Naperville Central 2007-2008 Season
Chris Graeber wrestles at State
Chris Graeber lost his only match at the IHSA State Tournament held at the Assembly Hall in Champaign, Illinois on February 15th and 16th. Chris's first round opponent was Matt Dwyer of Rockton Honenegah. Dwyer was one match from placing last year and his brother is currently wrestling varsity at University of Nebraska. Chris scored the first takedown and gave up a late escape in the first period. Chris scored on a fireman's carry to the left leg. Chris deferred his choice after winning the coin toss at the beginning of the second period and Dwyer picked bottom. Dwyer scored a quick escape to beginning the second period to tie the score at 2-2. Chris was aggressive throughout the second period trying multiple shots. Toward the end of the period Chris missed on a shot near the edge of the mat and Dwyer capitalized with a quick go behind to score a takedown. Dwyer took a 4-2 lead going into the third period. Chris chose neutral to start the third period and aggressively took the match to Dwyer. Several attacks came close to a takedown but Dwyer was able to defend them all and hold on for the victory. Dwyer won his next match but lost to Kendall of De La Salle in the quarterfinals. According to IHSA tournament rules, only losers to semifinalists qualify for the wrestle-backs. Therefore, Dwyers quarterfinal lost knocked Chris Graeber out of the tournament. Chris ends his season at 30-7 and his high school career at 102-44. Chris was a four year varsity wrestler for the Redhawks. Of course, Chris is definitely "I'm Somebody" for the tournament.
In the spring we hope to see NCHS wrestlers stay active and compete in spring sports or freestyle / Greco wrestling. The lifting room will be open!
The Naperville Central Wrestling awards banquet will be held at NCHS cafeteria on Monday, February 225th starting at 6:00. The wrestlers will be recognized for their achievements this year including letter winners, Iron Man winners, participate awards, and special awards and recognitions.
Chris Graeber qualifies for State
Chris Graeber becomes the first state qualifier for Naperville Central since Jeff Burdorf in 2004 by placing 3rd at the IHSA Sectional Tournament held at Naperville North High School this weekend (February 8-9th, 2008). Chris went 3-1 in the tournament defeating Matei of Rolling Meadows, Hope of Glenbard North, and Rivera of East Aurora in his 3rd place match. Chris lost to Spangler of Neuqua Valley who won the tournament. Senior Jon Coluzzi just missed a state birth at 152 pounds. Jon defeated Bialka of Lockport 6-1 but then lost to Horcher of Dundee Crown in the semifinals 3-5. Jon was defeated by Leibforth of Lemont in the wrestle-backs.
Seniors Matt Gorbach and Keenen Marr each scored falls in the sectional tournament. Matt defeated Carlson of South Elgin by fall and Keenan defeated Ryan of Batavia with a pin of his own. Keenen just missed winning in the opening round to Denhof of Wheaton North. Both Matt and Keenan went 1-2 on the day.
Senior Taylor Patton staged a great comeback in his only match. Down by 4 point going into the 3rd period, Taylor scored two takedowns to pull within two points before falling on a throw to end his match. It was Taylor's only match on the day. Sophomore Nick Santos lost both of his matches but had a great sectional experience.
Graeber will compete at the IHSA State Tournament in Champaign Illinois on Friday, February 15. The tournament will continue to Saturday. Hope to see you at the Assembly Hall.
GO REDHAWKS!
Naperville Central sends 6 to Sectionals
Naperville Central will be sending 6 wrestlers to the IHSA Sectional Tournament next week. NCHS took 3rd at the IHSA Regional this weekend (Saturday, Feb. 2) held at West Aurora High School. Both of the Redhawk's #1 seeds took first in the tournament. Jon Coluzzi won at 152 pounds after scoring a late takedown to win 4-3 against Pena of WA. Jon won three matches on the day in route to his gold. Senior Chris Graeber dominated Rivera of East Aurora 12-4 in the finals to win a regional championship as well.
Three other seniors will be joining Chris and Jon next week. Matt Gorbach at 135 and Taylor Patton at 140 both made the finals and each took a silver in the tournament. Matt drew a first round bye and then dominated 13-0 in the semifinals to earn a Sectional birth. Taylor won 2 matches including a 11-5 semifinal win against Digiovanni of Naperville North to qualify. Keenan Marr will compete in his second sectional competition after winning a tight contest for 3rd place. Keenan won 15-13 with a last second near-fall. Immediately prior to Keenan's win, Sophomore Nick Santos defeated Scarano 17-14 to earn third place. Santos overcame several deficits with some throws to win his match. Nick's opponent took all 5 minutes of his bloodtime in the marathon. The sophomore's effort earned him the "I'm Somebody" Award for the Redhawks.
NCHS had 5 wrestlers take 4th place, three of them losing by walk-over (a loss to a wrestler by previous decision in the tournament. Sophomores Andy Kovalsky and Joe Savina will be first alternates to sectionals after losing their last matches. Connor Marr, Matt Burns, and Christian Lynch all took 4th by walk-over. Nick Weithman and Adam Gebner each won a match in the tournament but failed to place. Adam just missed in two of his matches. Freshman Jon Williamson stepped in at 103 and got some great varsity experience.
Final team scores: 1. West Aurora 214, 2. Waubonsie Valley 156, 3. Naperville Central 142.5, 4. Naperville North 108, 5. Marmion Acadamy 93, 6. Wheaton Warrenville South 92.5, 7. East Aurora 35.5, 8. Aurora Central Catholic 0.
Join us at the IHSA Individual Sectional Tournament held at Naperville North High School on Friday, Feb. 8th with action starting at 6:00. Wrestling will continue on Saturday at 12:00 with finals at 6:00. Hope to see you there.
GO REDHAWKS!
Central completes DVC dual season
Naperville Central finished 5th in the DuPage Valley Conference Tournament on Saturday, January 26 held at West Aurora High School. Senior Chris Graeber defended his conference title and was crowned champion again, this time at 171 pounds. The captain won last year at 160 pounds. Chris won three matches in the tournament scoring 12 takedowns including 4 in the finals. Graeber jumped out to early leads in all of his matches and was never in jeopardy of losing. Chris is the team's I'm Somebody award winner for his outstanding effort. Not to be outdone, Senior Jon Coluzzi won the conference gold at 152 pounds. Jon drew a bye his first match and got into the finals by pinning Savenok of WWS in the semifinals. Jon was winning 11-0 at the time of the fall. Jon defeated Pena of West Aurora 8-0 in the championship match. Jon won the conference with giving up a single point in the tournament.
Junior Matt Burns upset two seeded wrestlers to qualify for the finals at 189 pounds. Matt avenged two loses from earlier in the year, winning both by fall. Matt pinned Schwartz of Glenbard North in his first match and then pinned Adarkwa of Wheaton Warrenville South in the first period in the semifinals. Matt was the only unseeded wrestler in the tournament to make the finals. Matt finished 2nd to Gonzalez of West Aurora.
Placing 4th, senior Keenen Marr. Keenan battled the number 1 and 3 seeds in a very tough weight class. Also taking 4th were two sophomores who were both unseeded. Andy Kovalsky upset 4th seed Padilla of West Chicago to get into his place match at 130 and Adam Gebner upset 4th seed Puknaitus of Naperville North in the first round of the tournament. Adam finish 2-2 on the day. Two seniors won their final matches for the Redhawks and took 5th place. Matt Gorbach defeated Tresner of WWS 7-5 at 135 in an important match for team placing, and Taylor Patton came from behind to defeat DiGiovanni of Naperville North 7-4 at 140 pounds. Connor Marr, Joe Savina and Christian Lynch also won matches in the day.
The Redhawks avenged two dual loses by placing ahead of both Naperville North and Wheaton Warrenville South in the team race. Chris Graeber's and Matt Gorbach's wins against WWS in the final round were enough to overtake them for 5th place by just 1/2 of a team point. Glenbard North won the tournament with 7 conference champions. Final Team Scores: 1. Glenbard North 276, 2. West Aurora 225, 3. Wheaton North 198.5, 4. Glenbard East 151.5, 5. Naperville Central 136.5, 6. Wheaton Warrenville South 136, 7. Naperville North 105.5, 8. West Chicago 40.
Next up for Naperville Central is the post-season IHSA Regional Tournament on Saturday, February 2nd. First round action starts at 10:00 and finals are set for 4:00 at West Aurora High School. The top three place-winners will advance to the IHSA Sectional Tournament the next weekend at Naperville North High School. The Regional winning team will advance into the IHSA Dual Team Sectionals. The teams competing in the West Aurora Regional are: Aurora Central Catholic, East Aurora, Marmion, Naperville Central, Naperville North, Waubonsie Valley, West Aurora, and Wheaton Warrenville South. Hope to see you there.
GO REDHAWKS!
Central completes DVC dual season
The Redhawks were defeated by Wheaton North 12-54 on Friday, January 18th at Wheaton. It was Wheaton North's senior night. NCHS's final dual season record is 8-14, (DVC: 2-5). Securing victories for the Redhawks once again were senior captains Jon Coluzzi and Chris Graeber. Chris scored 7 takedowns to route Myers 17-9. Jon Coluzzi was on the way to a perfect 15-0 technical fall when he scored the fall at 5:45 in the match. Following up Jon and Chris's wins was junior Matt Burns. Matt stormed ahead in the 2nd period after scoring a takedown and a quick three point nearfall and cruised to a 8-2 victory at 189 pounds. Matt earns the "I'm Somebody Award for his efforts. But, it was all Wheaton North's night as they scored a fall and three technical falls. The Redhawks forfeited 103 and 135 pounds once again as Matt Gorbach is recovering from a shoulder injury. Joe Widman replaed Christian Lynch at heavyweight as Lynch is recovering from an elbow injury.
The Redhawk JV team competed in the DVC conference tournament on Saturday, Jan. 19th. The JV1 team, competing at West Chicago High School took 4th in the DVC tournament. Junior Rob Neitert took home a gold medal at 215 pounds and Juniors Joe Widman and Kalen Petty each took 2nd at 285 and 152 respectively. The JV2 team, competing at Wheaton North High School took 5th in their DVC tournament. Freshman Jon Williamson took 2nd at 103 pounds and freshman Josh Tardy took 3rd at 125 pounds.
NCHS will compete in the varsity conference tournament next Saturday, 1/26 at West Aurora High School. Preliminary action will start at 12:00, session two will start at 2:00 and finals are set to begin at 6:00 with championship, 3rd and 5th place matches. Hope to see you there.
GO REDHAWKS!
Central loses to Glenbard North on Senior Night
The Redhawk wrestling team lost to Glenbard North 8-64 in front of a home crowd on Thursday, January 17th on Senior Night. The loss drops Central's dual record to 8-13 on the year (2-4 in DVC conference). Pulling out victories for NCHS were seniors Chris Graeber and Jon Coluzzi. Chris, wrestling at 171, defeated Ryan Hope 14-4. Chris scored 6 takedowns in his match. Jon scored 3 takedowns and a nearfall to shut out Cory Hope 9-0 in his match. Matt Burns nearly won at 189. Matt's match went to overtime 2-2, but Matt was penalized for fleeing the mat which ended his bout. Central forfeited at 103 and 135.
The Naperville Central Freshman team defeated Glenbard North 42-40 when Josh Tardy scored a fall in the final match of their dual. The entire freshman team earns the "I'm Somebody" award for their efforts.
Naperville Central honored their seniors and parents on Senior Night. Congratulations to seniors Jon Coluzzi, Matt Drone, Chris Graeber, Matt Gorbach, Christian Lynch, Keenan Marr, Chase Muscato, Bryan Oppenheimer, and Taylor Patton
Central travels to Wheaton North for the final dual of the season tonight (Friday, Jan. 18th) with action starting at 6:00. Tomorrow the JV teams will compete in their DVC conference tournaments. JV 1 will be at Wheaton North and JV 2 will be at West Chicago. Wrestling set to begin at both tournaments at 10:00.
GO REDHAWKS!
Central takes 6th at Bulldog Invitational
The Redhawk wrestling team took 6th out of 15 teams at the 28th Mahomet-Seymour Bulldog Invitational on Saturday, January 12. Lincoln Way Central won the tournament. The seniors were a big part of the story. Jon Coluzzi captured a tournament victory at 152 pounds by scoring a major decision 11-2 in the finals. Jon won two matches in route to the finals, one by fall and the other by a major. Jon was the team's "I'm Somebody" winner for his outstanding effort. Chris Graeber and Keenan Marr both took third in the tournament. Keenan won three matches including a dominating 19-9 win in his place match. Chris just missed a trip to the finals, losing 16-17 in the semifinals in perhaps the most exciting match up in the tournament. Chris fell one point short of coming back from a 10-3 deficit against Champaign Centrals Brandon Ward and almost scored a late third period pin. Taylor Patton went 4-1 in the tournament at 140 pounds to capture a 5th place finish. Taylor scored two falls. Sophomore Andy Kovalsky took 5th by going 4-1 as well. Andy locked down three pins in his matches. Christian Lynch and Matt Gorbach both took 6th and both went 2-2 for the day. Matt defaulted by injury in his last match due to a hurt shoulder. All NCHS wrestlers left the tournament with at least one victory.
Final team scores: 1. Lincoln-Way Central 256, 2. Mahomet-Seymour 187, 3. Elmhurst York 172.5, 4. Champaign Central 142, 5. Kankakee Bishop McNamara 134.5, 6. Naperville Central 128, 7. Chicago Marist 105, 8. Byron 79, 9. Mt. Zion 63, 10. Lombard Montini JV 61, 11. Belleville West 55, 12. Tinley Park Andrew 46.5, 13. Washington 44, 14. Tolono Unity 42, 15. Chicago St. Ignatius 20.
The Naperville Central wrestling team appreciates the efforts of Tom Porter in donating his time to give a tour of the University of Illinois facilities on Friday night. NCHS worked out Friday at Huff Hall, home of the Illini and got to see the U of I indoor football practice facility, Memorial Stadium, the football locker room and academic centers, the Erwin basketball practice facility.
The Naperville Central JV2 team went 1-2 at Oswego on Saturday as well.
Next week Central will continue in DVC action by hosting Glenbard North at home (main gym) on Thursday, Jan. 17th. The Redhawks will honor their seniors at this last home dual of year. Freshman and JV action will start at 6:00. NCHS will compete at Wheaton North on Friday for another dual. The conference tournament for the Junior Varsity teams will be this Saturday at West Chicago (JV2) and West Aurora (JV1).
GO REDHAWKS!
Central loses to WWS
Naperville Central lost to Wheaton Warrenville South at home on Thursday, January 10 by a score of 27-32. The loss drops Central's dual meet record to 8-12, (2-3 in DVC). The Tigers won a back in forth battle that included three lead changes. Taylor Patton scored 8 points in the final period of his match to break open a tight fight at 140 pounds to win 9-1 and score a major decision. His efforts earns him the "I'm Somebody" team award for the dual. Adam Gebner, sophomore 145 pounder scored an overtime takedown to complete a fantastic come-from-behind win. Gebner, behind 3-8 in the second period, scored a reversal and four takedowns to pull out the victory. Jon Coluzzi won by major decision at 152 pounds and Chris Graeber won at 171 pounds by forfeit. Nick Santos used a takedown followed by a strong tilt (nearfall manuver) to score 17 points in the first period of his match to win by technical fall. Keenen Marr racked up 10 takedowns at 125 to also win by technical fall.
The Redhawks won 37-23 at the JV1 level and 48-34 to win at the JV2 level, while losing 29-41 at the freshman level.
Next up for NCHS is the Mahomet-Seymour Bulldog Invitational on Saturday, Jan. 12.
GO REDHAWKS!
Central competes at Sandburg
Naperville Central competed against four of the states best wrestling teams at Sandburg on Saturday, January 5th, 2008. First up, the three time defending state champs Carl Sandburg High School. Seniors Chris Graeber and Jon Coluzzi both secured victories for the Redhawks. Central lost 3 matches by 3 points or less and outscored Sandburg in first takedowns scored. Final score 7-58. Next, NCHS lost to Hinsdale South 27-42. Connor Marr and Chris Graeber each won by fall and sophomore Adam Gebner won his first varsity match at 145 pounds 17-3 and won the team's "I'm Somebody" award. Keenan Marr scored a technical fall at 125. Other winners were Andy Kovalsky and Jon Coluzzi. Christian Lynn defaulted due to injury. In the last dual, NCHS lost to Mahomet-Seymour 13-47. Coluzzi finished a perfect day at 152 with a technical fall. Matt Gorbach and Taylor Patton each won by a major decision. Central lost three matches to Mahomet-Seymour by one point. The Redhawks are now 8-11 on the year.
The Redhawk JV team took 3rd at the NCHS Invitational out of 8 teams. Sophomore Steve Bus won the tournament at 171 pounds. The NCHS freshman took 2nd in the 8 team Hinsdale South tournament. Alex Sokolowski won his second tournament of the year at 140 pounds.
Next for the Naperville Central wrestling team is DVC opponent Wheaton Warrenville South at home on Tuesday, January 10th. Competition will be held in the aux. gym (wrestling room). Come cheer on the Redhawks!
GO REDHAWKS!
Central defeats West Chicago at home
Naperville Central defeated DVC foe West Chicago at home 53-15 on Friday, January 4th, 2008 to even up their varsity record at 8-8. West Chicago brought 6 varsity wrestlers and to two teams split 3-3 in actual matches competed. Andy Kovalsky won a solid match against Jonny Padilla by major decision 10-2. The sophomore competed for the first time this year at 130 pounds and was the teams "I'm Somebody" award winner for the day. Matt Burns and Christian Lynch also scored victories in the dual. NCHS is 2-2 in the DVC.
GO REDHAWKS!
Central wins two at home
Naperville Central won two duals at home on Thursday, December 27th to improve to 7-8 on the year. NCHS pulled out another last-match dual victory against Brother Rice 31-27 and then finished by day by defeating Oswego East 58-18. This year, Central is 3-1 in duals that have come down to the last match. Against Brother Rice, the Redhawks pick up two forfeits at 103 and 112 and then gave up fall at 119. Senior Keenan Marr got the 'Hawks on the board with a 7-5 victory but then Rice won four in a row to take a 15-21 dual lead. Captain Coluzzi wrestled a solid match at 152 and won a major decision to get Central on the winning side. Kalen Petty lost his first varsity match at 160 but only by a decision. With Rice leading 19-24, Chris Graeber won by decision at 171 and Junior Matt Burns won with a big pin to put the Redhawks up by 4, 28-24. Nick Weithman battled but lost at 215 setting up a dual-deciding match at 285. Christian Lynch, not knowing the dual team score, got in front with an escape in the 2nd period and a reversal in the third period. He put the icing on the win with a late takedown: 5-1. In the day's second dual, Jon Williamson and Connor Marr each earned their second forfeits of the day. Nick Santos, Andy Kovalsky, Taylor Patton, Matt Burns, Nick Weithman and Rob Neitert all won by fall. Matt Gorbach and Keenan Marr both won by decision as well, but the match of the day was at 152. Jon Coluzzi use a re-shot to overcome a 3-4 match deficit and take a 7-4 lead into the 3rd period. Jon held on to win 8-7 and earn the day's "I'm Somebody" award for his efforts.
Next up for Naperville Central is DVC foe West Chicago at home on Friday, January 4 at 6:00 in the main gym. Hope to see you there.
GO REDHAWKS!
Central downed a Leyden
Naperville Central was defeated by Franklin Park East Leyden High School 18-50 on Friday, December 21. NCHS is now 5-8 in duals on the year. The Redhawks started with Matt Burns earning a fall at 189 pounds and taking a quick 6-0 team lead. Nick Weithman fought off his back to save a couple of team points and Christian Lynch battled before giving up a late takedown in the third period at heavyweight, and Leyden took a 6-7 lead. Leyden extended their lead after earning a forfeit win at 103 and a pair of falls at 112 and 119. Senior Keenen Marr battled to a 10-4 win at 125 pounds. Leyden answered with 4 straight wins. Central gave up a forfeit at 130. Andy Kovalsky got caught on his back after leading his match 6-1. Matt Gorbach lost 2-8 and Taylor Patton lost at 145 pounds. Senior Jon Coluzzi won a hard fought match at 152 against a state qualifier 5-1. Joe Savina lost at 160 for NCHS, but Chris Graeber responded with a quick 1st period fall at 171.
Central won both JV levels in close duals. JV1 won 37-30 and JV2 won 47-28. Freshman just lost 42-49 in their dual.
Next up for the 'Hawks is a double dual against Oswego East and Brother Rice on Thursday, December 27th at home in the auxiliary gym with action starting at 10:00. Please come cheer the Redhawks.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks take 9th at Whitlatch
Naperville Central placed 7 of its 10 wrestlers entered in the top 8 at the 24-team Whitlatch Wrestling Invitational held at Hinsdale Central High School on December 14-15, 2007. Taking top honors for the Redhawks was senior 171 pounder Chris Graeber. Chris went 4-0 in the tournament to take the gold and the "I'm Somebody" award. Chris won 2 matches by fall and 2 by major decision in route to his championship, winning in the finals by a score of 13-5. Taking 3rd at the tournament was senior Jon Coluzzi at 152 pounds. Jon went 4-1 in the tournament and was seeded 4th. Jon won 4 matches, the last match by pin. Christian Lynch continued his good showing at tournaments by taking 6th place. Christian won five more matches against three loses to take 6th. Senior Keenan Marr went 3-2 at the tournament to take 7th place. Keenan won his last match by major decision 11-1. Three Redhawks took 8th place in the tournament. Andy Kovalsky notched a couple of hard fought wins to place as a sophomore, Taylor Patton won three matches to take 8th, and Matt Burns battled to four wins in his efforts. Nick Santos, Matt Gorbach, and Nick Weithman also won bouts at the meet.
Final team scores: 1. Carl Sandburg 242.5, 2. West Aurora 235.5, 3. Lockport 189.5, 4. Minooka 158.5, 5. Hinsdale South 152, 6. Hinsdale Central 136, 7. Lemont 133, 8. Rolling Meadows 118, 9. Naperville Central 101, 10. DeKalb 99.5, 11. Sterling 98, 12. Homewood Flossmoor 96, 13. Downers Grove South 94, 14. St. Charles North 88, 15. Fenton 75, 16. Glenbard West 65.5, 17. West Chicago 56, 18. Geneseo 52, 19. Rockford East 46.5, 20. Hinsdale South JV 30, 21. Hinsdale Central Red JV 28, 22. Thornton 22, 23. Montini JV 16, 24. Thornridge 10.
This weekend the JV 1 team won all 3 of their duals at Oak Forrest. The JV 2 squad took 2nd out of 8 teams at the Maine South Sophomore tournament. The Freshman went 2-1 at the Hinsdale South quad.
Next up for all three teams is Leyden on Friday, December 21 starting at 6:00.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks lose in last match to Naperville North
Naperville Central lost to North in the last match of their annual cross-town match-up on Thursday, December 13 at Naperville North high school 28-32. NCHS is now 5-7 on the year. Two young stars emerged in the dual with their first ever varsity wins. At 160 pounds, Joe Savina score a takedown and then tightened up a good half while cranking on legs to get a big 2nd period fall. The sophomore got his first varsity win and it can at a big time. Later, Steve Hurley stepped in for the injured Connor Marr and took his 112 match into overtime with a timely called stalling point. Then Steve scored his 3rd takedown in the match to ice the victory. Both Joe and Steve are the "I'm Somebody's" for the dual. The Redhawks broke out to a 25-6 team score lead early in the dual with wins from Andy Kovalsky, Matt Gorbach, Jon Coluzzi, Savina, and Chris Graeber. Jon and Joe scored pins. But then North reeled off 4 wins in a row, one by forfeit to come within three of Central, 25-22. Steve Hurley's victory put the Redhawks up by 6, North won a tight match at 119 against Nick Santos and a major decision against Mike Gorbach to take a one point lead into the last match of the day. Mike stepped in for Chase Muscato who is injured and likely out for the season with an elbow injury sustained at the Hoffman Estates Tournament last week. Keenan Marr scored the first takedown at 130, but couldn't hold on, so the Huskies won by 4. Central won the takedown contest 35-15 in the dual.
Next up for the Redhawks is the tough Whitlatch tournament at Hinsdale Central tomorrow and Saturday. Action starts at 4:00 on Friday and 9:30 on Saturday morning.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks take 4th at Hoffman Estates Tournament
Naperville Central took 4th at the 12 team Hoffman Estates "Hawk" Tournament held at Hoffman Estates High School on Saturday, December 8th. Leading the way for the Redhawks were two seniors how took 2nd place. Chris Graeber made the finals at 171 pounds with two victories and Christian Lynch qualified for the championship match for the first time in his career by winning three matches at 285. Christian was named "I'm Somebody" for his outstanding efforts. Taking 3rd for NCHS was seniors Keenan Marr at 125 and Jon Coluzzi at 152. Juniors Matt Burns and Connor Marr took 4th for the Redhawks at 189 and 112 respectively. Both wrestlers went 2-2 on the day. Andy Kovalsky took 5th place at 135 and Matt Gorbach won 4 more matches today also taking 5th place. Nick Santos at 119 and Taylor Patton at 145 each took 6th by going 2-2 in the day. Chase Muscato injury defaulted at 119 with an elbow injury and he will be evaluated later in the week. Nick Weithman battled to two victories at 215 and Joe Savina competed at 160 pounds in the tournament.
Final team scores: 1. Lincoln-Way Central 285.5, 2. Crystal Lake Central 214, 3. Machesny Park Harlem 164, 4. Naperville Central 154, 5. Hoffman Estates 137, 6. Lemont 129.5, 7. Notre Dame 113, 8. Geneva 102, 9. Willowbrook 93, 10. Plainfield North 71.5, 11. Elgin 47, 12. South Elgin 14.
Next up for the Redhawks is the cross town rivalry with Naperville North on Thursday, December 13th at NNHS. Action starts at 6:00 with varsity starting around 7:15. Hope to see you there.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks defeat Glenbard East
For the second day in a row, the Redhawks pull out a last match dual victory, this time against DVC foe Glenbard East 29-28 on Friday, December 7th. NCHS is now 5-6 on the year. The meet, held in Lombard featured several lean changes. The dual started at 135 with Andy Kovalsky scoring a first period fall and Matt Gorbach picking up his 5th win in a row, a decision of 11-5 at 140 pounds. After Taylor Patton lost a tight match at 145 pounds, Jon Coluzzi defeated Jason Callahan by a major decision 8-0 at 152. With the team score at 13-3, The Rams earned a major decision at 160 pounds against sophomore Joe Savina. Chris Graeber picked him up with a late, 3rd period fall and Matt Burns answered with a 9-4 decision at 189. The Redhawks lead 22-7 but Glenbard East came storming back. State placewinner Pat Walker of GE pinned upstart Nick Weithman at 215 and Christian Lynch lost a tight battle at 285. NCHS forfeited 103 and Connor Marr and Nick Santos both lost decisions at 112 and 119 and suddenly Glenbard East had a 22-28 dual score lead with two matches left. Chase Muscato put the dual in Keenan Marr's hands when he won by a major decision at 125 pounds 15-4. That made the team score 26-28 with one decisive match to go. Keenan fell behind 2-4 in the first period and was behind 2-6 when he scored on a 4 point side roll to tie the score. In the third period, Keenan took the lead on an escape point before giving up two takedowns to go down 8-10. With 30 seconds left, Keenan again went to the side roll, this time scoring 5 points and held on till the buzzer. Final score 29-28. Next up for the Redhawks is the Hoffman Estates Hawk tournament tomorrow.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks defeat Downers Grove North
Naperville Central defeated Downers Grove North 33-29 on Thursday, December 6th to improve to 4-6 on the year in one of the most exciting duals of the year. The Redhawks started the dual down by 14 after losing at 112 and an overtime match at 285 and giving up a forfeit at 103. Sophomore Nick Santos got the Redhawks on the board with a major decision and Chase Muscato followed with a solid major decision of his own. Senior Keenan Marr came from behind to win 11-6 in a very tough match at 130. Andy Kovalsky cruised to a major decision with a late takedown to win 11-3 at 135 pounds. Matt Gorbach gave the 'Hawks their 5th win in a row after throwing a headlock in overtime to win 8-3. That put Central up 18-14 in the team score. Downers Grove scored a pin with their best wrestler at 145 pounds to regain the team score lead at 18-20 but Senior Jon Coluzzi got the Redhawks back in front with a late pin to make the team score 24-20. After NCHS forfeited at 160, Chris Graeber scored a much needed pin at 171 to make the score 30-26. Matt Burns fell just short of icing the dual when he fell 6-7 at 189 leaving the team score 30-29 and putting the dual on Nick Weithman's shoulders. Nick scored a quick takedown and closed the first period with a 2nd takedown to start his match 4-1. After picking neutral, Nick scored a third takedown, but gave up an escape an takedown late in the second round to make the match score 6-4. Using bars and working side tilts, Nick was able to ride out the third period and hold on for the victory. A penalty point for DGN wasn't enough and Nick won 6-5 and secured the victory for the Redhawks. Nick was named "I'm Somebody" for his efforts.
Next up for Central is a DVC dual at Glenbard East tonight at 6:00 (varsity at around 7:30) followed by the Hoffman Estates Tournament on Saturday. Come cheer on Naperville Central wrestling. GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks finish 1-2 at the Mega Duals
Naperville Central lost to St. Charles East 20-47, defeated Oswego 46-27, then lost a tough battle to Lockport 30-36 at the Mega Duals hosted by Wheaton Warrenville South on Saturday, December 1st. Winning three matches on the night were seniors Matt Gorbach, Jon Coluzzi, and Taylor Patton. Matt had an especially good day by winning by major decision against St. Charles East then posting falls against Oswego and Lockport and winning the "I'm Somebody" award. Jon Coluzzi duplicated Matt's effort with a major and two falls as well. Patton, wrestling at 145, won two close matches and one match by forfeit.
The Redhawks came just short of defeating a Lockport team that defeated West Aurora earlier in the Mega Duals by 11 points. Giving up 2 forfeits, NCHS lost by just 6 points and won 7 of 12 matches actually wrestled. Four matches during the night were decided in the final seconds of the match with the 'Hawks winning 3 of them.
Next up for Central is a dual at Downers Grove North on Thursday, Dec. 6th and at DVC foe Glenbard East on Friday followed by the Hoffman Estates Tournament on Saturday. Come cheer on Naperville Central wrestling. GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks lost to West Aurora at home
Naperville Central dropped to 2-4 on the year after losing to West Aurora at home 11-73 in DVC competition on Friday, November 30th. The Redhawks were without 3 of their top wrestlers on a night that belonged to the wrong colored "Hawks." NCHS did have some bright spots starting with 135 pound sophomore sensation Andy Kovalsky who scored a 2nd period fall and brought home the coveted "I'm Somebody" award. Andy jumped ahead 5-0 in the first period and then turn his opponent over on top to end it in round 2. Jon Coluzzi dropped down to 152 and scored a technical fall 20-5 in his match just as the 3rd period was ending. Jon scored 8 takedowns in his match.
Next up for the Redhawks is the Mega Duals at Wheaton Warrenville South tomorrow morning. GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks go 2-1 at home
Naperville Central went 2-1 at home to improve to 2-3 on the year after defeating Chicago Lane Tech 65-3, and Downers Grove South 53-9 while losing to Batavia 30-37. The Redhawks had 4 wrestlers who finished the day at 3-0. At 125, Chase Muscato scored a fall, techincal fall and major decision in his efforts. At 140, senior Matt Gorbach scored three decisions and a major decision on the day. At 171 Chris Graeber recorded a fall, technical fall and major decision to cap a great performance. But the wrestler of the day, and winner of the "I'm Somebody" award was 145 pounder Riley Roberts. Riley recorded three pins on the day to improve to 4-1 on the year with 4 pins.
NCHS fell just short of defeating Batavia on the night's final dual. The 'hawks were leading by 2 going into the final two matches, but Batavia answered with a fall and a decision to gain the victory. Central scored 4 pins in the dual, but it wasn't enough.
Napeville Central Freshman had a great day at the Hinsdale Central Freshman tournament taking 2nd of 8 teams, just falling short to Lyons Township in the final round. The Redhawks sent 8 individuals to the finals and had 5 champions.
Next up the Redhawks will host West Aurora on Friday, November 30th with action starting at 6:00. On Saturday, December 1st NCHS will wrestle in the mega duals at the varsity and junior varsity levels while the freshman will compete at Lyons Township.
Hope to see you at home on Friday. GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks drop two at Naperville Quad
Naperville Central went 0-2 against district 204 teams on Wednesday, November 21 at Wabaunsee Valley High School. The Redhawks were defeated by Neuqua Valley 18-51 in the opening dual and by Wabaunsee Valley 22-46 to end the day.
Senior Keenan Marr lead the Redhawks by going 2-0 for the day and winning the first "I'm Somebody" Award for the year. Keenan came from behind in the 3rd period to defeat Cizek of Neuqua Valley then scored a 2nd period fall against Trubiano of Wabaunsee Valley. Connor Marr, Riley Roberts, Taylor Patton, Jon Coluzzi, and Christian Lynch all won a match in the evening.
Central comes home to compete against Batavia, Downers Grove South, and Lane Tech on Saturday, Nov. 24 with action starting at 9:00 in the aux. gym. Hope to see you there
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks set to start 2007-2008 Season
Naperville Central finished the 2007-2008 season 15-6 overall record and 5-2 in DVC. Central tied for 2nd in the DVC in duals and 4th in the DVC tournament. NCHS won its first regional in 23 years and competed in the first IHSA Dual team state tournament series in school history. Highlights include defeating rivals Naperville North for the first time in 25 years and defeating West Aurora who were ranked 6th in the state at the time. The Redhawks had 8 sectional qualifiers and 5 will be returning this year.
NCHS will host their annual Red-White Scrimmage in the wrestling room on Friday, Nov. 16 starting at 6:30. Parent meeting will take place in the Little Theater starting at 5:30.
Central will start action against on of the top teams in the state, Neuqua Valley, and also Waubansee Valley in the Naperville Quad on Wednesday, November 21 at WVHS starting at 6:00. Freshman will be wrestling at home in the Naperville Quad on the 20th and JV at NVHS on the 20th.
The goal this year is to take the program to the next step. We will be targeting three areas: (1) commitment to excellence, (2) post-season events, and (3) cardiovascular development.
Varsity wrestler from last year's team include:
Connor Marr, JR
Chase Muscato, SR
Keenan Marr, SR
Andy Kovalsky, SO
Taylor Patton, SR
Matt Gorbach, SR
Riley Roberts, SR
Jon Coluzzi, SR
Chris Graeber, SR
Christian Lynch, SR
We have an experienced core of returning varsity wrestlers and a good group of senior leadership on this year's team. Besides those listed above NCHS will also feature seniors Matt Drone and Bryan Oppenheimer.