Congratulations to Pirate Competitor of the Week – Justin Lin. Justin was the top scorer for the scholastic bowl at the Illinois State Masonic Academic Bowl tournament on Saturday, helping the Pirates land a 3-2 record in their pool, falling just 1 win short of advancing to the championship rounds. He correctly answered 8 tossups out of 65 heard, including questions on Dorothea Lange, ice hockey, Aaron Copland, Isabrel Allende, John Brown, and Antigone. Coach Ron Jenkins said, “Justin currently has the highest answering percentage of all team members, with 13.5%-that’s pretty impressive, considering that he is a freshman. We are counting on Justin to play an important role as we wrap up the season with the IHSA state series, the WCCI radio tournament, and the NAQT National Small School Tournament.”
Other Nominations
Kendall Ziegler-MS Scholastic Bowl – Coach Ashley Hoppenjan said, “Kendall snagged 7 tossups at the River Ridge Meet. She is a solid leader for her team both at meets and in practice.”
Connor Higgins-MS Wrestling – Connor placed 4th at the IESA State wrestling tournament March 7-8 at DeKalb. Connor is the first ever state wrestling medalist for Galena, GEMS or HS. Despite losing his first match on Friday, he went on to win four straight matches in wrestle-backs to earn 4th place. Coach Gary Webster said, “Connor lost a heartbreaker opening round match but showed true grit, character and determination by winning four straight matches in wrestle-backs before losing a nail bitter 1-0 in the 3rd place match. Connors extra work since last year, aggressive style, and focus earned him a spot in Galena wrestling history and on the state podium. Connors leadership and work ethic in the wrestling room will be missed next season, as he moves into HS. It has been a fun two years coaching him but I am excited to watch his high school wrestling career next year.”
