Wrestlers Wrangled Another Successful Season
After losing several powerhouses, the Barnesville Varsity Wrestling Team showed that it is still a major contender. “They just tend to rebuild,” stated Athletic Director Brad Hannahs. “If you think of wrestling around the Ohio Valley, you think Barnesville.”
“This team was underestimated, and they proved a lot of people wrong,” said Head Wrestling Coach Jayson Stephen. This year’s team won the following championships: OVAC, Sectionals, and Districts. Seven wrestlers qualified for the State Tournament, with 5 wrestlers making the podium.
Ladyn Hines, in the 115-pound weight class, made school history as the first girl to win a state wrestling championship. In 2023, the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) unanimously sanctioned girls’ wrestling as a varsity sport, becoming the 33rd state to do so. Freshman Ladyn Hines expressed, “It is pretty awesome, because I have been wrestling since I was young.” She continued, “So when it came my turn, I was like, oh my gosh, I can make history.”
The wrestling coaches also won honors this year. Jayson Stephen received OVAC Coach of the Year. Athletic Director Hannahs stated, “It is a well-deserved honor. He has been doing it for a long time.” In addition, Rick Milhoan was awarded OVAC Assistant Coach of the Year.
“They are looking forward to improving for next year,” said Coach Stephen. Freshman Jaxon Aberegg shared that he has learned “how to discipline myself, getting up early every day to work out, and pushing past my limits.” Hines summed it up in one word: “Discipline.” Hines’ advice to upcoming wrestlers, “If you want something real bad, you’re going to put a lot of effort into it.”
The wrestlers and their families celebrated the successful season at the Barnesville High School cafeteria.
Special Award Recognitions
Most Outstanding Girl Wrestler — Ladyn Hines
Most Outstanding Boy Wrestler — Jaxon Aberegg
Most Improved — Zachary Foster
Centurion Award 100+ — Hines Ford
Most Takedowns — Jaxon Aberegg
Most Pins — Hines Ford
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