2023-2024 Jesuit Blue Jays Wrestling Preview

Last school year, the Jesuit Blue Jays claimed the wrestling team championship, marking their first triumph in this domain since 2009. Nevertheless, the Jays have consistently demonstrated their dominance in the sport, regardless of their final standing in each season.

The institution proudly showcases an impressive tally of 24 state titles on Banks Street. The 2023 state championship team was nothing short of extraordinary as the Jays approached every dual meet and tournament with determination. Jesuit participated in the Louisiana Classic, securing a commendable fourth-place finish. The Louisiana Classic is revered as the definitive state tournament, where contestants from all divisions in the state compete against one another. The top-four finish provided the team with the momentum needed to prepare for the most significant tournament of the year.

Ultimately, the Blue Jays engaged in a fiercely contested battle for the top spot with Catholic of Baton Rouge at the state championship. Under the guidance of alumnus and head coach Jon Orillion, the Jesuit Blue Jays finally clinched the long-awaited team title.

As the upcoming season approaches, the Blue Jays will undoubtedly emerge as the favorites. Much like Holy Cross, they boast a lineup of eight returning state placers and seasoned upperclassmen.

“We have plenty of confidence in our eight returning placers to continue to set the example as leaders for our newcomers to the lineup.” Orillion said.

The team will be led by one of the most outstanding wrestlers not only in the state but throughout the southern region. Senior Spencer Lanosga, a two-time individual state champion and nationally ranked wrestler, has committed to compete at the collegiate level for The Naval Academy.

Lanosga’s talent has been evident since he made his debut on the varsity mat. Despite experiencing a heart-wrenching defeat in the state tournament during his freshman year, he persevered. Last year, the senior participated in only seven matches throughout the season, owing to his involvement in two sports. Yet, his delayed appearance on the wrestling mat turned out well as he showcased considerable expertise, clearly visible to anyone who observed his matches.

“Lanosga will be Louisiana’s first wrestler ever to compete in the prestige Iron Man tournament held at Walsh Jesuit High School in Ohio this year.” Orillion noted.

Another upperclassman expected to make a significant contribution is junior Bodi Harris, who secured the 113lbs state championship last year.

“Bodi is a guy who has been an example setter since he walked in the room at the end of his eighth-grade year. His work ethic garner respect from everyone in our program and its why he has been named captain this year.” Orillion said.

Harris is a shining star for the program and hails from a wrestling lineage, with his father, Spencer, achieving the distinction of being a three-time individual state champion from 1987 to 1989.

Senior Jackson Calderaro and sophomore Michael Barnett are key components in the Jesuit lineup. Calderaro’s stellar performance last season, including a victory in the Louisiana Classic, positions him as a potential asset despite narrowly missing the state title. Barnett, a sophomore, surprised many spectators at the state tournament by defeating the second seed with a major decision (14-4) as a three seed. His toughness and potential for improvement make him an essential part of the team’s future.

Senior Arthur Schott, who exhibited remarkable determination throughout the previous season, secured third place at the state tournament. However, his placing does not do justice to the relentless effort he demonstrated in each match. Schott consistently took on the best wrestlers in the state and never relented, with many of his matches culminating in closely contested battles.

Another noteworthy Blue Jay is junior Griffin Ellis, who displayed his potential as a freshman by earning a runner-up finish at the district championship. Like Lanosga, Ellis is a two-sport athlete who requires time to adjust to the demands of switching between sports. Despite a sixth-place finish at the state tournament last year, Ellis is poised to be the favorite for the individual 215lbs title this year.

Jesuit’s remaining returning starters, juniors Wyatt Mire and Jose Rincon, both reached the podium at the state championship and should provide valuable support in close team competitions. Additionally, senior Patrick Matthews, who narrowly missed placing at the state tournament, is expected to contribute significantly. Underclassmen Max Belsome, Isaac Orillion, and Oliver Burgau will fill critical roles from graduated seniors. “Altogether we stay humble and will try to get better one day at a time. We see ourselves as a formidable opponent for anyone this season.” Orillion said.

In summary, the Blue Jays are well-positioned to defend their title in the upcoming season. The team is committed to challenging themselves and honing their skills in preparation for their ultimate goal once again.

Jesuit’s season will commence with a dual meet at 6 p.m. on November 8th at Riverdale, and the journey to the championship will undoubtedly hard to climb.

Projected Depth Chart

106 Max Belsome SO
113 Michael Barnett SO (2nd)
120 Bodi Harris JR (2nd, State Champ)
126 Jose Rincon JR (6th)
132 Keegan Spiers SR
138 JP Webre SO
144 Isaac Orillion SO
150 Wyatt Mire JR (DNP, 5th)
157 Arthur Schott SR (3rd)
165 Patrick Matthews SR (DNP)
175 Jackson Calderaro SR (DNP, 2nd)
190 Oliver Burgau FR
215 Griffin Ellis JR (6th)
285 Spencer Lanosga SR (2nd, 2x State Champ)

*DNP = Did not place at state championship.