Carlson top dog on wrestling team

Scott Carlson heads into the second half with a head of steam.

The Wauconda High School wrestler collected a 152-pound title in the recent Rus Erb Invitational at Glenbrook South. In the final, Carlson defeated Wheeling's Leo Hicks 10-5.

Carlson, who is ranked No. 1 in Class AA by Illinois Matmen, figures to do more damage when the Bulldogs host the Wauconda Bad Mark Tournament on Saturday.

The other Bulldog to watch is 119-pound Mike Brown. He's landed a spot on the honorable mention section of Illinois Matmen.

Wauconda closed off its December dual schedule with a 39-32 victory over Zion-Benton.

This might be the most dangerous 6-6 team in the state.

The Bears went 2-2 in the Pekin Tournament, picking up victories over Rockford Boylan (60-52) and Mt. Carmel (42-38). Lake Zurich dropped a 56-52 decision to Peoria Richwoods in the championship bracket and later fell 68-52 to Bartonville Limestone in the battle for fifth place.

Bear guard Connor Mooney earned all-tournament honors by scoring 57 points in 4 games. He was also named Mr. Hustle by the tournament coaches.

Danny Coleman also put together a solid tourney. He scored 57 points and grabbed 22 rebounds.

Lake Zurich, which also relies on the inside work of center Brandon Kunz, will host Lake Forest on Friday (7:30 p.m.) in a key NSC Lake showdown. The Bears must slow down high-scoring Matt Vogrich (a University of Michigan recruit).

These Bears head back to NSC action tonight when the Scouts of Lake Forest visit. On Tuesday, Warren heads for Lake Zurich. Both Lake Division matchups are scheduled for 7 p.m.

Lake Zurich (13-3) did close out play in the very competitive Suburban Holiday Showcase with an impressive victory. The Bears handled a strong Lake Park squad 63-41.

As the Bears head into the second half, the team will rely on the skills of veterans Olivia Allen (headed to Bradley), Lydia Bauer (UW-Green Bay recruit), Audrey Bauer and Coryn Schmit.