, Charlie Larocca*, E'Shawn Tolbert(2), Gavin Jendreas*, Ryann Schmidtendorff
Jackson Elliott- Carmel(6/6/5): Aiden Dallinger*, Charlie Larocca*, Isaac Ash*, Ryan Taylor(2)*, Tommy Frazier*
Preston Haines- Brownsburg(9/3/4): Brown(OH), Charlie Larocca(2)*, Cichocki(MI), Dyler(OK), Jackson Heaston*, Johnson(IL), Lambers(OH), Rossell(OH)
Tommy Frazier- Zionsville(9/5/3): Eddie Goss*, Gavin Bragg*, Gavin Jendreas*, Isaiah Schaefer*, Luke Rioux, Quinten Schoeff, Raney(KY), Ryan Taylor*, Terry Easley
Brayden Raber- Maconaquah(9/3/0):  ???(2), Braylon McIntire(3), Drew Waldon*, Isaiah Fye, Jalen May*, Levi Johns*
Cameron Sentner- Wawasee(10/2/0): ???, Aiden Dallinger*, Blake Byerley, Braylon McIntire, E'Shawn Tolbert, Josh Kite(2), Kamaron Straw, Matthew Senn, Seth Aubin*
Porter Temples- Westfield(14/7/0): ???, Charlie Larocca*, Demario Ezelle, Jackson Elliott(4)*, Luke Rioux, Revin Dickman, Ryan Taylor, Ryann Schmidtendorff(2), Tommy Frazier(2)*
120lbs
Ashton Jackson- LaPorte(0/0/11): 
Neal Mosier- Delta(1/1/5): Tanner Tishner*
Tanner Tishner- Western(1/1/4): Ashton Jackson*
Bryce Doss- New Palestine(2/2/3): Elijah Broady*, Neal Mosier*
Isaiah Schaefer- Evansville Mater Dei(3/1/4): Jake Hockaday*, Raney(KY)(2)
Jake Hockaday- Brownsburg(4/0/8): Butler(OH), DeLuca(NJ), Raney(KY), Stewart(IL)
Dominic Brown- Lowell(4/4/5): Ashton Jackson(2)*, Eddie Goss*, Sonny Sessa*
Peter Nguyen- Guerin Catholic(4/4/1): Elijah Broady*, Gavin Bragg(2)*, Neal Mosier*
Eddie Goss- Center Grove(5/5/9): Isaiah Schaefer(2)*, Jake Hockaday(2)*, Tanner Tishner*
Elijah Broady- Mount Vernon (Fortville)(6/4/3): ???, Bryce Doss(2)*, Dominic Brown*, Dylan Bennett, Neal Mosier*
Carter Fielden- Garrett(8/7/2): Eddie Goss*, Isaiah McCue, Linkin Carter(3)*, Neal Mosier(2)*, Sonny Sessa*
Linkin Carter- Eastside(9/4/4): ???, Ashton Jackson*, Bohls(OH), Carter Fielden(2)*, Estep(OH), Isaiah McCue, Nemitz(OH), Tanner Tishner*
Logan Bickel- Cascade(9/6/0): Eddie Goss(2)*, Ethan Holloway, Jake Hockaday(2)*, Jalen May*, Jayden Owsley, Peter Nguyen*, Quinten Schoeff
Gavin Bragg- Indianapolis Cathedral(13/10/3): Ashton Jackson*, Bryce Doss*, Dominic Brown*, Eddie Goss(2)*, Elijah Broady*, Isaiah Schaefer*, Jake Hockaday*, Moreland(OH), Quinten Schoeff, Rahul(OH), Ryan Taylor*, Sonny Sessa*
Isaiah Wilson- Chesterton(14/8/1): Ashton Jackson(3)*, Dominic Brown(2)*, Hank Phenicie, Isaiah McCue, Linkin Carter*, Matthew Maldonado(2), Owen Bunton(2), Sonny Sessa(2)*
Sonny Sessa- Crown Point(16/8/5): Ashton Jackson(3)*, Butler(OH), Dominic Brown*, Dylan Bennett, Eddie Goss*, Gibson(OH), Isaiah Wilson*, Jake Hockaday*, Matthew Maldonado(2), Nasdeo(PA), Rsendez(IL), Ryan(WI), Tanner Tishner*
126lbs
Tylin Thrine- New Castle(0/0/5): 
Keegan Schlabach- Lakeland(1/0/4): Braylon Meyer
Logan Frazier- Crown Point(2/0/6): Campbell(OH), Davino(IL)
Aden Reyes- Indianapolis Cathedral(2/1/5): Sears(OH), Tylin Thrine*
Jackson Bradley- Cowan(2/1/2): Cole Stuffel, Keegan Schlabach*
Evan Seng- Evansville Mater Dei(3/1/3): Aden Reyes*, Raney(KY)(2)
Cody Rowles- Jay County(3/3/1): Hayden Brady*, Jackson Bradley(2)*
Griffin Ingalls- Fishers(4/4/2): Aden Reyes*, Jake Hockaday*, Tylin Thrine(2)*
Hayden Brady- Garrett(4/4/1): Cody Rowles*, Keegan Schlabach(3)*
Alejandro Ramirez- River Forest(5/6/2): Griffin Ingalls*, Guillermo Rivera(3)*, Jesus Aquino-Morales(2)*
Chase Stephens- Tell City(5/2/1): Evan Seng(2)*, Liam Krueger, Toby Billerman, Zane Schreck
Guillermo Rivera- Lake Central(7/5/6): ???, Ayden Campbell, Hyatt Yeager*, Logan Frazier(4)*
Jesus Aquino-Morales- Union County(7/4/2): ???, Aden Reyes*, Blake Wolf, Griffin Ingalls*, Jack Davis, Tylin Thrine(2)*
Hyatt Yeager- Center Grove(8/4/2): ???, Aden Reyes*, Blum(MI), Caleb Mattingly, Evan Seng*, Landen Haines(2)*, Liam Krueger
Landen Haines- Brownsburg(10/3/2): Aden Reyes*, Chase Stephens*, Davis(MI), Garcia(IL), Hyatt Yeager*, Jett(OH), Keith Parker, Liam Krueger, McBurney(OH), Sanderfer(OH)
Nasir Christion- Merrillville(13/7/0): Alejandro Ramirez(2)*, Ayden Campbell(2), Dalton Robson, Guillermo Rivera(3)*, Liam Bumgardner(2), Logan Frazier(2)*, Quinton Buckmaster
132lbs
Joey Buttler- Whiteland(0/0/4): 
Easton Doster- New Haven(0/0/2): 
Kyrel Leavell- Warren Central(1/0/5): ???
Zar Walker- Mishawaka(1/0/3): Hayden Demarco
David Maldonado- Merrillville(2/1/5): Hayden Demarco, Zar Walker*
Odin Fortune- Evansville Reitz(2/1/1): Joey Buttler*, Landen Horning
Mikey Kallimani- Jimtown(3/2/5): David Maldonado*, Easton Doster*, Hayden Demarco
Justice Thornton- Columbus North(3/2/0): Brady Ison*, Odin Fortune*, Seth Syra
Hayden Fritz- West Central(4/2/0): ???, Caleb Oliver, David Maldonado*, Griffin Van Tichelt*
Jacob Weaver- Rossville(4/2/0): ???, Josh Johnson*, Kyrel Leavell*, Quenton Riley
Brady Ison- Brownsburg(5/2/4): Brown(OH), Joey Buttler(2)*, King(OH), Robinson(IL)
Keaton Morton- Perry Meridian(6/6/3): Brady Ison*, Griffin Van Tichelt*, Joey Buttler*, Kyrel Leavell(3)*
Brody Hagewood- Prairie Heights(6/5/3): Dallas Davidson, David Maldonado*, Easton Doster*, Essiah Kamer*, Mikey Kallimani(2)*
Griffin Van Tichelt- Crown Point(7/5/3): Brady Ison*, Brody Hagewood*, David Maldonado(2)*, Tye Linser(2), Zar Walker*
Essiah Kamer- Fremont(8/5/1):  ???(2), Brody Hagewood(2)*, Gabe Miller, Mikey Kallimani(3)*
Josh Johnson- Indianapolis Cathedral(9/6/1): Griffin Van Tichelt*, Keaton Morton(3)*, Kyrel Leavell*, Markour(OH), Tommy Gibbs, Trumble(KY), Wesley Harper*
138lbs
Tony Wood- Jay County(0/0/7): 
Michael Major- Carmel(0/0/5): 
Cheaney Schoeff- Avon(0/0/5): 
Jeffrey Huyvaert- New Prairie(1/1/5): Cole Solomey*
Cole Solomey- Kankakee Valley(1/1/4): Jeffrey Huyvaert*
Kelby Glenn- Tell City(3/3/3): Branson Weaver*, Cheaney Schoeff*, Reese Courtney*
Gavyn Whitehead- New Castle(3/2/1): Michael Major*, Silas Foster, Tony Wood*
Cooper Baldwin- Peru(4/3/2): Jordan Lear, Lucas Clement*, Reese Courtney*, Tony Wood*
Christian Arberry- Warren Central(4/2/2): Cooper Baldwin*, Gavyn Whitehead*, Michael Ortega, Romeo White
Wesley Harper- Penn(5/5/2): Cole Solomey*, Jeffrey Huyvaert*, Lucas Clement*, Michael Major*, Zar Walker*
Brock Hagewood- Prairie Heights(5/4/0): Cooper Baldwin*, Evan Cruz, Logan Uhlman*, Lucas Clement*, Max McGinley*
Lucas Clement- Merrillville(6/5/3): Aidan Torres*, Cole Solomey(2)*, Evan Cruz, Jeffrey Huyvaert*, Max McGinley*
Branson Weaver- Owen Valley(6/5/1): ???, Cheaney Schoeff*, Jeffrey Huyvaert*, Kelby Glenn(2)*, Michael Major*
Reese Courtney- Center Grove(8/4/6): Cheaney Schoeff(2)*, Chinavare(MI), Gates(MI), Michael Major*, Parker Reynolds, Tyler Vanover, Wesley Harper*
Max McGinley- Indianapolis Cathedral(9/8/2): Ayoub(OH), Brady Ison*, Cheaney Schoeff*, Christian Arberry(2)*, Michael Major*, Reese Courtney(3)*
Logan Uhlman- Adams Central(9/7/1): Aidan Carter, Jeffrey Huyvaert*, Kelby Glenn*, Tony Wood(5)*, Wyatt Price
145lbs
Aidan Torres- Chesterton(0/0/9): 
Wyatt Krejsa- Center Grove(0/0/4): 
Wesley Smith- Plymouth(2/2/3): Aidan Torres*, Anthony Bahl*
Cameron Clark- Jay County(2/2/3): Braxton Miller*, Brevan Thrine*
Braxton Miller- DeKalb(2/1/2): ???, Luke Teusch*
Luke Teusch- Huntington North(2/2/1): Cameron Clark*, Kolten Rhonemus*
Brevan Thrine- New Castle(3/1/3):  ???(2), Dillon Graham*
Luke Robards- Evansville Central(3/1/2): Cash Turner, Nayl Sbay, Wyatt Krejsa*
Jack Todd- Pendleton Heights(3/3/0): Brevan Thrine*, Dillon Graham*, Ike O'Neill*
Dillon Graham- Indianapolis Cathedral(4/2/4): Aiden Kiner, Wesley Smith*, Woodcock(OH), Wyatt Krejsa*
Ike O'Neill- Westfield(4/3/2): Aidan Torres*, Dillon Graham*, Jessie Franklin, Mason Day*
Anthony Bahl- Crown Point(6/2/4): Aidan Torres(2)*, Dominique(OH), Herriman(MI), Robinson(IL), Schneider(OK)
Kolten Rhonemus- Delta(6/5/1): Braxton Miller*, Brevan Thrine*, Cameron Clark(2)*, Cash Turner, Luke Robards*
Jayden Lewis- New Prairie(7/5/0): Aidan Torres(3)*, Alex Smith, Anthony Bahl*, Caleb Solomey, Wesley Smith*
Bradley Owen- Jeffersonville(9/1/1): Alex Smith, Asher Ratliff, Braedon Spears, Brown(KY), Jase Robinson, Keegan Williams, Lee Spencer, Montoya(KY), Wyatt Krejsa*
Mason Day- Brownsburg(11/8/1): Anthony Bahl(2)*, Bradley Owen*, Chase(OH), DiFazio(OH), Dillon Graham*, Guerra(OH), Ike O'Neill*, Luke Robards*, Silas Stits*, Wyatt Krejsa*
152lbs
Bryce Lowery- Roncalli(0/0/5): 
Hunter May- Evansville Mater Dei(1/1/5): Bryce Lowery*
Mitchell Betz- Western(1/0/5): Anthony Rinehart
Beau Brabender- Mishawaka(4/3/8): ???, Bryce Denton*, Gavin Davis*, Silas Stits*
Bryce Denton- Penn(4/4/2): Adrian Pellot*, Beau Brabender*, Hunter Miller*, Reese Courtney*
Tyce DuPont- Tell City(4/3/1): Evan Roudebush, Hunter May(3)*
Adrian Pellot- Merrillville(5/2/2):  Anthony Rinehart(2), Beau Brabender*, Evan Roudebush, Hunter Miller*
Gavin Davis- Bellmont(6/5/7): Aidan Torres*, Beau Brabender*, Evan Roudebush, Mitchell Betz(3)*
Hunter Miller- Wawasee(6/5/3): Anthony Rinehart, Beau Brabender(3)*, Bryce Denton*, Evan Roudebush, Gavin Davis*
Jackson Todd- Carroll (Fort Wayne)(6/6/2): Beau Brabender*, Gavin Davis(3)*, Hunter Miller*, Wesley Smith*
Zach Lang- Hamilton Southeastern(7/2/6): Bryce Lowery*, Mitchell Betz*, Trevor Gallagher(5)
Christian Wittkamp- Jay County(8/5/0):  Caden Funk(2), Deaglan Pleak, Gavin Davis(2)*, Jackson Todd(2)*, Mitchell Betz*
Silas Stits- Center Grove(9/3/3): Anthony Rinehart, Evan Roudebush(2), Gage Eckels*, Hunter May(2)*, Katschor(MI), Long(MI), Simcoe(MI)
Gage Eckels- Ben Davis(9/6/1): Bryce Lowery*, Chase Carrington(3), Jason Rooney*, Silas Stits*, Tyce DuPont*, Zach Lang(2)*
Jason Rooney- Westfield(11/9/2): Adrian Pellot*, AJ Steenbeke*, Beau Brabender*, Brenton Russell*, Carter Richardson*, Ethan Smith, Nathan Powell*, Trevor Gallagher, Zach Lang(3)*
Carter Richardson- Noblesville(14/3/1): Xavier Smith, Blake Wahl(3), Bryce Lowery(2)*, Chase Carrington, Gabe Bragg, Greyson Gard, Jaylen Covington, Jesse Derringer, Larz Hughes, Trevor Gallagher, Zach Lang*
160lbs
Logan Farnell- Maconaquah(1/1/4): Brant Beck*
Sam Goin- Crown Point(2/0/8): Garcia(PA), Lamer(OR)
Nathan Powell- Carmel(2/2/4): AJ Steenbeke*, Brenton Russell*
Luke Kemper- Evansville Central(2/0/3):  Jeb Prechtel(2)
AJ Steenbeke- Penn(3/3/7): Conner Watts*, Sam Goin(2)*
Brenton Russell- Warren Central(3/3/5): Andre Merritt*, Chase Wagner*, Sam Goin*
Levi Abbott- Cowan(4/2/1): Brant Beck*, Jordan Ayres, Logan Farnell*, Silas Loshe
Andre Merritt- Center Grove(5/3/7): AJ Steenbeke*, Davis(MI), Luke Kemper*, Marines(MI), Sam Goin*
Brant Beck- Rochester(5/5/4): AJ Steenbeke*, Conner Watts*, Levi Abbott*, Logan Farnell(2)*
Chase Wagner- Zionsville(5/5/4): Andre Merritt(2)*, Brenton Russell(2)*, Nathan Powell*
Conner Watts- Jimtown(5/4/2): AJ Steenbeke*, Ben Shaffer*, Brant Beck*, Deaglan Pleak, Logan Farnell*
Michael Hutchison- Cascade(5/5/1): Andre Merritt(2)*, Brant Beck*, Luke Kemper(2)*
Cameron Crisp- Merrillville(8/7/0): Aidan Costello*, Ben Shaffer(2)*, Carlos Perez-Xochipa*, Chase Wagner*, Manolo Hood, Sam Goin(2)*
Zach Huckaby- Perry Meridian(9/6/0): ???, AJ Steenbeke*, Brenton Russell*, Chase Wagner*, David Oyebode, Jason Rooney*, Nathan Powell(2)*, Sam Goin
Braden Moore- Charlestown(9/2/0):  ???(2), Andre Merritt*, Corbin Scott, Hayden Newell, Jack Rose, John Rushenberg, Michael Hutchison*, Wojcicki(KY)
Ben Shaffer- Chesterton(11/6/3): AJ Steenbeke*, Andre Merritt*, Chase Wagner*, Duke Myers*, Isaiah Rivas, Kenneth Bisping(3), Manolo Hood, Sam Goin(2)*
170lbs
Delaney Ruhlman- Bloomington South(0/0/6): 
Noah Weaver- Rossville(2/2/3): Anthony Cashman*, Jaquan East*
Jaquan East- Kokomo(2/2/2): Braxton Russell*, Evan Tilton*
Duke Myers- Bellmont(3/2/7): Gavin Malone, Kyle Harden*, Noah Clouser*
Aidan Costello- Hobart(3/3/5): Cody Goodwin*, Kyle Harden*, Noah Clouser*
Kyle Harden- Indianapolis Cathedral(4/3/6): Aidan Costello*, Clay Guenin, Noah Clouser(2)*
Noah Terry- Tell City(4/3/3): ???, Delaney Ruhlman(2)*, Jett Goldsberry*
Cody Goodwin- Crown Point(4/0/2): Cramblett(OH), Flip(PA), Kelly(IL), Snyder(NJ)
Tanner Reed- Columbia City(4/4/1): Duke Myers(3)*, Jaquan East*
Noah Clouser- Center Grove(5/3/6): Boone(MI), Delaney Ruhlman(3)*, Vincent Tinoco
Anthony Cashman- Warren Central(5/4/3): Aidan Costello*, Clay Guenin, Delaney Ruhlman*, Kyle Harden(2)*
Carlos Perez-Xochipa- Harrison (WL)(5/4/2): Aidan Costello*, Cody Goodwin*, Daeveon Cheeks, Noah Clouser*, Tanner Reed*
Jett Goldsberry- Heritage Hills(5/4/1): Gavin Malone, Noah Clouser*, Noah Terry(3)*
Braxton Russell- Delta(5/3/1):  Clay Guenin(2), Duke Myers(2)*, Zach Wagner*
Zach Wagner- Hamilton Southeastern(6/6/1): Ethan Popp*, Kyle Harden*, Luke Penola*, Noah Weaver(3)*
Isaac Valdez- Mishawaka(10/7/0): ???, Aidan Costello*, Anthony Cashman(2)*, Carlos Perez-Xochipa*, Duke Myers*, Kaden Lone*, Kyle Harden*, Zymarion Hollyfield(2)
182lbs
De'Alcapon Veazy- Fort Wayne Snider(1/1/5): Orlando Cruz*
Hunter Page- Monroe Central(1/1/3): Kaden Lone*
Evan Tilton- Hamilton Heights(1/1/3): Mike Durham*
Connor Cervantes- Griffith(1/1/2): Orlando Cruz*
Luke Penola- Zionsville(2/1/8): Ricketts(KY), Orlando Cruz*
Orlando Cruz- Crown Point(2/0/6): Heeg(OK), McDaniel(OH)
Bray Emerine- Floyd Central(3/2/1): Caden Brewer*, Luke Penola*, Ricketts(KY)
Mike Durham- Warren Central(4/3/3): ???, De'Alcapon Veazy*, Luke Penola(2)*
Laish Detwiler- Goshen(4/4/1): De'Alcapon Veazy*, Hunter Page*, Kaden Lone(2)*
Ethan Popp- Harrison (WL)(4/2/1): ???, Andy Warren, Connor Cervantes*, Vinny Freeman*
Kaden Lone- NorthWood(5/5/4): De'Alcapon Veazy(2)*, Laish Detwiler*, Luke Penola*, Mike Durham*
Brayden Tincher- Eastern Hancock(6/6/0): Evan Tilton(2)*, Hunter Page(2)*, Luke Penola*, Mike Durham*
Jackson Fox- Columbus East(7/3/2): Bray Emerine*, Christian Chavez*, Jonathan Tanner, Julian Weems*, Shaun Glass, Spencer Fain, Trent Kersey
Julian Weems- Center Grove(8/5/2): Adams(MI), Caden Brewer(4)*, Ethan Risner, Jaxson Walters, Luke Penola*
Vinny Freeman- Penn(8/5/1):  ???(2), Connor Cervantes*, De'Alcapon Veazy*, Jaylen Young, Julian Weems*, Orlando Cruz(2)*
Caden Brewer- Brownsburg(9/3/5): Barr(MI), Havill(OH), Jackson Fox*, Luke Penola*, Miller(OH), Neitenbach(OH), Orlando Cruz*, Shulaw(OH), Westpfahl(OH)
195lbs
Christian Chavez- Mishawaka(0/0/8): 
Alex Deming- Rochester(0/0/4): 
Luke Hansen- Roncalli(0/0/2): 
Wyatt Woodall- Southmont(1/1/3): Luke Hansen*
John Purdy- Castle(1/1/2): Reid Schroeder*
Reid Schroeder- Southridge(1/1/2): John Purdy*
Neil Johnson- New Prairie(3/2/4): Anthony White, Christian Chavez*, Nash Shupert*
Kaden McConnell- Center Grove(3/3/1): Christian Chavez*, Gunner Henry*, John Purdy*
Orlan Foster- Connersville(3/1/1): ???, Jaxon Copas, Luke Hansen*
Chad Washburn- Kokomo(5/4/1): Alex Deming*, Armen Koltookian*, Nash Shupert*, Neil Johnson*, Peyton Cross
Nash Shupert- Elkhart(6/5/3): ???, Alex Deming*, Armen Koltookian*, Donovan Blair*, Jackson Fox*, Neil Johnson*
Armen Koltookian- Concord(7/5/5): ???, Alex Deming(2)*, Chance Harris, Christian Chavez*, Nash Shupert*, Wyatt Woodall*
Gunner Henry- Brownsburg(8/3/1): Bennie(UT), Kaden McConnell*, Menifee(VA), quillin(OH), Ray(OH), Reid Schroeder*, Sell(OH), Will Clark*
Bazle Owens- Tippecanoe Valley(10/5/0):  ???(2), Armen Koltookian*, Austin Farris, Christian Chavez*, Donovan Blair(2)*, Mickey Daring, Neil Johnson*, Preston Duffy
Cael Albaugh- Clinton Central(10/5/0): Chad Washburn*, Elijah Cox, Jacob Jones, Neil Johnson*, Orlan Foster*, Ray Townsend, Seth Richardson, Trevor Currie, Wyatt Woodall(2)*
Donovan Blair- Wawasee(13/5/3): Anthony White, Armen Koltookian(2)*, Austin Smith, Christian Chavez(3)*, Henry Kukelhan, Josiah Williams, Nathaniel Rosas, Parker Hart(2), Paul Dewitt
220lbs
Tommy Morrill- Columbus East(1/1/4): Will Clark(2)*
Brady Beck- Rochester(1/1/3): Julante Hinton*
Julante Hinton- Fort Wayne Northrop(1/0/2): Chance Harris
Keagan Martin- Bellmont(2/2/3): Brady Beck*, Devin Kendrex*
Will Clark- Crown Point(3/0/7): Gallo(PA, Shulaw(OH), Snider(OH)
Cole Chicoine- McCutcheon(3/3/2): Alex Rose*, Jackson New*, Will Clark*
Nate Johnson- Center Grove(3/4/1): Devin Kendrex*, Jackson Weingart, Keagan Martin*, Tommy Morrill*
Devin Kendrex- Mount Vernon (Fortville)(4/2/8): Brandon Johnson*, Jackson Weingart(2), Tommy Morrill*
Austin Hastings- Noblesville(4/4/4): Brady Beck(2)*, Brandon Johnson*, Devin Kendrex*
Brandon Johnson- Lawrence North(4/4/3): Austin Hastings(2)*, Devin Kendrex(2)*
Alex Rose- Terre Haute South(4/2/2):  Eli Hinshaw(2), Tommy Morrill(2)*
Hadyn Ball- Triton Central(6/2/0):  , ???(3), Jackson Goodyear, Austin Hastings*
Jayden Bartoszek- Hanover Central(7/6/1): ???, Austin Hastings*, Clayton Deutscher*, Cole Chicoine(2)*, Will Clark(2)*
Spencer Watson- Tri-West(7/2/0):  , ???(3), Alex Rose*, Jakarrey Oliver, Josh Brown, Nate Johnson*
Clayton Deutscher- New Prairie(8/2/1): Eli Hinshaw, Jack Aranowski(2), Jayden Bartoszek*, Jonathan Neese, Kaleb Abad, Travis Henke, Will Clark*
Jackson New- Yorktown(10/7/1): Brandon Johnson*, Devin Kendrex(2)*, Eli Hinshaw, Hudson Kahn, Jonathan Tanner, Julante Hinton*, Keagan Martin(2)*, Titus Waters*
285lbs
Titus Waters- Muncie Central(0/0/5): 
Kelton Farmer- Evansville Memorial(1/1/3): Leighton Jones*
Dom Burgett- Hamilton Southeastern(2/1/4): Jack Milligan, Leighton Jones*
Aramis McNutt- Highland(2/2/1): Anthony Popi*, Paul Clark*
Jordan Cree- Rensselaer Central(2/2/1): Aramis McNutt*, Titus Waters*
Andrew Just- Franklin Central(3/3/4): Dom Burgett(2)*, John Broadwell*
Paul Clark- Crown Point(3/2/3): Leighton Jones(2)*, Moore(CO)
Anthony Popi- Plymouth(4/3/3): ???, Jordan Cree*, Paul Clark(2)*
Tyler Wright- Eastern (Greentown)(4/2/0): Brandt Thornburg, Brayden Jellison*, Mason Moran, Zac Wurm*
Leighton Jones- Brownsburg(5/0/8): Fockler(OH), Hosia Smith, Neves(NJ), Thomas(OK)(2)
Brayden Jellison- Elkhart(5/2/2): ???, Anthony Popi*, Christian Carroll, Peyton Kendall, Titus Waters*
John Broadwell- Beech Grove(5/3/1):  ???(2), Andrew Just(2)*, Eli Smith*
Zac Wurm- Adams Central(7/2/1): Joseph Orisadare, Juan Cruz(4), Titus Waters(2)*
Eli Smith- Zionsville(8/7/1): Andrew Just*, Brayden Jellison*, Dom Burgett(2)*, Hosia Smith, Leighton Jones*, Tyler Schott(2)*
Austin Vanover- Evansville Mater Dei(9/4/1):  , ???(3), Guillaume(KY), Jack Milligan, Kelton Farmer(2)*, Leighton Jones*, Tyler Schott*
Tyler Schott- Center Grove(11/6/3): ???, Acosta(MI), Andrew Just*, Anthony Popi*, Austin Vanover*, Hosia Smith(3), Kelton Farmer*, Leighton Jones(2)*
 
 

By Blaze Lowery
 
Indianapolis continues to dominate the Little State tournament with five champions and eight finalists. Wabash, Marian, and Indiana Tech each having two champions, respectively. Trine continues to show glimmers of success and Manchester remains in rebuild mode. Year after year, this tournament gets stronger, and it is always good to see where Indiana’s universities in the state lineup against each other.
 
125 –
 
Wabash freshman #7 James Day defeats Aidan Sprague in a close 6-5 decision by a riding point. James Day comes to the Hoosier state from New Jersey and is fitting in well with the Little Giants. Having only a single loss this season, he could be a key component to this Wabash lineup, especially come tournament time.
 
133 –
Indiana Tech’s, #4 Matt Gimson, earned a takedown in sudden victory to defeat #6 Blake Mulkey of Marian. It felt like everyone at the tournament had their eyes on this match with Mulkey’s early takedown earned in the first period. Gimson will see Mulkey again in their dual in January but could see him again even sooner at NWCA National Duals.
141 –
 
UIndy’s Ray Rioux and Brayden Lowery share the Little State title for the greyhounds after both win their sides of the bracket. Being college roommates and wrestling each other in the state finals a few years prior, they decided it would be best to conserve their energy for the infamous Midwest Classic. The two will wrestle-off for the spot in the coming week.
 
Lowery knocks off the one-seed, #5 Logan Wagner, who has recently been making noise in the NAIA scene, in a 6-4 decision. Rioux defeats Aundre Beatty with an uncontested 12-0 major decision. Both these hounds cannot run away from each other for too much longer with the 141-pound spot up for grabs.
 
149 –
 
#8 Nick Gates defeats Nathan Conley by 3-1 decision in the Little State finals for the second year in a row. Gates also defeats Asa Garcia in a 7-1 decision in the semis. Gates is a proven guy and is on his way to placement at the NAIA National Championships, after not placing in last year’s tournament.
 
157 –
 
UIndy’s #3 Logan Bailey obliterates the competition with three falls and takes the title by injury default in the finals over Tyson Nisley. After moving up from 149, Bailey has filled into the weight class nicely and rolls into the Midwest Classic with six falls on the season.
 
165 –
 
Owen Zablocki secures another title for the Greyhounds with a fall by spladle over Sam York of Indiana Tech. #6 Jack Eiteljorge injury defaults out of the tournament and allows Zablocki to win his last wrestling tournament ever, as he graduates at semester.
 
174 –
#4 Elliott Rodgers pins his way to a Little State title after he misses weight for 165lbs. Rodgers pins #11 Raymond Arebalo, who was seeded first this tournament. It is safe to say Rodgers is dangerous no matter what weight he ends up at.
184 –
 
#3 Sam Osho wins Marian’s first Little State title of the day with a 13-6 decision over Aidan Petersen of UIndy. Osho did not give up a single takedown this whole tournament and continues to be a great leader for the Knights.
 
197 –
#2 Derek Blubaugh gets his revenge with a 3-0 decision over Marian’s #7 Jack Servies. After falling to Servies at last season’s Little State tournament, Blubaugh was excited to make up for it. Blubaugh will roll into the Midwest Classic where he will more than likely see Dalton Abney of Central Oklahoma who beat him at the 2022 NCAA DII National Champions.
285 –
 
Wabash’s #3 Jack Heldt makes himself the third wrestler this tournament to pin his way through the tournament with a fall over Mayes-Butler of Indiana Tech, who had all falls as well going into the finals. Heldt stays undefeated on the season for the Little Giants.
 
 
D1 Significant Results:
 
#2 Mason Parris (Michigan) defeats #5 Lucas Davison (Northwestern) at CKLV by 6-4 decision
#18 Silas Allred (Nebraska) wins by 5-2 decision over #15 Gavin Hoffman (Ohio State) at CKLV
Graham Calhoun (Wisconsin) wins Jim Kock Open
 
Upcoming Events this Weekend:
Dec 10th – Wabash @ Luther College (Triple Dual)
Dec 11th – IU @ Cleveland State Open
Dec 11th – Marian & Indiana Tech @ NAIA Challenge Duals

By Anna Kayser
 
As the clocked ticked down toward the end of November into the beginning of December and the temperature dropped below freezing, the heat of the 2022-23 IHSAA wrestling season was cranked to high and since, the Brownsburg Bulldogs have surged. 
 
No match of which, in the first official varsity competition, was more indicative of that than No. 9 Mason Day’s electric, overtime win over No. 6 Ike O’Neill – a senior and 2022 state qualifier at 138 pounds – with the entire gymnasium on its feet last Wednesday. 
 
Sandwiching a quartet of pins by No. 11 Landon Haines (126), Tommy Gibbs (132), No. 138 Parker Reynolds (138) and No. 20 Jesse Derringer (152), Day gritted his way through a season-opening victory. After opening the match with a takedown late in the first period, he found himself in a one-point deficit in the waning seconds of the third until an escape in the waning seconds forced overtime. 
 
“We went into overtime, and I could see that he was tired,” Day said. “I kind of looked over at my coaches and smiled. I was ready to work.”
 
With an escape forcing a number of overtime periods and his entire team, coaching staff and fanbase behind him as he clung to O’Neill’s leg to avoid a point scored against him, he raised his hand in triumph for his first varsity victory after the ultimate ride out.
 
“We felt pretty good going into overtime because Mason’s a tough kid,” head coach Darrick Snyder said. “He’s only a sophomore, but the kid’s been wrestling his entire life. He’s been in dozens and dozens of overtime matches, so I would just think his mentality [was the biggest part].”
 
And without a number of prominent, ranked wrestlers on the mat, Brownsburg kicked off its season in a frenzy, defeating the Westfield Shamrocks, 60-13. 
 
“I thought we competed well, and I was really excited,” Snyder said. “We had some young kids – some backups –perform really, really well. Overall, I thought it was good considering it was our first meet.”
 
Most notably missing from the Bulldogs’ Wednesday night lineup were No. 1 Preston Haines (113), No. 2 Jake Hockaday (120) and No. 2 Leighton Jones (285), but as the week came to a close, those three made their presence known.
 
In Harrison, OH at the William Henry Harrison Invitational, the Bulldogs continued their dominant opening to the season with a perfect 5-0 record in duals against Oak Hills, Miamisburg, Lebanon, East Central and Harrison. Leading the squad were nine undefeated wrestlers donning purple singlets – Revin Dickman, Kyle Callahan, Preston Haines, Hockaday, Landon Haines, Gibbs, Brady Ison, Gunner Henry and Jones. 
 
As the campaign – and winter cold and flu season – progresses and the Bulldogs lineup shifts due to injury and illness, having a stacked lineup of wrestlers who can compete at a high level brings advantages not only to team success, but individual success as well. 
 
“You can’t replace their experience and success,” head coach Darrick Snyder said. “I think when you’re competing for a team state championship, when you have all your guns and you have some of the dudes we have, it leaves a little room for error.
 
“I think it allows everyone to relax a little more, wrestle free because they know they’ve got some friends that can pick up the slack if they have an off match or a tough tournament.”
 
After getting into the weeds on how the Bulldog wrestling program – now rated No. 2 in the IndianaMat State Power Poll behind Crown Point – was built from the ground up with Snyder at the helm over nearly a decade, now we look forward. 
 
Snyder isn’t shy about building his schedule to make the athletes better in their quest to reach the podium at Gainbridge Fieldhouse come February. 
 
Tonight, Brownsburg opens its home schedule to take on Avon before heading to – arguably – its biggest non-championship event of the season: the Walsh Jesuit Ironman Invitational.
 
Dickman, Preston Haines, Hockaday, Ison, Reynolds, Caden Brewer, Henry and Jones will take the mat in the nationally recognized tournament to kick the season into full gear, especially with the lack of matches leading up to the tournament from Dec. 9-10. 
 
“We’re hoping everyone gets at least four or five matches just because the way I [put together] our season, we don’t compete early because I think it takes a lot of time to get into wrestling shape,” Snyder said. “We’re not going to have a lot of opportunities to compete before Ironman, so we’re trying to get as many matches as we can this weekend.”
 
Of the Bulldogs’ eight representatives at Ironman this weekend, four are returning placers at IHSAA state last season and are anchors to a lineup that is hard to score points against: Hockaday, who became the first freshman to win a state title in team history; Preston Haines, runner-up at 113; Henry, third-place at 182 and Jones, who is entering his senior season with a drive for a title after placing third at heavyweight. 
 
Following this weekend, the schedule doesn’t slow until the holiday break approaches. On Dec. 17, Brownsburg travels to the Crown Point Invitational, hosted by the team’s main competitive rival following a second-place team finish in the state tournament last year. 
 
Even as the level of competition rises, one of the main focuses of Bulldog wrestlers is keeping an even mentality, despite what might have occurred – good or bad – in the last match. 
 
“I wouldn’t say [my win against Westfield] really changes anything. I go into every match thinking the same – that I need to win it no matter what,” Day said. “You’ve got to keep a good, good, good head. You’ve got to stay clear minded and just work for your goals.”
 

By STEVE KRAH
stvkrh905@gmail.com

 
Sometimes a change of venue is the best thing for a person.
 
Mikey Robles placed fifth at the Michigan High School Athletic Association State Finals as a Niles High School 103-pound freshman in 2020.
 
He qualified for the regional stage as a sophomore then had to quarantine during the COVID-19 pandemic and saw his season end. His grades began to slip, making him academically ineligible. There were other distractions in his life that caused him to look for a new school.
 
“It was so I could better my life and move away from all the drama and stuff,” says Robles of his decision to change schools.
 
The oldest of eight children (four boys and four girls), Robles came to Indiana and Kim Wagley (the grandmother of his girlfriend) became his legal guardian until he turned 18.
 
“(Wagley) treats him like a son,” says Steven Sandefer, head coach at Mishawaka High School where Robles enrolled after Niles. “She’ll do anything for him. She’s a sweet lady.
 
“She’s working with us to keep him motivated and on-track and making good decisions. He’s come a long way in the last two years.”
 
Sandefer, who is in his ninth year as a wrestling coach and sixth leading the Cavemen program, knows what it takes to be successful inside the circle.
 
“It’s a lot of hard work,” says Sandefer. “You have to have discipline. I say this to my guys weekly: In wrestling and in life you’re going to have to do things you don’t want to do things are not always going to be easy if you want to get where you want to go.

“It reinforces a lot of those bigger life lessons.”
 
That message has reached Robles.
 
“Wrestling has helped me be a better person in life,” says Robles. “Since it does come with discipline you show people a lot more respect and it also helps you stay out of trouble.”
 
Robles was with the Cavemen in 2021-22 but ineligible to compete.
 
“My grades have gotten back up to where they are pretty good,” says Robles, who counts History as his favorite subject and sees a future as an electrical engineer.
 
With then-Niles wrestling head coach Todd Hesson bringing his Vikings to Penn’s Henry Wilk Classic, Robles had competed against Mishawaka in the past.
 
Before joining the team, Mikey was familiar with Cavemen grapplers Christian Chavez, Chris Peacock, Courtney Rider, Gunnar Sandefur and Isaac Valdez.
 
The 2022-23 season — Robles’ senior campaign — opens with him No. 12 in the Indiana Mat preseason rankings at 138 pounds for a team that is No. 2 in Class 3A.
 
“When I’m on the mat I just like to get physical,” says Robles, who is 18 now and got started in the sport at 5. “I just love to wrestle. This is my senior year. I want to go as far as I can and leave everything on the mat.”
 
Sandefer says he saw “flashes of greatness” from Robles last winter and during the off-season, but is not sure he was yet fully in grappling shape.
 
“He has a lot of room to grow in his wrestling,” says Sandefer.
 
Many wrestlers progress from the end of one high school season to another.
 
“When the season gets here you can see the improvements the kids made in the off-season,” says Sandefer. “They get to showcase their talents.
 
“That’s the real rewarding part.”
 
Robles’ regular workout partners are 113-pound senior Peacock and 145-pound junior Brabender and — occasionally — 132-pound junior Zar Walker. The coaches he works with most are Sandefer and assistant Fabian Chavez.
 
“We don’t screw around,” says Robles of their practice room mentality. “We go in their and try to get better.”
 
The wrestlers teach each other moves and talk about making them more effective.
 
“Staying in shape and packing on muscle is good,” says Robles, who stands 5-foot-7 1/2. “But it’s really not how strong you are to go out there and win a match.
 
“I believe technique beats strength any day of the week.”
 
Four state qualifiers return for Mishawaka — Walker (who placed sixth at 132 in 2021-22 and is ranked No. 2 at 132 in the preseason), seniors Chavez (No. 4 at 195) and Valdez (No. 8 at 170) and Brabender (No. 6 at 145). There’s also senior Xavier Chavez (No. 6 at 106).
 
They are are part of a large squad of 47 (45 boys and two girls).
 
“That’s about 10 more than usual,” says Sandefer. “My first year I had 30 kids so it’s come up.
 
“All 47 kids have shown they’re committed.”
 
A physical education teacher at Mishawaka, Sandefer leads athletes and others through weight training classes. Most wrestlers are in these classes, learning power movements like the bench press and squat.
 
“We do pull movements,” says Sandefer. “If you’re on a guy’s leg you want to be able to pull him in.
“We also need that leg strength.”
 
Practices at Mishawaka began Nov. 1. The first boys meet is slated for Tuesday, Nov. 29 at Northern Lakes Conference foe Warsaw.
 
Among the other competitions for the Cavemen are the Chris Traicoff Memorial Invitational at Calumet New Tech Dec. 10, a dual against crosstown rival Penn Dec. 21 at Mishawaka (Alumni Night), the 32-team Al Smith Classic at Mishawaka Dec. 29-30, the Indiana High School Wrestling Coaches Association 3A State Duals Jan. 7 at Franklin Community, the NLC Championships Jan. 14 at Wawasee, Mishawaka Sectional Jan. 28, Penn Regional Feb. 4, East Chicago Semistate Feb. 11 and IHSAA State Finals Feb. 17-18 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

It’s not all about wrestling for Robles. He played football at Niles as a sophomore and Mishawaka as a senior. He was a middle linebacker for the 10-2 Cavemen in 2022. A shortstop/left fielder in baseball, he intends to try out for that sport in the spring. He stepped away from the diamond after eighth grade to focus on wrestling.

The season is starting, Mike and Joe discuss a variety of topics on the upcoming wrestling season.

By: Blaze Lowery
 
Admittance into a military academy is something that every wrestler should be considering. These institutions are adding structure and grit to some of Indiana’s finest talents on and off the mat. Combining passion with real change, these athletes are up from sunup to sundown with zero complaints. To put it in simpler terms, these gentlemen are taking the road less traveled.
 
West Point
Out on the east coast, Christian Hunt of Yorktown is representing Indiana for his 5th season as a mule rider. West Point has been a place for Hunt to really figure it all out. He states how he enjoys the leadership opportunities and military obligations that come with attending the academy. Hunt also forfeits his summers to training and getting out into the field.
 
Wrestling-wise, Hunt states how he came in ready to go, paying homage to his home state being so tough. The transition from high school to college for him was working on his top and bottom. West Point is not a place for the weak, as Hunt highlights how since he got put on a 6 A.M. to 9 P.M. schedule since arriving at the academy.
 
Some advice he has for young Indiana athletes thinking about attending a military academy is to expose yourself to national talent as much as you possibly can. Going to large tournaments like Super 32, Fargo, etc. will only increase your chances to compete and compete hard at the next level. “Be ready to serve something bigger than yourself,” states Hunt. Wrestling can only take you so far, but why not do so and make a difference as well.
 
Recent commitment: Reid Schroeder of Southrdige
 
The Citadel
Where structure rules all, The Citadel is where a few Indiana finalists now reside. State Champion Hayden Watson of Center Grove talks commitment and what it takes to really be a bulldog. “They break you down to build you up,” Watson says. Upon his arrival, he has come to realize how tough it is to manage wrestling, school, and duties. He likes the idea of taking advantage of opportunity and how structure has really taken him to that next level.
 
Watson finds himself thriving in the wrestling environment down in Charleston. The training is consistent, and the drilling is much more explosive. His focal point in his shift in wrestling style since coming to the Citadel was having to be a bit more conservative. He advises anyone that is interested in coming to the Citadel to look forward to practicing every day like himself and follow the schedule to succeed.
 
Others on the roster: Brodie Porter from Eastern
 
Coast Guard
As a top 15 DIII university in the country, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy is making their mark as a place for opportunity. Three-time state qualifier, Brendan Mattingly of Carmel is taking advantage of those opportunities and has already been around the world since arriving at Coast Guard. In addition to the benefits of being an officer, Mattingly gets to pursue his passion for wrestling. With the pandemic throwing a kink in his journey, Mattingly is looking to continue to embrace the grind and becoming the best wrestler he can be.
 
 
The wrestling room over at Coast Guard is always packed. The team is forced to have split practices because of how many guys are on the roster. Some would gripe and groan, but Mattingly looks at it as another opportunity to refine his craft with numerous different looks. His coaches push him to hand fight harder and be a selective shot taker. He compares collegiate wrestling with chess in how calculated one must be in every situation. A single mistake could make or break one’s chances to win the dance. Mattingly continues to put in the work, but also puts his career first.
 
Air Force
Air Force is home to a few of Indiana state champions and place winners. Two-time state champion, Alec Viduya of Roncalli, advises anyone who is thinking about attending Air Force to never lose sight of their passion. Viduya states, “Just remember what made you come here because you can get lost in the little things.” The transition from high school to a military academy can be treacherous, but well worth the squeeze. Everyone Viduya wrestles is no off-go, which was one of the big eye-openers for him. Even in his practice room, he finds it harder to hand fight, setting up his shots, and finishing those shots with scrambling being much more common.
 
Grades are important when trying to get into the academy. There is no time for procrastination says state champion Drake Buchanan of Center Grove. Time management is something that is stressed more so than anything. Keeping his head down and grinding each day, Buchanan sheds light on how he had to adjust a bit now that practices are harder, and schedules are more packed. Some tweaks he has made on the mat are mostly from top and bottom with college rules being a bit different, it’s a “different ballgame.”
 
Three-time state place winner, Aiden Warren of Perry Meridian, also speaks on how tough the transition from high school to military academy can truly be. Fresh off shoulder surgery, Warren looks to get back into the groove and potentially crack the lineup at 184-pound weight class. “Don’t get discouraged, it’s a long process,” states Warren when referring to recruitment. He also advises that there is nothing wrong with reaching out to a coach if you’re interested in a program, even at the collegiate level. The courage to reach out to a coach is one thing but doing what needs to be done in the classroom will solidify one’s case to wrestle at the next level.
 
 

Rex Brewer and Dane Fuelling interview local coaches, referees, and more to get their thoughts on the upcoming season.

In the season debut, Rex Brewer and Dane Fuelling start the look ahead to the upcoming wrestling season, and among their guests included Jesse Gaskill 

Indiana Tech:
 
From a year of experience to Fargo All-Americans, Indiana Tech is a place where women’s wrestling is beginning to thrive. Having a roster of 53 athletes, the Warriors are looking to be a top five team at this year’s National Duals Tournament. Head Coach Paul Rademacher has brought in an underrated freshman class and is on the hunt to have seven All-American’s this season.
 
Notable Freshman Recruits:
Riley Dempewolf of McCutcheon, 4x Indiana State Champion, 2x Junior Duals All-American
Makayla Young of Bellefontaine Chieftain (OH), World Team Member
Adriana Sanchez of Purdue Polytechnic, State Runner-up
Cydney Bassett of Purdue Polytechnic, State Runner-up
Andrea Hernandez of Bellmont, State Runner-up
Trinity Coyne of Bellmont, State Runner-up
Haley Thompson of Columbia City, State Runner-up
 
With a recruiting class this stacked, it puts some pressure on the current lineup that Rademacher has been working with for the past few years. One of the biggest impacts in the room has been how large the Warrior’s roster has become. Having 53 athletes on a team with the ability to only take 12 to the NAIA Championships, makes for some great competition internally. Rademacher believes his recruiting class is “under the radar,” due to the pandemic not allowing these women to compete at the national level.
 
Another goal of Rademacher’s is to finish as a top eight team at the NAIA National Tournament this season, a legitimate goal with these returning starters and captains.
 
Returning All-Americans:
Tehani Soares of Shadow Ridge (NV), 4th place
Sam Snow of Los Alamitos (CA), 4th place
Elly Kuzma of Carlson (MI), 7th place
 
These few have been setting the example of what it takes to get to that next level that Rademacher is talking about. The Warriors have been putting in time in the offseason to really take advantage of the big strides they took last season. With a big dual win over Campbellsville, a new confidence has lit a fire in the room says Rademacher. With workout plans and some structure this offseason, they will likely exceed their goals.
 
Rademacher is more than ecstatic that the IHSAA is recognizing women’s wrestling as an emerging sport. He believes that opportunity to wrestle in college is something that every female wrestler should take advantage of, even if it’s not in Fort Wayne.
 
The Warriors are getting bigger and better by the year, and it does not look like they are slowing down anytime soon.
 
Trine:
Trine University hires on new head coach, Theresa Rankin, to tackle the 2022–2023 season for the Lightning. Rankin, being a seasoned veteran and All-American, came in this June and is already seeing growth in the room. With a small team, they will have more than enough one-on-one time to make something spark. The Lightning brought on three freshman this offseason and are excited to see what the future holds for them.
 
Freshman Recruits:
Charissa Fauber (West Lafayette, IN)
Emma Seiler (Auburn, IN)
Keira Wilson (Elkhart, IN)
 
Fauber, coming off a shoulder injury, is a firecracker on the mat says Rankin. Placing second in freestyle at the 2021 ISWA State Finals, she will a great asset for Trine in the coming years. Rankin, also excited about Seiler and Wilson, is really trying to get her newcomers to soak in everything about wrestling so they are better prepared when competition begins.
 
Speaking of competition, Riley Morrison (TX) qualified for nationals as a sophomore last season and is sharpening her skillset for a potential podium finish. Also coming back for their junior season is Michelle Sanchez (IL). Rankin believes Sanchez could potentially make it to nationals this year with the amount of talent she brings to the table. Lastly, Ashton Francis (NY) could also find herself at nationals if she focuses on her craft.
 
Although this team is young, Rankin is ready to strengthen weaknesses and take the Lightening to the next level.
 
Alara Boyd:
Being one of, if not, the best female wrestler to ever come out of Indiana, Alara Boyd of Yorktown continues to make history and could see herself with another National Collegiate Women’s Wrestling title this season. Being a three-time National Collegiate Women’s Championships finalist, Boyd has proven time and time again that she is able to compete with the best. Staying at 143lbs this season, Boyd is “staying consistent” with her training and lifestyle to stay at the top. Boyd highlights how important the little things are when trying to compete for national titles. Simple things like eating right and going to bed at a decent hour are sacrifices she is willing to make to win.
 
Boyd is well known around the state of Indiana, but left to attend McKendree University, ranked #2 in the 2021-2022 NWCA’s women’s coaches’ rankings. When she joined the Bearcats, Boyd was pushed out of her comfort zone a bit. She is a firm believer that people grown when they are uncomfortable, which is why she has enjoyed her time at McKendree. A challenge she has had to face since enrolled is having to prioritize her time. Having to juggle wrestling and school, it is tough to stay on top of everything, especially when wrestling all around the world. Attributing her success to her parents, Boyd is grateful for the support she receives.
 
“Keep Going,” is Boyd’s ask of all young female wrestlers. She dreams of seeing women’s wrestling sanctioned in Indiana and the only way for that to happen is to keep growing the sport.
 
Boyd will continue to dominate and will wrestle in the NWCA All-Star Classic on November 22nd on FloWrestling. Be sure to tune in and support Boyd on her journey to greatness.

Check this page frequently for updates on the studs that are entered at this year's IndianaMat Hoosier Preseason Open. For more information on the tournament follow click the link below.
IndianaMat Hoosier Preseason Open Information
 


 

By Tyson Nisley
 
The IndianaMat Hoosier Preseason Open is a tough, tough tournament. I watch as Indiana studs every year go 2-2 or 3-2, and go on to medal at state. I watch our studs go against some of the best wrestlers that the other Midwest states have to offer. It’s one of the best preseason tournaments in the nation, in my opinion. With so many wrestlers from so many different states, and wrestlers bumping up several weight classes, creating never before seen matchups, it’s incredibly hard to predict who will claim the top 4 spots at this tournament. Luckily, I’m incredibly good at making predictions. So, after an estimated 10-15 hours of researching much of the out of state talent competing this weekend, and comparing all of these different wrestlers to form my hypotheticals, I have a pretty good idea of the competitors that are going to be challenging for this top spot. 
 
The way I’ve formatted my predictions are similar to how FloWrestling has been doing their World Championships predictions. I am going to highlight my title contenders: the ones that I think have a shot to win. Then, I will highlight some of the other wrestlers in the field that I think have a shot to crack the top 4. Then, I will choose one sleeper pick in the weight class: someone that is not on the Stud List but could still potentially make some waves, or even potentially place (which you will see, I have a few wrestlers not on the Stud List that I think will do some MAJOR damage this weekend). Lastly, I will choose my top 4, and proceed to give an analysis on my categorizations and predictions. 
 
Before I begin, I’d like to note that all of the national rankings used here go off of the most recent National High School rankings posted by FloWrestling. Additionally, I’d like to say that in an attempt to keep these predictions as unbiased as possible, I may have out-of-state guys winning over some of our guys. I’ve had a couple of people come at me in the past upset about my predictions (mainly those who are actually wrestling, in which if you are competing next weekend and are on this website, get off of it and go train), but I am just trying to be as fair as possible. I can justify every choice that I am making here, and am willing to elaborate if you disagree. Lastly, it’s impossible for me to know the bracketing of this tournament, and I may have guys that I predict to be the #1 and #2 meeting up in the semis. It will most certainly happen, and these predictions may be a little off as a result, but that is partially why I am categorizing the top wrestlers, in order to distinguish the top echelon of wrestlers from the rest, even if the bracketing means a pair of title contenders meet in the semis. 
 
109 
Title Contenders: 
Colyn Limbert- Arsenal- Ohio
Revin Dickman- Brownsburg- Indiana
Javaan Yarbrough- Copley Highschool- Ohio
 
Placement Contenders: 
Nathan Rioux- Avon Wrestling Club- Indiana
Brady Baker- Michigan West Wrestling Club- Michigan
Mason Rohr- Massillon Perry- Ohio
 
Sleeper Pick: Layne Horn 
 
Top 4: 
Colyn Limbert- Arsenal- Ohio
Javaan Yarbrough- Copley Highschool- Ohio
Revin Dickman- Brownsburg- Indiana
Brady Baker- Michigan West Wrestling Club- Michigan
 
There’s a lot of good out-of-state talent looking to grab an IHPO title this weekend at 109 pounds. #18 Colyn Limbert from Ohio looks to be the favorite here, making a deep run last year at IHPO, including an OT win over Indiana stud Jackson Heaston, and having a solid Fargo showing this summer, going out at the bloodround, but having a respectable 7-2 loss against #4 and eventual champ Mack Mauger. Also from Ohio and with many respectable credentials as well is Javaan Yarbrough. A Junior Freestyle Runner-up and Greco Champ at 100 pounds this summer, Yarbrough will be one of many talented wrestlers this weekend who are giving up a little bit of weight, but nonetheless have the resume to be respected by anyone in this bracket. My last contender here is Revin Dickman, who just claimed his second All-American honors this summer at Fargo, and looks to continue his success this tournament. While Dickman is incredibly talented, I see either one of these older Ohio studs sending Dickman to the consolation side, while Limbert ultimately wins the clash between Ohio and Ohio. While I am fairly confident putting these three as my top three, the 4th place spot seems like it could go to a number of wrestlers. Nate Rioux is coming off of a runner-up finish at 94 pounds, but like many, will be giving up weight going into this tournament (given any of these wrestlers have not put on a substantial amount of size since Fargo). Brady Baker did not medal at Michigan last year, but has many quality wins, including a past win over Dickman. I will look for him to repeat this result against Dickman for 3rd, but I have Dickman winning by a slim margin. Middle School Super 32 runner-up Mason Rohr is another stud from Ohio that looks to do some damage in this bracket, but I think out of all the placement contenders, Baker has the best chance to find himself in that third place match. Lastly, my sleeper pick for this bracket is Layne Horn, a Middle School state champ who has some very impressive wins this off season, including an 8-0 major against Nate Rioux. Horn does not have the resume quite yet for me to confidently name him as a placement contender, but this could be his breakout performance. 
 
116  
Title Contenders: 
Jake Hockaday- Brownsburg- Indiana
Gavin Jendreas- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
 
Placement Contenders: 
Clinton Shepherd- Midwest RTC- Indiana
Joseph Curry- Team Miron- Ohio
Vernon Riggins- Lakeshore High School- Michigan
Logan Bickel- Cascade- Indiana
Charlie LaRocca- Center Grove WC- Indiana
 
Sleeper Pick: Charlie LaRocca 
 
Top 4: 
Jake Hockaday- Brownsburg- Indiana
Gavin Jendreas- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
Clinton Shepherd- Midwest RTC- Indiana
Joseph Curry- Team Miron- Ohio
 
Indiana fans will be happy about the finals of this bracket. Jake Hockaday and Gavin Jendreas are looking to battle once again in the finals, and I’m not confident that anyone else in this bracket will be able to stop this rematch from happening. I think that Gavin’s time will come to overthrow Hockaday and make this rivalry more interesting, but I’m choosing Hockaday to win this rematch. Clinton Shepherd is an incoming freshman that has already beaten several notable Indiana wrestlers including tech fall freestyle victories over Evan Seng and Eason Doster, and is looking to make a big impression this weekend. I see him winning for 3rd over Joseph Curry, who is a Middle School Super 32 placer, as the last time they met, Shepherd walked away with a 5-0 victory. There are a couple other wrestlers that I would not be surprised if they found themselves in the 3rd place match, such as Vernon Riggins, a Michigan 4th placer; Logan Bickel, a ticket rounder and Junior Greco All-American; and my sleeper pick: Charlie LaRocca, who has been the victim of very unfortunate ticket round draws the past two years, but is most certainly an elite level wrestler that could spoil anyone’s bracket. I think Shepherd or Curry can edge it out against LaRocca, but he certainly has the potential to get the job done. 
 
123 
Title Contenders: 
Marcello Milani- SAW- Michigan
Toby Billerman- Perry Meridian WC - Indiana
 
Placement Contenders: 
Zach Stewart- FWA- Illinois
Kade Kluce- Dundee- Michigan
Tanner Tishner- Red Cobra Wrestling Academy- Indiana
Anthony Isek- Black Fox Wrestling Academy- Colorado
 
Sleeper Pick: Kaptur Nowaczyk- Crown Point- Indiana
 
Top 4: 
Marcello Milani- SAW- Michigan
Toby Billerman- Perry Meridian WC - Indiana
Kade Kluce- Dundee- Michigan
Tanner Tishner- Red Cobra Wrestling Academy- Indiana
 
With so many state placers in this bracket (14), I had to narrow the field down as much as I could, and arrived with a pair of title contenders, and four guys I believe will be fighting for 3rd and 4th. Marcello Milani is the clear favorite, as the returning IHPO champ, and having multiple significant wins during his season, if you can call it that (he was wrestling college tournaments last season). Toby Billerman has impressive enough of a resume for me to call him a title contender, but it most certainly will be an uphill battle against this Michigan stud. For 3rd and 4th, I have Michigan state champ Kade Kluce taking out Tanner Tishner for 4th, who was also the 4th place winner last year. Tishner’s run last year was highlighted by a 6-3 win over Isaiah Schaefer and a 5-3 over the aforementioned Joseph Curry, but I don’t think it will be enough to take out Kluce, although Kluce’s experience against Indiana wrestlers is limited, with his most notable performance against an Indiana wrestler being a respectable 3-0 loss to two time state champ Ashton Jackson, so we will have to see if Kluce’s resume holds up to the best Indiana has to offer. Zach Stewart is a Middle School Super 32 runner-up, and despite being young, will look to challenge some of the older and more credentialed wrestlers in this field right away. I also think Anthony Isek is worth mentioning, as a Colorado state placer, as well as having a solid run last IHPO, losing to Evan Stanley 2-0 and Kade Kluce 3-0, but snagging an OT win over Evan Dickey. Lastly, I’ve chosen Kaptur Nowaczyk as my sleeper pick, as another talented wrestler that has yet to see the state finals but most certainly has the resume to threaten state placers, as seen by his win last year in the Crown Point sectional over eventual 4th placer Johnny Cortez. While I don’t think Nowaczyk is quite ready to beat Kluce or Tishner, I think he will make a deep run and possibly challenge either of these guys in the bloodround. 
 
129  
Title Contenders: 
Logan Frazier- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
 
Placement Contenders: 
Landon Hawkins- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
Jameson Garcia- Marmion Academy- Illinois
Holden Huhn- La Salle High School- Ohio
Collin Twigg- Tomahawk Wrestling Club- Ohio
Marco Cartella- Western Reserve Academy- Ohio
 
Sleeper Pick: Tye Linser- Western- Indiana
 
Top 4: 
Logan Frazier- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
Jameson Garcia- Marmion Academy- Illinois
Landon Hawkins- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
Holden Huhn- La Salle High School- Ohio
 
In my opinion, this bracket is #17 Logan Frazier and everyone else. Last year’s 126 state champ, he will be tested by a number of potential threats that will be looking to spoil his run. First, we have Illinois state champ Jameson Garcia, who I think will meet Frazier in the finals. It’s hard for me to be super confident in Garcia’s ability to challenge Frazier, especially since his 2022 state title was won at 113, but I think it will be a solid match between the two nonetheless. Rising freshman Landon Hawkins has high expectations from everybody in Indiana, and was extremely impressive at last year’s IHPO, taking 3rd place in a run that included two wins (OT and 3-0) over Kade Kluce, and a 2-0 win over Collin Twigg, who is also a placement contender here with a solid IHPO performance of his own last year and a 6th place finish in the Ohio state tournament. Holden Huhn is another Ohio stud that will be looking to mess up brackets, as an Ohio state runner-up in a solid bracket, and I think that he will edge out Collin Twigg as Ohio’s representative in the top 4. Western Reserve’s Marco Cartella is a prep stud that had an impressive performance at last year’s National Prep Championships, in which he saw himself in the bloodround to place, and could also very easily threaten for top 4. My sleeper pick in this weight class is Tye Linser, and while I don’t expect him to make the top 4 with so many placement contenders, he has shown lots of state-level potential this off season, notably in his Frosh/Soph state run where he defeated state qualifiers Dylan Bennett and Christopher Bohn, and expect more upsets from him this weekend. 
 
135  
Title Contenders: 
Joey Buttler- Whiteland Warriors- Indiana
Jak Keller- Rockford- Michigan
Brady Ison- Brownsburg- Indiana
 
Placement Contenders: 
Grayson Woodcock- Beastmode - Ohio
Aaron Lucio- Michigan West Wrestling Club- Michigan
Jackson Tucker- TWA- Missouri
Elijah Bunn- Rockford- Michigan
 
Sleeper Pick: Silas Foster- Legends of Gold- Indiana
 
Top 4: 
Brady Ison- Brownsburg- Indiana
Joey Buttler- Whiteland Warriors- Indiana
Jak Keller- Rockford- Michigan
Jackson Tucker- TWA- Missouri
 
Two Indiana studs and a Michigan 3rd placer highlight the top tier in this bracket. Joey Buttler was the state runner down at 126 last year, while Ison was on the wrong side of a Friday night upset, but was the favorite for many to face off against Zeke Seltzer in the finals. Buttler has made substantial improvements over the years, and has many good wins in his pocket, such as a greco win over Kyrel Leavell and freestyle win over #20 Billy Greenwood. However, I think Ison, despite not being as involved in off season competition this year, was very impressive last season and has what it takes to beat Buttler. Jak Keller returns to IHPO after a 4th place finish last year, which included a 2-1 victory over Hayden Brady and a 7-0 victory over Toby Billerman, has a solid enough resume for me to confidently add him in the list of title contenders. Aaron Lucio is a Michigan state champion, and actually owns a 10-0 freestyle victory over Jak Keller. However, with limited results outside of Michigan, it’s hard for me to bet on Lucio over Keller, especially after Keller’s history with this tournament. There are plenty of other studs in this bracket that could potentially spoil this Michigan face-off. Jackson Tucker is a Missouri state runner-up, and placed 4th this past year at the incredibly tough Cheesehead Invitational. This placement, along with winning both freestyle and greco 16U Central Regional, is good enough for me to slide him in at 4th place. Grayson Woodcock is the highest Middle School Super 32 placer out of a number of talented incoming freshmen who are looking to make their mark at the highest level. With only a 1-2 performance at last year’s IHPO however, he is going to have to have improved significantly since last year to find himself on the podium. Elijah Bunn, a Michigan state runner-up, also returns to IHPO after a solid performance last year, taking out both Tony Wood and Matteo Vargo and losing a respectable 6-3 match to Logan Frazier. This bracket is very unpredictable in my opinion, and any one of these placement contenders could find themselves in the top 4, but I chose Tucker as my 4th place finisher. My sleeper pick is Silas Foster, who has had solid off season results this off season, but has yet to cement himself into the conversation of state placers next year. However, I think that this could be a breakout performance for him, with multiple state level wrestlers in danger of being upset. I should also note that he wrestled Woodcock at the Central Regionals this summer and lost a close 8-7 match, showing that he is right there with some of the best in this bracket. 
 
141  
Title Contenders: 
Phoenix Blakely- Alber Athletics- Illinois
Cheaney Schoeff- Avon Wrestling Club- Indiana
Cole Solomey- Midwest RTC- Indiana
TJ Langley- Western Reserve High School- Ohio
 
Placement Contenders: 
Wyatt Kresja- Center Grove- Indiana
Renzo Morgan- Brunson- Illinois
Hunter Vogus- BTWC- Ohio
Diego Chavez- Perrysburg - Ohio
 
Sleeper Pick: Branson Weaver- Owen Valley- Indiana
 
Top 4: 
Cole Solomey- Midwest RTC- Indiana
TJ Langley- Western Reserve High School- Ohio
Cheaney Schoeff- Avon Wrestling Club- Indiana
Phoenix Blakely- Alber Athletics- Illinois
 
I know it looks like I’m hating on Illinois here (isn’t that what Indiana likes to do though) as Phoenix Blakely is the only state champion in this bracket, but I think that the other three title contenders here are talented enough to take on the champ in this bracket. While Blakely is an Illinois state champ, he has very limited off season results, which makes him hard to compare to some of the other studs in this weight. Of course, when I say this, I’m not insinuating that he hasn’t worked hard this off season; some wrestlers just don’t compete due to a variety of issues, but the first time back on the mat after a while can be tough, especially when you have a deep pool of talent in front of you. Cole Solomey and Cheaney Schoeff are both state runner-ups that I predict to break the top 4, but if it comes down to Solomey and Schoeff, I’m picking Solomey to win. They met earlier this off season at Freestyle State, where Schoeff walked away with the 8-7 victory, but I am more confident in Solomey in a folkstyle environment to walk away with the win. I also have Western Reserve’s TJ Langley making a deep run to finals here. He is another National Preps bloodrounder, but this was after a 3-2 loss to the eventual runner-up (in which he lost a close match himself to Ohio State’s Nic Bouzakis in the finals). While I have four title contenders here that I expect to be in the top 4, I also have a number of placement contenders here that could spoil the top 4 or sneak in due to rough bracketing. Wyatt Krejsa is an Indiana stud that has been improving massively these past couple years, and should be considered a threat to anyone in the bracket. Renzo Morgan is an Illinois 6th placer, but only went 2-2 last IHPO, so significant improvement will be needed to crack a spot in the top 4. Ohio 7th placers Diego Chavez and Hunter Vogus also have solid resumes to support them, and both went 3-2 at last year’s IHPO. My sleeper pick for this weight class is Branson Weaver. This kid has wrestled at everything this off season, and has picked up plenty of solid wins. I don’t expect him to place but I definitely think he can claim a couple wins that he’s not supposed to. 
 
148  
Title Contenders: 
Jaydon Robinson- Homewood Flossmoor High School- Illinois
Dillon Graham- Fighting Irish WC- Indiana
 
Placement Contenders: 
Mason Schweitzer- Kentucky Extreme- Kentucky
Cameron Clark- Jay County Wrestling Club- Indiana
Reese Stephen- Barnesville - Ohio
 
Sleeper Pick: Alexander Smith- Patriots Wrestling Club- Indiana
 
Top 4: 
Jaydon Robinson- Homewood Flossmoor High School- Illinois
Dillon Graham- Fighting Irish WC- Indiana
Mason Schweitzer- Kentucky Extreme- Kentucky
Cameron Clark- Jay County Wrestling Club- Indiana
 
Jaydon Robinson looks to be the favorite here, being an Illinois 3rd placer in the 3A division, which Illinois tells me is the toughest of the three divisions. Challenging Robinson will be Dillon Graham, who is back after suffering an injury last winter that kept him from finishing his state run (from what I remember, but I might have a piece of information wrong). I think that Robinson wins this matchup, but Graham had some solid wins this past season that make me confident in his ability to perform well, even after a significant amount of time off the mat. Challenging for the last three spots will be three state placers from different states. Mason Schweitzer placed 4th in Kentucky state this past season and had a solid off season. He had only one match this off season with an Indiana wrestler, which was a 4-2 loss to Mitchell Betz (for those who need a comparison to Indiana talent to know how good someone is), but seems solid enough for me to lock him into the 3rd place spot. Cameron Clark placed 7th last year in Indiana and is looking to continue with his success at IHPO this year, but will have to battle for the 4th place spot against Reese Stephen, an Ohio 5th placer. Overall, there are a decent number of state qualifiers and placers in this bracket, but I think these 5 wrestlers have convincing enough resumes for me to consider them in the top 4. My sleeper pick in this weight class is Alexander Smith, although if you paid attention to Fargo brackets this off season, he might not be so much of a sleeper. Smith had an incredible run at Fargo that ended him in the 6th place spot in the Greco division, and I’m sure he will be tossing people this coming weekend, looking to upset multiple state qualifiers and placers en route to a deep IHPO run. 
 
155  
Title Contenders: 
Mitchell Betz- Western Wrestling Club- Indiana
Conner Kleinberg- Springboro- Ohio
Anthony Rinehart- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
 
Placement Contenders: 
Evan Morris- TWA- Missouri
Tristin Greene- Keystone High School- Ohio
Bryce Lowery- Roncalli Wrestling Foundation- Indiana
Hunter May- Maurer Coughlin Wrestling Club- Indiana
 
Sleeper Pick: Zymarion Hollyfield- Penn- Indiana
 
Top 4: 
Mitchell Betz- Western Wrestling Club- Indiana
Anthony Rinehart- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
Conner Kleinberg- Springboro- Ohio
Tristin Greene- Keystone High School- Ohio
 
This was an especially hard weight class to accurately predict. With tons of Indiana talent and many out-of-state challengers, I have decided to put Mitchell Betz and Anthony Rinehart at 1st and 2nd, respectively. Betz has the last head-to-head win over Rinehart with a 2-1 victory at last year’s state finals, and was agonizingly close to securing All-American honors at Fargo this summer, getting stuck in a match he was up. Connor Kleinberg is last year’s IHPO champ, and with this in mind, it’s hard to not label him as a title contender. However, after an 8th place finish at the Ohio state championships, he will be looking to regain his stride, coming up from 138 to 152 and hopefully adjusting to the weight change well. Evan Morris is the only state champion in this bracket, coming from Missouri, and should be expected to do well, but with my current 4th placer in this bracket being a 16U Fargo Greco champ in Tristin Greene, it is going to be hard to break the top 4 here. In addition to Morris and Greene, Indiana studs Hunter May and Bryce Lowery are looking to secure a top 4 finish at IHPO. Hunter May had a solid run at Fargo this year, and is looking to make a statement after a rough performance at the state finals last year which saw him get 8th. Bryce Lowery did not compete at Fargo but has been active in the folkstyle scene this off season, having solid wins over Kenneth Bisping and Toby Abbott. My sleeper pick for this weight class is Zymarion Hollyfield, who did not qualify last year but picked up solid wins, including one over Dillon Graham. Hollyfield also has a Frosh/Soph title to his name, and people who win Frosh/Soph in Indiana historically end their careers as state placer or even state champion caliber wrestlers. 
 
163  
Title Contenders: 
Sam Goin- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
 
Placement Contenders: 
Hunter Andel- James A Garfield- Ohio
Aydan George- Centerville- Ohio
Logan Swaw- Lockport, IL- Illinois
Cohen Bunting- John Glenn High School- Ohio
Harrison Konder- Downers Grove North HS- Illinois
Jeb Pretchel- Jasper- Indiana
 
Sleeper Pick: Jeb Pretchel- Jasper- Indiana
 
Top 4: 
Sam Goin- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
Logan Swaw- Lockport, IL- Illinois
Aydan George- Centerville- Ohio
Hunter Andel- James A Garfield- Ohio
 
I don’t imagine that anybody besides Sam Goin wins this weight class. With a very solid Fargo run ending at the bloodround (after facing off way early on to #4 Braeden Scoles and losing only 9-5) and a state title to his name, I don’t think anybody will get close to him in this bracket. I do think that there are a number of wrestlers here who could make the top 4, however. Logan Swaw placed 6th in Illinois, but it should be noted that he lost a 5-1 bout to #4 at 152 Ethan Stiles during his run, and can compete with the best. This will be the hardest challenge for Goin. Also from Illinois is 4th placer Harrison Konder, who had a decent showing of 4-2 at last year’s IHPO, beating Zach Wilson in OT and Brody Arthur 4-1, and also had a solid run at Fargo, just missing out of the bloodround by losing 8-8 by criteria, but it should be noted that his state placement from this year was at 138, and I’m not confident enough in his results up in weight to put him in the top 4. Ohio state placers Aydan George (8th) and Hunter Andel (4th) are my picks for 3rd and 4th respectively, although the placements might infer the other way around. However, after some deep diving into Ohio state brackets, I think I can reasonably conclude that George will beat Andel in a razor thin battle. Andel’s 4th placement was at 145, so it is hard to predict how he will adjust to the weight change; meanwhile, George’s 8th place finish was up at 165, so I think the battle just barely goes in his favor. Cohen Bunting is another stud from Ohio who I think can do some damage. He is an Ohio state qualifier, but as his qualification was all the way down at 138, I worry for his ability to adjust to the new weight. But this is what is always interesting about IHPO anyways. Lastly, I think ticket rounder Jeb Prechtel is a threat to make top 4 here, and is also my sleeper pick for this weight. I say ticket rounder, but his ticket round was a slim 6-5 loss to eventual runner-up Kade Law, and could have punched his ticket with a number of better draws (also note that Prechtel got 2nd at regionals to J Conway, the eventual state champ). He has had wins over multiple Indiana studs this off season such as Andre Merritt and Aaron Steenbeke, and I think he has what it takes to place in the top 4 here. 
 
173  
Title Contenders: 
Delaney Ruhlman- Bloomington South WC- Indiana
 
Placement Contenders: 
Devin Halliday- Delaware Hayes High School- Ohio
Miguel Rojas- Brownsburg East middle school - Indiana
Anthony Cashman- Warren Wrestling Academy- Indiana
Logan Farnell- Battling Braves- Indiana
Matt Kowalski- Springboro- Ohio
 
Sleeper Pick: Noah Clouser- Center Grove- Indiana 
 
Top 4: 
Delaney Ruhlman- Bloomington South WC- Indiana
Devin Halliday- Delaware Hayes High School- Ohio
Anthony Cashman- Warren Wrestling Academy- Indiana
Logan Farnell- Battling Braves- Indiana
 
You aren’t a Ruhlman if you don’t go up at least two weight classes every year. We should expect Ruhlman to be a 195 or 220 next year if history tells us anything. Enough about his weight though, I think he is the clear favorite here. A two time state runner-up, he is joined in this bracket by a number of state qualifiers that will be battling for second place. Devin Halliday is an Ohio state qualifier, and had a 3-2 run last year at IHPO, which saw him beat Logan Farnell 7-2. Farnell is now a state placer and can certainly reverse this result with a year of work in between their meetings, but I think Halliday will maintain his victory if they meet again. Anthony Cashman is another state qualifier that I think can do big damage in this bracket, with a solid off season that saw him take wins over Jesse Herrera and Luke Kemper. I predict Cashman and Farnell to meet for 3rd place, where I think Cashman will just barely edge him out. Miguel Rojas is a Middle School Super 32 placer, and is looking to test his abilities against an older group of guys. As an 8th grader, I don’t expect him to place just yet, but his body of work at the middle school level is good enough for me to mention him in the placement contenders. Lastly, Matt Kowalski is another Ohio state qualifier that could potentially make a deep run. There are only 6 studs in this weight class on the stud list, so I think that every stud on that list can reasonably place. Another guy to look out for is my sleeper pick: Noah Clouser. Ranked #11 on the final IndianaMat state rankings, Clouser fell victim to a tough ticket round draw in Brody Baumann. However, Clouser has shown state level results all year, picking up wins over Isaac Valdez and Aiden Costello this past year. 
 
185  
Title Contenders: 
Orlando Cruz- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
Lane Kiser- Trinity Shamrocks (Ky)- Kentucky
Dominic Thebeau- Bull Trained- Illinois
 
Placement Contenders: 
Max Ray- Tiffin Columbian- ohio
Joshua Strayer- Warhawk Wrestling - Kentucky
 
Sleeper Pick: Noah Weaver- Frankfort- Indiana
 
Top 4: 
Orlando Cruz- Region Wrestling Academy- Indiana
Dominic Thebeau- Bull Trained- Illinois
Lane Kiser- Trinity Shamrocks (Ky)- Kentucky
Max Ray- Tiffin Columbian- ohio
 
I think Orlando Cruz is the slight favorite here, as he defends Indiana from a number of out-of-state studs. Dominic Thebeau is an Illinois 3rd placer, and was last year's IHPO champ with an 11-6 win over Brodie Porter. He’ll give Orlando a tough battle, but I’m confident that Cruz can successfully fend him off for first place. Another stud that could give Cruz a hard time is Kentucky state runner-up Lane Kiser. Kiser missed the placement round at IHPO last year, but stole wins over Christian Chavez and Caden Brewer. He also invaded Indiana territory during the high school season, winning the Mater Dei Holiday Classic with a 9-6 victory over Luke Hansen. I don’t have him beating Thebeau or Cruz, but is still a solid pick for 3rd. The 4th place spot, in my opinion, goes to Max Ray, an Ohio 6th placer. Max got his hands on Orlando Cruz earlier this year at the Central Regional, where he lost a respectable 7-3, and could keep it close against Cruz if they are to meet again. Joshua Strayer is another placer: a 7th place finisher from Kentucky, and despite limited off season results, should also be considered a threat to make a deep run. My sleeper pick for this weight class is Noah Weaver, who was dangerously close to winning his ticket round match to the previously mentioned Anthony Cashman, losing in double overtime. Also a previously mentioned opponent is Logan Farnell, who he was able to beat at Folkstyle State this year, so Weaver should be considered a threat to both state qualifiers and non-qualifiers alike. 
 
198  
Title Contenders: 
Myles Johnson- Springboro- Ohio
Gunner Henry- Brownsburg- Indiana
Adam Haselius- Jackson Northwest (MI)- Michigan
 
Placement Contenders: 
Miles Workman- Blackman High- Tennessee
Christian Chavez- Midwest RTC- Indiana
Gunnar Pool- Centerville High School- Ohio
 
Sleeper Pick: Anthony White- Crown Point- Indiana
 
Top 4: 
Gunner Henry- Brownsburg- Indiana- 
Myles Johnson- Springboro- Ohio
Adam Haselius- Jackson Northwest (MI)- Michigan
Christian Chavez- Midwest RTC- Indiana
 
A clash between two former IHPO placers, Myles Johnson and Gunnar Henry are likely to meet in the finals this year. Myles Johnson is an Ohio 3rd placer (his only loss was to #6 Camden McDaniel) and got 2nd at last year’s IHPO, losing only a 6-5 bout to Nate Critchfield. He is a very tough opponent, and is likely the favorite to win this bracket. However, Gunnar Henry has been on fire this past year, starting his freshman campaign off strong with a third place finish at the state finals, beating #12 De’Alcapon Veazy 3-2. He also claimed 3rd place at IHPO last year, losing only to former Indiana state champ Andrew Donahue. He’s also claimed several high quality wins this off season, such as Lane Kiser and Christian Chavez. Chavez is a very tough wrestler that is quickly starting to establish himself at a threat to the podium at 195. After losing at semi-state at 160, he went all the way up to 195 and nearly took out eventual 3rd placer Aataevon Jordan. Since then, he has been picking up several high quality wins, and is looking to test himself against the title contenders in this field. I don’t expect Chavez to win, but I also think that these bouts will be much closer than some may think. Adam Haselius is a Michigan state champ that has built up an impressive resume that includes All-American honors at Fargo in 2021 and a GFC title. This will be his first IHPO, but his state finals win is over a former IHPO runner-up in Kael Wisler, so he can certainly match or even win the bracket against a field of similar talent. However, with Johnson’s history at the event, along with Henry’s rapidly growing talent, I think they both get the job done over the Michigan stud. Two more wrestlers to watch out for are Gunnar Pool, an Ohio state qualifier, and Miles Workman, a Tennessee 6th placer for the spot. I should note that Workman is coming down from 220, so that could definitely be an advantage to him against the rest of the field. My sleeper pick here is Anthony White, who is trying Chavez’s strategy of going up a lot of weight, after being on the wrong side of an upset at semi-state, losing to Connor Cervantes. White has wrestled Henry this off-season, losing 11-4, which is an indicator that he may not be at Henry’s level quite yet, but is easily a threat to make a deep run. 
 
223  
Title Contenders: 
Brentan Simmerman- Little Miami Wrestling Club- Ohio
Chance Harris- Fort Wayne Concordia Lutheran- Indiana
Tommy Morrill- Columbus East- Indiana
Devin Kendrex- Marauder Wrestling Club- Indiana
Keegan Martin- Bellmont- Indiana 
 
Placement Contenders: 
Hunter Janeczko- Izzy Style Wrestling- Illinois
Alex Rose- Terre Haute South- Indiana
Royce Deckard- Roncalli Wrestling Foundation- Indiana
 
Sleeper Pick: Keegan Martin- Bellmont- Indiana 
 
Top 4: 
Brentan Simmerman- Little Miami Wrestling Club- Ohio
Devin Kendrex- Marauder Wrestling Club- Indiana
Tommy Morrill- Columbus East- Indiana
Keegan Martin- Bellmont- Indiana 
 
The only bracket where I have more than four title contenders, there are a lot of wrestlers here that have the potential to win it. The favorite here is Brentan Simmerman, who is an Ohio 6th placer (although I should mention he had an absolutely brutal bracket, losing to Ohio State’s Seth Shumate 12-4 and Myles Johnson 6-3). Looking to challenge for the top spot are a number of Indiana studs. The only placer of this group is Chance Harris, who claimed an 8th place finish following a 4-3 victory over Devin Kendrex. Kendrex and Harris have wrestled a number of times, with Kendrex leading the series 2-1. However, with a Fargo performance that saw him make the bloodround, I have confidence that Kendrex will win the rematch over Harris. I don’t actually have Harris placing, which maybe doesn’t seem fair, but the margin between each wrestler here is razor thin. Placing 3rd here, I have Tommy Morrill, who was upset last Friday night by Paul Clark, but is still a state placing caliber wrestler. I have my sleeper pick, making it all the way to 4th place here: Keegan Martin. Martin had a rough semi-state, but owns wins over both Harris and Kendrex in the past year. I think the placement contenders here will not necessarily place but could do so with a stellar performance, good bracket luck, or a combination of both. Hunter Janeczko is an Illinois bloodrounder (which would be top 8 in Indiana because Illinois only places top 6) and could easily contend with the other qualifiers in this bracket. Alex Rose is a state qualifier who gave Veazy a tough battle Friday night, but I worry about his ability to adjust to 220. I shouldn’t worry too much though, as he has consistently grown a number of weight classes every year. Lastly, Royce Deckard is another Indiana state qualifier, and owns a win over 7th placer Jackson Weingart, showing he has the potential to beat state placing caliber opponents. 
 
HWT  
Title Contenders: 
Aidan Fockler- Massillon Perry- Ohio
Dom Burgett Hamilton Southeastern- Indiana
Josh Clark- New Haven- Indiana 
 
Placement Contenders: 
Eathan Westfall- Reading- Michigan
Peyton Kendall- Penn High School- Indiana
Hunter Branhan- Frankton jr./Sr. High school- Indiana
 
Sleeper Pick: Dom Burgett- Hamilton Southeastern- Indiana
 
Top 4: 
Aidan Fockler- Massillon Perry- Ohio
Dom Burgett- Hamilton Southeastern- Indiana
Joshuah Clark- New Haven- Indiana
Eathan Westfall- Reading- Michigan
 
This is the only weight class that I think a sleeper pick could potentially win it all. Dom Burgett was ranked #3 in the IndianaMat state rankings, but fell victim to a first round upset at semi-state in an overtime bout to Hunter Brahnam, who also makes an appearance in this tournament and is one of my placement contenders. Since then, he has had a lot of success, getting wins over Hosia Smith and Jacob Johnson, and making the bloodround at Fargo. Unfortunately, he has a tall task at hand, with #16 Aidan Fockler being the heavy favorite to win this bracket. Fockler is an Ohio state runner-up and a Walsh Ironman placer, so he will be tough to beat. Another name in this bracket I think is very interesting is Josh Clark. While Burgett was on the tough side of an upset, Clark was on the right side of one, beating then-undefeated Brandon Villafuerte in the first round of semi-state to eventually qualify for the state tournament. He was not ranked in the state at the time. What I find more interesting is that Burgett and Clark have wrestled twice this off season, and Clark has stuck Burgett both times. One pin, you can call a fluke. But three separate pins against top 5 opponents in the state, and you are a very dangerous pinner. I think Burgett wins against Clark to earn a win in the series against them both, but Clark has proven himself to be highly dangerous. The 4th spot in my opinion goes to Eathan Westfall, a Michigan 4th placer who only lost 5-3 in the semis to the eventual champ of that weight class, and owns a tech fall over Clark at the Central Regional. This tech fall makes my prediction here a little iffy, but I think the score here will at least be closer in a folkstyle setting. Another potential placer here is Peyton Kendall, who qualified for state in 2021, but did not compete at semi-state this past year (for a reason I do not know). Interestingly enough, Kendall owns a 14-6 major decision over Clark this off season, so I really do not know what to expect out of this weight class. Heavyweight will continue to be the most unpredictable weight class in wrestling. 
 
Now that I’ve finished, I’d like to note a couple of things that I should bring up after writing this and reflecting on it: 
 
All of the sleeper picks are Indiana guys. I could have dove into every single wrestler from every state to figure out who the true best sleeper pick is, but I think these picks are more so we can be looking out for emerging talent in Indiana. 
 
I might have messed up a stat or misspelled something somewhere, and if you see anything like that, I’d appreciate it if you let me know. I am going to proofread this a couple times, but this write-up is 15 pages total, single spaced (you’re all welcome), so I am bound to miss a couple of mistakes. 
 
I know that maybe not everybody knows every single wrestler in Indiana, but I chose to leave out some of the credentials of some Indiana guys that I was naming off in order to save time and spend my time researching the out-of-state guys that most of you might have been unfamiliar with. It’d be so much work to say that, for example, Dom Burgett beat 2022 5th placer Hosia Smith and 3x state qualifier and 2022 4th placer Jacob Johnson. I tried to reference as many Indiana wrestlers that I could when trying to make comparisons, especially with the out-of-state guys, because a lot of people, including me, find it helpful to gauge a kid’s talent based on how they stack up against familiar opponents, rather than telling you they beat a state champ from Ohio, which tells you nothing, especially when talking about states with multiple divisions of varying depth and quality. So I’m not going to give you all the credentials for every Indiana wrestler, so if you don’t recognize a name, either look it up or take my word that it’s a significant enough win to highlight in the write up. 

 

By Blaze Lowery
 
Indiana consistently produces quality wrestlers that elicit remarkable feats in their collegiate careers. Whether its Division I or NAIA, Indiana is becoming a beacon for successful wrestling programs, especially at the next level. So much of the time, these accomplishments are not recognized: which is why I am here to do so: Without further or due, you NAIA Collegiate 2022-2023 Season Preview.
 
Indiana Tech:
Indiana Teach has nine incoming freshmen from Indiana’s 2022 graduating class, the most of any college in Indiana, and not even accounting for the out-of-state recruits. There are eight of 11 national qualifiers returning for another season, and of which are national champions. The Warriors are looking to secure yet another top five finish at the NAIA Championships this season, in addition to winning another WHAC title.
 
2022 NAIA National Champions:
Conner Gimson (133) of Jimtown – NAIA National Champion
Gimson won his second national title this past season, making him the first two-time national champion for the Warriors wrestling program. He also secured a 2nd team COSIDA Award for his academic and athletic accomplishments. There are talks of Gimson possibly coming back for his COVID year, but its looking like he will not be continuing his time on the mat.
 
Eric Vermillion (184) – NAIA National Champion (Returning)
Vermillion also won his second national title this past season for Tech, becoming the second wrestler in program history to have repeat championships under his belt. As if that was not enough, he also secured the 1st team COSIDA Award, the most prestigious award earned in the NAIA.
  
2022 NAIA National Qualifiers:
Kyle Kantola (141) – 8th Place (Returning)
Nathan Orum (125) – National Qualifier (Returning)
Matt Gimson (133) of Jimtown– National Qualifier (Returning)
Nick Gates (149) – National Qualifier (Returning)
Corey Cavanaugh (149) – National Qualifier (Returning)
Nate Wheeler (157) – National Qualifier (Returning)
Hunter Gasper (174) – National Qualifier
Vernon Willis (285) – National Qualifier
Braydon Erb (285) of Western– National Qualifier (Returning)
 
Although the numbers did not translate into placement for many of the Warriors at Nationals, I am certain that it will this upcoming season with such a large recruiting class. In other words, Indiana Tech is not rebuilding, it is reloading for an even better post season in 2023.
 
Incoming Freshmen: Braxton Vest (125) of Westfield, Michael Tharpe (125) of Center Grove, Zimani Malomboza (125) of Fort Wayne Northrop, Elijah Anthony (133) of Frankfort, Corbin Walston (149) of Lawrenceburg, Landon Buchanan (165) of Jimtown, Nathan Critchfield (285) of Evansville Mater Dei, Ian Clifford (285) of Columbia City, Ryan Lattimore (285) of Purdue Polytechnic.
 
Out of these nine incoming freshmen, I’m highest on Elijah Anthony. I think Indiana Tech will be a great fit for Anthony with the Gimson brothers departing in the coming year. Another guy to look forward to is Braxton Vest; with a showstopping performance at the state tournament this past season, this kid is a proven gamer.
 
Coach Thomas Pompei is locked in for yet another season of greatness.
 
Marian University:
The Knights took advantage of the portal this offseason. Not even mentioning the eight recruits they acquired in the 2022 recruiting class, this team is stacked to say the least. After placing 10th at the NAIA Championship last season, Marian is taking strides to gain a top five finish at this year’s tournament.
 
Recent Transfer List:
Alex Cottey of Perry Meridian, Chattanooga University
Cottey transfers after a season-ending leg injury that kept him from showing his true potential for the Mocs. He is a two-time Indiana state champion, and two-time runner-up for the falcons of Perry Meridian. His homecoming is a great chance for him to showcase the skills he picked up in Tennessee.
 
Asa Garcia of Avon, Indiana University
Garcia was in and out of the lineup for the Hoosiers, but never solidified himself as the guy down in Bloomington. With his little brother, Blaze Garcia of Brownsburg, joining the Knights this offseason, this was an awesome place for him to land coming out of the portal. Garcia was a three-time Indiana state champion and was ranked 9th in the nation his senior year.
  
Head Coach Steven Bradley will have his hands full with these transfers, as he already has eight returning qualifiers from last year’s tournament.
 
2022 NAIA Nationals Results:
Sam Osho (184) of Avon – 3rd place (Returning)
Elliot Rodgers (165) of Cathedral – 6th place (Returning)
Jack Servies (197) of Perry Meridian– 6th place (Returning)
Anthony Hughes (125) of Lawrence North– Qualifier (Returning)
Aundre Beatty (141) of Warren Central– Qualifier (Returning)
Logan Wagner (141) of Zionsville– Qualifier (Returning)
Seth Johnson (149) of North Montgomery- Qualifier (Returning)
Bailey Moore (157) of Beech Grove– Qualifier (Returning)
 
Honorable mention goes to Blake Mulkey of Brownsburg, Gardner-Webb transfer, who placed 4th at nationals the year prior, but suffered a season-ending injury that kept him from wrestling last season.
 
In addition to the national qualifiers and incoming transfers, this 2022 freshmen class is also full of hammers.
 
Incoming Freshmen: Landon Bertsch (133,141) of Bluffton, Braden Haines (141) of Brownsburg, Drew Willis (141) of Roncalli, Jude Barger (149) of Franklin Community, Blaze Garcia (149) of Brownsburg, Zach Wilson (149) of Roncalli, Dylan McKelvey (149) of Brownsburg, Liam Begley (285) of Crown Point.
 
I do not see any of these freshmen making a significant impact in the coming season, but I feel like a large majority of them have potential to start in their later years for the Knights.
 
Marian is one of Indiana’s newer collegiate teams in the state and its lineup has only gotten deeper. It is safe to say that the Marian Knights are not only here to stay but are here to play as they enter their 7th season as a program.
 

By Blaze Lowery
 
Having only a single DII university in the state of Indiana, I was more than willing to reach out to a few familiar faces from the Hoosier state that have found success around the nation.
 
University of Indianapolis
The Greyhounds roll into this season off one the best seasons the team has ever had in program history. Bringing back six National Qualifiers, four of which were All-Americans, the University of Indianapolis is looking to compete for a trophy at the NCAA DII National Championships. Coach Jason Warthan is excited to have “a good mix of experience and youth” in the room but is even more excited to “watch the greyhounds grow and compete.”
 
Returning National Qualifiers:
Derek Blubaugh of Bloomington South, National Runner-Up
Logan Bailey of Cathedral, All-American (6th)
Dawson Combest of Columbus East, 3x All-American (7th)
Jack Eiteljorge of Carmel, All-American (2020)
Breyden Bailey of Cathedral, National Qualifier
Cale Gray of Norwell, National Qualifier
 
Losing only a single national qualifier from last year, Andrew Sams (OH), this team is stacking up nicely once again. Finishing sixth at the NCAA DII National Championships this past season, the talent in this room does not end there. Senior, Chase Wilkerson of Mt. Vernon – Fortville, and redshirt sophomore, Ray Rioux of Avon, were Super Regional placers in these past few seasons for the Greyhounds.
 
Other Notable Returners:
Noah Cantu (MI), returning starter at 125
Jay Thompson (OH), returning starter from 2021
Brayden Lowery of Roncalli, potential starter at 133lbs or 141lbs
Nathan Conley of Avon, potential starter at 149lbs
Jake Lone of Northwood, potential starter at 184lbs
Aidan Petersen (MI), potential starter at 184lbs
Shane Bates of Zionsville, potential starter at 174lbs
Owen Butler (MD), potential starter at 174lbs
 
So much talent and not enough weight classes; the Greyhounds run deeper than what meets the eye. Warthan having a next-man-up approach is something that only the best in the nation can handle, making this team ready for anything in its path. Speaking of the next man up, this incoming freshman class should be on everyone’s radar.
 
Incoming Freshman:
Aidan Sprague of East Noble, potentially starting at 125lbs
Nathan Smith of Southport, Fargo Runner-Up, Preseason Nationals Champion
Gavin Garcia of Brownsburg
Mason Cantu of Hart (MI)
Jacob Johnson of Franklin Community
Bryce Crump of Center Grove
Maleec Griffin of Pike
Zach Haughton of Mt. Vernon – Fortville
Carson Johnson of Mt. Vernon – Fortville
Tyler Jones of Warren
Porter Keevers of New Palestine
Jakobe Leavell of Pike
Tabor Lock of Edwardsburg (MI)
Noah Salary of LaPorte
Sam Strouse of Center Grove
 
This recruiting class is only going to keep business steady in Indianapolis. Tackling this preseason is going to be what sets the Greyhounds apart from its competition, complementing the foundation built this offseason. Being detail oriented and making ever rep count comes natural to this team, setting them up for another great year. To put it simply, Warthan is playing chess, not checkers.
 
 
Out-of-State Spotlight
 
Drake Kendrex of Mt. Vernon – Fortville
West Liberty’s starting 197-pounder, Drake Kendrex, enters his senior season with his eyes on the prize. Originally from Indiana, he found great success and experiences with his time in West Virginia. Going to school in another state can me be “nerve-wracking,” says Kendrex, but “getting out and traveling” has been a focal point for his growth on and off the mat.
 
His personal goal this year is to qualify for the national tournament. Selflessly, he says he owes a lot of his previous success to his coaches and practice partners. Danny Erwin, Head Coach at West Liberty, and previous Head assistant at Wabash College, brings in Kyle Hatch of Wabash College as a graduate assistant.
 
Kendrex reiterates that the end goal for the team is to be national champions, but claims that his pre-season workouts, even the ones at six in the morning, make these goals comes to life. Bonding with his team more and more has prepared him to go to war and Kendrex invites the challenge.
 
Carter Noehre of Greenfield Central
Colorado School of Mines’ starting 157-pounder, Carter Noehre, is set on placing at the NCAA DII National Championships. As if studying mechanical engineering wasn’t enough, Noehre continues to impress as he appears in the NWCA’s 2021-2022 preseasons rankings as 12th in the nation. Placing fifth at the Super Regional Vi Championships last season, the bitter taste of defeat burns like fuel as he makes his way into his senior season.
 
The Orediggers sent three to nationals last season, but Noehre sets the bar at five wrestlers for this upcoming national tournament. Although Noehre is far away from home, he has found his second family within his time in Golden.
 
Ready to grind for the podium finish, Noehre is bound to make sparks fly.
 
Christian Mejia of Elkhart Memorial
McKendree University’s starting 125-pounder, Christian Mejia, looks to bounce back onto the podium as he enters into his fifth year. After winning the 42nd Midwest Classic tournament, held in Indianapolis, Mejia fell short of his goals of being a national champion. Although last season did not go as planned, he comes back for another year with redemption on his mind. Grinding day in and day out, Mejia and the Bearcats are looking to keep their 15-win dual record rolling.
 
Mejia’s goal this upcoming season is to not only win the NCAA DII National Championships, but to dominate the weight class as well. Mejia has found his home away from home in Illinois. Exploring all options and keeping an open mind was how he found himself at McKendree and hopes that every Indiana high school wrestler does the same.

By Blaze Lowery
Indiana University
 
The Hoosiers of Indiana University are stocking up on more talent for the upcoming 2022-2023 season. Signing 11 recruits, this team is beginning to shape itself into a bit of a shock for the Big Ten Conference. Coming off a not-so-great ending to their previous season, the Hoosiers are in search of redemption. As they bring back many starters for this upcoming season, Head Coach Angel Escobedo and the squad will have the opportunity to prove that IU isn’t just a basketball school.
 
With the majority of the new recruiting class from out of state, one familiar name that rings a bell in southern Indiana is Gabe Sollars from Evansville Mater Dei. Having a great end to his high school career as a two-time state champion, Sollars could be the missing piece to the puzzle in Bloomington. Also joining the Hoosiers is two-time placer, Ben Phillips of Charlestown, who had a record of 142-22 throughout his high school career. Transfer, Clayton Fielden of Garrett, who has seen some mat time for Army, comes back to his home state to compete for the Hoosiers as well. Fielden could potentially crack the Hoosier lineup this season as he takes on Robert Major of Carmel for the 165lbs spot.
 
Bringing back the bulk of their starters from last season only gives this team more time to grow and compete at a higher level. Returning this season is Donnell Washington of Portage, who was the only wrestler to score for the Hoosiers at the NCAA DI National Championships. Having been ranked as high as #6 in the nation last season, he is someone that is bound to make sparks fly, especially after hearing he is dropping down to 174lbs for the Hoosiers. This spot, currently held by Nick South of Columbus East, is going to make for an interesting curveball in their lineup. Escobedo indicates that although he thinks both men could potentially be All-Americans, championship teams have guys at the same weight class more frequently than not.
 
The infamous brother duo, Graham and Cayden Rooks of Columbus East, have been more than entertaining throughout their wrestling careers. These guys are both high scoring wrestlers who always seem to pull off some big upsets year after year. The Rooks brothers both fell short of their goals last season, but it only gave them more motivation to grind this offseason. Escobedo has been assisting the brothers’ transition to “approach the sport differently this offseason,” which has made these men hungry and excited for what their future holds.
 
Happy to bring back Jacob Moran of Portage at 125lbs, the Hoosiers are going to be just fine to start out their duals this season. With multiple wins over ranked opponents, and being ranked the first half of last season, it is Moran’s time to make a statement. Like most of his teammates, this offseason has been a time for him to refine and build on his skills.
 
Do not sleep on Nick Willham of Greenwood at 195lbs. Although Willham does not have too many collegiate accolades to date, he is a “workhorse in the room,” says Escobedo. Willham has been making himself known around the nation with multiple overtime matches with All-American’s in his weight class. Escobedo also points out how those matches only led to more confidence for Willham to reach All-American status. “The sky is the limit,” states Escobedo.
 
Returning to Bloomington, as an associate head coach, Mike Dixon 01’. Dixon having a lofty coaching resume will make for an impactful addition to the Hoosier coaching staff. Another coach added is volunteer assistant coach and three-time All-American at Nebraska, C.J. Red. Red, a four-time Indiana state champion, has a vested interest in the future of the Hoosier wrestling program.
 
This is truly a year for IU to take the next step and possibly make some magic happen.
 
Purdue University
 
Purdue University continues to churn talent and develop Indiana recruits into national qualifiers. Bringing on seven newcomers, these recruits are entering a program that could finish top 15 in the country. The Boilermakers bring on a very skilled recruiting class, with an already young team as it is. Being in the room since June, these freshmen who came in as boys, are going to enter their season as men states Assistant Coach Jake Sueflohn.
 
First recruit up is Brody Baumann of Evansville Mater Dei, who was a two-time Indiana state champion. He is a proven winner and has shown he is ready to compete at the next level. Up next is Ike Ruble of Bellmont, who is likely hungrier after his season did not go as planned. It is likely that Ruble is still growing and could end up at a much higher weight class than intended. Coach Sueflohn also sheds light on Ruble’s “attitude and positive energy” that lifts the room up. Ruble finished his high school career at 133-10 and is likely going to crack lineup in his time as a Boilermaker.
 
Kade Law of Columbus East was the guy the Olympians could always count on when they needed it most. Being a 2021 IHPO Champion, Law has always been a well-rounded competitor. Brac Hooper of Zionsville is the last recruit of Indiana natives. This guy always knew how to scrap but only started to fill out by the end of his high school career. It would not be a surprise if we saw Hooper become West Lafayette’s secret weapon.
 
Some of the success from this previous year’s tournaments was from #10 Thomas Penola of Zionsville. Penola, a three-time NCAA national qualifier, is settling into his redshirt senior season nicely. Always willing to do whatever it takes, Penola has been “opening his offensive attacks this offseason,” says Sueflohn. Although his signature underhook is nothing to shy away from, development this offseason will push him to that All-American status at the tournament this year.
 
Cooper Noehre of Greenfield Central has the chance to solidify himself at 165lbs. After he wrestled in a few varsity duals in the previous season at 157lbs, he has proven himself more than capable of holding his own for the Boilermakers.
 
Potentially cracking lineup at 149lbs is Jaden Reynolds of Avon. Reynolds being a three-time place winner for the Orioles has proven himself as a viable option for the Boilermakers. Having a few solid wins under his belt his redshirt season, Reynolds is continuing to build on his already solid foundation. Someone else really filling out is Indiana state champion, Tristan Ruhlman of Bloomington South, who is likely to see time at heavyweight this season.
 
This team understand how to put its nose to the grindstone and really make it count. Excited is an understatement when talking about Purdue wrestling.
 

By Blaze Lowery
 
Trine University:
Trine looks to have a breakout year in its future with a couple leadership shifts that are only improving the culture for the Thunder. Coach Thomas Hall is more than ecstatic to bring on some extra hands, as Trine will bring out more than 40 wrestlers to its room this season. The Thunder are continuously bringing more and more capital to the division and is becoming a place for the love of wrestling to thrive. Adding 17 incoming freshmen, 15 of which are Indiana natives, there is no question they have a highly competitive room of guys who want to compete.  
 
Coach Hall highlights how his team, unlike most, gained from the time away from competition during the pandemic to really focus on his team’s craft and technique. Building this team since he was 23 years old, passion for the sport is what keeps him going. Development, learning, and growing are Hall’s big three this upcoming season.
 
Key Returning Wrestlers:
Jett Boots of Angola, Conference Runner-Up, Regional Placer
Isaac Hawkins of Fremont, Conference Placer (4th)
Phil Burney, Conference Runner-Up
Ethan Nash of Franklin Community, Conference Placer (3rd)
 
These wrestlers have tough competition, as this upcoming class is massive and talented. With only one senior graduating, and no seniors on their roster now, the staff will have some time to cater toward technique and complimenting styles.
 
Incoming Freshman:
Jacob Behm of Fremont
Colin Corbin of Jeffersonville
Ben Edwards of Yorktown
Sean Gaston of Monrovia
Quentin Keesee of Franklin Central
Bradie Porter of Eastern Greentown
Shaun Pratt of Winamac
Dalton Robinson of Bellmont
Baily Rucker of Delphi
Chase Seifert of Peru
Jacob Simpson of Hobart
Jake Stall of McCutcheon
Trey Tobias of Northwood
Lakin Webb of Rensselaer Central
Carson Wools of Center Grove
Tommy Miller of Mt. Prospect (IL)
Kyle Smith of Dundee (MI)
 
Hall states this incoming class has, “…high goals and are holding each other accountable.” His additions at the leadership level are what will drive these goals and accountability home.
 
Coaching changes that Trine is making for this upcoming season: Zach Rieger of Adrian College ‘18, 3x NWCA Academic All-American, 2017 National Qualifier; Josh Stephenson of Manchester College ’22, NWCA Academic All-American, 4x Varsity Letter Winner; Luke Carver of Trine University ’21, 2x Regional Placer
 
Building reputation and culture seems to be the focal point of this program and the proof should be in the pudding as we enter this 2022-2023 season.
 
Wabash College
The Little Giants have reigned over Division 3 for some time now and it does not look like this dynasty is ending anytime soon. Coming off a National Runner-up finish this past season; these men are ready to get another shot at taking the title. Recruiting fare and wide, their recruiting class is only getting more and more impressive as the years go by. Falling to Wartburg by a single point at the 2022 NCAA national tournament, the taste of defeat is only fuel to the fire for what this team is going to do in the coming season.
 
Key Returners:
Jack Heldt of Carmel, 2022 NCAA National Runner-Up
Chase Baczek, 2022 NCAA All American (6th)
Daniel Uribe, 2022 NCAA National Qualifier
Blake McGee, 4th at NCAA Central Regional
Ray Arebalo, 6th at NCAA Central Regional
Tyson Nisley of LaPorte, 7th at NCAA Central Regional
 
It takes more than hard work to crown five All Americans and three national finalists, it takes a plan. Coach Brian Anderson, going into his 19th season, is very strategic what he turns his attention too. Although Anderson is excited about what this season may bring, he and his coaching staff believe that pre-season is the time to make big strides in comparison to the competition. This upcoming recruiting class, similar to their new teammates, have some significant accolades themselves.
 
Incoming Indiana Freshmen:
Eli Johnson of Norwell
Sammy Saunders of Terre Haute North
Brandon Hammer of Tippecanoe Valley
Dylan Barron of North Newton
Dominic Litchfield of Bellmont
Jesse Herrera of Highland
 
Top National Recruits include: James Day, 3X New Jersey State Qualifier; David Gelman, 4X State Qualifier, 2X Placer; Arlie Benson, 2X Ohio State Placer; Justin Hood, Rhode Island State Champion; Aidan Lutes, 2X Illinois State Qualifier; Tim Smith, 3X Ohio State Qualifier, 2X Placer; Austin Morris, New Hampshire State Champion
  
Anderson states ,“The team will have a mix of veterans and a nice group of newcomers to keep the program chasing down NCAA team trophies.” An excited coaching staff and a loaded roster secures Wabash College in for yet another amazing year.
  
Manchester University
Manchester University acquires third coach in the last three seasons, officially finding the one. Hiring on Josh Hardman, Manchester University ‘00, the Spartans could find that spark they have been searching for. Hardman thrilled for what’s yet to come, is truthful is saying that it is going to “take some time” for the Spartans to really build out a solid foundation. After 5 seasons with Wabash College, Coach Hardman returns to make Manchester wrestling what it used to be. Indiana wrestlers that are willing to put in the work and are excited to be coached should be looking at Manchester as a potential spot for greatness.
 
Key Returners:
Devontay Moore of North Central
Justin Brantley of Western
Ellisston Ross of Bloomington South
 
With a smaller roster, these Spartans could make exponential growth in a short time and possibly shock the Central Regional. Even with a new coaching hire, Manchester seemed to rake in a couple of recruits that could break lineup in its first year.
 
Incoming Freshman:
Keagan Mabie of Mishawaka
Jason Orr of Muncie Central
 
Small rosters mean big opportunities, meaning any spot goes to the hungriest in the room. Hardman, having vested interest with the university’s future, this team is going to compete and compete they will.  

Date
September 11, 2022

Registration
Registration is now Closed!
 
Petition Information
Petitions are now Closed!
 
Brackets and Streaming
Brackets and streaming on TrackWrestling

FloWrestling Streaming Link


Stud List
Click here for the #StudList

Location:
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
4000 Parnell Ave
Fort Wayne, IN 46805
 
Event Schedule
Saturday September 10th  Weigh-ins
VIP Weigh-ins 2-3pm
Normal Weigh-ins 5-7pm Sunday September 11th  Wrestling Session 1 9:00 am-2:00 pm EST
Weights: 109, 129, 141, 148, 163, 198, 288 Wrestling Session 2
Weights: 116, 123, 135, 155, 173, 185, 223
Sunday September 11th from 1:00-6:00 pm EST  
Weigh-In Information
Saturday September 10th 
VIP Weigh-ins 2-3pm
Normal Weigh-ins 5-7pm No Satellite Weigh-ins Weigh-ins will be in a singlet or NFHS approved two-piece uniform No weight change fee Weigh-ins are WHOLE pounds, tenths will count! For example if you weigh 155.3 you will NOT wrestle the 155lbs weight class!   
VIP Weigh-In Information
Saturday September 10th 
VIP Weigh-ins 2-3pm $20 cash only paid at the door No limit to number of VIP weigh-in athletes  
Entry Fee
$40 Registration by September 7th at 10:00pm EST or 800 paid entries, whichever comes first. No membership card is required to wrestle You must pay online by credit card ONLY! Per TrackWrestling policy there will be no refunds of paid entries.  If the event is canceled due to COVID-19 we will issue refunds to everyone. Online registration ONLY will be accepted this year. Registration will be cut off at the first 800 paid entries or September 9th at 10pm ET whichever comes first. Please note we had had around 650 preregistered entries the past four years and we sold out the past two years. The Tournament Committee will retain the right to add up to an additional 25 wrestlers, at their discretion, via a petition process, after the entry cutoff. Information about the petition process will be posted within a day after registration closes. Once we reach the entry limit registration will be shut down. After that point the ONLY way to enter is through a petition.  
Memorial Coliseum Procedures
No charge for parking on Saturday for weigh-ins. Please tell the attendant you are there for wrestling weigh-ins Coolers will be allowed in the athlete lunch area only. Athletes can bring coolers in through the Athlete Entrance ONLY!  
Tournament Gear and Apparel

3X Gear is the official gear distributor for the IndianaMat Hoosier Preseason Open. They will be on hand with a full selection of tournament apparel and other wrestling apparel and supplies.
 
Spectators
$15 per person can be purchased at the door Sunday morning or before session 2.
 
Age Groups
Students currently enrolled in 7th-12th grades will be wrestling in one division.

Awards
Top 4 will receive medals and the top 4 will qualify for Super 32 early entry
 
Contact
Joe Caprino
joe@Indianamat.com
 
Wrestling Information
-Wrestling will take place on Sunday September 11th, 2021
-Weight Classes: 109, 116, 123, 129, 135, 141, 148, 155, 163, 173, 185, 198, 223, 288
-Wrestlers in 7th-12th grade may participate
-Double elimination wrestle-backs to 4th place
-Period lengths Championship 2:00-1:30-1:30 Consolation 2:00-1:00-1:00 
-Overtime will be 1 minute sudden victory neutral and 30 second ride-out
-We will seed 4-16 wrestlers so please include your state or national credentials when registering 
-2021/2022 NFHS rules will be utilized, except the overtime modification
-Wrestling will be on full mats
-Singlet or approved NFHS uniform is required
-College out of bounds rules will be utilized.
-Headgear is not required, but recommended
-Mouthpieces are required if you have braces
-NFHS hair rules will apply
 
Seeding Information
Each wrestler that qualifies will be given a "Separation Criteria" from the list below. The criteria are ranked in order.
1. Nationally ranked in FloWrestling or MatScouts rankings
2. State Champion/IHPO Champion
3. State 2-3/IHPO 2-4
4. State 4-5
5. State 6-8
6. State Qualifier/IHPO Top 6 or 8
7. Other Credentialed athletes that deserve separation
 
With these groups we will determine seeds.  Here is an example
If we have 2 wrestlers with #1 criteria, 4 with #2, 2 with #3, 2 with #4 and 5 with #5 this is how it will work.
 
The top two seeds will be the two wrestlers with #1 criteria in a random order
Seeds 3-6 will be the wrestlers with #2 criteria in a random order
Seeds 7-8 wrestlers with #3 criteria in a random order
Seeds 9-10 wrestlers with #4 criteria in a random order
Seeds 11-14 wrestlers with #5 criteria in a random order
The seeds will be determined randomly by TrackWrestling. 
 
Host Hotel
Information coming soon
 
College Coaches
We will offer a special college coaches package for $50. 
You may pay in advance or pay if you are not attending the event and want the entry database using this button
Click here for the PayPal link.
The package will include:
Registration list of all high school aged wrestlers with name, address, grade, weight, accomplishments, GPA, and college test scores* Preliminary entry list sent after registration closes Note: Due to coliseum policies you will need to purchase a ticket separately.  
*Tournament entry information with addresses and contact information will be sent the week after the event and will have all high school aged wrestlers that opted to have information released to coaches.
 
Past Results
2021 Results(716 wrestlers from 12 states)
2020 Results(707 wrestlers from 16 states)
2019 Results(610 wrestlers from 11 states)
2018 Results(605 wrestlers from 12 states)
2017 Results(607 wrestlers from 10 states)
2016 Results(647 wrestlers from 11 states)
2015 Results(580 wrestlers from 11 states)
2014 Results(586 wrestlers from 14 states)
2013 Results(598 wrestlers from 10 states)
2012 Results(444 wrestlers from 8 states)
2011 Results(254 wrestlers from 9 states)
2010 Results(171 wrestlers from 9 states)  
 
IHSAA Rules
Regarding Coaching at the IHPO
15-2 During School Year Out-of-Season
15-2.1 Individual Sports (Cross Country, Golf, Gymnastics, Swimming, Tennis, Track, Wrestling)
a. Students may participate in non-school contests as individuals or as members of a non-school team in non-school contests provided that participation during school time is approved by the school principal or his/her designee.
b. Coaches, from a member school coaching staff, may coach students in that sport if NOT under the organization, supervision and operation of the member school.
c. Member schools may not organize, supervise or operate athletic practices or interschool athletic contests.
d. Member schools may not provide school-owned uniforms (jerseys, shirts, shorts, pants, singlets, or swimsuits, etc.) worn by the student in non-school contests.
 
Estimated Future Event Dates
September 9-10, 2023
September 7-8, 2024
September 6-7, 2025
September 12-13, 2026

Breakdown on each division coming soon!