Chester Grade School Morning Meeting Friday September 5, 2025
PHOTO 1
Chester Grade School students, teachers, and staff come together in the CGS Gymnasium to start the day Friday September 5, 2025. The event titled, "The Morning Meeting" takes place every other week on Fridays to celebrate successes, present awards, experience a motivational message, and create a sense of community at CGS. Friday September 5 was the first of such meetings and it was enjoyed by all. Students heard from Principal Tim Blair, Assistant Principal, Dr. Kristin Petrowske, School Counselor Kasey Crook, and participated in an exciting "Dance Off" event to get everyone "Fired Up" for the day. That event was led by Danielle Conway, Administrative Assistant. Conway is typically the MC for the event and enjoys getting the students and staff engaged. The next "Morning Meeting" will take place Friday September 19 to "kick-off" the day! Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2
Daniele Conway welcomes students and staff at Chester Grade School to the first "Morning Meeting" of the 2025-2026 school year and gets them ready to take part in her new event titled, "Dance Party". Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 1
Chester Grade School students, teachers, and staff come together in the CGS Gymnasium to start the day Friday September 5, 2025. The event titled, "The Morning Meeting" takes place every other week on Fridays to celebrate successes, present awards, experience a motivational message, and create a sense of community at CGS. Friday September 5 was the first of such meetings and it was enjoyed by all. Students heard from Principal Tim Blair, Assistant Principal, Dr. Kristin Petrowske, School Counselor Kasey Crook, and participated in an exciting "Dance Off" event to get everyone "Fired Up" for the day. That event was led by Danielle Conway, Administrative Assistant. Conway is typically the MC for the event and enjoys getting the students and staff engaged. The next "Morning Meeting" will take place Friday September 19 to "kick-off" the day! Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2
Daniele Conway welcomes students and staff at Chester Grade School to the first "Morning Meeting" of the 2025-2026 school year and gets them ready to take part in her new event titled, "Dance Party". Jim Beers Photo
CGS & CHS SPORTS SCHEDULES
Week of September 8th
See attached graphic.
Week of September 8th
See attached graphic.
CECC: EC, PRE-K & CGS: KINDERGARTEN
No school for CGS: Kindergarten and CECC: EC & Pre-K on Friday, September 12th, 2025
Due to Professional Development
This closure does not apply to other grade levels at CGS or CHS.
Chester Football improves to 2-0 with 53-7 win over Pinckneyville (1 of 2)
Colvis scores five touchdowns; McCartney, Palacio, and Conder each add one TD
BY JIM BEERS
Week 2 was favorable for the Chester High School YellowJackets as they traveled to Pinckneyville for their second win of the early season. The Jackets caged the Panthers, 53-7, to improve to 2-0. In the first two games of the 2025 season Chester has outscored its opponents by the tune of 108-7.
In the process of winning at Pinckneyville, senior running back Ethan Colvis scored five of Chester’s eight touchdowns, three on pass receptions and two on the run. Trey McCartney, a junior, scored Chester’s second touchdown on a 24-yard pass reception and junior TaShawn Palacio scored the Jacket’s 6th TD on a 14-yard pass reception. Landen Conder, a junior, capped off Chester’s scoring with a 2-yard rushing touchdown late in the 4th quarter.
Head Coach Billy Belton said, “I really feel like this was a great team win! Pinckneyville has a good team. They were physical and played hard. Their quarterback, R. Marlow and big wide receiver were really good football players. Our defense did a great job keeping them under control.”
“I loved the way our defense is flying to the ball on every play. All 11 hats on defense are running to the ball to control the opponent’s ability to control the game. A couple of the times against the Panthers the defense did bend, but did not break! We had three red zone stops which were very crucial to the outcome of the game.”
“The linebackers, defensive line, and defensive backs did a great job. TaShawn Palacio was great keeping Pinckneyville’s big wide receiver in check all night. This guy is 6’6” and 210 pounds and TaShawn was on top of him throughout the game! Coach Danny Roth, Defensive Coach, has the defense playing very well.”
There were 15 different defensive players that contributed to the amazing and effective YellowJacket defensive effort in the 46-point advantage over the Pinckneyville Panthers. Together they recorded 27 solo tackles, 24 tackle assists, one quarterback sack and four tackles for a loss (TFL).
Morgan Miners (70), a senior, was the only YellowJacket to record in all four of the defensive stat lines. He hasd two solo tackles, one assist, the only CHS quarterback sack, and one tackle for a loss (TFL). Ethan Colvis led with the most solo tackles with five and the most assists with six. He also added one TFL.
PHOTO 1
CHS senior, Ethan Colvis (25) led the Jackets in their 53-7 win over the Pinckneyville Panthers Friday September 5. Colvis, a 6'1", 195 lb. running back, scored five of Chester's eight touchdowns, three on pass receptions and two on runs. For the night Colvis ran 8 times for 111 yards and two touchdowns. He also caught four passes for 79 yards and three touchdowns. On defense Ethan recorded five solo tackles, 6 tackle assists, and 1 tackle for a loss. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2
CHS senior Tray Peters (16), Chester's quarterback, had a great night against the Panthers from Pinckneyville. He completed 13-of-14 passes for 183 yards and five touchdowns. He also rushed 4 times for 22 yards. On defense Peters had two solo tackles. As a team, Peters orchestrated a 493-yard effort for CHS, 193 passing and 311 rushing. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 3
TaShawn Palacio (11) a 5'11", 148 lb. Wide Receiver, caught a 14-yard pass to end the first half scoring against the Pinckneyville Panthers Friday September 5. That reception led to Chester's final touchdown of the half to give the YellowJackets a 39-7 lead going into the Lockeroom for the popcorn break. In the win, Palacio ran twice for 12 yards and caught one pass for his 14-yard touchdown. On defense, TaShawn recorded 4 solo tackles, 1 assist, and 1 tackle for a loss. Jim Beers Photo
Colvis scores five touchdowns; McCartney, Palacio, and Conder each add one TD
BY JIM BEERS
Week 2 was favorable for the Chester High School YellowJackets as they traveled to Pinckneyville for their second win of the early season. The Jackets caged the Panthers, 53-7, to improve to 2-0. In the first two games of the 2025 season Chester has outscored its opponents by the tune of 108-7.
In the process of winning at Pinckneyville, senior running back Ethan Colvis scored five of Chester’s eight touchdowns, three on pass receptions and two on the run. Trey McCartney, a junior, scored Chester’s second touchdown on a 24-yard pass reception and junior TaShawn Palacio scored the Jacket’s 6th TD on a 14-yard pass reception. Landen Conder, a junior, capped off Chester’s scoring with a 2-yard rushing touchdown late in the 4th quarter.
Head Coach Billy Belton said, “I really feel like this was a great team win! Pinckneyville has a good team. They were physical and played hard. Their quarterback, R. Marlow and big wide receiver were really good football players. Our defense did a great job keeping them under control.”
“I loved the way our defense is flying to the ball on every play. All 11 hats on defense are running to the ball to control the opponent’s ability to control the game. A couple of the times against the Panthers the defense did bend, but did not break! We had three red zone stops which were very crucial to the outcome of the game.”
“The linebackers, defensive line, and defensive backs did a great job. TaShawn Palacio was great keeping Pinckneyville’s big wide receiver in check all night. This guy is 6’6” and 210 pounds and TaShawn was on top of him throughout the game! Coach Danny Roth, Defensive Coach, has the defense playing very well.”
There were 15 different defensive players that contributed to the amazing and effective YellowJacket defensive effort in the 46-point advantage over the Pinckneyville Panthers. Together they recorded 27 solo tackles, 24 tackle assists, one quarterback sack and four tackles for a loss (TFL).
Morgan Miners (70), a senior, was the only YellowJacket to record in all four of the defensive stat lines. He hasd two solo tackles, one assist, the only CHS quarterback sack, and one tackle for a loss (TFL). Ethan Colvis led with the most solo tackles with five and the most assists with six. He also added one TFL.
PHOTO 1
CHS senior, Ethan Colvis (25) led the Jackets in their 53-7 win over the Pinckneyville Panthers Friday September 5. Colvis, a 6'1", 195 lb. running back, scored five of Chester's eight touchdowns, three on pass receptions and two on runs. For the night Colvis ran 8 times for 111 yards and two touchdowns. He also caught four passes for 79 yards and three touchdowns. On defense Ethan recorded five solo tackles, 6 tackle assists, and 1 tackle for a loss. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2
CHS senior Tray Peters (16), Chester's quarterback, had a great night against the Panthers from Pinckneyville. He completed 13-of-14 passes for 183 yards and five touchdowns. He also rushed 4 times for 22 yards. On defense Peters had two solo tackles. As a team, Peters orchestrated a 493-yard effort for CHS, 193 passing and 311 rushing. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 3
TaShawn Palacio (11) a 5'11", 148 lb. Wide Receiver, caught a 14-yard pass to end the first half scoring against the Pinckneyville Panthers Friday September 5. That reception led to Chester's final touchdown of the half to give the YellowJackets a 39-7 lead going into the Lockeroom for the popcorn break. In the win, Palacio ran twice for 12 yards and caught one pass for his 14-yard touchdown. On defense, TaShawn recorded 4 solo tackles, 1 assist, and 1 tackle for a loss. Jim Beers Photo
Chester Early Childhood Center
Public Open House 2025
Saturday, September 13th
1:00-3:00pm
Public Open House 2025
Saturday, September 13th
1:00-3:00pm
CHS TRAPSHOOTING
PARENT INFORMATIONAL MEETING
THURSDAY, SEPT 11th 7PM
PROFESSOR SHARP CAFETERIA
PRIOR SIGNUP NOT REQUIRED
NOT REQUIRED IF YOU ATTENDED 9/4/25 MEETING
PARENT INFORMATIONAL MEETING
THURSDAY, SEPT 11th 7PM
PROFESSOR SHARP CAFETERIA
PRIOR SIGNUP NOT REQUIRED
NOT REQUIRED IF YOU ATTENDED 9/4/25 MEETING
Attention parents of Early Childhood, Pre-K, and Kindergarten students: There will be no school Friday, September 12th due to staff training. Thank you for your understanding.
CHS FOOTBALL GAMENIGHT THEME
Come out and SUPPORT our Chester Yellowjackets
Friday, September 5th at 7:00pm
Quillman Field, Pinckneyville, IL
Hawaiian/Beach Theme
Go Jackets!!!
Come out and SUPPORT our Chester Yellowjackets
Friday, September 5th at 7:00pm
Quillman Field, Pinckneyville, IL
Hawaiian/Beach Theme
Go Jackets!!!
CECC, CGS & CHS 1st EMERGENCY DRILL 2025
We are pleased to announce that the CECC, CGS, and CHS successfully conducted our first Emergency Evacuation Drill for the 2025-2026 school year. This drill was a significant step in enhancing our preparedness and skills for effectively navigating emergency situations.
We extend our gratitude to our students, staff, and administration for their commitment to ensuring the safety of our school and the broader community. Thank you for your cooperation and support.
We are pleased to announce that the CECC, CGS, and CHS successfully conducted our first Emergency Evacuation Drill for the 2025-2026 school year. This drill was a significant step in enhancing our preparedness and skills for effectively navigating emergency situations.
We extend our gratitude to our students, staff, and administration for their commitment to ensuring the safety of our school and the broader community. Thank you for your cooperation and support.
CHS PINK OUT GAME (SHIRT SALE EXTENDED)
OCTOBER 6th, 2025
PINK OUT shirt!
Cost is $15
Pay by cash or check when you pick up your shirt.
Pre-Orders Due by September 10th (EXTENDED)
Email colleenrunge@chester139.com with your order.
Thank you!!
Chester Community:
The Chester City Police Department is conducting training on our campus today. There are no immediate concerns at this time. Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we partner with local law enforcement to ensure the safety and security of our schools.
The Chester City Police Department is conducting training on our campus today. There are no immediate concerns at this time. Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we partner with local law enforcement to ensure the safety and security of our schools.
CHS TRAPSHOOTING
PARENT INFORMATIONAL MEETING
THURSDAY, SEPT 4th 7PM
PROFESSOR SHARP CAFETERIA
PRIOR SIGNUP NOT REQUIRED
PARENT INFORMATIONAL MEETING
THURSDAY, SEPT 4th 7PM
PROFESSOR SHARP CAFETERIA
PRIOR SIGNUP NOT REQUIRED
CHS FASFA NIGHT (STUDENT SERVICES )
Join us on September 30 at 5pm for a short FAFSA presentation and a time to create the FAFSA ID. On October 21, from 5-7, we will use those IDs to fill out the FAFSA form with the help of an ISAC (Illinois Student Assistance Commission) representative. Both events will be held in Sharp Media Center.
CHS TRAFFIC CONCERN
Chester High School would like to request the consideration of our students and the community when driving near the high school. Traffic on Swanwick Street and Hoppe Drive is frequently moving above the posted speed limits. There have been numerous close calls with students. As such, expect to see an increased presence of law enforcement in the vicinity of the high school. Again, we thank you for considering the safety of our students.
CECC, CGS & CHS 2025-2026 STAFF INTRODUCTIONS
CUSD 139 would like to introduce our employees to the community. There are many new faces as well as returning veteran staff. We are looking forward to the start of a great 2025-2026 school year and step forward with students first and the community we serve.
CUSD 139 would like to introduce our employees to the community. There are many new faces as well as returning veteran staff. We are looking forward to the start of a great 2025-2026 school year and step forward with students first and the community we serve.
Chester shuts out East Alton-Wood River, 55-0 (3 of 3)
Six Jackets score a total of 8 touchdowns; Landeros kicks 7 extra-points; defense smothers Oilers
BY JIM BEERS
Chester had the ball most of the final quarter and managed one final touchdown at the 2:52 mark when sophomore quarterback Anthony Keeton ran for 64 yards for a final YellowJacket touchdown. Karim Landeros made his 7th extra-point of the night and the YellowJackets ended the game winning with a shut-out, 55-0.
In the game, the YellowJackets ran just 38 plays. EAWR ran 43 plays. Chester recorded a total of 522 yards (159 passing and 363 rushing) while EAWR recorded just 95 total yards (124 passing and -29 rushing). CHS had 21 first downs compared the EAWR’s six.
The Jackets were 67% on 3rd down efficiency (4-6) while the Oilers were 0% (0-8). On 4th down efficiency, Chester was 100% (1-1) and EAWR was 0% (0-3). The YellowJackets played a clean game with only 4 penalties for 15 yards. EAWR committed seven penalties for 43 yards.
Chester utilized three quarterbacks in the game including Tray Peters, Anthony Keeton, and Alex Blechle. In the passing stat report, Peters completed 7-of-9 passes for 158 yards and 2 touchdowns. Keeton completed completed his only pass of the game for one yard, and Blechle threw one incomplete pass.
In the rushing report, the YellowJackets ran for 363 yards led by Ethan Colvis who ran nine times for a total of 119 yards and two touchdowns. Anthony Keeton scrambled for a 64-yard touchdown on his only carry for the night. Tray Peters ran four times for a total of 45 yards and one touchdown. Alex Blechle ran twice for a total of 44 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Zane Eggemeyer ran twice accumulating 54 yards. Rhett Creason ran twice for a total of six yards and Jaden Ramirez ran once and recorded five yards.
TaShawn led the team in receiving. He caught three passes for a total of 89 yards and one touchdown. Zane Eggemeyer followed and caught two passes for a total of 51 yards and one touchdown. Ethan Colvis caught two passes (14 yards) and Tray McCartney caught one pass (5 yards).
Defense was key to the win as the Jackets held the Oilers scoreless. Kanon Jany, Trey McCartney, and Donnie Sabo led the Jackets. Jany recorded 4 solo tackles, 4 assists, 1 sack and 1 tackle for a loss. McCartney has 3 solos, 2 assists, and 2 tackles for a loss (TFL). Sabo recorded 3 solos, and 1 assist.
Twelve other YellowJackets contributed to the defensive success including Zane Eggemeyer (2 solos, 1 assist), Landen Conder (2 solos, 2 assists), Ethan Colvis (2 solos, 1 TKL), Morgan Miers (2 solos, 1 assist, 2 TKL), Isaac Sims (2 solos, 1 sack, 2 TKL) Alex Blechle (1 solo, 1 assist), TaShawn Palacio (1 solo), Reed Creason (1 solo), Rhett Creason (1 solo, 1 assist), Karim Landeros (1 solo, 2 assists), Caleb Coffey (1 solo, 1 assist), and Brayden Juenger (3 assists).
Karim Landeros kicked off eight times for a total of 291 yards. Reagan Sims had one kickoff for 44 yards.
Head Coach Billy Belton said, “The boys played great! It’s always nice to start off the season, 1-0. I am really proud of the boys and the effort they gave us! The defense played really well. We have a new defensive coordinator. Coach Danny Roth had done a great job with the defense. They have played well all summer.”
“I am also really like the way we played on offense. We got several boys involved with offensive success. There were six boys that scored touchdowns score tonight. This as a great win and I am proud of our players.”
“We now have to get ready for Pinckneyville. They are coming off a big win and they are going to be ready. We will have our hands full this weekend. We will have to play hard-nosed football for all four quarters!”
PHOTO 5
Chester running back, Ethan Colvis (25) a senior, breaks several tackles in his charge down field against the EAWR Oilers. He achieved a first down with 3:01 left to play in the first quarter against the East Alton Wood River Oilers. Four plays later Colvis scored Chester's third touchdown of the first quarter on a 7-yard run. Landeros kicked his third extra-point and the Jackets led, 21-0 at the 1:16 mark in the first period. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 6
Players and fans stood for a moment of silence prior to the playing of the National Anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner", at the CHS vs EAWR football game Friday August 29. The gesture was in memory of those who were affected in the Minnesota school shooting last week. Fans were asked to come together to honor the victims, support their families, and to stand in solidarity with the students, staff, and communities that will be forever impacted by this heartbreaking event. Jim Beers Photo
Six Jackets score a total of 8 touchdowns; Landeros kicks 7 extra-points; defense smothers Oilers
BY JIM BEERS
Chester had the ball most of the final quarter and managed one final touchdown at the 2:52 mark when sophomore quarterback Anthony Keeton ran for 64 yards for a final YellowJacket touchdown. Karim Landeros made his 7th extra-point of the night and the YellowJackets ended the game winning with a shut-out, 55-0.
In the game, the YellowJackets ran just 38 plays. EAWR ran 43 plays. Chester recorded a total of 522 yards (159 passing and 363 rushing) while EAWR recorded just 95 total yards (124 passing and -29 rushing). CHS had 21 first downs compared the EAWR’s six.
The Jackets were 67% on 3rd down efficiency (4-6) while the Oilers were 0% (0-8). On 4th down efficiency, Chester was 100% (1-1) and EAWR was 0% (0-3). The YellowJackets played a clean game with only 4 penalties for 15 yards. EAWR committed seven penalties for 43 yards.
Chester utilized three quarterbacks in the game including Tray Peters, Anthony Keeton, and Alex Blechle. In the passing stat report, Peters completed 7-of-9 passes for 158 yards and 2 touchdowns. Keeton completed completed his only pass of the game for one yard, and Blechle threw one incomplete pass.
In the rushing report, the YellowJackets ran for 363 yards led by Ethan Colvis who ran nine times for a total of 119 yards and two touchdowns. Anthony Keeton scrambled for a 64-yard touchdown on his only carry for the night. Tray Peters ran four times for a total of 45 yards and one touchdown. Alex Blechle ran twice for a total of 44 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Zane Eggemeyer ran twice accumulating 54 yards. Rhett Creason ran twice for a total of six yards and Jaden Ramirez ran once and recorded five yards.
TaShawn led the team in receiving. He caught three passes for a total of 89 yards and one touchdown. Zane Eggemeyer followed and caught two passes for a total of 51 yards and one touchdown. Ethan Colvis caught two passes (14 yards) and Tray McCartney caught one pass (5 yards).
Defense was key to the win as the Jackets held the Oilers scoreless. Kanon Jany, Trey McCartney, and Donnie Sabo led the Jackets. Jany recorded 4 solo tackles, 4 assists, 1 sack and 1 tackle for a loss. McCartney has 3 solos, 2 assists, and 2 tackles for a loss (TFL). Sabo recorded 3 solos, and 1 assist.
Twelve other YellowJackets contributed to the defensive success including Zane Eggemeyer (2 solos, 1 assist), Landen Conder (2 solos, 2 assists), Ethan Colvis (2 solos, 1 TKL), Morgan Miers (2 solos, 1 assist, 2 TKL), Isaac Sims (2 solos, 1 sack, 2 TKL) Alex Blechle (1 solo, 1 assist), TaShawn Palacio (1 solo), Reed Creason (1 solo), Rhett Creason (1 solo, 1 assist), Karim Landeros (1 solo, 2 assists), Caleb Coffey (1 solo, 1 assist), and Brayden Juenger (3 assists).
Karim Landeros kicked off eight times for a total of 291 yards. Reagan Sims had one kickoff for 44 yards.
Head Coach Billy Belton said, “The boys played great! It’s always nice to start off the season, 1-0. I am really proud of the boys and the effort they gave us! The defense played really well. We have a new defensive coordinator. Coach Danny Roth had done a great job with the defense. They have played well all summer.”
“I am also really like the way we played on offense. We got several boys involved with offensive success. There were six boys that scored touchdowns score tonight. This as a great win and I am proud of our players.”
“We now have to get ready for Pinckneyville. They are coming off a big win and they are going to be ready. We will have our hands full this weekend. We will have to play hard-nosed football for all four quarters!”
PHOTO 5
Chester running back, Ethan Colvis (25) a senior, breaks several tackles in his charge down field against the EAWR Oilers. He achieved a first down with 3:01 left to play in the first quarter against the East Alton Wood River Oilers. Four plays later Colvis scored Chester's third touchdown of the first quarter on a 7-yard run. Landeros kicked his third extra-point and the Jackets led, 21-0 at the 1:16 mark in the first period. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 6
Players and fans stood for a moment of silence prior to the playing of the National Anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner", at the CHS vs EAWR football game Friday August 29. The gesture was in memory of those who were affected in the Minnesota school shooting last week. Fans were asked to come together to honor the victims, support their families, and to stand in solidarity with the students, staff, and communities that will be forever impacted by this heartbreaking event. Jim Beers Photo
Chester shuts out East Alton-Wood River, 55-0 (2 of 3)
Six Jackets score a total of 8 touchdowns; Landeros kicks 7 extra-points; defense smothers Oilers
BY JIM BEERS
Chester’s defense held tight to close out the rest of the first period as EAWR committed two penalties and 3-yard loss facing a stiff defensive effort by CHS.
To start the second quarter, on the YellowJacket’s first play from scrimmage, Tray Peters connected with wide receiver TaShawn Palacio for a 54-yard touchdown pass for Chester’s fourth touchdown of the early game. This effort took just 29 seconds. Landeros kicked his 4th extra-point of the night and at the 11:31 mark Chester extended its lead to 28-0.
The Oiler’s next possession was perhaps its best as they managed to keep the ball for nine plays as they achieved their first 1st-and-10 of the night. Chester’s defense, however, went to work and stopped their short-lived drive at the 8:34 mark, forcing a punt.
The Jackets used the next three minutes of the second quarter to run a nine play touchdown attack in which Tray Peters achieved two first downs. On the ninth play of the series, Ethan Colvis found the end zone after a 15-yard touchdown run at the 5:31 mark. Landeros remained perfect for the evening with his 5th successful extra-point kick. CHS led, 35-0.
On their next possession, EAWR started off with a nice Isaiah Brown pass to wide receiver Jasiah Brown for the Oiler’s second first-and-ten of the game. Chester then shut the door with back-to-back tackles for a loss and an EAWR false start penalty, forcing yet another EAWR punt with 1:56 to play in the first half.
Chester began its 7th possession of the game with 1:20 left on the clock to end the first half. On the first play of the series, Zane Eggemeyer caught a Tray Peters pass for 20 yards. Peters then connected with Ethen Colvis for another first and ten. On the third play, Peters hit Eggemeyer again, this time for a 31-yard touchdown with 37.5 seconds left in the first half. Karim Landeros kicked his 6th extra-point of the game as Chester increased its lead to 42-0 to end the first half. The first half took 1 hour and 30 minutes.
With Chester leading by 40 points, the “Mercy Rule” went into effect and the 3rd and 4th quarters were played with a continuous clock. Coach Belton turned the ball over to his bench most of the second half. His reserves played extremely well and managed to score an additional two touchdowns.
East Alton-Wood River kicked to Chester to start the second half. On the kickoff, Zane Eggemeyer made an excellent return giving CHS great field position to start the possession. On the second play from scrimmage, Alex Blechle ran 22 yards for his second touchdown of the game. The extra-point attempt failed. CHS led, 48-0 with 9:04 to play in the 3rd quarter.
EAWR could not manage to get anything moving during the rest of the third quarter and the score remained, 48-0 as the clock sounded to end the third period.
PHOTO 3
Game Officials await the coin toss at the Chester vs East Alton-Wood River game Friday Augst 29. It was opening night/season opener for them as well as it was for all IHSA teams that evening. Pictured in no particular order were Brad Beighly, Mike Moorman, Mike Lutz, Clint Cowan, and Lonnie Bennbrook. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 4
CHS quarterback Tray Peters (16) scrambles for a 19-yarde touchdown at the 6:05 mark of the first quarter Friday August. The Jackets hosted East Alton-Wood River in the season opener for both teams. Peter's TD was Chester's second of the game and helped give the Jackets a 13-0 lead. Karim Landeros kicked the extra point, his second of the evening, to make the score, 14-0. Jim Beers Photo
Six Jackets score a total of 8 touchdowns; Landeros kicks 7 extra-points; defense smothers Oilers
BY JIM BEERS
Chester’s defense held tight to close out the rest of the first period as EAWR committed two penalties and 3-yard loss facing a stiff defensive effort by CHS.
To start the second quarter, on the YellowJacket’s first play from scrimmage, Tray Peters connected with wide receiver TaShawn Palacio for a 54-yard touchdown pass for Chester’s fourth touchdown of the early game. This effort took just 29 seconds. Landeros kicked his 4th extra-point of the night and at the 11:31 mark Chester extended its lead to 28-0.
The Oiler’s next possession was perhaps its best as they managed to keep the ball for nine plays as they achieved their first 1st-and-10 of the night. Chester’s defense, however, went to work and stopped their short-lived drive at the 8:34 mark, forcing a punt.
The Jackets used the next three minutes of the second quarter to run a nine play touchdown attack in which Tray Peters achieved two first downs. On the ninth play of the series, Ethan Colvis found the end zone after a 15-yard touchdown run at the 5:31 mark. Landeros remained perfect for the evening with his 5th successful extra-point kick. CHS led, 35-0.
On their next possession, EAWR started off with a nice Isaiah Brown pass to wide receiver Jasiah Brown for the Oiler’s second first-and-ten of the game. Chester then shut the door with back-to-back tackles for a loss and an EAWR false start penalty, forcing yet another EAWR punt with 1:56 to play in the first half.
Chester began its 7th possession of the game with 1:20 left on the clock to end the first half. On the first play of the series, Zane Eggemeyer caught a Tray Peters pass for 20 yards. Peters then connected with Ethen Colvis for another first and ten. On the third play, Peters hit Eggemeyer again, this time for a 31-yard touchdown with 37.5 seconds left in the first half. Karim Landeros kicked his 6th extra-point of the game as Chester increased its lead to 42-0 to end the first half. The first half took 1 hour and 30 minutes.
With Chester leading by 40 points, the “Mercy Rule” went into effect and the 3rd and 4th quarters were played with a continuous clock. Coach Belton turned the ball over to his bench most of the second half. His reserves played extremely well and managed to score an additional two touchdowns.
East Alton-Wood River kicked to Chester to start the second half. On the kickoff, Zane Eggemeyer made an excellent return giving CHS great field position to start the possession. On the second play from scrimmage, Alex Blechle ran 22 yards for his second touchdown of the game. The extra-point attempt failed. CHS led, 48-0 with 9:04 to play in the 3rd quarter.
EAWR could not manage to get anything moving during the rest of the third quarter and the score remained, 48-0 as the clock sounded to end the third period.
PHOTO 3
Game Officials await the coin toss at the Chester vs East Alton-Wood River game Friday Augst 29. It was opening night/season opener for them as well as it was for all IHSA teams that evening. Pictured in no particular order were Brad Beighly, Mike Moorman, Mike Lutz, Clint Cowan, and Lonnie Bennbrook. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 4
CHS quarterback Tray Peters (16) scrambles for a 19-yarde touchdown at the 6:05 mark of the first quarter Friday August. The Jackets hosted East Alton-Wood River in the season opener for both teams. Peter's TD was Chester's second of the game and helped give the Jackets a 13-0 lead. Karim Landeros kicked the extra point, his second of the evening, to make the score, 14-0. Jim Beers Photo
Chester shuts out East Alton-Wood River, 55-0 (1 of 3)
Six Jackets score a total of 8 touchdowns; Landeros kicks 7 extra-points; defense smothers Oilers
BY JIM BEERS
The Chester High School Football Team opened its 2025 season at home Friday August 29 at W.O. Smith Field. The YellowJackets did it in style, shutting out the East Alton-Wood River Oilers in style by a score of 55-0.
In the process, six offensive players scored a total of eight touchdowns. Two YellowJackets, Alex Blechle, a junior, and Ethan Colvis, a senior, scored two touchdowns apiece. In addition, Tray Peters, a senior quarterback, TaShawn Palacio, a junior wide receiver, Zane Eggemeyer, a junior wide receiver, and Anthony Keeton, a sophomore quarterback, added individual touchdown efforts.
To add the finishing touches to seven-of-the-eight touchdowns, Chester’s dynamite kicker, Karim Landeros, a junior, kicked seven successful extra-points to round out the 48-point touchdown effort.
Helping to complete the successful shut out, CHS recorded 45 tackles, eight which were tackles-for-a-loss, and two quarterback sacks. The Orange Crush Jacket defense also held the Oilers to minus 29 yards rushing, as well as just 124 passing yards.
Chester played a complete game on both sides of the ball in their first appearance of the season. Leading, 42-0 at halftime forced a continuous clock the entire second half of the game, and Head Coach, Billy Belton, played non-starters, many of which were underclassmen, most of the 3rd and 4th quarters.
Three Chester players were highlighted in the Hudl Stats Report including Tray Peters with 158 passing yards and a pair of touchdown scrambles, Ethan Colvis with 119 yards rushing and two trips into the end zone, and TaShawn Palacio with 89 receiving yards and a 54-yard touchdown.
In the first quarter it took Chester just five plays and just under two minutes to get their first score when Alex Blechle scored on a 22-yard run at the 9:55 mark. Karim Landeros kicked the extra-point at CHS led, 7-0.
The Jackets defense held the oilers to 4-and-out forcing a punt. Nine plays later, Tray Peters scored for CHS on a 19-yard quarterback keeper at the 6:05 mark. Landeros kicked the extra-point and CHS led, 14-0.
On East Alton-Wood River’s second possession the Orange Crush defense held the Oilers to four downs and out forcing a second punt. Chester achieved three first and ten’s to open its third possession on efforts by Peters, Ethan Colvis and Zane Eggemeyer. Three plays later, Ethen Colvis scored his first of two touchdowns on a 7-yard run. Landeros kicked his third extra-point and Chester led, 21-0 with 1:16 left in the first quarter.
PHOTO 1
The Football YellowJackets from Chester take the field for the first game of the season Friday August 29 at W.O. Smith Field at CHS. The Jackets shut out the Oilers from East Alton-Wood River, 55-0, to start the season, 1-0. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2
Players and coaches from both Chester and East Alton-Wood River meet together center field with the referees for the traditional coin toss Friday August 29. The YellowJackets hosted the Oilers in Game 1 of the 2025 season. It was the openers for both teams. East Alton-Wood River received the opening kickoff, and Chester received the ball to start the second half. Jim Beers Photo
CGS Staff Member of the Month is BACK for the 2025-2026 School Year. Voting is open via the link below or on the Chester139.com website. Voting ends the 20th of this month at 3:00 pm!
https://forms.gle/mcxWKmqeUfgBtftY6
https://forms.gle/mcxWKmqeUfgBtftY6
Chester Football announces “Practice Player of the Week” and “Special Teams Player of the Week”
Weekly “Special Teams” player of the week sponsored by Korando Heating and Cooling, and “Practice Player of the Week” sponsored by Night Hawk Coal.
BY JIM BEERS
Chester High School Head Football Coach, Billy Belton, has announced that starting this 2025 CHS Football season his program will start a new award program. This program will be weekly and sponsored by Korando Heating and Cooling of Chester, and Night Hawk Coal.
Each week Belton and his staff will select two players to be recognized and honored. The first award will recognize the best “Special Teams” player of the week and the second award will recognize the best “Practice Player” of the week.
Belton is proud to announce award winners for Week 2 of the 2025 YellowJacket Football season.
Korando Heating and Cooling “Special Teams” Player of the Week: #14 Landen Conder
Coach Belton said, “Landen is one of the hardest workers on the team. He is constantly pushing his teammates and making them better players! He field down the field on Special Teams.
“Nighthawk Coal “Practice Player” of the Week: #12 Kanon Jany
Coach Belton said, “Cannon worked at Defensive End and Offensive Line Backer for us on the Scout Team this week. He is always going 100 miles per hour! He helps his teammates get better on every snap!”
Each of the two weekly award winners will receive a special T-shirt provided by the two sponsors. Korando Heating and Cooling and Night Hawk Coal have stepped up to be the 2025 sponsors of the “Special Teams” and “Practice Player” of the Week Awards for Chester Football.
Coach Belton stated, “I would like to give a special THANK YOU to Korando Heating and Cooling and Night Hawk Coal for sponsoring our “Special Teams Player of the Week” program and our “Practice Player of the Week” program.
The awards for Week 2 were announced and presented Thursday August 28 at the weekly team meeting and supper in the CHS Football Offices. This is a weekly event following the Thursday afternoon “Run-Through” practice in preparation for the Friday Night Game of the Week. Congratulations Landen Conder and Cannon Jany for being the Week 2 award winners!
Photo 1
The Chester High School Football Week 2 "Special Teams Players of Week" is Landen Conder, a 5'8, 160 lb., junior Offensive and Defensive lineman. Jim Beers Photo
Photo 2
The Chester High School Football Week 2 "Practice Player of the Week" is Kanon Jany, a 5'6, 175 lb., junior Running Back and Defensive Linebacker. Jim Beers Photo
Weekly “Special Teams” player of the week sponsored by Korando Heating and Cooling, and “Practice Player of the Week” sponsored by Night Hawk Coal.
BY JIM BEERS
Chester High School Head Football Coach, Billy Belton, has announced that starting this 2025 CHS Football season his program will start a new award program. This program will be weekly and sponsored by Korando Heating and Cooling of Chester, and Night Hawk Coal.
Each week Belton and his staff will select two players to be recognized and honored. The first award will recognize the best “Special Teams” player of the week and the second award will recognize the best “Practice Player” of the week.
Belton is proud to announce award winners for Week 2 of the 2025 YellowJacket Football season.
Korando Heating and Cooling “Special Teams” Player of the Week: #14 Landen Conder
Coach Belton said, “Landen is one of the hardest workers on the team. He is constantly pushing his teammates and making them better players! He field down the field on Special Teams.
“Nighthawk Coal “Practice Player” of the Week: #12 Kanon Jany
Coach Belton said, “Cannon worked at Defensive End and Offensive Line Backer for us on the Scout Team this week. He is always going 100 miles per hour! He helps his teammates get better on every snap!”
Each of the two weekly award winners will receive a special T-shirt provided by the two sponsors. Korando Heating and Cooling and Night Hawk Coal have stepped up to be the 2025 sponsors of the “Special Teams” and “Practice Player” of the Week Awards for Chester Football.
Coach Belton stated, “I would like to give a special THANK YOU to Korando Heating and Cooling and Night Hawk Coal for sponsoring our “Special Teams Player of the Week” program and our “Practice Player of the Week” program.
The awards for Week 2 were announced and presented Thursday August 28 at the weekly team meeting and supper in the CHS Football Offices. This is a weekly event following the Thursday afternoon “Run-Through” practice in preparation for the Friday Night Game of the Week. Congratulations Landen Conder and Cannon Jany for being the Week 2 award winners!
Photo 1
The Chester High School Football Week 2 "Special Teams Players of Week" is Landen Conder, a 5'8, 160 lb., junior Offensive and Defensive lineman. Jim Beers Photo
Photo 2
The Chester High School Football Week 2 "Practice Player of the Week" is Kanon Jany, a 5'6, 175 lb., junior Running Back and Defensive Linebacker. Jim Beers Photo
