Proviso Press Release

HILLSIDE, IL - In the world of high school wrestling, there are standout athletes, and then there's Proviso West Freshman Jamiel Castleberry. With an impressive freshman season under his belt, Castleberry has emerged as a force to be reckoned with, recently securing the 3A 106lb Sectional Championship and boasting a stellar 30-1 record. As he heads into the IHSA State Tournament, Castleberry holds the number 4 seed in the 106lb bracket, setting the stage for what could be a historic weekend.

Castleberry's journey to the IHSA State Tournament is not only marked by his exceptional skills on the mat but also by his rich wrestling heritage. Hailing from a wrestling family, Castleberry's passion for the sport runs deep. Notably, this year marks the third time in which Castleberry has claimed victory at the Illinois Kids Wrestling Federation (IKWF) State Championship while representing Beat The Streets Bellwood, the feeder wrestling program for Proviso West. Furthermore, in 2023, Castleberry made headlines by upsetting a top-ranked and previously undefeated opponent in the semifinal match of the Dvorak Invitational, ultimately earning a commendable 2nd place overall finish in the tournament.

Wrestling Coach Jahwan Akui is quick to praise Castleberry, describing him as a great ambassador for both Proviso West and the wrestling team. Despite being a freshman, Castleberry has been named captain of the team – a testament to his extraordinary attitude and work ethic. Coach Akui highlights Castleberry's rare ability to contribute significantly to the varsity team's success, helping them secure seven dual meet wins.

Castleberry's confidence is palpable, and with good reason. The young wrestler has set his sights on an ambitious goal: becoming the first Proviso West freshman to clinch an IHSA State Championship. Aiming for this historic feat, Castleberry heads into the 2024 IHSA Wrestling State Finals, scheduled from February 14 to February 17 at the State Farm Center in Champaign, Illinois.

As the wrestling community eagerly awaits the unfolding of this exciting chapter, all eyes will be on Jamiel Castleberry, a rising star determined to etch his name in the record books of Proviso West wrestling history. Proviso is proud!