IHSA Wrestling (Murphysboro Red Devils)

I have not forgotten Illinois wrestlers... Murpshysboro High School Athletics Director sent this press release updating the Red Devils.

For the third straight year, the Murphysboro High School Red Devils Wrestling Team will bring home championships from the IHSA Individual Wrestling State Tournament. Congratulations to Head Coach Dan Baker, and assts. Jarrod Karnes, Casey Ancona, and Mark French.

5 Devils advanced and competed at this weekend's tournament at the Assembly Hall on the campus of the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana. Michael Rodriguez, Tarek Aldroubi, Deven Tyrone, Jake Miller, and Shea Baker.

Michael, Tarek, and Deven all had their fate decided in the final seconds of their matches. All 3 battled courageously and very easily could have won each match. However, the breaks didn't go their way, on this day. Congratulations to each of these Devils that represented the school and community with much pride and determination.

And the red carpet is rolled out for Jake Miller and Shea Baker:

Jake finished in 3rd place at today's tournament by defeating Andy Smith of Byron by the score of 11-5. The win finishes Jake's season record at, 37-1 (his first loss of the season came in the semi-finals earlier today). Recapping Jake's career, this marks the third straight year he has reached All-State status. His frosh year he was a 1st place state champion, and last year he won the 3rd place championship. Way to Go, Jake!

And then there's Shea Baker. Shea can call himself an IHSA State Champion! By defeating Devon Johnson of Pittsfield by the score of 6-3, Shea is crowned State Champion in the 171 weight class! The win caps a perfect season for Shea as he finished the season at a perfect 36-0! This is also the third straight year that Shea has reached All-State. Last two season's finishing third, and today on Top of the Hill! Job Well Done, Mr. Baker!

Perhaps the best news of all.... the season continues for the Red Devils Wrestlers as the team is in the running for a team championship. Next Tuesday, the team travels to Vandalia to take on Roxana in team competition. With a win on Tuesday night, the team can compete at the state level for a Team Championship!