Videos by Lions Wrestling Club in Peoria. Amateur Wrestling Club
SENIOR NIGHT: RICHARD GARCIA: accompanied by his father Richard Garcia Sr. A talented wrestler has been part of the Liberty team for four years and even earned a varsity letter in just one year. As he looks ahead to his post-high school plans, Richard is excited to attend Glendale Community College and pursue his passion for graphic design. Among his cherished memories of wrestling are the team camps at Western Colorado University, where he not only honed his skills but also formed strong bonds with his friends and teammates. Richard Jr. attributes his unwavering dedication to the sport to the guidance and support of alumnus Chase Wyatt, who served as a role model and offered continuous encouragement.
SENIOR NIGHT: MITCHELL WHEELER: Accompanied by his father, Mitchell Wheeler II, and his mother, Jamie Randall, Mitchell is a four-year Liberty wrestler and a three-time varsity letter and academic recipient who currently holds the position of captain. In the previous year, Mitchell showcased his skills at the state tournament, earning All-State honors and securing an impressive third-place finish. Looking towards the future, Mitchell has ambitious plans for his post-high school career, which involve embarking on the journey of becoming a fireman and transitioning from wrestling to MMA. Reflecting on his time as a Liberty Lion, Mitchell cherishes any trip where the team united, creating lifelong memories and fostering meaningful relationships. He expresses his gratitude towards his parents for always motivating him to strive for greatness. Additionally, Mitchell extends his appreciation to Coach Brenton and Coach Miller for their unwavering dedication and commitment in shaping him into a resilient and influential leader.
SENIOR NIGHT: LUKE SPIRES: Accompanied by his mother Shea Spires, father Michael Spires, brother Logan Spires, and sister Madison Spires, Luke is a four-year Liberty wrestler who has earned two varsity letters. Additionally, Luke is a member of the 2023 State Championship football team, where he played on the defensive line for the Lions. Luke has a strong interest in studying fire science after high school and pursuing a career as a fireman. When reflecting on his favorite memories of wrestling, Luke can't help but mention the unforgettable blackjack game during team camp a couple of years ago. He attributes his success and mindset to his parents, who have consistently motivated him to strive for excellence every day.
SENIOR NIGHT: LILY HUNT: Accompanied by her father, Ben, and mother, Melissa, Lily has established herself as a remarkable athlete. As a four-year varsity starter and captain, she has consistently displayed her skills on the wrestling mat, earning All-State honors for the past two years. Notably, Lily is one of only two female wrestlers from Liberty High School to achieve over 100 varsity victories. Beyond her athletic achievements, Lily's dedication to her studies has opened numerous opportunities for her in the academic realm. With several universities vying for her enrollment, she plans to pursue a degree in engineering. Alongside her accomplishments, Lily cherishes the countless travel trips she has taken with her teammates to team camps and various cities across the country. These experiences have undoubtedly shaped her high school journey. In light of this, Lily would like to express her heartfelt gratitude to her parents, coaches, and teammates for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout her endeavors.
SENIOR NIGHT: KEEGAN GREEN: accompanied by his parents TJ and Traci Green, is a standout wrestler for Liberty High School. Currently wrestling at 138 pounds, Keegan has been a member of the Liberty wrestling program for four years. He has earned varsity letter winner status for three consecutive years and serves as team captain during his senior season. Last year, Keegan achieved great individual success by earning All-State honors after placing sixth overall at the state tournament. Looking ahead after graduation, Keegan is considering becoming a firefighter but has not finalized his postsecondary plans. Some of Keegan's most cherished memories involve attending tournaments with his teammates and bonding with others on the team. The camaraderie and team spirit cultivated in the Liberty wrestling room will stay with him beyond his time in the high school program. Keegan would like to thank his parents, TJ and Traci Green, for their constant love and support throughout his athletic journey. He is also grateful to Coach Brenton and Coach Miller for shaping him not just as a wrestler but also as a person of character.
SENIOR NIGHT: WILLIAM TRAVIS: Accompanied by his father, Matt Travis, and mother, Alison Travis, William is a first-year wrestler who embarked on a new journey following a successful varsity swim season. Although undecided on the university he will attend in the fall, William plans to study aeronautical physics. His favorite memory thus far is his first Ironman drill, where he appreciated the camaraderie and motivation required to help his teammates persevere. William expresses his gratitude to his parents for always believing in him, as well as Coach Miler for being the most passionate coach he has ever encountered, and Coach Brenton for exemplifying true discipline.
SENIOR NIGHT: DARIUS KHASHAYAR: Accompanied by his parents, Mo and Angie, Darius is a first-year wrestler who decided to venture into this sport to explore something new. He quickly developed a passion for the hard work and discipline required to excel in wrestling. In addition to his wrestling pursuits, Darius is also a varsity swimmer, showcasing his skills in the pool throughout his senior year. Looking ahead, Darius is eagerly anticipating his future plans after high school, which involve attending the University of Arizona and joining their medical program as a wildcat. Despite his limited experience, Darius cherishes the valuable knowledge he gained in such a short period of time. He expresses his gratitude to his family for their unwavering support.
SENIOR NIGHT: CLAIRE AVERY: accompanied by her father Todd, sisters Aubree, Jillian, and brother Dane. Claire is a four-year varsity starter, captain and has earned All-state honors the last three years including being a state runner-up last year. Claire post high school plans are to embark on a journey to become a Doctor in Obstetrics and Gynecology and university is yet to be decided. Her fondest memories are traveling to various tournaments and emerging victorious in our first clash duels. In between weigh-ins and warmups, I made it a point to braid as many girls' hair as possible. I owe a huge thank you to my dad for always being there for me and my siblings. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the person I am today. He is the epitome of a great girl dad, showing immense care and love for each one of us. Every decision he makes, he puts us first. I aspire to be just like him and extend the same level of care to others. I would also like to express my gratitude to Tracy for her unwavering support whenever I need her, as well as my siblings who have been there for me throughout the long wrestling tournaments and duels. Lastly, I want to acknowledge the coaches at my church, Bri Ault, and all the other sports coaches who have taught me valuable life lessons that I still apply today.
SENIOR NIGHT: TYLER SEASE: Accompanied by his uncle Matt Smith, grandmother Charlotte Smith, and brother Trevor Sease. Tyler’s post high school plans consist of enlisting in the military and pursuing a family career in firefighting. One of my favorite wrestling memories is from wrestling camp, where I had the opportunity to bond with my team. We had epic water gun and splat gun wars, went fishing together, wrestled in our rooms, watched movies, and simply had a blast. I would like to express my gratitude to my coaches for constantly pushing me to improve not only in wrestling but also in all aspects of my life. I am also thankful to my brother for always being there for me through thick and thin. My girlfriend's unwavering support means the world to me. I am forever grateful to my grandma and Uncle for their unconditional support and for stepping up to take care of me when I needed it. My father has played a significant role in shaping me into the best version of myself, instilling good morals and a strong work ethic. Lastly, my mother's unwavering belief in me has given me the strength to overcome difficult times, knowing that she would be proud of the person I have become today.
SENIOR NIGHT: TAYLOR COLANGELO: Accompanied by her parents, Chris and Alicia Colangelo, Taylor has been a four-year varsity starter and currently serves as the captain. Throughout her high school career, Taylor has achieved remarkable success, rewrote the Liberty records books and earned All-State honors for the past three years including winning an individual State Championship last year. Along her journey, Taylor has also received numerous All-American honors, including a national championship in 2022. Looking ahead, Taylor plans to continue her wrestling career at the collegiate level and pursue a degree in physical therapy. One of her most cherished memories in wrestling was when she relocated to Arizona for high school, where she formed lifelong bonds with her teammates. Taylor wants to express her deep gratitude to her parents and coaches for their unwavering dedication and support. Their time and energy have not only helped her become the finest wrestler she can be, but also a better individual overall.
SENIOR NIGHT: CHRISTIAN BERNIER: also referred to as "Chrissy Bear" by his fellow teammates, is accompanied by his parents, Aaron, and Christie Bernier, as well as his sister, Amanda. Currently wrestling at 120 for Liberty, Christian has been involved in wrestling for a total of 2 years and has achieved the honor of being a varsity letter winner for 1 year. In the upcoming fall, Christian will be attending Saint Francis University in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he will be pursuing a degree in environmental science. Among his cherished memories, Christian holds a special place for the travel trips that have included thrilling white water rafting experiences and the opportunity to bond with his team. In expressing gratitude, Christian would like to extend her thanks to Christian's family and coaches for their unwavering support and encouragement in helping him become the best version of himself.
SENIOR NIGHT: RICO LOGAN: Accompanied by his father, Ryan, his mother, Amanda, and his sister, Brooke, Rico has been an active member of the Liberty wrestling team for four years and has earned two varsity letters. With a remarkable 3.9 GPA and numerous academic accolades, Rico has a multitude of options for his future after high school. He is contemplating a career in law enforcement and is considering pursuing it through the collegiate route with a presidential scholarship or joining the United States Air Force. One of his most cherished memories is the exhilarating experience of White-Water Rafting and participating in wrestling activities with his team during the annual team camp in Colorado each summer. Rico is immensely grateful to his father, mother, sister, and coaches for their unwavering support and guidance in shaping his current position in life and wrestling.
SENIOR NIGHT: BRYCE CRAWFORD: Accompanied by his family, consisting of his mother Kristin, father Paul, and sister. Bryce is a four-year Liberty wrestler and has earned two varsity letters and currently serves as captain on this year’s squad. Bryce has expressed that he is determined to pursue certification in fire science with the aim of becoming a firefighter. One of his most cherished wrestling memories was when he pinned his opponent Rancho Bernardo during my junior year at the Liberty Classic and securing a dual victory over the #10 team in California. I firmly believe that I wouldn't be the person I am today without the guidance of God, the support of my coaches, and the love of my parents. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that I hold the record for the highest bench press on the team, an impressive 315lbs.
2023 SENIOR NIGHT Hunter Wells accompanied by his parents George and Denise Wells; Hunter has been a member of the Liberty wrestling family for the last thirteen years since he started as a kindergarten in Lions Wrestling Club. Hunter is a three-year varsity letter winner; currently wrestles 215 for Liberty; returning all-state wrestler and serves as a captain of the team. Hunter’s fondest memories have been the annual team camp in Colorado and bonding with the team. His plans are to attending a vocational trade school to continue developing his skills in welding. Hunter would like to thank the entire coaching staff for the years of support and most importantly a special thank you to his family for always being there and the endless support they have shown throughout his journey.
2023 SENIOR NIGHT Chase Wyatt accompanied by his parents Jennifer and Casey Wyatt and grandparents Deanne and Jim Miller and Patty and John Wyatt. Chase currently wrestles 150 for Liberty; two-year wrestlers and recently earned his varsity letter. Chase’s favorite wrestling memory occurred in Colorado camp between the two camps where he felt a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment competing in 15 matches and hanging out with the team. After high school, Chase has multiple options to explore between attending Northern Arizona University to earn bachelor’s degree and then enlist in the United State Coast Guard to become an officer or attend the United States Coast Guard Academy in the fall. Chase would like to thank his family for their unconditional support of his wrestling career and encouragement at nearly every match he has wrestled. I would also like to thank Coach Brenton and Coach Miller for making me into the best possible wrestler despite his short time in the sport. Coach Miller and Coach Gregorovic thank you for allowing me to get extra work in after practice and on the weekends. It truly means the world to me!