Lady Aces Sent To McLeansboro For Class 2A Regional As #1 Seed

McLeansboro (Hamilton County) Regional

Sat., Feb. 15

Game 1 at TBA: (10) Lawrenceville at (8) Fairfield

Game 2 at TBA: (12) Flora at (5) McLeansboro (Hamilton County)

Mon., Feb. 17

Game 3 at 6:00 pm: (1) Mt. Carmel vs. Winner Game 1

Tue., Feb. 18

Game 4 at 6:00 pm: (4) Carmi (C.-White County) vs. Winner Game 2

Thu., Feb. 20

Game 5 at 7:00 pm: Winner Game 3 vs. Winner Game 4

 Maroa (M.-Forsyth) Regional

Sat., Feb. 15

Game 1 at TBA: (10) Westville at (7) Warrensburg (W.-Latham)

Game 2 at TBA: (12) Niantic (Sangamon Valley) [Coop] at (6) Tolono (Unity)

Mon., Feb. 17

Game 3 at 6:00 pm: (2) Maroa (M.-Forsyth) vs. Winner Game 1

Game 4 at 7:30 pm: (3) Sullivan vs. Winner Game 2

Thu., Feb. 20

Game 5 at 6:00 pm: Winner Game 3 vs. Winner Game 4

 

Palestine Regional

 

Sat., Feb. 15

Game 1 at TBA: (9) Toledo (Cumberland) at (7) Marshall

Game 2 at TBA: (11) Palestine [Coop] at (6) Robinson

Tue., Feb. 18

Game 3 at 6:00 pm: (2) Teutopolis vs. Winner Game 1

Game 4 at 7:30 pm: (3) Newton vs. Winner Game 2

Fri., Feb. 21

Game 5 at 6:00 pm: Winner Game 3 vs. Winner Game 4

 Macon (Meridian) Regional

Sat., Feb. 15

Game 1 at TBA: (9) Pana at (8) Arthur (A.-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond)

Game 2 at TBA: (11) Shelbyville at (5) Macon (Meridian)

Tue., Feb. 18

Game 3 at 6:00 pm: (1) Paris vs. Winner Game 1

Game 4 at 7:30 pm: (4) Monticello vs. Winner Game 2

Thu., Feb. 20

Game 5 at 7:00 pm: Winner Game 3 vs. Winner Game 4

Paris Sectional

 Tue., Feb. 25

Game 1 at 6:00 pm: Winner McLeansboro (Hamilton County) Regional vs. Winner Maroa (M.-Forsyth) Regional

Game 2 at 7:30 pm: Winner Macon (Meridian) Regional vs. Winner Palestine Regional

Thu., Feb. 27

Game 3 at 6:30 pm: Winner Game 1 vs. Winner Game 2

Coaching Change At The Hilltop

Mt. Carmel boys basketball coach Justin Carpenter is out after less than two seasons at the helm of the Golden Aces. Wabash District #348 Superintendent Dr. Chuck Bleyer tells WSJD News that Carpenter has resigned as the head coach effective immediately. He is being replaced on an interim basis by assistant coach Sione Millitoni who was also serving as JV coach.

Bleyer would not say why Carpenter resigned and attempts to reach Carpenter for comment have been unsuccessful. He was named head coach in September of 2023 to replace Tyler Buss who resigned in July of that year.

In his two plus years, the Aces under Carpenter compiled a record of 17-32 including 6-17 this year. Their next game is tomorrow at home against Casey.

Bleyer said a search for a full time coach will begin at the end of the school year. Carpenter was an assistant on Buss’s staff and was an Aces star as a player helping lead Mt. Carmel to a second place finish in the Class 2A state finals in 2017. He was an honorable mention Class 2A all-state selection his senior year.

When the Aces opened the 2023-24 season, Carpenter was the youngest boys head basketball coach ever at MCHS.

Photos courtesy of Nichole Liddle Loudermilk

Allendale 8th grade night

On January 22, Allendale School honored their 8th grade boys' basketball players and cheerleaders for all of their hard work.  These students are great role models that always represent the Yellowjackets family positively.  Our 8th graders are:

Ryland Houchin, son of Lacy and Mike Abell

Teagan Polston, son of Laura and Andy Polston

Jaxon Morris, son of Chasity and Aaron Morris

Amelia Crummley, daughter of Mark and Alix Crummley

McKinlee Grimes, daughter of Lance and Jennifer Grimes

Keirsten Malone, granddaughter of Greg and Lisa Miller

Kelsey Morgan, daughter of Derek and Tia Morgan

Tessa White, granddaughter of Brenda and Rick Lofton and daughter of Sara and Logan Neufelder

The cheerleaders are coached by Liv Alka.  The boys' basketball team is coached by Haleigh Buchanan, Rachel Waddle, Aaron Morris, and Jacob Deisher.  

Ryland Houchin, son of Lacy and Mike Abell

Teagan Polston, son of Laura and Andy Polston

Jaxon Morris, son of Chasity and Aaron Morris

Amelia Crummley, daughter of Mark and Alix Crummley

McKinlee Grimes, daughter of Lance and Jennifer Grimes

Keirsten Malone, granddaughter of Greg and Lisa Miller

Kelsey Morgan, daughter of Derek and Tia Morgan

Tessa White, granddaughter of Brenda and Rick Lofton and daughter of Sara and Logan Neufelder

Single-Weekend State Final Formats Coming To IHSA Baseball & Softball In 2026

The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Board of Directors met for its regularly scheduled meeting at the IHSA office in Bloomington on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, where the Board approved a pair of advisory committee recommendations aimed at bringing the IHSA Baseball and Softball State Final schedules in alignment with other multiclass IHSA sports.

In recent years, the IHSA has made changes to its State Final schedules in boys soccer, girls soccer, girls basketball, and boys basketball. Each sport previously held their state final tournaments over the course of two weekends, contesting different classes on each weekend. Girls and Boys Basketball moved to a single-weekend state final format in 2021-22, and girls and boys soccer followed suit in 2023-24.

The changes approved by the Board on Wednesday set the stage for baseball and softball to follow suit with single-weekend state final formats beginning in 2026.

“The move to a single-weekend state final format in basketball and soccer has been very well received overall, which led our baseball and softball advisory committees to seek out a similar format,” said IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson. “I believe this has the potential to create an exciting culminating weekend for both sports.”

The schedule will call for the IHSA Softball State Finals in all four classes to be held in Week 48 of the IHSA calendar, which is when the IHSA Class 1A/2A Softball State Finals are currently held. The IHSA Baseball State Finals in all four classes will be held in Week 49 of the IHSA calendar, which is when the IHSA Class 3A/4A Baseball State Finals are currently held.

The IHSA’s hosting contract for the Softball State Finals at Louisville Slugger in Peoria runs through the 2025 state tournament.

“We believe that Louisville Slugger is the premier softball facility in the state,” said Anderson. “We have enjoyed a fantastic partnership with the staff there and it is our intention to hold the IHSA Softball State Finals there in 2026, and beyond, as the tournament transitions to the single-weekend format. We believe there is mutual interest from Louisville Slugger, and the many community partners that help put on the event and expect to be able to work together to make this official very soon.”

The IHSA currently has a baseball state final contract for the 1A/2A tourney weekend at Dozer Park in Peoria, and a state final contract for the 3A/4A tourney weekend at Slammers Stadium in Joliet. The 1A/2A contract in Peoria runs through the 2025 state finals, while the 3A/4A in Joliet contract runs through the 2026 state finals.

“We intend to honor our current baseball hosting contracts and are open to multiple options in 2027 and beyond,” said Anderson. “Those options include holding the state finals at multiple venues in one city or continuing to contest the different classes at two sites on the same weekend. We have deep ties in both ballparks and communities, and will continue to work with both hosts, along with other key Illinois high school baseball constituents, to determine the best course of action for hosting the State Finals in the single-weekend format.”

The IHSA Board of Directors also indicated they will explore authoring a by-law proposal in the fall of 2025 that would bring alignment to the season lengths of both sports.

The IHSA will be releasing the dates for the remaining 2025-26 State Series rounds (Regional, Sectional, Super-Sectional) to schools in the near future.


ACTION
1. The Board approved a recommendation to move the February Board meeting from Monday, February 10 to Tuesday, February 11.


APPEALS & ELIGIBILITY RULINGS
No appeal hearings


DISCUSSION ITEMS
At each meeting of the Board of Directors, there are certain items the Board discusses, but upon which no action was taken or action may not be required. The following is a report of those items from the January 15, 2025, agenda:

1. The Board reviewed the results of and discussed a questionnaire that was sent to the Official Representative at each IHSA member school in January. The questionnaire topics included post-season classification cutoffs, the multiplier, the multiplier waiver, and the success formula. The results of the questionnaire can be viewed in the IHSA Schools Center.

2. The Board heard an update on the IHSA Legislative Process that resulted in IHSA member schools voting to approve nine by-law amendments in December. Six of the amendments take affect on July 1, 2025, while the three proposals below have already taken effect:

Proposal 6: Adds penalties for officials working as unlicensed officials and for assignors (where used by member schools) when an unlicensed official is assigned to work a contest. No penalties to the school when using an assignor and for a first-time offense.

Proposal 7: Modifies the IHSA travel policy. Currently, a team can miss two days of school on two occasions during a season. This change would allow for the four days to be used concurrently.

Proposal 17:  Modifies the number of summer contact days restriction from 25 to 20 days.

3. The Board heard a report on the 2025 IHSA All-State Academic Team application process. The application deadline for the 2025 Team is February 14, 2025. More info is available here and application forms are accessible here.

4. The Board heard a report on the 2025 Student Section and Spirit Showdown. The video submission deadline is January 29, 2025. More information can be accessed here.

5. The Board heard a report from the Executive Director on the NFHS Winter Meeting.

6. The Board heard a report from IHSA staff members who attended the Let’s Connect Conference in Rosemont.

7. The Board held further discussion on a potential policy that would allow for the IHSA to partner with third-party groups that conduct state tournaments in Illinois in sports and activities that the IHSA does not currently offer. If developed and approved, the policy would allow a third-party group to continue to operate its state tournament, with the IHSA providing awards and support.

County Commissioners Approve $1,500 For Wrestling Tourney

Young wrestlers from all over the area will descend on Mt. Carmel’s Grade School Sunday for Aces Rumble ’25. The Mt. Carmel Golden Aces wrestling team is hosting the tournament that will feature competitors ranging in age from 6 years old to the 8th grade. Coach Andrew Cheesman was at Wednesday’s county board meeting asking for financial assistance from the county’s hotel motel tax fund….

County commissioners approved a $1,500 donation to help fund Sunday’s tournament. Cheesman said the group had also raised between $6,000 to $7,000 in donations from the business community to help with the tourney that begins at 9am.

IHSA Member Schools Pass All Proposals on 2024 All-School Ballot

Illinois High School Association (IHSA) member schools approved all nine amendment proposals that appeared on the all-school ballot during the annual by-law referendum process that ended on December 16, 2024. Full text of the initial 26 proposals can be found by clicking here.

Perhaps the most significant change of note will be a reduction in summer contact days from 25 to 20, a change that goes into effect in 30 days and will be applicable during the summer of 2025.

"The IHSA's Sports Medicine Advisory Committee has supported this change for several years," said IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson. "They believe our student-athletes need increased time for physical and mental recovery throughout the summer months, and anticipate this minor reduction will be a benefit to high school student-athletes, coaches, and families alike."

Nearly 70% of the IHSA membership took part in the 2024 voting process. Below is a summary of the proposals and the vote totals. (The numbers in parentheses indicate the total of Yes-No-No Opinion votes. For an amendment to pass, Yes votes must outnumber No votes).

  • Proposal 4 (Passes 454-78-26): Allows the IHSA Executive Director to appoint Associate Directors to make eligibility rulings. Also allows the IHSA Board of Directors to appoint a committee of three Board members to review eligibility appeals.
     

  • Proposal 6 (Passes 450-92-17): Adds penalties for officials working as unlicensed officials and for assignors (where used by member schools) when an unlicensed official is assigned to work a contest. No penalties to the school when using an assignor and for a first-time offense.
     

  • Proposal 7 (Passes 350-154-54): Modifies the IHSA travel policy. Currently, a team can miss two days of school on two occasions during a season. This change would allow for the four days to be used concurrently.
     

  • Proposal: 16 (Passes 489-34-37): Modifies the All-Star limitation by-law to be in place during the school year only.
     

  • Proposal 17 (Passes 317-227-17):  Modifies the number of summer contact days restriction from 25 to 20 days.
     

  • Proposal 20 (Passes 459-82-20): Adds specific penalties for a school that violates the season limitation in any sport. Penalties include coaches being suspended for the entirety of the State Series. Forfeiture of host guarantee and probation.
     

  • Proposal 24 (Passes 289-122-142): Increase the number of regular season contests in competitive cheerleading and competitive dance from 6 to 8 dates.
     

  • Proposal 25 (Passes 385-116-59): Modifies the suspension for ejection of unsportsmanlike conduct by players in football to be ineligible for the remainder of the quarter they are ejected and the next four (4) quarters at that level and all other interscholastic contests at any level in the interim, in addition to
    other penalties by IHSA or the school may assess.
     

  • Proposal 26 (Passes 498-36-27): Change most references in the constitution and by-laws of “principal” and “administrator,” to "Official Representative".

Golden Aces Wrestlers Battle Hard at Lawrence County Tournament


By: Damon Sloss

This past Saturday, the Mount Carmel Golden Aces wrestling team made their mark at the Lawrence County High School Tournament. In a field stacked with talent, the Aces proved they were up for the challenge. Competing across nine weight classes, the team showcased determination, resilience, and a never-quit attitude.

For Mount Carmel, this tournament was a test of grit. Facing stiff competition, several wrestlers found themselves battling through tough brackets, navigating quick pins, grueling decisions, and even heartbreaking losses. Despite this, the Aces had several standout performances, with two wrestlers—Carson Sloss (132) and Johnny Askren (165)—earning podium finishes.

Carson Sloss demonstrated exceptional skill and heart in his journey to third place. After an early-round bye, Sloss pinned Carterville’s Quimaine Jennings in just two minutes. Although he fell to Johnston City’s Benjamin Harris in the semifinals, Sloss rebounded in the 3rd place match, outlasting Dylan Blain of Vandalia with a hard-fought 10-5 decision.

Johnny Askren also turned heads at 165 pounds, finishing third. Askren, known for his tenacity on the mat, opened with a bye before pinning Johnston City’s Randy Fuqua in the quarterfinals. While Parker Ray of Vandalia stopped Askren’s semifinal run with a technical fall, Askren regrouped in spectacular fashion, pinning Carmi-White County’s Branson Burnett in just 1:22 to claim his spot on the podium.

Heavyweight Carter Pyatt delivered an electrifying performance at 285 pounds, thrilling the crowd with a first-period pin in his quarterfinal match against Breese Central’s Luke Pruett. Though Pyatt fell short in subsequent rounds, including the 3rd place match against Carterville’s Jeremiah Bouchard, his effort epitomized the team’s fighting spirit.

While not every Ace reached the podium, the team displayed significant promise across all weight classes. Wrestlers like Eli Baker (120) and Isaiah Kasinger (144) navigated deep consolation rounds, proving their ability to bounce back after early setbacks. Others, like Aaron Sanor (138) and Paul-Ray Garrett (175), showed flashes of brilliance in their matches, earning pivotal wins and valuable experience along the way.

The Golden Aces left Lawrence County with lessons learned, heads held high, and an eye toward the rest of the season. This team, young but fearless, is laying a foundation for future success and, as Saturday proved, they are ready to compete with anyone.

The Golden Aces will look to build on their tournament experience as they return to action on Wednesday, December 11, for a dual meet at Lawrenceville High School. With action set to kick off at 6:00 p.m., Mount Carmel will face off against Lawrenceville in what promises to be an exciting showdown. Fans won’t want to miss the intensity and determination as the Aces continue their march through the season.

Tournament Results for Mount Carmel Wrestlers

120:
• Eli Baker
Champ. Round 1: Won by major decision over Bentley Hornbrook (Paris) (16-6)
Quarterfinal: Lost by fall to Drew Seitzinger (Lawrenceville) (0:57)
Cons. Semi: Lost by decision to Max Etherton (Johnston City) (11-9)

132:
• Carson Sloss (3rd place)
Quarterfinal: Won by fall over Quimaine Jennings (Carterville) (2:00)
Semifinal: Lost by fall to Benjamin Harris (Johnston City) (0:39)
3rd Place Match: Won by decision over Dylan Blain (Vandalia) (10-5)

138:
• Aaron Sanor
Champ. Round 1: Won by fall over David James (Carmi-White County) (1:06)
Cons. Round 2: Won by fall over Chase Heimann (Breese Central) (0:13)
Cons. Semi: Lost by fall to Owen Griffen (Oblong) (3:24)

144:
• Isaiah Kasinger
Champ. Round 1: Won by fall over Brody Shellabarger (Vandalia) (2:00)
Cons. Round 2: Won by tech fall over Micah Jones (Carterville) (3:14)
Cons. Semi: Lost by major decision to Samuel Dial (Olney) (15-6)

150:
• Isaiah Hall
Quarterfinal: Lost by fall to Jazz Duckworth (Carmi-White County) (2:39)
Cons. Semi: Lost by fall to Nic Masterson (Fairfield) (0:18)

165:
• Johnny Askren (3rd place)
Quarterfinal: Won by fall over Randy Fuqua (Johnston City) (2:47)
Semifinal: Lost by tech fall to Parker Ray (Vandalia) (1:37)
3rd Place Match: Won by fall over Branson Burnett (Carmi-White County) (1:22)

175:
• Paul-Ray Garrett
Champ. Round 1: Won by fall over Hayden White (Carmi-White County) (5:20)
Cons. Round 2: Lost by fall to Noah Fonner (Paris) (1:45)

215:
• Lukas Madlam (4th place)
Quarterfinal: Won by fall over Joseph Hercules (Johnston City) (3:16)
Semifinal: Lost by fall to Zander Schrader (Olney) (0:28)
3rd Place Match: Lost by fall to Brody Beckmann (Breese Central) (1:24)

285:
• Carter Pyatt (4th place)
Quarterfinal: Won by fall over Luke Pruett (Breese Central) (0:57)
Semifinal: Lost by major decision to Bentley Rogers (Fairfield) (13-3)
3rd Place Match: Lost by tech fall to Jeremiah Bouchard (Carterville) (4:06)

Fairfield Holiday Girls Tourney Schedule Released

Merry Mule Tournament Schedule


@FCHS @FCHS @Center St. @Center St.

Pool A Pool B Pool C Pool D

Fairfield Newton Edwards Co. Mt. Carmel

Woodlawn Murphysboro Mt. Carmel JV Wayne City

Lawrenceville Webber North Clay Flora




      Fairfield Community High School       Center Street Grade School

12/27 Home team listed 1st 12/27 Home team listed 1st

10:00 A.M. Fairfield vs Woodlawn 10:00 A.M. Mt. Carmel JV vs Edwards Co.

11:30 A.M. Newton vs Murphy 11:30 A.M. Mt. Carmel vs Wayne City

1:30  P.M. Woodlawn vs Lawrenceville 1:30  P.M. Edwards Co. vs North Clay

3:00  P.M. Murphy vs Webber 3:00  P.M. Flora vs Mt. Carmel

5:00  P.M. Lawrenceville vs Fairfield 5:00  P.M. North Clay vs Mt. Carmel JV

6:30  P.M. Webber vs Newton             6:30  P.M. Wayne City vs Flora


-winners from the 4 pools will be placed in the Gold Bracket

-second place in the 4 pools will be placed in the Silver Bracket

-third place in the 4 pools will be placed in the Bronze Bracket

-In game 1, A’s and B’s will be the home team and wear white, game 2 will be determined

Tie Break will be as follows: 1. Points Allowed 2. Free Throw % 3. Coin Flip

12/28 FCHS 12/28 Center Street

10:00 A.M. A vs B Bronze 10:00 A.M. C vs D Bronze

11:30 A.M. A vs B Silver 11:30 A.M. C vs D Silver

1:30  P.M. A vs B Gold 1:30  P.M. C vs D Gold

3:00  P.M. Winners of Bronze 3:00  P.M. Losers of Bronze

4:30  P.M. Winners of Silver 4:30  P.M. Losers of Silver

6:00  P.M. Losers of Gold (3rd place game)

7:30  P.M. Winners of Gold (Championship game)



Two-Point Heartbreaker: Mount Carmel Wrestling Falls in Close Contest

On Tuesday, December 3 at The Hilltop in Mount Carmel, the Golden Aces wrestling team hosted the Carmi Bulldogs in a showdown that was as competitive as it was intense, with both teams battling until the final bout. In the end, Carmi edged out a narrow victory, but the Aces showed resilience, improvement, and a never-quit attitude that reflects the growing strength of the program.

Andrew Cheesman, head coach of the Golden Aces, didn’t mince words when assessing the match. “Not filling weights and giving up a pin cost us that dual. We gave them 18 points because of forfeits and 12 bonus points for giving up a pin. If we picked up one more pin, we win,” Cheesman said, highlighting the razor-thin margin in the 2-point loss. “Losing by 2 points, so many things could’ve changed the outcome. We’ve made really great improvements from last season, but we still have work to do if we want to win these close matches.”

The Aces delivered strong individual performances that kept the dual competitive despite the uphill battle caused by open weight classes. At 165 pounds, Johnny Askren secured a fall in just 2:29, electrifying the hometown crowd and setting a tone of aggression and determination. Lukas Madlem (215) followed with a dominant pin in just over a minute, while Carter Pyatt (285) earned a decisive major decision, 15-7, showcasing both skill and stamina.

Mount Carmel also shined in the lower and middle weights, with Aaron Sanor (138) putting on a clinic to pin his opponent in under a minute, and Tucker Martin (144) displaying sheer endurance and focus in a hard-fought fall at the 7:53 mark. Isaiah Hall (150) wrapped up the Golden Aces’ pin count with an authoritative finish at 2:01, giving fans plenty of reasons to celebrate even as the team fell short overall.

While Carmi capitalized on forfeits and bonus points, the Aces proved they are not far from turning narrow losses into decisive victories. Cheesman’s message was clear: the team is improving rapidly, but there is still ground to cover to dominate in tight duals. For the Golden Aces, the path forward is filled with potential and promise—and a commitment to work that rivals their fierce spirit on the mat.

The Golden Aces will look to build on their promising performance as they head into their first tournament of the season this Saturday, December 7, at the Lawrence County Invite in Lawrenceville, Illinois. The action kicks off at 9 a.m., and the team is eager to showcase their improvements on a larger stage. Fans can expect a day of intense competition as the Aces aim to make their mark early in the season.

Individual Match Results

157: Cole Evans (CARMI) over Dakota Woods (MTCARMEL) (Fall 1:55)

165: Johnny Askren (MTCARMEL) over Branson Burnett (CARMI) (Fall 2:29)

175: Landon Kueber (CARMI) over Paul-Ray Garrett (MTCARMEL) (Fall 3:29)

190: James Hutchcraft (CARMI) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)

215: Lukas Madlem (MTCARMEL) over Nolan Aud (CARMI) (Fall 1:08)

285: Carter Pyatt (MTCARMEL) over Laeden Vargas (CARMI) (MD 15-7)

106: Gage Anderson (CARMI) over Violet Hadra (MTCARMEL) (Fall 6:08)

113: Malachi Oberlender (CARMI) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)

120: Travor Mason (CARMI) over Eli Baker (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:48)

126: Connor Benham (CARMI) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)

132: (MTCARMEL) over (CARMI) (Fall 6:35)

138: Aaron Sanor (MTCARMEL) over Nolan Garner (CARMI) (Fall 0:52)

144: Tucker Martin (MTCARMEL) over David James (CARMI) (Fall 7:53)

150: Isaiah Hall (MTCARMEL) over Jazz Duckworth (CARMI) (Fall 2:01)

Golden Aces Wrestling: Growing, Learning, and Pushing Forward

Mount Carmel’s Golden Aces wrestling team had a challenging weekend at the Vincennes Lincoln High School Invitational, but the experience is proving to be a crucial learning opportunity for the young squad. With several underclassmen in key spots, Coach Andrew Cheesman sees the potential in his team but knows there’s still much work to be done. Despite a 2-4 record on the day, Cheesman remains optimistic about the direction the team is heading.

“We had a very learning weekend,” Coach Cheesman said. “We’re a young team, and we are still learning, but I feel like for the most part, we wrestled well against some very tough opponents.” While the Golden Aces managed two victories, Cheesman is quick to highlight the team’s resilience. “The losses, except for one, were really close and could have gone our way,” he added.

The Aces faced several tough teams, including Terre Haute South, Washington, and Olney, and although the results weren’t always in their favor, there were many takeaways for the team. Cheesman pointed out the strength of Terre Haute South, noting that their roster was largely made up of juniors and seniors, compared to Mount Carmel’s mix of underclassmen. “They proved to us that they’re one of the top teams in Indiana, but we learned a lot from them,” Cheesman said. “We just have to stay off our backs and stay accountable moving forward. We need to focus on avoiding pins, and we’ll see improvement from that.”

Mount Carmel also came close to victories against Washington and Olney, but both teams managed to secure big pins, reversing momentum late in the matches. “If we stay off our backs, and if our 106-pounder had been there, we would have beaten Olney and Washington,” Cheesman explained. “Those are mistakes we can fix, and they will be key points of focus in our training moving forward.”

While Mount Carmel’s lineup was incomplete due to a few wrestlers being absent or not making weight, Cheesman knows that once the full roster is available and the team can fill all spots, they will be even more competitive. “Right now, we’re giving up 24 points a match because we can’t fill four spots,” he said. “That’s something we need to address as a team.”

Despite the tough day on the mats, Coach Cheesman is confident that the team’s growth this season will lead to greater success as the year progresses. With an emphasis on learning from each match and continuing to develop, the Golden Aces wrestling program is building a strong foundation for the future. “We’ve got a lot of talent, but we have to put the work in,” Cheesman said. “We’ve got to stay focused, stay accountable, and stay hungry. The potential is there, and if we keep working, we’re going to see a lot of improvement.”

I couldn’t agree more. Don’t count this young team out. I have a feeling they are destined for success.

Mount Carmel’s next match is Wednesday, December 4, at 6:00 PM, where they will face off against the Carmi Bulldogs at the Hilltop. With the lessons learned from their recent matches, the Golden Aces are ready to take on the challenge and continue their growth as a team. Be sure to come out and support them as they strive for success on the mat.

Match Recaps

Mt. Carmel vs. Olney (Richland County)
175: Logan McDonald (RICHLAND) over Paul-Ray Garrett (MTCARMEL) (Fall 2:00)
190: Ilario Catania (RICHLAND) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
215: Zander Schrader (RICHLAND) over Braxton Brown (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:58)
285: Carter Pyatt (MTCARMEL) over Gentry Michels (RICHLAND) (Fall 1:36)
106: Double Forfeit
113: Hayden Hazel (RICHLAND) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
120: Eli Baker (MTCARMEL) over (RICHLAND) (For.)
126: Kaeden Davis (RICHLAND) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
132: Kadin Melahn (MTCARMEL) over Brody Peavler (RICHLAND) (Fall 4:59)
138: Aaron Sanor (MTCARMEL) over (RICHLAND) (For.)
144: Samuel Dial (RICHLAND) over Isaiah Kasinger (MTCARMEL) (Fall 5:11)
150: Isaiah Hall (MTCARMEL) over Myers Parker (RICHLAND) (TF 16-0 0:00)
157: Finn Lathrop (RICHLAND) over Dakota Woods (MTCARMEL) (Fall 1:49)
165: Johnny Askren (MTCARMEL) over Jalon Oneal (RICHLAND) (Fall 2:02)

Mt. Carmel vs. Vincennes Lincoln
106: Kolten Land (VCL) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
113: Double Forfeit
120: Eli Baker (MTCARMEL) over (VCL) (For.)
126: Donta Henderson (VCL) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
132: Kadin Melahn (MTCARMEL) over Gauge Holdeway (VCL) (Fall 1:52)
138: Aaron Sanor (MTCARMEL) over Blake Racey (VCL) (Fall 2:51)
144: Peyton Loue (VCL) over Isaiah Kasinger (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:24)
150: Levi Johnson (VCL) over Isaiah Hall (MTCARMEL) (Fall 1:12)
157: Holden Lewis (VCL) over Dakota Woods (MTCARMEL) (Fall 1:55)
165: Cooper Collins (VCL) over Johnny Askren (MTCARMEL) (Fall 1:21)
175: Mason Pietrzak (VCL) over Paul-Ray Garrett (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:48)
190: Moises Marquin (VCL) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
215: Trenton Acton (VCL) over Braxton Brown (MTCARMEL) (Fall 1:23)
285: Gabe Vieck (VCL) over Carter Pyatt (MTCARMEL) (Fall 2:00)

Mt. Carmel vs. Washington
106: Double Forfeit
113: Double Forfeit
120: Eli Baker (MTCARMEL) over Jacob Douglas (WA) (Fall 2:01)
126: Double Forfeit
132: Kadin Melahn (MTCARMEL) over (WA) (For.)
138: Aaron Sanor (MTCARMEL) over Eden McPherson (WA) (Fall 1:18)
144: Jordan Emmick (WA) over Isaiah Kasinger (MTCARMEL) (Fall 1:52)
150: Isaiah Hall (MTCARMEL) over Nathan Sponn (WA) (TF 17-1 0:00)
157: Jack Whitehead (WA) over Dakota Woods (MTCARMEL) (Fall 1:26)
165: Oliver Roe (WA) over Johnny Askren (MTCARMEL) (Fall 4:20)
175: Diego Mora-Lopez (WA) over Paul-Ray Garrett (MTCARMEL) (Fall 1:52)
190: Lane Peachee (WA) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
215: Jack Giley (WA) over Braxton Brown (MTCARMEL) (Fall 2:06)
285: AJ Talbert (WA) over Carter Pyatt (MTCARMEL) (Fall 1:30)

Mt. Carmel vs. North Knox
285: Carter Pyatt (MTCARMEL) over (NOKN) (For.)
106: E Cole (NOKN) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
113: Double Forfeit
120: G Riker (NOKN) over Eli Baker (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:00)
126: Double Forfeit
132: Kadin Melahn (MTCARMEL) over A Ramos (NOKN) (Fall 0:00)
138: C Lee (NOKN) over Aaron Sanor (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:00)
144: Isaiah Kasinger (MTCARMEL) over (NOKN) (For.)
150: Isaiah Hall (MTCARMEL) over (NOKN) (For.)
157: Dakota Woods (MTCARMEL) over (NOKN) (For.)
165: Johnny Askren (MTCARMEL) over J Phipps (NOKN) (Fall 0:00)
175: G Fuller (NOKN) over Paul-Ray Garrett (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:00)
190: E Sandefer (NOKN) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
215: E Arnold (NOKN) over Braxton Brown (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:00)
Won by Criteria

Mt. Carmel vs. Oblong
106: Thomas Stigler (OBLONG) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
113: Hunter Fitts (OBLONG) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
120: Eli Baker (MTCARMEL) over (OBLONG) (For.)
126: (OBLONG) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
132: Kadin Melahn (MTCARMEL) over William Wilson (OBLONG) (Fall 0:35)
138: Aaron Sanor (MTCARMEL) over Owen Griffin (OBLONG) (Fall 2:11)
144: Jude Wirey (OBLONG) over Isaiah Kasinger (MTCARMEL) (TF 18-2 0:00)
150: Isaiah Hall (MTCARMEL) over (OBLONG) (For.)
157: Dakota Woods (MTCARMEL) over Jaxon Wesley (OBLONG) (Fall 1:16)
165: Johnny Askren (MTCARMEL) over Keaton Davis (OBLONG) (Fall 0:20)
175: Branden Buecherie (OBLONG) over Paul-Ray Garrett (MTCARMEL) (Fall 3:01)
190: Judah Sweitzer (OBLONG) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
215: Braxton Brown (MTCARMEL) over Ethan Miller (OBLONG) (Fall 0:43)
285: Carter Pyatt (MTCARMEL) over Liam Miller (OBLONG) (Fall 0:31)

Mt. Carmel vs. Terre Haute South
106: L Overton (THS) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
113: K Singh (THS) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
120: A Zeller (THS) over Eli Baker (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:00)
126: C Thomas (THS) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
132: W Rader (THS) over Kadin Melahn (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:00)
138: T Bilello (THS) over Aaron Sanor (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:00)
144: Isaiah Kasinger (MTCARMEL) over (THS) (For.)
150: Isaiah Hall (MTCARMEL) over (THS) (For.)
157: Dakota Woods (MTCARMEL) over (THS) (For.)
165: Johnny Askren (MTCARMEL) over (THS) (For.)
175: B Geeding (THS) over Paul-Ray Garrett (MTCARMEL) (Fall 0:00)
190: L Wilson (THS) over (MTCARMEL) (For.)
215: Braxton Brown (MTCARMEL) over (THS) (For.)
285: Carter Pyatt (MTCARMEL) over (THS) (For.)

From Damon Sloss