Another winter sports banquet took place on Tuesday, with Seymour wrestling hosting their awards and banquet at Seymour High School. The Owls celebrated both girls’ and boys’ programs during the evening.

Head Coach Dan Rasey spoke about his wrestling team on Tuesday.

“To say this group is young is a massive understatement,” Rasey said. “I’ve been coaching for 16 years and I’ve never had this many freshmen in one season.”

He mentioned that it was great for the future of the program.

“This is great for our future,” he said. “But can explain a little bit of our roller coaster season.”

AnnMarie Shuler led the way for the girls going all the way to the state competition. Shuler fell to Reese Kasprzak of Lake Central in the ultimate tie-breaker. She ended her sophomore season with an 18-3 record for the Owls. She has also qualified for the state tournament in both her seasons with Seymour.

Rasey spoke on how the girls’ team is growing and will only continue to do so.

It’s awesome that these girls are now able to compete at their own meets,” Rasey said. “I’m glad its in the process of becoming a full varsity sport. I believe that if these girls do the work, they can push for that regional trophy next season. There will also be some reinforcements coming in next season to help this team.”

Isabella Doyle took home the most improved award for the ladies after coming in with zero wrestling experience. She was just one match away from qualifying for the state meet.

Jesus Aguilar led the way for the guys, making it all the way to the semistate competition in Evansville. Aguilar fell to Tyson Ruhe of Jasper in semistate. Ending his season with a 35-10 record.

The senior picked up 21 pins, which along with his 35 wins are top-14 in Seymour wrestling history acccording to Rasey. He is one of four seniors who is leaving the Owls program. Kyler Neidig, Vade Hanley and Victor Gayton-Julian are the other three Seymour seniors on the 2023-24 team.

The Owls coach spoke about this senior class.

“I’m fully confident in this group of young men,” he said. It’s always tough to say goodbye to your seniors, but these kids gave their all throughout their years here.”

Two athletes were also honored for their dedication in the classroom. Which means a lot to Rasey, who’s a current teacher at Seymour High School.

Nic Frady and Mason Nugent were both selected to the Academic All-State team. Seymour will now prepare for an uphill climb during the 2024-25 wrestling season.

Awards

Most Improved: Isabella Doyle

Coaches Award: Briley Compton

Freshmen of the Year

Boys: Palik Findley

Girls: Isabella Doyle

MVP

Boys: Jesus Aguilar

Girls: AnnMarie Shuler

Academic All-State

Nic Frady

Mason Nugent