After a second-place team performance at regionals, Minooka looks to get even better for sectionals, held Feb. 8 and 9 at Joliet Central.

“We have a good chance of making almost everyone out of sectionals,” Noah Boles, senior, said.

Edwardsville, Lockport, Lincoln Way West, Providence, Plainfield South and Neuqua Valley are on the long list of tough opponents in attendance. The Indians will be hoping to show their strength in this test.

“We all just need to do what we’ve been taught and we’ll be just fine,” Connor Colbert, senior, said.

Wrestlers who advanced as individuals to sectionals include Jake Shipla (220 lbs.), who finished with a first place regional finish; Connor Colbert (195 lbs.); Alec Dufour (170 lbs.); Drew Gutknecht (285 lbs.); Jack McClimon (126 lbs.); Noah Boles (160 lbs.); Joey Cecala (113 lbs.); Michael Ruettiger (132 lbs.); Jake Mensik (138 lbs.); and Michael Carey (120 lbs.).

Nathan Berta (106 lbs.) also advanced to the sectionals, finishing second at regionals.  However, he is unable to compete due to an injury sustained during the regional competition.

The top four wrestlers in the sectionals tournament will continue on to represent their school in the state tournament. The IHSA State Finals will take begin on Feb. 14 in Champaign.