Whiz Kids: Eisenhower Junior High Wrestlers Take Second in State

Name: Eisenhower Junior High wrestling team

Accomplishment: Second place at Illinois Elementary School Association state meet

Key to Awesomeness:

wrestling team has a long history of success. That tradition continued in March when the team took second place at the Illinois Elementary School Association state competition.

The was honored Tuesday by the Darien School District 61 Board. Last week, Mayor Kathleen Weaver designated April 18 as Eisenhower Junior High Wrestling Day in Darien.

“There’s no secret—it takes a lot of hard work and dedication,” coach Phil Esposito said of the team’s accomplishment. Team members practice between 300 and 350 hours a season, he said.

Joe Nugent won the state championship in the 105-pound class. He also set an all-time record for Eisenhower, with 131 career wins and 101 pins.

Nugent and teammate Nick Carlson both qualified as All-American wrestlers, Esposito said.

The other team members include:

Ahmir Hooks: A record of 30-4 and 19 pins

Rob Regan: 105-27, 66 pins

Ramarro Lamar: 40 wins (team high), 29 pins

Brendan Caccavale: 32-7, 13 pins

Patrick Wilson: 25-10, 17 pins

Nick Rich: 27 wins, 14 pins

Christian Lopez: 26 wins, 14 pins

“This is traditionally a great program,” said school board President Katherine Fujiura. “It’s wonderful to see that tradition continue.”