By Connor Leibforth ‘20

On Feb. 8, the Brother Rice wrestling team competed in the 2A regionals.

A quality Brother Rice team had their hands full with a lot of quality competition coming from St. Laurence, Richards, Evergreen Park, Morgan Park, Goode Stem, and Hinsdale South.

The whole team was excited and knew they could do something special this year with the group of guys they had.

Senior Michael Loughney said, “I was pretty ecstatic because it was my last year and to go out like that meant a lot.” Loughney also wasn’t in it just for himself; he wanted to win for the team. Loughney said, “It was essential to get the team regional as well.”

Senior Tom Crane felt the same way. He said, “Winning my first regional felt awesome. Taking first individually was the first of many goals of mine in this state series, but winning it as a team was something special. It was amazing to see everyone’s hard work finally pay off.”

The team had an exceptional day at regionals with Michael Loughney, Chuck Connelly, Nate Chirillo, Tom Crane, and Luke Kedzierski all taking first place. With great performances by these men and a host of Crusaders, the team definitely had a dominant presence on the podium.

Wishing all the best luck to the matmen going downstate this upcoming weekend.