Tag: Mahalia Smith

Girls’ wrestlers begin their season as the sport grows statewide

by Isabella Stewart and Mahalia Smith

Girls’ wrestling team has begun the new season with a blend of returning wrestlers and newcomers, creating excitement and fresh opportunities for growth. With more wrestlers joining the team and gaining valuable experience, the program is continuing to build a strong foundation for success.

Head wrestling coach Danny Struck. Photo by Isabella Stewart.

“There are many more new people on the team this year with a lot more experience and willingness,” said coach Danny Struck.

As more athletes join the team and gain experience, girls’ wrestling continues to attract attention and grow. The sport is creating opportunities for females to compete and improve their skills, becoming a part of a rapidly-expanding athletic program in the Indiana High School Athletic Association. Specifically, there were 13 girls on last year’s girls’ wrestling team, and this year, the amount has doubled with 26 on the team. The girls’ wrestling team is growing faster than the boys’ team.

As coach Joe Sommerville said, “Girls’ wrestling is the fastest-growing IHSAA sport.”

For new wrestlers, joining the team can be exciting; they’re building confidence and forming strong connections with teammates. The welcoming atmosphere helps newcomers feel comfortable as they begin their wrestling journey.

Sophomore Jocelynn Gluth said, “I’m really glad I joined the team because everyone seems to really get along.”

The girls’ wrestling team’s strengths come from the athletes’ willingness to learn, improve, and support one another. Their positive attitudes and dedication help create a strong team environment where every wrestler can grow, according to Struck.

“The biggest strengths these girls have are their coachability and enthusiasm,” he said.

Struck explained that coachability is important because it allows wrestlers to learn from their coaches, correct mistakes, and continue developing their skills. When athletes are willing to listen and apply feedback, they can reach goals they may not have thought possible.

“Teaching girls is like seeing a new light, pushing them to where they want to be,” Sommerville said.

For returning wrestlers, the new season brings an opportunity to improve, set higher goals, and challenge themselves in new ways. Their previous experience gives them a strong foundation, but continued effort and determination can help them become even better this year.

Junior Justise Clubb-Leon, a returning wrestler said, “I want to push myself to be the best this year, and I’m excited for new challenges.”

As the new season continues, the team’s mix of experience and fresh energy gives each wrestler a chance to learn, improve, and contribute. With their coachability, enthusiasm, and support for one another, the girls are ready to take on new challenges and keep building the future of the growing program.

The girls’ wrestling team will have their first tournament match on Saturday at 9:00 AM.

by jhshyphen

Sophomore excels for both JV, varsity soccer as sectional time approaches

by Isabella Stewart and Mahalia Smith

This year’s boys’ soccer team has had many new athletes introduced to the team, and the stands have filled up more than ever this season. Sophomore Ariel Andres Sandoval has played exceptionally well this season; his teammates speak highly of him. 

Sandoval has played soccer for over 10 years; he knows most of his teammates from way back in elementary school soccer. With all that time, he has grown close with his teammates, and they could be perceived as family.

Sophomore Dylan Ortiz said he admired Sandoval’s loyalty and passion for soccer – the way he never gives up on the field, always pushing his teammates to be the best and giving them challenging opportunities to push themselves. 

Aside from playing soccer, another hobby Sandoval really enjoys is reading and writing poems. When he’s not on the court, he’s reading or writing, even studying architecture. 

Sandoval said his “biggest challenge in soccer is my mentality.” He has always been pushed to be good, but being great still comes with struggles. 

Sandoval said, “Remembering the reason why, followed by the people I’m playing soccer with, keeps me motivated through every game.”

Sandoval and Ortiz both really look up to their team captain, senior Elijah Cheeks. Sandoval said, “He is always keeping me on my feet for every game we face.”

Cheeks is always there on the field helping every teammate out whenever he feels like he’s needed; he is there. Cheeks said, “I enjoy helping my teammates and helping them get better every day, not just as a soccer player, but as a person, too.” 

Ortiz described Sandoval as “courageous.” He’s not deterred by danger; he’s brave and fearless, and Ortiz said, “that could be one of his biggest strengths.” 

Sandoval loves a good meal after games; his favorite food is chicken, and typically after a game he enjoys a nice meal of chicken wings to provide protein and energy for the next game. 

Sandoval strongly believes “the team will win sectionals in October and advance even more.”

Sectional play begins next Monday at Floyd Central at 7 p.m.; the Red Devils will face Jennings County.

Sophomore Ariel Andres Sandoval looks on during the JHS game against Floyd Central. Sandoval said his motto is “fear prevents opportunities.” Photo by Isabella Stewart.
Sophomore Ariel Andres Sandoval displays his jersey number game during the JHS game against Floyd Central. Photo by Isabella Stewart.

by jhshyphen