The Highlanders hosted their third annual 10-team Highlander Duals on Saturday, Jan. 17, filling the gym with noise, music and nonstop action. Teams from across the region, including West Springfield, Hayfield, Thomas Jefferson and Bishop O’Connell competed in a full day of matches. The energy was high as wrestlers, coaches and fans packed the stands to support their teams.
“It was really exciting and a great community for all our wrestlers,” sophomore Jude Murray said. “Throughout the meet, we kept our focus by staying connected to each other. We listened to music, had electrolytes and just had fun with each other.”
McLean opened pool play against West Springfield, one of the toughest teams in the region. Senior Jasper Willems won the first match, giving McLean an early 6-0 lead, but West Springfield soon took control of the dual. McLean ultimately lost 18-59, but the team stayed energized heading into the next rounds.
The Highlanders came back strong against Hayfield, dominating the mat and winning 14-56. Match after match, McLean controlled the pace, turning the gym into a celebration as teammates rushed to the edge of the mat to cheer each other on.
“We wrestled well in both matches,” Assistant Coach Joe Gulotta said. “You can see guys improving in positions and lasting longer in matches.”
McLean kept their momentum going in later rounds, defeating Thomas Jefferson and Bishop O’Connell to reach the placement matches. In the final round for third place, McLean faced Woodbridge and fell short, losing the dual and securing fourth place overall. Despite the defeat, the Highlanders showed determination and teamwork throughout the day, earning respect from both coaches and peers.
“I love coming out and supporting them and seeing them grow,” Coach Kenneth Jackson said. “[The fans] came out ready to go. It’s always exciting to wrestle in your own house.”
While McLean did not take home the title, the Highlander Duals showcased the team’s resilience, growth and strong sense of community. With loud cheers, constant support and steady improvement, the meet showed that McLean wrestling is building something special this season.
“Every match today showed how far we’ve come,” Murray said. “Even when we faced tough opponents, we stayed focused, encouraged each other and gave everything we had on the mat as a team.”
