Wrestling Notes 2009-2010
Kovalsky takes 4th at State
Andy Kovalsky won three matches at the IHSA State Wrestling Tournament and finished 4th at 140 pounds. The senior is the first All-State wrestlers for NCHS since Jeff Burdorff placed in 2003 at heavyweight. Josh Tardy lost both of his matches in the tournament. The tournament was held on Friday and Saturday, February 19th and 20th at the Assembly Hall in Champaign.
Andy won his first match against Pazimino of Niles North by a score of 6-3. Andy scored the first takedown gave up an escape and a takedown to fall behind 2-3 in the first period. Andy earned a point through a penalty when he tied up his opponent and forced stalling on top. Andy's second escape put him ahead 4-3 in the third period and iced the match with a late takedown.
Andy faced Joe Wood of St. Lawrence in the quarterfinals. Wood defeated Andy earlier in the year. Kovalsky and Wood fought to a 0-0 tie after one period but Andy put points on the board with a power half in the second to go up 2-0. An escape in the third period put him up 3-0 but he gave up a takedown and Wood closed the gap 3-2. Wood allowed Andy to escape but Andy secured the victory with a takedown in the final seconds to finish the match 6-2. The win put Andy in the semifinals and assured a place on the podium.
Kovalsky lost in the semifinals in his bid to make the Grand Match to Nick Dardanes of Oak Park River Forrest by a score of 5-12. Andy battled Dardanes but the Minnesota bound wrestler was too much.
In the semifinal wrestle-backs, Andy faced Residori of Minooka. Andy took the early lead with a takedown and allowed an escape to leave the first period 2-1. Andy picked bottom and got an early escape in the second period and followed with a takedown at the edge of the mat. Residori attempted to roll out of bounds but instead rolled to his back. Andy took advantage and scored the fall at 3:03 to advance to the consolation finals.
In his final match, Andy lost to Nelson of Brother Rice. Nelson scored a takedown in the first and third periods and held Andy off throughout the match. Final score was 2-6.
Josh Tardy was pinned in his first match at state by Montemayer of Fox Lake Grant and defeated by Jackson of Edwardsville in the wrestle-backs 1-5.
The Naperville Central Wrestling Team will celebrate the season at the awards banquet held in the cafeteria on Monday, March 1st at 6:30. Most Valuable, Most Improved, Hardest Worker, Most Inspirational, JV Wrestler of the Year, and Freshman Wrestler of the Year will be awarded at the banquet. Varsity letter winners will be recognized along with the Red-White Winner. Hope to see you there.
Congratulations on a fantastic season. GO REDHAWKS!
Tardy and Kovalsky advance to State
Josh Tardy and Andy Kovalsky placed fourth and second respectively at the IHSA Sectional Tournament to qualify for the IHSA State Tournament next weekend. Andy is now a two time state qualifier and Josh will be competing at the state tournament for the first time. The sectional tournament was held at Glenbard North High School Friday and Saturday, February 12 and 13.
Andy Kovalsky, 140, won three matches to qualify for the finals without giving up a single point. Andy defeated Edwards of Oswego East by fall in 1:53, the beat Caravello of Rolling Meadows 5-0. In the semifinals, Andy scored a 4-0 win against Pevitts of Wheaton North to become an automatic state qualifier. Andy lost to Oyster of Plainfield Central in the finals 4-9.
Josh Tardy, 130, finished the tournament 4-2. Josh defeated Zinzer of West Aurora 5-2 but lost to Murphy of Glenbard North 3-7 in the quarterfinals. Josh had his work cut out for him because he had to win three matches in a row to qualify for state. Josh dominated his next three matches first defeating Smith of Batavia 7-1, then majored Diaz of Maine South 14-1 and finally shut out Hafner of Schaumburg 7-0 to become a state qualifier. Josh lost to Noverini of St. Charles North in the place match by a score of 4-7 to finish fourth. For qualifying for state, both Josh and Andy won the team's "I'm Somebody" award.
Adam Gebner fell just short of qualifying for state. Gebner pinned Carnot of West Chicago but lost to Caprio of Rolling Meadows in the semifinals. Adam beat Perez of Larkin by technical fall 18-3 and Frederick of Wheaton North 8-4 to advance to the consolation semifinals. Adam lost in overtime to Brewster of Maine South 4-6 on a takedown on the edge. Adam finishes his senior with a record of 31-6.
Senior Steve Bus lost to White of West Chicago by a score of 0-2 but came back in the wrestle-backs to defeat Vana of Maine West 8-2. Bus avenged a loss to Vana from earlier in the season. Steve lost to Campos of Batavia 2-8 to end his bid for state. Steve finishes his senior year with a record of 31-15.
John Williamson defeated Mertes of Elgin 10-4 but lost his next two matches: Drendel of West Aurora by fall and Brown of Plainfield Central 4-11.
All five Naperville Central wrestlers won a match in the tournament and the Redhawks went 12-9 as a team. NCHS outscored their opponents 28-21 in takedowns. In all it was a good efforts by the 'Hawks.
Come cheer on Josh and Andy as they compete at state next weekend in Champaign. Then, the NCHS Wrestling Banquet will be held on Monday, March 1st in the senior cafeteria at 6:30
GO REDHAWKS!
NCHS finishes 3rd at IHSA Regionals
Five Redhawks will advance to Sectionals
Naperville Central finished third in the IHSA tournament held at Hinsdale South High School on Saturday, February 6. Glenbard East won the tournament and will advance as a team to the IHSA Dual Sectionals. Five Redhawks will advance to the IHSA Sectionals.
Steve Bus became the lone Regional Tournament Champion for the Redhawks. Steve won three matches, his first a 9-3 decision against Henninger of Naperville North. Steve won in the semifinals against Hall of WWS. The win came in triple overtime on an escape and avenged an earlier loss against Hall. Bus found himself in the same spot in the finals, triple overtime. Once again Steve got the key escape to defeat Cummings of Downers Grove North. Steve is a sectional qualifier and the team's "I'm Somebody" winner.
NCHS sent three other individuals to the finals. Josh Tardy pinned Petro of Glenbard West and defeated Mizaur of Williowbrook before facing Savenok of WWS. Josh scored a late takedown but fell short, losing 3-6 in the finals. Andy Kovalsky pinned his way to the finals against Backman of GE and Tessiatore of DGN. In the championship match, Andy lost to Chino of WWS 2-3. Adam Gebner scored a technical fall verses Lehnert of GW and won a solid 5-0 victory in the semifinals against Erickson of WWS before losing in the finals to Congenie of Williowbrook 3-7. Josh, Andy and Adam all advance to the sectionals.
Taking third for the Redhawks was Jon Williamson. Jon lost his first match to Schaeffer of WWS, but battled back with 4 wins in a row in the wrestle-backs, three by fall. Jon pinned Wenmouth of DGS to become a sectional qualifier once again.
Senior Nick Santos took 4th in the regionals losing two heartbreakers on late takedowns in both matches. Nick finished the day 2-2. Junior John Graeber returned to the NCHS line-up and went 3-2 on the day, taking 4th. John avenged an loss against Steder of Williowbrook by fall, then knocked of the third seed Lozano of DGN in overtime 6-4. In the wrestle-backs, John defeated McDonnell 2-1 of Naperville North. McDonnell was the DVC champion at 135 just last week. John lost in the third place match 4-10 against Pokrywka of GE.
Mitch Lee lost both of his matches at 103, but the freshman fought gallantly against a 20 match senior in his last match, losing 3-5. Kirk Cherep actually turned in a winning 2-1 day at 125 pounds. The sophomore lost 3-5 in the opening match verses McFadden of WWS, then won by technical fall and fall before being walked-over by McFadden (win by previous decision) in the wrestle-backs. Senior Cam Needham won two matches in the tournament including a 8-2 decision against 4th seeded Terdy of GW. Cam finished the day 2-2. Joe Savina had a rough day losing 2 matches in the final seconds. Joe was nearly defeated 1-3 by Ivanov of Glenbard East, then was defeated in the wrestle-backs in overtime against Moscinski of DGN.
Senior Nate Delisle turned in a good day with two wins. Nate defeated Schultz of DGS and Windmoeller of Williowbrook by scores of 2-1 and 5-4. Nate just about defeated Kreiger of Naperville North closing the gap to 3-4. Senior Matt Schefke also had a good day winning two matches. Matt pinned Hansel of GBW and majored Ressinger of Williowbrook. Heavyweight James Mitchell defeated Fissinger of Naperville North 1-0, an opponent he was pinned by earlier this year. James also won an exciting 4-2 overtime win against Zillius of Williowbrook. James ended the day 2-2.
Jon Williamson, Josh Tardy, Andy Kovalsky, Adam Gebner, and Steve Bus will compete at Glenbard North in the IHSA Sectionals starting Friday, February 12th at 6:00. The tournament continues on Saturday. They are 12-man brackets and the top 4 advance to the IHSA State tournament the following weekend. Hope you can make it.
The Redhawks will celebrate the season at their awards banquet on Monday, March 1st in the senior cafeteria at 6:30
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks finish 4th at DVC Tournament
Naperville Central finished fourth in the DVC tournament held at Wheaton North high school on Saturday, January 30. Glenbard North won the tournament. The event marks the end of the regular season for the Redhawks.
NCHS sent 3 wrestlers to the finals. At 119 Nick Santos won 2 matches to advance to the championship before finishing second to Venecia of West Aurora. Andy Kovalsky won his semifinal match 11-3 to make the finals at 145 and took a silver to Chino of Wheaton Warrenville South. Andy lost 3-1 to the returning state place-winner. Andy's efforts earned him the "I'm Somebody" award this week. Senior Joe Savina made the finals at 160 by winning two matches. He fell just short of a championship losing 8-10 in the finals to Ivanov of Glenbard East
Josh Tardy went 3-1 on the day and finished a strong finish at 130 pounds. Tardy defeated Zinzer of West Aurora for third. Also taking third was gutsy junior Jon Williamson at 112. Jon beat San Juan 13-11 in a very exciting match for the bronze. Senior Cam Needham worked back for third place by defeating Derrickson of WWS at 145 pounds.
Taking fourth for the Redhawks were 189 pounder Steve Bus and 135 pounder Mike Gorbach. Both wrestlers went 2-2 on the day.
Kirk Cherep and Mitch Lee took 5th place in the tournament. Kirk, wrestling at 125, defeated McFadden of WWS in the place match, an opponent that he lost to earlier in the day. Mitch won by fall with a headlock over Clayton of West Aurora in his place match.
Nate Delisle finished 6th at 171 and Matt Schefke and James Mitchell both finished 7th at 215 and 285 respectively. Mike Ryan finished 8th filling in for Adam Gebner at 152 who fell ill.
The Hawks will compete in the IHSA Regionals at Hinsdale South next Saturday. The top three finishers in each weight class will advance to the IHSA Sectionals. The winning team will be placed in the dual team state tournament series with the other 15 Regional champions and will compete as a dual team in the IHSA Dual Sectionals.
Redhawks fall to Glenbard North
Naperville Central lost to Glenbard North 25-30 at home on January 22, 2010. Central ends the regular season duals with a record of 16-5, (6-1, 2nd in DVC). Central honored their own on Senior night.
Starting at 152, senior Adam Gebner gave the Redhawks a 4-0 team lead with a major decision over Dan Fiero. Adam scored three takedowns in route to a 17-5 decision. Senior Joe Savina followed up with a 3-2 decision of his own at 160 pounds against Paul Freeman. Joe scored the key takedown in the first period and held a 3-0 lead late into the third period. That made the team score 7-0 Hawks. At 171, Nate Delisle was pinned in the third period by Chris Wahrman. The score of the match was 5-1 at the time. Team score 7-6 Hawks. Senior Steve Bus picked up two late takedowns to secure a 7-4 victory at 189 over Tylor Kenudson. Bus scored three takedowns total and the Hawks now held a 10-6 team score lead. At 215, senior Matt Schefke fell to Dan Buyle by decision 1-7 to make the team score 10-9 Hawks.
At heavyweight, James Mitchell was leading 4-2 when he locked up a headlock in the second period and pinned Rion Donahoe. The pin picked up 6 team point for the Redhawks and earned James the team's "I'm Somebody" award for his efforts. Team score 16-9 Hawks.
At 103, freshman Mitch Lee fought but was pinned by Johnny Gosinski and at 112 Jon Williamson lost to Brayon Gonzalez 3-9. Williamson scored a late reversal to save a major decision. Glenbard North took a 16-18 team score lead for the first time in the night. Senior Nick Santos scored a first period takedown and two-point near-fall, then held on for a 5-1 win at 119 against Wade Hazzard. The win put the hawks back on top 19-18. Kirk Cherep lost by technical fall to Joey Gosinski at 125 and Josh Tardy lost by a major decision to Brian Murphy at 130 giving the Panthers a 19-27 edge.
At 135, senior Mike Gorbach scored takedowns in the first and second periods verses and that was enough for a 5-3 win bring the team score to 22-27 with two matches left. Captain Andy Kovalsky battled to a 9-2 win at 140 against Tom Collum to bring the team score to 25-27 in favor of North.
In the final match of the night, Cam Needham dropped a tough match to Jon Salazar. Cam opened up with two takedowns by gave up a takedown late in the first period for a 4-4 tie. In the second period, Salazar scored an escape and takedown to take a 4-7 lead. In the third, Cam picked neutral and scored a takedown and nearly another takedown on the edge of the mat which would have tied the score. Salazar came back and scored in the center of the mat and rode out for a 6-10 win. Final team score 25-30.
By virtue of their win, Glenbard North will be awarded 18 team points to start the conference tournament next week. Naperville Central will have 15. The DVC tournament begins at 10:00 at Wheaton North on Saturday, January 30th with finals set to begin at 6:00. Central will be hoping to battle for the DVC crown. Hope to see you there.
In under-level action, Glenbard North won 17-42 at the JV1 level and won 15-58 at the JV2 level. The Redhawk freshman team won 50-30 against Glenbard North.
The seniors that were honored (in alphabetical order): Steve Bus, Nate Delisle, Adam Gebner, Mike Gorbach, Andy Kovalsky, Connor Lee, Jeff LoBue, Pat Murphy, Cam Needham, Mike Ryan, Nick Santos, Joe Savina, Matt Schefke, Matt Spaccapaniccia, Scott Sterchi, Tim Urbas, and Kevin Yun.
Senior Pin Pals recognized were Nikki Levinson, Katie Paul and Jamie Clenenden
Thanks for your support of Redhawk Wrestling. GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks defeat West Chicago
Naperville Central improved to 16-4 overall (6-0) in the DVC after defeating West Chicago away on Thursday, January 21. The final team score was 64-12. There were 11 contested matches and the Redhawks won nine of them.
The biggest match of the night was the first one, pitting Steve Bus against Jon White of WC. White drew first blood with a first period takedown. Bus escaped to make the first period score 2-1. White escaped for the only score of the second period making the score 3-1. Bus scored a reversal to tie the score momentarily 3-3 but White escaped to pull up 4-3. Bus scored a late takedown and held on to take the match 5-4. Steve Bus won the "I'm Somebody" award for his win.
Matt Schefke won by forfeit and James Mitchell won by fall at heavyweight. Mitch Lee stepped in at 103 but lost by fall at 103.
The Redhawks then ran off nine wins in a row starting with two pins at 112 and 119 with Jon Williamson and Nick Santos. West Chicago forfeited to Kirk Cherep at 125, Josh Tardy won 15-3 at 130, Mike Gorbach won by fall at 135. Andy Kovalsky picked up a forfeit at 140 and Cam Needham won by technical fall 22-7 at 145 and Adam Gebner won by a 10-2 major decision at 152. Joe Savina rounded off the ninth win in a row with a pin at 160. Nate Delisle lost by fall in the final match of the night.
The JV1 team defeated West Chicago 69-12 and the freshman team defeated West Chicago 51-25. West Chicago did not field a JV2 team.
Next up for the Redhawks is tonight (Friday) against Glenbard North. The Redhawks and Panthers are both 6-0 in the DVC. This is the final regular season dual of the year and we will be recognizing our seniors on senior night. Please come cheer on the Redhawks and WEAR RED!
Redhawks take 3rd at Mahomet-Seymour Bulldog Invite
See Chicagoland.com wrestling article by Gary Larson
Gary Larson article: text only
Naperville Central took third at the Mahomet-Seymour Bulldog Invitational on Saturday January 16, 2010. NCHS placed nine wrestlers in the 22 team tournament.
Andy Kovalsky took 2nd, winning 3 of 4 matches. Kovalsky pinned his first two opponents before winning 6-2 in the semifinals. Andy also provided some great leadership throughout the trip and the tournament and is the "I'm Somebody" winner for his efforts. Also making the finals was Josh Tardy at 130 pounds. Josh totaled up 14 takedowns in the tournament and also added two wins by fall.
Jon Williamson locked down a third place finish at 112 with a pin for his bronze medal match. Jon scored three wins by fall including a pin in 14 seconds in the first round. Adam Gebner won three decisions in route to a third place finish as well at 152 pounds.
Taking 5th place for the Redhawks were Steve Bus and Nick Santos. Bus racked up 13 takedowns while only giving up 1 in the tournament and finished with four wins. Nick Santos was also tough on his feet with 13 takedowns of his own.
Taking 6th place was Cam Needham, Kirk Cherep and Mike Gorbach. Cam was walked-over for his place match. Kirk Cherep was the come back kid in the tournament coming from behind to win in all of his three wins. Mike won three matches in a row to come back to 6th after a first round defeat.
Joe Savina won one match before injury defaulting for the remainder of the tournament. Nate Delisle, Matt Schefke, and James Mitchell all scored wins in the tournament as well.
Next up the Redhawks return for their final two duals of the season, both DVC foes. On Thursday Central travels to West Chicago. On Friday Central hosts Glenbard North at home. The dual on Friday is senior night and we will recognize a very special group of student-athletes prior to the varsity action. Wrestling on both days starts at 6:00 with under-level completion and varsity starting around 8:00. Hope to see you there.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks defeat Glenbard East at home
Naperville Central defeated Glenbard East in a DVC match up at home on Thursday, January 15th by a score of 40-24. Central is now 5-0 in the DVC and 15-4 overall in the 2009-2010 campaign.
The dual started at 112 with a key match-up between Jon Williamson against Sanjuan. Williamson fell behind 3-7 in the second period before scoring an escape and a takedown to close to 6-7. Williamson scored an escape and a late takedown to pull out the 9-7 win. Jon's victory earned him the "I'm Somebody" award for his efforts.
The Redhawks then ran off the next eight matches in a row. In those matches, the 'Hawks did not give up a takedown. At 119 Nick Santos scored a first period fall. At 125 Kirk Cherep scored a reversal and three 3rd period takedowns to pull out a major decision 12-4. Josh Tardy scored 6 takedowns in his match for another major decision at 130. Mike Gorbach entered the Redhawk varsity line-up for the first time this season and locked down a key 9-2 decision at 135. The senior is undefeated at the JV1 level. Captain Andy Kovalsky left the first period tied at 0-0 but exploded in the next two periods for a 18-2 technical fall at 140. Cam Needham also won by technical fall at 145 by a score of 24-7. At 152, Adam Gebner won a business-like major decision 12-2. And Joe Savina battled like a warrior to a huge 5-2 victory at 160. The Redhawks built a 37-0 insurmountable lead in the team score.
Glenbard East flashed its muscle in 4 of the last 5 weight classes scoring pins at 171, 215, 285, and 103. Steve Bus won his match at 189 in an exciting, down-to-the-wire takedown to win 5-3. Final team score: 40-24.
The Redhawks also defeated Glenbard East at the JV1, JV2 and freshman levels.
Next up for the Redhawks is the Mahomet-Seymour tournament on Saturday. Then next week NCHS will go to West Chicago on Thursday followed by Glenbard North at home on Friday. Hope to see you there.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks compete in three tournaments on Jan 9th
Naperville Central competed in three underlevel tournaments on January 9th. The JV1 team took first place at the Bolingbrook Invitational Taking first place for the Redhawks were Mike Gorbach, Kyle Miller, and Matt Spaccapaniccia.
Two JV2 teams completed in the Naperville Central JV2 tournament held in the field-house. Taking first place was John Mixen, Alex Hook, Kyle Klass, and Gordon Hedberg. The Hawks took 2nd to Naperville North which sent nine wrestlers who completed at the JV1 level on Friday night.
The Freshman took 3rd at the 12 team Hindsdale South tournament. Taking first was Mike Neal and Luke Roth.
For overall results, go here.
Redhawks defeat Naperville North
See Chicagoland.com wrestling article by Gary Larson
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Naperville Central defeated cross-town rival Naperville North at North by a score of 40-19 on Friday, January 8, 2010. NCHS is now 14-4 in duals and undefeated in the DVC at 4-0.
The dual started well for the Redhawks as Adam Gebner beat previously undefeated Steve Gutka at 152 by a score of 4-2. Gebner scored the key takedwon late in the 1st period and scored the winning reversal in the third period. Joe Savina returned to the starting line-up for the Redhawks and scored an 8-0 major victory at 160. Joe cradled Gutknecht in the final second of the third period to secure the major. Nate Delisle battled but lost 4-7 against Kreiger at 171. Steve Bus got the Redhawks back on track with a 7-3 decision at 189 and Matt Schefke held on to a 1-0 fight at 215 in a key win for Central and that made the team score 13-3.
At heavyweight, James Mitchell could not escape the fall from Fissinger and Mitch Lee lost by major at 103 and suddenly the Huskies tied the team score 13-13. At 112 Jon Williamson used a headlock for a fall against Cox. At 119, Nick Santos locked down a pin in the third period against Ramirez and that brought the team score to 25-12.
In the most impressive showing of the night, sophomore Kirk Cherep scored a takedown late in the third period to upset returning state qualifier Frankie McKeown 6-4. The win put the Redhawks up by 15 and earned Kirk the coveted "I'm Somebody" Award for his efforts. Josh Tardy followed up with a 6-3 decision at 130 pounds, John Graeber scored a major decision at 135 pounds and Andy Kovalsky earned a technical fall in the second period at 140 pounds complete six wins in a row for Central. In the final dual of the night, Adam Hankin pinned Cam Needham at 145.
The 'Hawks won at JV1 57-16, and won at JV2 56-21. Central lost the freshman dual 18-49.
Next up for the Redhawks is a rescheduled dual against Glenbard East at home on Thursday, January 14 in the aux. gym. Freshman and JV2 will start at 6:00 and JV1 and varsity will start at about 8:00. Hope to see you there!
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks finish 2-1 at Libertyville Quad
Naperville Central finished 2-1 at Libertyville on Saturday, January 2 to improve to 13-4 on the year. The Redhawks were defeated by host Libertyville in the opening dual by a score of 24-33 but then bounced back with two wins defeating Maine West 56-10 and Schaumburg in an exciting come-from-behind victory 34-31.
Five Redhawks finished 3-0 on the day. Junior 112 standout Jon Williamson scored two falls and a 9-3 win. Senior Nick Santos, wrestling at 119, scored three hard-fought decisions, winning by scores of 5-2, 13-3, and 3-1. Josh Tardy is red hot at 130 pounds. Josh scored a takedown and near fall in the final seconds to defeat ranked Bystol of Libertyville 6-1, then finished the day without being scored upon winning 15-0 and 6-0. Captain Andy Kovalsky battled to a 6-2 win against Libertyville then ended his day quickly with two falls in times of :57 and :30. Captain Adam Gebner continues to roll scoring 17 takedowns on the day and winning three matches by scores of 10-5, 25-8 and 20-5.
Junior heavyweight James Mitchell had a very good day defeating Arreola of Libertyville 5-1 and pinning Pottow of Schaumburg. The fall helped propel the Redhawks to a close win over Schaumburg. James gave up a takedown in the first period and was losing 1-2 going into the second period. But the big guy scored two takedowns in the second including a throw toward the end of the period that was close to being a fall. James spent no time messing around in the third scoring his pin :36 seconds into the period. The win got the Redhawks on the board as they were losing 0-22 in the dual score at the time. James was recognized with the team's "I'm Somebody" award for his win.
John Graeber also went 2-1 on the day including a come-from-behind thriller against Lomardo of Schaumburg. Down 1-2 going into the third, John cut lose Lombaro to fall behind 1-3 but then caught his opponent with a 5-point takedown and near-fall at the end of the match to win 6-3. Cam Needham won two matches including an important technical fall against Bradley of Schaumburg. Cam scored 12 takedowns in the match which accounted for all of his points. The win put the Redhawks down by only 2 going into the final match of the day which Gebner won (also by technical fall).
Seniors Tim Urbas (160) and Nate Delisle (171) both won against Maine West and recorded their first varsity wins in a Redhawk uniform.
The junior varsity also competed in the quad and went 2-1 on the day defeating Maine West 60-21 and defeating Schaumburg 48-16 and lost to Libertyville 33-36.
The Redhawks return to DVC competition on Thursday and Friday next week. NCHS will take on Glenbard East at home on Thursday, January 7th with JV1, JV2 and freshman wrestling at 6:00 and varsity starting at approximately 8:00. The Hawks will visit Naperville North on Friday. Hope to see you there.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks finish 2-1 at Sandburg Quad
Naperville Central finished 2-1 at Sandburg on Wednesday, December 30 to improve to 11-3 on the year. The Redhawks defeated Hinsdale South 37-28 in the first dual then defeated Mahomet-Seymour 48-24 then lost to highly ranked Sandburg 13-43.
Josh Tardy, 130 pounds, finished the day 3-0 and earned the team's "I'm Somebody" award with his performance. Josh scored pins against Lane of Hinsdale South and McCormick of Mahomet-Seymour and then defeated Argueta of Sandburg in an exciting 3-0 match. Josh avenged a lost to Argueta from the Whitlatch tournament. Captains Andy Kovalsky and Adam Gebner both finished perfect for the day as well. Andy battled to a 6-1 win against Hoch of H.S. and then pinned Howard of Mahomet and won 20-6 against Hughes of Sandburg. Adam beat Sally of H.S. 8-0 and Moxley of M.S. 12-3 and finally Fishbach of Sandburg 5-3.
Nick Santos scored a fall and technical fall to finish 2-1 on the day. Steve Bus, Kirk Cherep, and Matt Schefke also enjoyed a winning day. Steve picked up a win by injury default against Hinsdale South. Steve was ahead 4-1 at the time, and picked up a forfeit from Mahomet. Kirk also picked up a forfeit from Hinsdale South and beat Heller of M-S 15-2. Matt won a key match against Galiniak of Hinsdale South 8-3 and picked up a forfeit from M-S.
Jon Williamson 112, John Graeber 135, Cam Needham 145, Colin Guttosch 171 and James Mitchell 285 all won a match in the quad. Tim Urbas stepped in at 160 for the Redhawks.
The Redhawks went 22-17 in individual matches on the day and outscored their opponents 56-46 in takedowns.
Next up for Central is a quad at Libertyville on Saturday, January 2nd against Libertyville, Schaumberg and Maine South. Both varsity and junior varsity teams will compete in the three duals starting at 10:00. Hope to see you there.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks Take 5th at Hinsdale Central "Whitlatch" Tournament
See Chicagoland.com wrestling article by Gary Larson
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Naperville Central took 5th place at the Whitlatch Tournament held at Hinsdale Central on December 18 and 19th. There were 27 teams competing. The Redhawks were just 3 team points from third place. NCHS won 37 matches at the tournament to 20 loses. NCHS entered 12 wrestlers in the event and 7 placed in the top 6.
Adam Gebner won the tournament at 152 pounds. The senior won went 4-0 on the day including a big double overtime win in the semifinals against Gingerich of Bradley Bourbonnais 4-2. Adam scored an escape and a takedown in his half of the 30 second 2nd overtime. Gebner won by injury default in the finals when Kielbasa of Crystal Lake Central was unable to compete.
Andy Kovalsky and Josh Tardy both took 3rd for the Redhawks. Kovalsky went 4-1 on the day defeating Caravello of Rolling Meadows in his third place match 18-11. Tardy lost to the top seed in the quarterfinals and made his way back to third through the wrestle-backs. Josh went 6-1 on the day including a 5-4 double-overtime war against Ward of Hinsdale Central. Ward entered the tournament undefeated.
The gutsiest performance for the Redhawks was turned by senior 189 pounder Steve Bus. Bus lost to Stringer of New Trier in the first round and then ran off 5 wins in a row in the wrestle-backs including a third period fall against Stringer in the consolation semifinals. Bus, unseeded, finished 4th and won the team's "I'm Somebody" award. Also taking fourth was junior John Graeber. John looked very good in the top position riding several opponents throughout the period. John won 4-3 in a double-overtime battle in the first round and then won three matches in a row in the wrestle-backs.
At 119 pounds, Nick Santos won three matches including a first period pin against Addison of Sterling in his 5th place match. At 112, Jon Williamson narrowly lost to Mason of Lemont in his 5th place bout 8-7 and took 6th. Jon was pinned by Mason earlier in the tournament. Jon went 3-3 in the tournament.
Colin Guttosch, Matt Schefke and Johnny Gustin went 2-2 in the tournament at 171, 215, and 285 respectively while 145 pounder Cam Needham went 1-2. Matt Spaccapaniccia competed at 160 for the Redhawks.
The Redhawks will return to dual competition after the holidays. They will compete at Sandburg against Sandburg, Hinsdale South, and Mahomet-Seymour on Wednesday, December 30th. They will travel to Libertyville to compete against Libertyville, Schaumberg, and Maine South on January 2nd.
At junior varsity competition the Redhawks defeated Joliet, Oak Forrest, and Bolingbrook at home on Saturday. The Redhawk freshman-sophomore team took 3rd at the Maine South Tournament where Nathan Klass, Kyle Klass, and Steven Splan were champions. At the freshman level, the Redhawks also swept the quad defeating Downers Grove North, Hinsdale Central, and Joliet Central Catholic. And on Friday NCHS won all three duals, JV1, JV2, and Freshman levels, against Glenbard West at home.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks Take 2nd at Hoffman Estates Tournament
Chicagolandwrestling.com coverage by Gary Larson
Naperville Central tied for second place at the Hoffman Estates "Hawk" Tournament on Saturday, December 12th, the first varsity tournament of the year. Libertyville won the tournament and the Redhawks tied with Lincoln Way Central for 2nd.
Team captains and seniors Andy Kovalsky and Adam Gebner were tournament champions, both for the second year in a row. Andy, wrestling at 140, went 3-0 on the day, winning in the finals by a score of 8-1. Andy did not have an offensive point scored against him the entire tournament - and earned the teams' "I'm Somebody" Award. Adam scored an overtime fall in the semifinals and won 2-1 in the finals to complete his journey to the top of the podium at 152 pounds.
Down by 4.5 team points going into the last round for second place, the Redhawks seven wins out of eight. At 112, Jon Williamson scored a fall to take 3rd place and finish his day 2-1. Nick Santos followed with a 7-3 win for 5th place at 119 pounds. Sophomore Kirk Cherep turned in a gutty performance wrestling all the way back to 5th place and winning the most matches in the tournament for the Redhawks (4). His fall was followed by a quick fall at 130 pounds by Josh Tardy. Josh took 3rd place. John Graeber finished the day 4th place at 135 pounds. After Andy Kovalsky's win in the finals, Cam Needham scored a 8-2 win for a 5th place finish at 145 pounds. Gebner won at 152 pounds giving Central a sizable lead for 2nd place. Lincoln Way Central won a few matches of their own however and their wins at 171 and 285 were enough to come back for the tie for second place in the tournament.
Steve Bus finished the day in 4th place at 189, highlighted by a couple of takedowns against Hecox of Harlem. Matt Schefke took 6th place at 215. Also wrestling for Central were Matt Spaccapaniccia at 160, Colin Guttosch at 171, and James Mitchell at 285, all of whom won a match in the tournament. Central did not enter a wrestler at 103 pounds.
Final team scores: 1st: Libertyville 180, 2nd: Naperville Central 164 and Lincoln Way Central 164, 4th: Harlem 142, 5th: Notre Dame 124, 6th: South Elgin 121, 7th: Willowbrook 114, 8th: New Trier 106.5, 9th: Plainfield North 106, 10th: Geneva 103, 11th: Elgin 42.5, 12th: Hoffman Estates, 25
The Naperville Central JV1 team won the Streamwood Dual Tournament today by winning 3 duals.
Up next for NCHS is the 24 team Hinsdale Central "Whitlatch" Tournament next Friday and Saturday.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks top Wheaton Warrenville South
Naperville Central improved to 9-2 on the year defeating Wheaton Warrenville South at Warrenville late on Friday night, December 11th by a score of 36-28. NCHS is 3-0 in the DVC conference. The dual was won on the final match of the night.
Starting at 145, highly ranked Chino, WWS defeated Cam Needham 2-17. NCHS captain Adam Gebner gutted out a 4-2 victory against Welsh at 152. Matt Spaccipaniccia stepped in for the injured Joe Savina at 160 and was pinned late in the third period by Franke. The Tigers continued to roll with a fall at 171 when LaMontagna topped Guttosch. At this point WWS held a 3-17 team score lead.
Steve Bus scored three takedowns in the third period to defeat Drozd at 189 pounds. Matt Schefke fell to Matt Olp 0-5 at 215. James Mitchell won by forfeit so the Tigers were winning 12-20 at the turn.
Perhaps the most exciting match of the night came at 103 where freshman Mitch Lee won his first varsity match of his career against Farley 12-5. The match prove huge in the final team score and Mitch earned the team's I'm Somebody award for his effort. Jon Williamson defeated Schaeffer at 112 by a score of 6-4. At 119, Nick Santos scored a pin late in the third period against Kalb and the Redhawks took the team score lead 24-20. McFadden of WWS majored Kirk Cherep 2-11 at 125 pounds to knot the team score at 24 with three matches left. Josh Tardy locked down a pin at 130 against Anderson but Savenok of the Tigers won by major over John Graeber at 135. With the team score at 30-28, the dual would be decided by the 140 pounders. Andy Kovalsky made quick work of Bialas scoring a pin at 1:24 and the Hawks sneaked away with a 36-28 win.
Naperville Central defeated WWS at the JV1, JV2 and freshman levels as well. Today the Hawks travel to Hoffman Estates for their first tournament of the year. The JV1 team travels to Streamwood for a dual tournament.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks defeat Wheaton North
Naperville Central won the first nine matches at Wheaton North late on Thursday night, December 10th, 35-15 to improve to 8-2 on the year (2-0 in DVC conference). The Redhawks sealed the dual meet win before a single Wheaton North wrestler won. Both teams gave up one forfeit win, but the other 12 matches were all decisions. There were no pins in the contest.
Starting at 112, Jon Williamson scored three points in his final period to start the dual with a 8-4 victory against Marquez. Nick Santos followed up with a 9-4 defeat of Ramos at 119. Kirk Cherep came from behind to win at 125 by a score of 4-3 verses Tanking. Kirk scored two takedowns in the final period. Josh Tardy looked very good at 130, winning by major decision 14-1 against Lukic. John Graeber battled Striplin to a 5-0 win at 135.
Wheaton North forfeited to Andy Kovalsky at 135 to bring the team score to 22-0 at that point. At 145, Cam Needham won 8-5 against Rodriguez and at 152, captain Adam Gebner battled Fredricks to a 12-3 major decision. Joe Savina locked down the ninth win in a row against Wheaton North with a hard fought 5-1 victory against Hane. Joe's victory brought the team score to an insurmountable 32-0 lead. WN got on the board when Miller defeated Colin Guttosch at 171. Steve Bus picked him up with a 5-2 win against Swider. The Falcons won the final bouts of the night. Gibbs beat Matt Schefke 1-5 at 215 pounds and Weatherred topped James Mitchell 4-9 at 285. The Redhawks forfeited 103 to bring the final team score to 35-15. NCHS outscored the Falcons 26-7 in takedowns.
Wheaton North won at JV1 by one team point, NCHS defeated WN at the JV2 level and WN won at the freshman level by 8 points.
Redhawks will be in action tonight at Wheaton Warrenville South with varsity action starting around 8:00. NCHS will compete in their first tournament of the year on Saturday when they travel to Hoffman Estates.
GO REDHAWKS!
Redhawks finish 2-1 at Mega-duals
Naperville Central finished 2-1 at the Mega-duals on Saturday, December 5th held at West Aurora High School. In the first morning dual, the Redhawks were defeated by Lockport 17-43. The Porters won 8 of 13 contested matches. Junior standout Josh Tardy started the dual with a win at 130 pounds by a major decision 12-1. Senior Cam Needham won at 145 pounds by a score of 9-0. At 160 pounds, Joe Savina started his very good day with a 8-2 win. Colin Guttosch scored a takedown in overtime to win 7-5 at 171 pounds. Nick Santos scored four takedowns to win 9-4 at 119 pounds.
In the second dual, Central held on to defeat St. Charles East 36-31. Andy Kovalsky started the dual with a fall at 135 pounds and Cam Needham followed with a fall of his own at 145 pounds. Joe Savina scored a takedown in overtime to win 3-1. Colin Guttosch and Steve Bus both received forfeits at 171 and 189 respectively. Matt Schefke scored a huge 3-1 victory at 215 pounds and Jon Williamson caped off the dual with a pin at 112. His win prove to be the difference in the dual.
In the final contest, Naperville Central faced a tough Rockton-Hononegah team which defeated Lockport in round two. The matched brought out the best in the Redhawks. Starting at 140 pounds, Andy Kovalsky scored his second fall of the day to start the team score at 6-0. After NCHS got pinned at 145, Adam Gebner fought to a 2-1 victory at 152 and Joe Savina won his third match of the day with a critical 6-2 victory at 160. Colin Guttosch won his second match in the mega-duals with a pin at 171. Steve Bus won by injury default after his opponent suffered a high ankle sprain. Matt Schefke lost a tough fought contest at 215, but James Mitchell answered with a 5-3 overtime win at 285 to bring the team score to 27-9. NCHS forfeited 103 but Jon Williamson dominated at 112 with a technical fall at 112. Jon was recognized as the team "I'm Somebody" award for his efforts. The Hawks gave up pins at 119 and 125 but Josh Tardy iced the team victory with a pin at 130. John Graeber battled at 135 and won 7-2 to complete the dual. The Redhawks won 41-27 and are now 7-2 on the year (1-0 in the DVC).
In JV1 action, the Redhawks finish 1-2 in the mega-duals and in JV2 action the Redhawks finish 2-1 on the day. The freshman team took 3rd in the Lyons Township Tournament. Champions were Ryan Porter (90), Yuki Mizoguchi (112) and Ryan Berg (171).
Redhawks roll past West Aurora 56-9 in home opener
By Curt Herron
http://chicagolandwrestling.com/Week%20Two/ncwa.html
Naperville Central coach Rob Porter was looking forward to seeing his squad perform just like they did on Friday. And the Redhawks picked a good night to put it all together since it was both their home opener and initial DuPage Valley Conference dual meet. That spelled bad news for West Aurora which only managed to win a pair of matches as Central rolled to an impressive 56-9 victory in Naperville.
The Redhawks (5-1) recorded five pins, a pair of major decisions and four other decisions to go along with a forfeit win.
But two of the falls came in matches where Redhawk wrestlers were in jeopardy of getting pinned and had to overcome early 5-0 deficits. Both major decisions were clinched on late scores while Central also captured a pair of one-point decisions and rallied for a pin in the finale. Central received falls from John Graeber (135), Andy Kovalsky (140), Matt Schefke (215), Jon Williamson (112) and Nick Santos (119). Adam Gebner (152) and Steve Bus (189) won major decisions while Cam Needham (145) and Joe Savina (160) both claimed one-point victories. Josh Tardy (130) and James Mitchell (285) also picked up decisions for the Redhawks while Mitch Lee (103) added a win by forfeit.
The win provided some revenge for Central, which lost to the Blackhawks in last year's dual and finished a point behind them in the DVC meet. West Aurora captured one of its wins in the opening match at 125 when Kirk Cherep prevented a major decision in a 16-9 defeat to Nate Zinzer. But the Redhawks responded to that setback by rattling off half a dozen straight wins to grab a 25-3 advantage midway through the meet. Tardy trailed 2-1 heading into the final period but used a five-point move with 43 seconds left to claim a 10-4 win over Miguel Venecia. Then at 135, Graeber faced an early 5-0 deficit to O.J. Quintanilla but moved ahead 8-7 after two periods before winning with a fall in 5:18. That victory improved Graeber to 6-0 and right after that, Kovalsky also moved to 6-0 after he recorded a fall in 2:50 over Greg Jacquez. At 145, Byren Swanson's takedown with 37 seconds forced a 6-6 tie but Needham got an escape with six seconds left to post a 7-6 win. Gebner improved to 3-0 on the young season after getting an escape with 11 seconds left to capture a 13-5 victory over Nolan Meehan. Things were back-and-forth in the match at 160 but Savina managed to hang on and claim an 8-7 triumph over Brandon Warren. The Blackhawks picked up their final win at 171 when Aaron Hett recorded a fall in 42 seconds over Colin Guttosch. Central answered that defeat by winning the final six matches, however, with half of those coming courtesy of pins. Bus got that streak started when he got a takedown with 13 seconds remaining to capture an 11-3 win over Austin Beebe. Then at 215, Schefke fell into an early 5-0 hole but battled back and picked up a fall in 1:48 over John Taylor. Mitchell followed with a 4-0 triumph over Mike Ortiz at heavyweight before Lee made it 44-9 following a forfeit. In the match at 112, Williamson needed only 52 seconds in order to record a fall over Jon Bohler. And then in the finale, Santos trailed 3-0 with a period to go but got a pin in 4:37 against Marcus Serrano.
As a result of their victories, Tardy, Savina, Williamson and Santos all improved to 5-1 on the season.
Central has won five straight duals since falling to Neuqua Valley and hope to keep that streak going at today's West Aurora Mega Duals.
NOTES: Josh Tardy won the team's "I'm Somebody" award for his big victory. Naperville Central JV1 defeated West Aurora 40-39, and the JV2 team defeated West Aurora 34-33. The freshman score was NC 36 - WA 54
Naperville Central finish 3-0 at Home
The Redhawks defeated Downer's Grove South 48-25, Batavia 37-26, and Chicago Lane Tech 63-16 to finish 3-0 at home on Sunday, November 28th, 2009. NCHS is now 4-1 on the year.
Triple winners at the meet include Jon Williamson (112), Nick Santos (119), John Graeber (135), Andy Kovalsky (140), and Joe Savina (160). Jon, Nick, John, and Andy all scored 2 out of three falls.
The closest dual win of the night was with Batavia. Central received a forfeit at 119 and scored wins at 119 and 125 before losing at Batavia's Logan Arlis at 130. Central scored three wins in a row at 135, 140, and 145 to take a 20-4 dual meet lead, including a huge win at 145 with Michael Ryan. Batavia won at 152, but Savina and Guttosch both won at 160 and 171 respectively to bring the team score to 31-10. NCHS and Batavia traded punches at 189, 215, 285, 103 and 112. Matt Schefke won a 4-1 decision at 215 and Jon Williamson won in overtime at 112, 5-2. Michael Ryan, Colin Guttosch, and Matt Schefke all won their first varsity matches in the dual to help the Redhawks win. The three will share the "I'm Somebody" award for their efforts.
Against Downers Grove South the Redhawks scored 5 pins and collected 2 forfeits to win. Against Chicago Lane Tech the Redhawks dropped only one contested match and scored 9 falls in 11 contested matches.
NCHS freshman finished 5th at the Hinsdale Central Freshman Tournament
The Redhawks begin DVC Conference action Friday at home against West Aurora. Wrestling begins at 6:00 with the varsity starting at about 8:00. Hope to see you there!
GO REDHAWKS!
Naperville Central 1-1 at Naperville Quad
Redhawks split at Naperville Quad
The 2009-2010 wrestling season started the 2009-2010 season going 1-1 at the Naperville Quad on Wednesday, November 25th, 2009. The meet was held at Naperville North.
The Redhawks lost 20-47 against Neuqua Valley. Kirk Cherep lost in overtime at 125 then Central ran off three wins in a row to go up 16-3 in the team score. Josh Tardy won 18-5, John Graeber scored a first period fall, and Andy Kovalsky locked down a pin in the third period. Michael Ryan battled by fell at 145 and Cam Needham lost at 152. Joe Savina lost to top ranked Proctor 1-10 and Colin Guttosch lost at 171. Neuqua took a 16-25 lead when Steve Bus won by major at 189 to close the team score to 20-25. Matt Schefke and John Gustin both gave up pins at 215 and heavyweight and both teams forfeited 103. Jon Williamson lost at 112 and Nick Santos lost 2-10 at 119 to finish the dual.
NCHS bounced back verses Wabaunsee Valley, winning 40-19. Tardy started the dual by majoring Max Garbis 15-7. John Graeber pinned at 135 in the first period for his second fall of the day. John won the team's "I'm Somebody" award for his great day. Andy Kovalsky won by fall at 140 to bring the team score to 16-0. Michael Ryan lost 2-4 at 145. Cam Needham held on to win 17-14. Joe Savina won by forfeit. WVHS rattled off three wins in a row at 171, and 189 and 215 before Johnny Gustin scored 6 takedowns to win 13-6. After a double forfeit at 103, John Williamson scored an exciting fall at 112 and Nick Santos answered with a first period fall of his own at 119. Kirk Cherep was pinned at 125 to bring the final team score to 40-19.
NCHS freshman went 1-1, JV1 went 1-1, and JV2 went 2-0 in the Naperville Quads held on Tuesday.
The Redhawks return to action Saturday at home against Downers Grove South, Batavia and Lane Tech. Wrestling begins at 9:00 at it will be held in the aux. gym (wrestling room). Hope to see you there. The freshman will travel to Hinsdale Central for a tournament.
GO REDHAWKS!
Naperville Central set to begin 2009-2010 Campaign
The 2009-2010 wrestling season will soon be upon us and the Redhawks will be returning 2 state qualifiers and a laundry list of returners with a plethora of wrestling experience. The team lost seniors Connor Marr, Kalen Petty, Matt Burns, Nick Weithman, and Joe Widman from last years team but they hope that some boys step up and continue to add to the fantastic accomplishments from last year.
Returning varsity wrestlers
Jon Williamson - a sectional qualifier, Jon wrestled throughout the spring and summer and will be moving up a weight for this year's efforts. The sophomore will
Nick Santos - a two time sectional qualifier, Nick will be looking to try to make the state tournament. Nick also wrestled throughout the spring and summer
Kirk Cherep - won the 2nd chance Cadet tournament and competed at Cadet Nationals this summer. Only a sophomore, Kirk brings a year of varsity experience with him
Josh Tardy - just missed the sectional tournament but had a great spring taking 3rd in the freshman sophomore state and placing 3rd at the Cadet Greco state tournament.
Mike Gorbach - senior wrestled varsity for the better part of the 2008-09 season
Andy Kovalsky - first of two returning state qualifiers, took silver at the AAU National Scholastic duals this summer.
John Graeber - junior returns with varsity experience from last year and a ton of spring and summer matches
Cam Needham - senior worked hard in the weight and wrestling room returns with a year of varsity exerience under his belt
Adam Gebner - senior returning state qualifier returns after winning a match at the Assembly Hall
Joe Savina - senior hopes to build on his wrestling resume with more wins after competing at the state and national level this summer
Steve Bus - senior rounds out a fantastic class returns to the varsity level moving up a weight class.
special mention: Colin Guttosch competed at the Cadet freestyle nationals in Fargo this summer after winning the 2nd chance tournament last spring.