NCHS 29 - Lincoln Way East 43
On Thursday, December 16, Naperville Central lost to Lincoln Way East at home by a final score of 29-43. East one eight matches, NCHS won five plus one by forfeit. Naperville Central is now 5-5 (1-2 in DVC).
Starting at 140 pounds, Kyle Miller fell to top ranked Langenderfer by fall in the second period. Graeber lost 6-0 at 145 pounds and John Mixed was pinned at 152. Alex Sokolowski made his varsity wrestling debut special with a fall just as the buzzer went off at the end of the second period. Colin Guttosch looked impressive as he rode out a 8-0 major decision at 171 pounds. Jim Ryan and Will Damron were each pinned at 189 and 215 respectively but James Mitchell continued to look impressive with a 10-3 decision at heavyweight.
Rolling around to 103, Dominic Delgrosso stepped into the line-up but was pinned at 103 and Dylan Grooss lost his match at 112 by a score of 4-18. After Steven Splan was pinned at 119, the Redhawks ran off three wins in a row. Senior Jon Williamson fought to an impressive 11-3 major decision at 125 pounds. Kirk Cherep ended the night in exciting fashion. Down 0-2 going into the third period, Cherep earned a penalty point when his opponent illegally locked his legs around Kirk in his attempt to finish a takedown. Then, with time running out, Cherep scored a throw in the final seconds and secured a fall with just 11 seconds in the match. Kirk's efforts brought the crowd to their feet and earn him the I'm Somebody Award. Josh Tardy received a forfeit.
The Naperville Central JV team defeated Lincoln-Way East 43-28. The NCHS freshman won 63-24. A notable win was Isaac Moran, who won by fall at heavyweight at the JV level.
The Redhawks travel the the Hinsdale Central tournament tomorrow and Saturday for some tough action. Wish then luck!