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Janek enters the final stretch of his senior wrestling season coming off a successful junior year in which he finished fourth at the Illinois Class 3A state tournament — part of a historic year for Edwardsville’s wrestling program that saw three state medalists — and capturing multiple regional titles along the way. As the Tigers pursue yet another Southwestern Conference crown and gear up for the postseason, Janek’s 100-win milestone stands as a crowning achievement of his high school career — and a defining moment for a wrestler who has worked steadily toward excellence since his freshman season.
Janek performed brilliantly in the 215-pound final match at the esteemed Martin Family Invitational on January 17th at St. Charles West. He pinned Asher Bunting of Seckman in just 30 seconds to win the title and hit the century-win milestone. As a result of his perseverance, strength, and competitive spirit over the course of four seasons, he became the 36th wrestler in Edwardsville High School history to reach 100 victories.
In addition to being a multi-sport athlete, Janek was named an All-Southwestern Conference football defensive end this past autumn, showcasing the athleticism and leadership that coach Eric Pretto said he brings to every squad. "With our schedule and the mindset you have to have early on as a young wrestler to stay the course, one hundred wins." Pretto praised Janek's commitment and constructive impact on the team.
Janek is reaching the end of his senior wrestling season, following a standout junior year in which he won many regional titles and placed fourth in the Illinois Class 3A state competition. This was part of a remarkable year for Edwardsville's wrestling program, which produced three state medallists. Janek's 100-win milestone marks the pinnacle of his high school career and a watershed moment for a wrestler who has continually aspired for greatness since his freshman year, as the Tigers look to win another Southwestern Conference title and advance to the postseason.
Article written by Laura Nicholson.
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