More Top Picks How To Keep A Migraine Diary That Actually Helps
player ready...It might not be common for a young high school wrestler to remain in one weight class for two years, but Grayslake Central’s Anthony Alanis is anything but average.
As a freshman last season, Alanis finished sixth at 106 pounds in Class 2A at the Illinois Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association’s state meet.
Competing at 106 pounds again this season, Alanis has his sights set on another top finish, this time at the Illinois High School Association’s Class 2A state meet.
“I really didn’t grow that much,” he said. “I guess because I work so hard, I can keep my weight down.”
An IHSA state meet wasn’t held last year due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, the IWCOA state meet included most of the top wrestlers in Illinois, and Alanis made a strong showing.
“It was a learning experience because I had not wrestled in high school before, just middle school,” he said. “I feel much more comfortable this year, and I know I’m in much better shape. I have definitely learned a lot since I started here.”
Alanis (42-4) has wrestled in higher weight classes a few times this season, making his record even more impressive. He finished first at two tournaments, including the Lake County Invitational at Wauconda on Jan. 22, and placed second in two others against wrestlers from larger schools.
Alanis started on the road to the state meet by winning his weight class at the Grayslake Central Regional on Saturday. He earned a 9-4 decision against Antioch freshman Gavin Hanrahan in the final.
He hasn’t lost to any of his possible postseason opponents and is ranked No. 3 at 106 in 2A by the IWCOA.
“Anthony has a solid foundation,” Grayslake Central coach Matt Joseph said. “He doesn’t take practices off and is a very good example for his teammates. He’s a kid who stays focused, which is key for him.”
Joseph has been impressed with Alanis’ work ethic since Alanis joined the program.
“He’s always working to get better at practice or during the offseason — if that means extra running or working on his moves with his dad on a mat they have in their basement,” Joseph said.
Alanis knows the competition will get tougher in the Deerfield Sectional, which begins Friday. The state meet will be held at the State Farm Center in Champaign from Feb. 17 to 19.
“Last season with COVID was tough, but it was like that for everyone,” Alanis said. “Now we are pretty much back to normal with school and practices. It was an awesome feeling to do so well as a freshman, but it would mean a lot to me if I can go even farther this season.”
Darren Day is a freelance reporter for the News-Sun.