New coach, new faces highlight Ancilla wrestling
Courtesy ancillachargers.com
DONALDSON — The 2024-2025 Marian Ancilla Wrestling team will take on a whole new look, as they have changed coaches and welcome an entirely new roster, with the exception of sophomore heavyweight standout Dennis Weston.
Now in the chair for the Charger program is Head Coach Michael Jackson, a graduate of nearby Culver Community High School and the University of Indianapolis, where he was a three-time All-American and two-time NCAA Division-II Runner-Up. He brings energy and passion to the program, and the team has already seen growth in their first month of competition.
“I am thrilled with the opportunity to continue building the program and look toward adding some local talent in the very near future,” offered Coach Jackson.
Weston, who qualified for the NJCAA National Tournament last season, finished in the Top-20 of his division and earned Academic All-American honors as well. In his return to the mat this season, he looks to shine even brighter.
“Dennis is a great example of a leader, as he brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for the sport,” said Jackson. “He kind of acts like a big brother to the rest of the guys, and I’m thrilled to watch his growth this season.”
The first newcomer to the team is freshman Sonny Gilbert, a graduate of South Bend’s Riley High School. While at Riley, Sonny was a standout on the mat, in addition to the gridiron and the track. Unfortunately, he missed his senior season due to injury, so he’s excited to get back at it this season.
“I’ve been most impressed with his resilience and desire to improve on a daily basis,” said Jackson. “I like that I can set lofty but achievable goals for him, and he strives to achieve them.”
Freshman Dyson Adkins is also doubling on the Charger baseball team. Dyson graduated from Cascade High School, about 30 minutes southwest of Indianapolis.
“Dyson is another well-versed wrestler who has a great feel for the sport,” said Jackson. “He was a great late addition to the team and is willing to do whatever is asked of him, especially when it comes to different weight classes.”
Also new to the 2024-2025 roster are freshman Keenan Grant, sophomore Exode Minga, and freshman Anthony Hughes. Grant graduated from South Bend Riley, Minga attended Carmel High School, while Hughes came by way of nearby Wawasee.
Minga and Hughes also participated this fall with the regional qualifying MUAC men’s soccer team.
“I’m anxious to see how much they can grow once healthy and given a full season in the program,” said Jackson.
The team is back at it on Saturday when they travel to the University of Indianapolis for the Little State Tournament. The competition begins around 9:00 a.m.
