Jeffersonville Varsity Tests Itself Against State’s Best at Castle High School
By Danny Struck | Dec 14, 2025 3:00 PM
The Jeffersonville varsity wrestling team traveled to Castle High School for a challenging overnight trip that featured elite competition, taking on #5 (4A) Avon, #6 (4A) Mater Dei, and the always-tough host Castle High School. The trip was designed not only to face some of the best teams in the state, but also to strengthen team chemistry through shared meals, travel, and time together. Jeffersonville fell to Mater Dei (60–12) and Avon (54–18), two top-ranked programs, before closing the trip on a high note with a 49–18 win over Castle. Leading the Red Devils was senior heavyweight Gavin Grisham, who posted a 3–1 record on the day. His only loss came in heartbreaking fashion against Avon, surrendering the deciding points with just three seconds left on the clock. Grisham’s performance was especially meaningful after missing an entire year of competition and returning this season following a strong football campaign, carrying that momentum into wrestling during his senior year. Elijah Lahrman also had an outstanding day, finishing 3–1 and wrestling with confidence against top-tier opponents. Isiah Gatton delivered one of the most memorable moments of the trip with a gritty overtime pin against Castle, while Jaylen Howard continued to test himself by taking on the best of the best, finishing 2–2 against elite competition. Head coach Danny Struck emphasized both the purpose of the trip and the future of the program. “We are a very young team, and experiences like this are huge for our growth,” Struck said. “We’re asking freshmen and sophomores to wrestle seasoned varsity kids, and they’re stepping up and competing.” Struck also highlighted the excitement surrounding the group. “I’m extremely excited about this team,” he added. “The results may not always show it yet, but the work ethic, toughness, and buy-in are there. This group has a really bright future.” Jeffersonville will look to apply those lessons soon as the varsity squad competes in the 32-team Jeff Classic, continuing a schedule built to prepare a young but motivated lineup for the postseason.