Columbus East High School

After seeing their Team State run halted by Bloomington South just five days earlier, the Columbus East wrestling team stepped back onto the mat Thursday night knowing exactly what kind of challenge awaited. This time, the setting was the Orange Pit — and this time, the outcome swung in the Olympians’ favor. Columbus East earned a hard-fought 38–35 victory over the Panthers, turning a semifinal setback into a statement win fueled by lineup resilience, bonus points, and dominance in the upper weights. Bloomington South asserted itself early, claiming the first seven bouts from 106 through 144 pounds. Pins at 106, 113, and 120, followed by a major decision and multiple technical falls, allowed the Panthers to build a lead and test the Olympians’ resolve. East responded when it mattered most. At 150 pounds, Cameron Cooper delivered a momentum-shifting technical fall that jump-started the Olympian comeback. Strategic forfeits at 157 and 165 added valuable team points, and from there, Columbus East’s upper weights took control of the dual. Lincoln Cooper (175) and Colin McMahon (190) both earned pins, Clayton Miller (215) secured a key decision, and Hank Redman punctuated the night with a first-period fall at 285. By winning the final seven weight classes, the Olympians completed the turnaround and sealed the three-point victory. The dual proved to be a measuring stick for both teams, with Bloomington South owning the lighter weights and Columbus East flexing its strength in the middle and heavy divisions — a formula that ultimately favored the home team. JV Results JV action was limited on the night, as only two Olympian wrestlers saw mat time. At 126 pounds, Bentley Newman took a loss, while Ethan Gilley earned a win at 215. Despite the limited opportunities, the JV Olympians won’t be sidelined for long, as they will host a round-robin tournament tonight (1/16) featuring Center Grove and Decatur Central, providing valuable mat time and competitive experience. Thursday’s varsity win served as a strong rebound and a confidence boost heading into the Hoosier Hills Conference Tournament on Saturday at Jennings County High School. The Olympians took a punch, adjusted, and answered — exactly what you want to see this time of year.