Wrestling: Jimmy Ruston, Lyons enjoying season to remember

Lyons senior wrestler Jimmy Ruston called it a moment to remember.

The Lions had just defeated Downers Grove North in a road dual meet to accomplish another milestone in the program’s storied history. For the first time since the 2010-11 season, the Lions captured the West Suburban Silver conference championship outright.

In 2015-16, the Lions won a share of the conference crown.

“It was a pretty fun experience,” Ruston said. “It was a competitive meet. We were all fired up. We had the attitude that we had to get it done. It was one of the most fun duals of my career. We were pinning a lot of people. We went to their place and got it done. Everyone came together.”

The Lions have been getting it done all season long. Led by a strong senior trio of captains — Ruston, Griffin King and Andrew Schodrof — they won 14 of their 20 dual meets. Earlier this season, the Lions became the fourth program in state history to record 1,000 dual meet wins.

Lyons coach Griff Powell notched his 200th career win Jan. 25.

“We’ve had a really great team effort from every one of the individuals,” Powell said. “The team has really pulled together and realized the team aspect, and been doing a great job inside and outside the room.

“Getting our 1,000th win was a huge milestone. It’s a tribute to the sustained success over all the years of the program. It shows the strength of the program. There were so many wrestlers that played a big part in building that success. It shows the strength we’ve had over all these decades.”

Ruston, a four-year varsity member, is a big part of the program’s recent success. He’s aiming to land a spot at the Class 3A state meet in the 138-pound class.

“I think this year we have a lot more camaraderie,” Ruston said. “We have a lot of seniors and have a solid group of kids who have been in the program for eight or nine years. It’s been fun being a captain. I have to keep working hard, work smarter, and [work] on the little things if I want to place at state.”

At 182 pounds, King has three years of varsity experience. He’s also focused on becoming a state qualifier.

“The key to my season has been making sure I’m perfecting my technique in the practice room and doing all the extra little things that give my team and myself that edge,” King said.

Schodrof, at 160 pounds, is attempting to set an example for the younger wrestlers in the program. He's also looking to build off his sixth-place showing at the Barrington Tournament.

Schodrof said the Lions have built a solid bond over the years that is paying dividends this season.

“We’ve all shown a commitment to the gym,” he said. “Almost all of the varsity wrestlers worked out during the spring and summer to prepare for a successful season.”

The Lions, who will be hosting a regional, have one more dual meet remaining this season.

“The kids are wrestling well,” Powell said. “I’m really proud of their effort. They’ve been working extremely hard, continue to get better every week. Right now the focus is doing the best job at regionals and get as many guys downstate.”