Coal City Middle School’s Scholastic Bowl Team emerged victorious as the Sectional Champions for a second year in a row and next up is the Illinois Elementary School Association State Tournament.
The sectional meet was marked by resounding triumphs, as the Coalers defeated Dixon Reagen with an impressive score of 315 to 95, overcame undefeated Bolingbrook Jane Addams with a commanding score of 285 to 170, and outshined the undefeated Joliet Washington with a stellar score of 310 to 185.
Jaiden Leman led the scoring with an outstanding 190 toss-up points, demonstrating remarkable prowess and quick thinking. Additionally, the ferocious Xavier Baer contributed 70 points, Captain Brady Pierson and Abi Rose each added 50 points, and Cool Hand Carson Dearth contributed 40 toss-up points to the three wins, showcasing the depth of talent and dedication within the team.
Jaiden Leman broke his own 2023 record of 610 total toss-up points in a season through regionals with an astounding 890 tossup points leading into the sectional. Adding his 190 tossup points scored at the sectional, he has amassed 1,080 points so far this season. Jaiden also holds the school record for the most points scored in a single match with 90 toss up points toppling the 80 point record held by Kyle Cheever.
Also adding to the team’s success this season are Mel Leman, Ben Manering, Tess Jeschke, Jackson Hollis, Damion Libner, Cameron Haas, Henry Fritz, Kolton Kucera, Tyson Harding, Grace Sitar and Travis Blatzheim.
“Winning the Sectional Championship furthers the team to the Elite 8 State Championship series in Peoria this Friday,” said Coach Jim Hitchcock.
The Coalers' first match in the state tournament is set for 1 p.m. Friday against Greenville. The Coalers will be without Xavier Baer, the team's second-leading scorer, who will be attending his brother's college graduation in Utah. His brother, Luke, was a former CCMS Scholastic Bowl team captain.