(photo credit: Reggie Baca)
Historically, Bishop Kelly has not been considered a wrestling powerhouse… that changes this year. Bolstered with fresh talent and the largest freshman class in recent memory, Bishop Kelly Wrestling aims to be among the best in Idaho state Wrestling.
It might appear that Bishop Kelly graduated their star, senior Chris Martino, last year, but that is far from the case. Bolstering their lineup for the 2022-23 season, Bishop Kelly adds Under 15 65 kg Greco World Champ Jadon Skellenger, a Freshman state champ, and Folkstyle Nationals runner-up Jake Castagneto to their lineup at 160lbs and 132 lbs, respectively.
The Notable Nine™ includes Bishop Kelly athletes below who contributed significant wins to the team’s benefits through the 2021-22 season. These hard-working kids have put in the effort in the room, and this list recognizes them.
Matthew Martino (126) – Sophomore, Idaho team member, freshman state champ, and Greco-Roman all-American. Matthew has been invited to the prestigious Walsh Ironman Tournament again. Among other accolades, Matthew would like to proudly mention his membership in the 59-second minute rice club. All-time wrestling room DJ (non-revocable).
Manuel Valdez (138) – Junior and returning team captain, Manuel placed third in state freshman year and qualified as a folkstyle all-American athlete.
Carlos Valdez (145) – Sophomore, like his older brother, is a folkstyle all-American wrestler. Carlos placed 5th at last year’s state championships.
Luke Gilliam (145) – A junior who hopes to prove himself at districts. Since Joining the wrestling team freshman year, Luke always puts in the work in the off-season, rarely misses practice, and is a valuable team member.
Seiya Thompson (152) – 2021 JiuJitsu Pan National Champ, District Champ, and a very humble, fantastic, and swag person. Seiya joined wrestling in 8th grade and didn’t stop, aiming to make his mark at State. He put in work during the off-season and hopes to show off the fruits of his labor this season.
Joe Hippler (170) – one of three seniors this year is Joe, whose freshman season was cut short by concussion trouble and surgery for a torn ACL injury faced his junior year. With a determination to never give up and a love for wrestling, Joe aims to make his mark on the BK wrestling legacy in his 5th and last year of wrestling.
Crew Nelson (182) – A star Lacrosse player in the spring, Crew has wrestled for 9 years and has always been a stud when it comes to working in the room and playing his part in duels. Crew took third last year in districts, and has had great success throughout his years with the program.
Phil Janquart (220) – Known as Gusher and the pickle-ball GOAT. Phil Janquart is one to look out for. Since the beginning, Phil has been a solid contributor to the wrestling team for as long as he’s been a part of the community. Phil became last year’s district champ in dominant fashion, pinning his finals opponent in the first period. Look out for Phil this year as he competes for a state title.
Colin Carpenter (285) – Another of our seniors this year is Colin Carpenter, who joined wrestling the previous year. Although it was his first year, he stayed undefeated in team duels throughout the season.
Watch Bishop Kelly wrestling make a statement this year, joining the best teams in Idaho, and cementing themselves as a wrestling powerhouse.
The Bishop Kelly Newspaper 