Louisburg picks up dual wins over Olathe South, Labette County

By Andy Brown
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Updated: January 18, 2022

Andy Brown / Louisburg Sports Zone

Louisburg senior Aidan Cannon went 1-1 at 145 pounds last Wednesday to help the Wildcats get victories over Olathe South and Labette County.

OLATHE — Louisburg wrestling had to face some adversity prior to its double dual last Wednesday at Olathe South.

The Wildcats found out they were going to be open in three weight classes and had juggle their lineup around for another. It wasn’t the best way to enter competition, but Louisburg still came out on top.

Louisburg opened with a 42-30 victory over Labette County and then followed it up with a close win 42-38 win over Olathe South.

“We had some unexpected obstacles pop up, which left us open at 113, 152, and 160 and scrambling at 138 (injuries, illnesses, and weight issues), but the way the team battled was pretty awesome,” Louisburg coach Bobby Bovaird said. “We had several kids go undefeated. We’re still getting lots of great experience and learning as we go.”

Sophomores Noah Cotter (106 pounds), J’Lee Collins (132), junior Kaven Bartlett (126), freshman Ashton Moore (170) and junior Elijah Eslinger (285) each won a pair of matches. Senior Bailey Hallas did the same on the girls side at 109 pounds.

Senior Aidan Cannon also made the move up from junior varsity at 145 pounds, while freshman Jay McCaskill moved down to 138. Cannon got the Wildcats a big victory over Olathe South.

Aiden Barker went 1-1 at 195 pounds and suffered just his second loss of the season. Barker, who is ranked No. 4 in Class 4A, lost to the defending 6A champion, Blake Jouret of Olathe South by technical fall.

It was a night of a lot of positives for the Wildcat program.

“Bartlett was especially focused, and I love where his mindset has been lately,” Bovaird said. “Collins and Cannon both won key matches for us too. Barker had a rough second match against the defending 6A state champion, but I’m proud of how he stepped out there and battled. He never gave up against his opponent.”

The double dual also provided a unique atmosphere as Olathe South set up the mat on their auditorium stage for the competition.

“I’d seen pictures of wrestling duals held in auditoriums on the stage, but those had mostly been collegiate duals,” Bovaird said. “When we got to Olathe South and saw the set-up, I was pretty excited. That was a truly unique experience, and we loved it.”

Louisburg is back on the mats tonight as the Wildcats host Lawrence High for a dual. It will also be Alumni Night for Louisburg. Matches are set to begin at 6 p.m.