When people think about Mount Carmel athletics, the first image that comes to mind is football, a program that ranks among the best in the state.  But after winning the last five Catholic League titles and three of the last six Lawless Awards, the Caravan wrestling program cannot be overlooked.

This season the Caravan again captured the Catholic League Championship, a league it has dominated since 2010, after winning titles in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. This year’s final standings illustrate Mount Carmel’s success:

1. Mt. Carmel – 238.50 points
2. St. Rita – 185.00
3. Providence – 164.00

This year’s squad of 12 juniors, 13 sophomores, 17 freshman, was led by 6 seniors: Jakada Hull, Conner Guzior, Richie Patrick, Ryan McCabe, Arron Delgado, and Javier Hernandez. Seven members of the Caravan competed in a title bout for this season’s CCL Championships.  Winners were Kaleb Guzior, Jakada Hull, David Riojas, and Dru Worker. IN addition, Yayah Thomas, Cameron Lopez, and Leo Ortiz were runner ups in the title bouts.

The Caravan also sent two wrestlers to the state tournament at the University of Illinois, both of whom finished in 2nd place.

In addition to the team’s success, Coach John Kading added another prestigious Lawless Award, which recognizes the CCL Coach of the Year. Kading has won this award every season since 2013.