Lady Jackets close out regular season with 53-34 win over Sparta (2 of 2)
Perryville edges Chester, 51-48, in final seconds to win
BY JIM BEERS
Chester 53-Sparta 34
The Lady Jackets closed the door on the 2025-26 regular season Thursday night February 12 with a decisive 19-point, 53-34 win over cross-county rivals, the Sparta Lady Bulldogs. It was Game 30 of 30 regular season games and the ladies from “Popeye Town” closed the door in style!
The Lady Jackets buzzed out to a commanding 18-4 run to open the game. In that stinging quarter Lexi Mott had eight points. Jessica Stumpe drained a 3-pointer and a two-pointer for five points and Lillian Diskey knocked down a basket and made a pair of free throws. Marlie Caby put the “icing on the cake” with a free throw. Cierra Starr scored three points and Kaylynn French added a free throw for Sparta’s four points.
The second quarter was much more competitive. Chester outscored Sparta, 14-11, and the first quarter Lady Jacket performance allowed Chester to enjoy a safe, 17-point, 32-15 lead at the halftime break.
In that period, Lady Jacket Jessica Stumpe drained a three pointer and a two pointer for five points. Aubrey Coleman also hit a trey. Marlie Caby was perfect, 2-for-2 at the free throw line. Lexi Mott and Lillian Diskey each sank buckets for two points apiece. For Sparta, Sierra Starr led the Lady Bulldogs with three field goals for six of Sparta’s 11 points. Liberti Johnson drained a 3-pointer and Serenity Richardson hit a field goal.
After the popcorn break, both teams had “slim scoring” 3rd quarters. CHS scored just five points and SHS added three points. Lexi Mott and Marlie Caby each hit buckets and Lillian Diskey was 1-of-4 at the free throw line. For Sparta, Liberti Johnson made the Lady Bulldog’s only field goal and Serenity Richardson made 1-of-2 free throws. Chester led by 19 points, 37-18, after three quarters of play.
Both teams woke up in the 4th quarter and matched each other in the scorebook with an additional 16 points apiece. Chester was paced by Lexi Mott who hit a pair of field goals and went 4-for-4 at the free throw line. Riley Lochhead and Lillian Diskey each hit a basket apiece and each made 1-of-2 free throws. Marlie Caby rounded out the scoring making 2-of-4 free throws.
The Lady Bulldogs had scoring from five different players. Liberti Johnson and Serenity Richardson each hit a field goal apiece and each went 2-for-2 at the free throw line. Sierra Starr and Kaylynn French each added three points apiece by making a basket and a free throw. Finally, Maria Sangurima hit a bucket for Sparta’s final two points.
In the win, Lexi Mott had her second game in-a-row with 20 points to lead all players on either team. Chester had two other players who scored in double figures. Lillian Diskey and Jessica Stumpe each scored 10 points apiece. Marlie Caby added seven points and Riley Lochhead and Aubrey Coleman each scored three points apiece.
For Sparta, Sierra Starr led the Lady Bulldogs with 12 points. She was followed by Liberti Johnson (9), Serenity Richardson (7), Kaylynn French (4), and Maria Sangurima (2).
With the win, The Chester Lady Jackets improved to an overall record of 17-13 to close out the regular season. They also ended the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division with an even record of 5 wins and 5 losses.
The Lady Jackets finished the 2026 portion of the regular season with 10 of their 17 wins. Since January of 2026 the Jackets recorded an overall record of 10 wins and 5 losses. In the 2025 portion of the regular season, Chester had an overall record of 7 wins and 8 losses.
The Lady Jackets are definitely on a positive roll going into the 2026 IHSA Class 2A Regional Tournament! No. 4 Chester will face No. 5 West Frankfort Monday February 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Herrin High School.
Photo 1
Lexi Mott (33) a Chester High School senior, had back-to-back 20-point games to close out the Lady Jackets regular season. She scored 20 points Wednesday February 11 in the game at Perryville, Missouri and 20 points the next night Thursday February 12 when Chester hosted Sparta in the final regular season game of the 2025-26 season. Jim Beers Photo
Perryville edges Chester, 51-48, in final seconds to win
BY JIM BEERS
Chester 53-Sparta 34
The Lady Jackets closed the door on the 2025-26 regular season Thursday night February 12 with a decisive 19-point, 53-34 win over cross-county rivals, the Sparta Lady Bulldogs. It was Game 30 of 30 regular season games and the ladies from “Popeye Town” closed the door in style!
The Lady Jackets buzzed out to a commanding 18-4 run to open the game. In that stinging quarter Lexi Mott had eight points. Jessica Stumpe drained a 3-pointer and a two-pointer for five points and Lillian Diskey knocked down a basket and made a pair of free throws. Marlie Caby put the “icing on the cake” with a free throw. Cierra Starr scored three points and Kaylynn French added a free throw for Sparta’s four points.
The second quarter was much more competitive. Chester outscored Sparta, 14-11, and the first quarter Lady Jacket performance allowed Chester to enjoy a safe, 17-point, 32-15 lead at the halftime break.
In that period, Lady Jacket Jessica Stumpe drained a three pointer and a two pointer for five points. Aubrey Coleman also hit a trey. Marlie Caby was perfect, 2-for-2 at the free throw line. Lexi Mott and Lillian Diskey each sank buckets for two points apiece. For Sparta, Sierra Starr led the Lady Bulldogs with three field goals for six of Sparta’s 11 points. Liberti Johnson drained a 3-pointer and Serenity Richardson hit a field goal.
After the popcorn break, both teams had “slim scoring” 3rd quarters. CHS scored just five points and SHS added three points. Lexi Mott and Marlie Caby each hit buckets and Lillian Diskey was 1-of-4 at the free throw line. For Sparta, Liberti Johnson made the Lady Bulldog’s only field goal and Serenity Richardson made 1-of-2 free throws. Chester led by 19 points, 37-18, after three quarters of play.
Both teams woke up in the 4th quarter and matched each other in the scorebook with an additional 16 points apiece. Chester was paced by Lexi Mott who hit a pair of field goals and went 4-for-4 at the free throw line. Riley Lochhead and Lillian Diskey each hit a basket apiece and each made 1-of-2 free throws. Marlie Caby rounded out the scoring making 2-of-4 free throws.
The Lady Bulldogs had scoring from five different players. Liberti Johnson and Serenity Richardson each hit a field goal apiece and each went 2-for-2 at the free throw line. Sierra Starr and Kaylynn French each added three points apiece by making a basket and a free throw. Finally, Maria Sangurima hit a bucket for Sparta’s final two points.
In the win, Lexi Mott had her second game in-a-row with 20 points to lead all players on either team. Chester had two other players who scored in double figures. Lillian Diskey and Jessica Stumpe each scored 10 points apiece. Marlie Caby added seven points and Riley Lochhead and Aubrey Coleman each scored three points apiece.
For Sparta, Sierra Starr led the Lady Bulldogs with 12 points. She was followed by Liberti Johnson (9), Serenity Richardson (7), Kaylynn French (4), and Maria Sangurima (2).
With the win, The Chester Lady Jackets improved to an overall record of 17-13 to close out the regular season. They also ended the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division with an even record of 5 wins and 5 losses.
The Lady Jackets finished the 2026 portion of the regular season with 10 of their 17 wins. Since January of 2026 the Jackets recorded an overall record of 10 wins and 5 losses. In the 2025 portion of the regular season, Chester had an overall record of 7 wins and 8 losses.
The Lady Jackets are definitely on a positive roll going into the 2026 IHSA Class 2A Regional Tournament! No. 4 Chester will face No. 5 West Frankfort Monday February 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Herrin High School.
Photo 1
Lexi Mott (33) a Chester High School senior, had back-to-back 20-point games to close out the Lady Jackets regular season. She scored 20 points Wednesday February 11 in the game at Perryville, Missouri and 20 points the next night Thursday February 12 when Chester hosted Sparta in the final regular season game of the 2025-26 season. Jim Beers Photo
Lady Jackets close out regular season with 53-34 win over Sparta (1 of 2)
Perryville edges Chester, 51-48, in final seconds to win
BY JIM BEERS
A very long regular season came to an end this week with the Chester High School Lady Jackets playing three games in three days. It was Week 13 of 13 weeks and games 28, 29, and 30 of 30 regular season games.
Chester traveled to Carlyle Tuesday February 10 for Game 28, to battle the Lady Indians in a Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division match-up. CHS fell, 58-27, to a very good Carlyle team that sits in second place in the Cahokia Conference.
Wednesday February 11 The Lady Jackets traveled across state lines to Perryville, Missouri to challenge the Lady Pirates. Chester lost in a close, hard-fought game. The Pirates stole the game, 51-48, for the win.
The Lady Jackets closed out the regular season Thursday February 12 at home in Colbert Memorial Gymnasium on Rocky Bridges Court. It was Game 30 and Chester gave Sparta a 19-point, 53-34, loss to close out the regular season in style. The Jackets take an overall record of 17-13 and a Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division of 5-5 into the Regional Tournament next week.
Perryville 51-Chester 48
Chester and Perryville traded leads all night on the road at Perryville. The Lady Jackets outscored the Lady Pirates by eight points, 14-6, to open the 1st quarter. Lexi Mott led the charge in that opening frame with seven points. Aubrey Coleman added four, Riley Lochhead contributed two free throws and Marlie Caby sank a free throw to round out the first quarter scoring. Fritsche and Amberger each chipped in three-points apiece for Perryville.
The Lady Pirates answered with a devastating 21-5 second quarter to take an 8-point, 27-19, lead into the locker room at halftime. During that run, Porter led with nine points followed by Gremand (7), Robles (2), and Sticht (3). Mott (2), Caby (2), and Lillian Diskey (1) came through with Chester’s five points.
After halftime the Jackets stung the Pirates, 15-14, to trail by just eight points, 41-34, after three quarters of battle. Lexi Mott led the 3rd quarter charge for CHS with seven points. Aubrey Coleman drained a 3-pointer and a deuce for five points, Jessica Stumpe came alive with two points and Lillian Diskey made a free throw for Chester’s 15-point effort.
Perryville’s Porter knocked down eight points for the Pirates, and Amberger, Robes, and Sticht each contributed a basket to round out Perryville’s offense.
Down the stretch, the Jackets outscored the Pirates, 14-10, to almost take the lead, but the final seconds proved to be the deciding factor as Perryville as able to edge the Jackets by just three points, 51-48, to steal the win.
In that 4th quarter race, Mott, Caby, and Stumpe each made two baskets apiece and Aubrey Coleman drained another bucket to total Chester’s 14-point performance. Perryville was paced by Amberger (5), Gremand (3), and Porter (2).
In the slim loss Chester was led by Lexi Mott who scored 20 points to lead all players on either team. She was followed by Aubrey Coleman (11), Marlie Caby (7), Jessica Stumpe (6), and Riley Lochhead and Lillian Diskey with 2 points apiece.
Perryville was paced by Porter who scored 19 points, followed by Gremand (10), Amberger (6), Sticht (5), Robes (4), and Fritsche (3).
Regarding the game, CHS Head Coach, Jeff Mot said, “It was Okay. We had a decent lead, then we fell apart a little. We trailed by 13 points in the 3rd quarter and came back and had it within one point with 30 seconds left in the game.” With only seconds remaining the game, the Pirates managed two more points to secure the win by three points, 51-48.
With the loss, the Lady Jackets fell to 16-13 overall and remained at 4-5 in Cahokia Conference play.
Perryville edges Chester, 51-48, in final seconds to win
BY JIM BEERS
A very long regular season came to an end this week with the Chester High School Lady Jackets playing three games in three days. It was Week 13 of 13 weeks and games 28, 29, and 30 of 30 regular season games.
Chester traveled to Carlyle Tuesday February 10 for Game 28, to battle the Lady Indians in a Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division match-up. CHS fell, 58-27, to a very good Carlyle team that sits in second place in the Cahokia Conference.
Wednesday February 11 The Lady Jackets traveled across state lines to Perryville, Missouri to challenge the Lady Pirates. Chester lost in a close, hard-fought game. The Pirates stole the game, 51-48, for the win.
The Lady Jackets closed out the regular season Thursday February 12 at home in Colbert Memorial Gymnasium on Rocky Bridges Court. It was Game 30 and Chester gave Sparta a 19-point, 53-34, loss to close out the regular season in style. The Jackets take an overall record of 17-13 and a Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division of 5-5 into the Regional Tournament next week.
Perryville 51-Chester 48
Chester and Perryville traded leads all night on the road at Perryville. The Lady Jackets outscored the Lady Pirates by eight points, 14-6, to open the 1st quarter. Lexi Mott led the charge in that opening frame with seven points. Aubrey Coleman added four, Riley Lochhead contributed two free throws and Marlie Caby sank a free throw to round out the first quarter scoring. Fritsche and Amberger each chipped in three-points apiece for Perryville.
The Lady Pirates answered with a devastating 21-5 second quarter to take an 8-point, 27-19, lead into the locker room at halftime. During that run, Porter led with nine points followed by Gremand (7), Robles (2), and Sticht (3). Mott (2), Caby (2), and Lillian Diskey (1) came through with Chester’s five points.
After halftime the Jackets stung the Pirates, 15-14, to trail by just eight points, 41-34, after three quarters of battle. Lexi Mott led the 3rd quarter charge for CHS with seven points. Aubrey Coleman drained a 3-pointer and a deuce for five points, Jessica Stumpe came alive with two points and Lillian Diskey made a free throw for Chester’s 15-point effort.
Perryville’s Porter knocked down eight points for the Pirates, and Amberger, Robes, and Sticht each contributed a basket to round out Perryville’s offense.
Down the stretch, the Jackets outscored the Pirates, 14-10, to almost take the lead, but the final seconds proved to be the deciding factor as Perryville as able to edge the Jackets by just three points, 51-48, to steal the win.
In that 4th quarter race, Mott, Caby, and Stumpe each made two baskets apiece and Aubrey Coleman drained another bucket to total Chester’s 14-point performance. Perryville was paced by Amberger (5), Gremand (3), and Porter (2).
In the slim loss Chester was led by Lexi Mott who scored 20 points to lead all players on either team. She was followed by Aubrey Coleman (11), Marlie Caby (7), Jessica Stumpe (6), and Riley Lochhead and Lillian Diskey with 2 points apiece.
Perryville was paced by Porter who scored 19 points, followed by Gremand (10), Amberger (6), Sticht (5), Robes (4), and Fritsche (3).
Regarding the game, CHS Head Coach, Jeff Mot said, “It was Okay. We had a decent lead, then we fell apart a little. We trailed by 13 points in the 3rd quarter and came back and had it within one point with 30 seconds left in the game.” With only seconds remaining the game, the Pirates managed two more points to secure the win by three points, 51-48.
With the loss, the Lady Jackets fell to 16-13 overall and remained at 4-5 in Cahokia Conference play.
CHS honors the 1965 YellowJacket Football Team (2 of 2)
1965 was the first time in school history that a YellowJacket Football Team won a Conference Championship
BY JM BEERS
The 1965 YellowJackets had an overall record of 8-1 and they were undefeated in the Southwest Egyptian Conference (SWE). That tough conference in 1965 included Chester, Murphysboro, DuQuoin, Nashville, Pinckneyville, Sparta, and Anna-Jonesboro. That season the Jackets also defeated Dupo and Carterville. The only team to defeat Chester was Valle of Ste. Genevieve. Ste. Gen had a 9-1 record during that 1965 season and they were the “team to beat” in the area.
The 1965 team averaged 20.8 points per game and they only allowed 6.1 points per game. In that era, there no IHSA State Football Playoffs or the YellowJackets would have undoubtedly earned as bid to the event.
The 1965 Football YellowJacket Team was the only team to ever win a conference championship until 47 years later when the 2012 Chester High School YellowJackets won the Black Diamond Conference title with their 9-0 record.
In 1994 when the Chester High School Dick Roth Hall of Fame was introduced at CHS, the 1965 Football Team was the first team to be inducted into that prestigious entity.
The 1965 Championship Team had an overall record of 8-1 and an undefeated record of 6-0 in the Southwest Egyptian Conference. The 1965 schedule and corresponding scores and records are as follow:
CHESTER SCORE OPPONENT SCORE OVERALL CONFERENCE
Chester 39 Carterville 0 (1-0) Non-Conf.
Chester 20 Anna Jonesboro 0 (2-0) (1-0)
Chester 27 Pinckneyville 9 (3-0) (2-0)
Chester 7 Valle-Ste. Gen 20 (3-1) Non-Conf.
Chester 13 Nashville 6 (4-1) (3-0)
Chester 13 DuQuoin 6 (5-1) (4-0)
Chester 7 Murphysboro 0 (6-1) (5-0)
Chester 28 Dupo 7 (7-1) Non-Conf.
Chester 33 Sparta 7 (8-1) (6-0)
Members of the 1965 Championship Team had a great time gathering both prior to the CHS Football game and after, as well as sitting together at the game and being recognized during the ceremony. The 1965 team and other groups associated with the Championship season extend wholehearted thanks to everyone at CHS who worked hard to create the anniversary celebration.
1965 was the first time in school history that a YellowJacket Football Team won a Conference Championship
BY JM BEERS
The 1965 YellowJackets had an overall record of 8-1 and they were undefeated in the Southwest Egyptian Conference (SWE). That tough conference in 1965 included Chester, Murphysboro, DuQuoin, Nashville, Pinckneyville, Sparta, and Anna-Jonesboro. That season the Jackets also defeated Dupo and Carterville. The only team to defeat Chester was Valle of Ste. Genevieve. Ste. Gen had a 9-1 record during that 1965 season and they were the “team to beat” in the area.
The 1965 team averaged 20.8 points per game and they only allowed 6.1 points per game. In that era, there no IHSA State Football Playoffs or the YellowJackets would have undoubtedly earned as bid to the event.
The 1965 Football YellowJacket Team was the only team to ever win a conference championship until 47 years later when the 2012 Chester High School YellowJackets won the Black Diamond Conference title with their 9-0 record.
In 1994 when the Chester High School Dick Roth Hall of Fame was introduced at CHS, the 1965 Football Team was the first team to be inducted into that prestigious entity.
The 1965 Championship Team had an overall record of 8-1 and an undefeated record of 6-0 in the Southwest Egyptian Conference. The 1965 schedule and corresponding scores and records are as follow:
CHESTER SCORE OPPONENT SCORE OVERALL CONFERENCE
Chester 39 Carterville 0 (1-0) Non-Conf.
Chester 20 Anna Jonesboro 0 (2-0) (1-0)
Chester 27 Pinckneyville 9 (3-0) (2-0)
Chester 7 Valle-Ste. Gen 20 (3-1) Non-Conf.
Chester 13 Nashville 6 (4-1) (3-0)
Chester 13 DuQuoin 6 (5-1) (4-0)
Chester 7 Murphysboro 0 (6-1) (5-0)
Chester 28 Dupo 7 (7-1) Non-Conf.
Chester 33 Sparta 7 (8-1) (6-0)
Members of the 1965 Championship Team had a great time gathering both prior to the CHS Football game and after, as well as sitting together at the game and being recognized during the ceremony. The 1965 team and other groups associated with the Championship season extend wholehearted thanks to everyone at CHS who worked hard to create the anniversary celebration.
CHS honors the 1965 YellowJacket Football Team (1 of 2)
1965 was the first time in school history that a YellowJacket Football Team won a Conference Championship
BY JM BEERS
A long overdue celebration and recognition took place during the fall of 2025 Chester High School YellowJacket Football season. During one of the CHS home football games, Chester High School recognized and honored the Class of 1965 Football Team. That 1965 team was the first team in Chester High School history to win a conference football championship!
In 1965 Chester High School was a member of the Southwest Egyptian Conference (SEC) and the 1965 team was the first team in CHS history to secure a conference title. The 2025 CHS Football season at Chester marked the 60-year anniversary for the 1965 accomplishment.
Thanks to the efforts of numerous current Chester High School administrators, staff and coaches the 2025 tribute became a possibility. Those organizers and implementers included Jeremy Blechle, Current CHS Principal, Jenny Cartwright, current CHS Athletic Director, Billy Belton, current CHS Head Football Coach, Alison Heuer, current CHS Secretary, and Dwight Lochhead, current CHS Technology Advisor.
The 1965 Football Team included Andy Schuwerk, So. QB, Mike Usher, So. QB, John Greager, Sr. QB, Don Lowry, So. HB, Nick Wolff, Sr. HB, Joel Thornton, Sr. HB, Don Schopfer, Jr. HB, Dennis Berry, Sr. G, Larry Eggemeyer, So. E, Mike Howie, Jr. FB, Larry Dauer, Sr. WB, Bob Herschbach, Sr. WR, Steve Paulus, Jr. WB, Bill Haynes, Jr. WB, Larry Bierman, Jr. FB, Russ Rader, Sr. FB, Jimmy Carter, Jr. C, Steve Springer, Jr. C, Darrel Ehlers, Sr. C, Larry Surman, Sr. G, Bill Cushman, Jr. G, Mike Korando, Sr. G, Mike Bond, Jr. G, Robert Farmer, Jr. G, Terry Gremmels, Sr. G, Rich Hartenberger, So. FB, Donnie Petrowske, So. T, David Mueller, Jr. C, Mark Colvis, Jr. T, Kenny Taggert, Jr. T, Gary Jolly, So. T, Kenny Rathert, Sr. T, Jerry Bierman, Sr. T, Ed Hornberger, So. T, mike McLean, Sr. E, Terry Bollman, Jr. E, Terry Brown, Jr. E, Berry Smith, Jr. E, Mike Frazer, Sr. E, John Gordon, So. E, Bruce Clayton, Jr. E, Mark McLean, So. E, and Brian Thies, So. E.
The 1965 CHS Football Coaches included Jerry Germain, Head Coach, Jim Stuart, Assistant Coach, and W.O. Smith, Line Coach & Freshman-Sophomore Coach. Steve Wright and Mike Herrell were the two Football Managers. Team Captains were Kike Korando, Joel Thornton, and Larry Surman.
The Chester High School Varsity Cheerleaders included Joyce Clevenger, Joselyn Hargis, Shelia Linton, Gayle Lowery, Susan Preusse, Patsy Smith, Patty Sweany, and Lynn Weber.
On the night of the tribute at the current CHS Football game, Stadium Announcer Luke Lochhead, boldly announced during the pre-game festivities, “Attention everyone! This evening we are thrilled to welcome members of the 1965 YellowJacket Football Team. During halftime, we will honor them with a brief presentation recognizing their achievements from 60 years ago”.
Immediately following the traditional arrival of the current Chester High School Football Team and their “run-out” onto W.O. Smith Field for pre-game activities, The 2025 Football YellowJackets ran over to where the 1965 Football Champions were seated in the CHS Football Grandstands and “tipped their hats” to those formers players.
Stadium Announcer, Luke Lochhead then proclaimed. “On behalf of the YellowJackets Football Team and the CHS Community, we proudly honor you with a special “Tip of Our Cap” from our own Chester YellowJackets. Your legacy inspires us all!”
Immediately after the last notes were played by the Chester High School Marching YellowJackets during their halftime show, which was directed by Steve Colonel, CHS Band Director, Marching YellowJackets Stadium Announcer, Dr. Jim Beers, gave a brief summary of the 1965 SEC Championship Football Team’s accomplishments.
Beers said, “We have with us this evening, members of the 1965 YellowJacket Football Team. They are with us tonight celebrating the 60th Anniversary of winning the school’s first outright conference championship!” Beers then proceeded to give a brief list of their championship season’s accomplishments. Some of those very impressive facts included the following items.
1965 was the first time in school history that a YellowJacket Football Team won a Conference Championship
BY JM BEERS
A long overdue celebration and recognition took place during the fall of 2025 Chester High School YellowJacket Football season. During one of the CHS home football games, Chester High School recognized and honored the Class of 1965 Football Team. That 1965 team was the first team in Chester High School history to win a conference football championship!
In 1965 Chester High School was a member of the Southwest Egyptian Conference (SEC) and the 1965 team was the first team in CHS history to secure a conference title. The 2025 CHS Football season at Chester marked the 60-year anniversary for the 1965 accomplishment.
Thanks to the efforts of numerous current Chester High School administrators, staff and coaches the 2025 tribute became a possibility. Those organizers and implementers included Jeremy Blechle, Current CHS Principal, Jenny Cartwright, current CHS Athletic Director, Billy Belton, current CHS Head Football Coach, Alison Heuer, current CHS Secretary, and Dwight Lochhead, current CHS Technology Advisor.
The 1965 Football Team included Andy Schuwerk, So. QB, Mike Usher, So. QB, John Greager, Sr. QB, Don Lowry, So. HB, Nick Wolff, Sr. HB, Joel Thornton, Sr. HB, Don Schopfer, Jr. HB, Dennis Berry, Sr. G, Larry Eggemeyer, So. E, Mike Howie, Jr. FB, Larry Dauer, Sr. WB, Bob Herschbach, Sr. WR, Steve Paulus, Jr. WB, Bill Haynes, Jr. WB, Larry Bierman, Jr. FB, Russ Rader, Sr. FB, Jimmy Carter, Jr. C, Steve Springer, Jr. C, Darrel Ehlers, Sr. C, Larry Surman, Sr. G, Bill Cushman, Jr. G, Mike Korando, Sr. G, Mike Bond, Jr. G, Robert Farmer, Jr. G, Terry Gremmels, Sr. G, Rich Hartenberger, So. FB, Donnie Petrowske, So. T, David Mueller, Jr. C, Mark Colvis, Jr. T, Kenny Taggert, Jr. T, Gary Jolly, So. T, Kenny Rathert, Sr. T, Jerry Bierman, Sr. T, Ed Hornberger, So. T, mike McLean, Sr. E, Terry Bollman, Jr. E, Terry Brown, Jr. E, Berry Smith, Jr. E, Mike Frazer, Sr. E, John Gordon, So. E, Bruce Clayton, Jr. E, Mark McLean, So. E, and Brian Thies, So. E.
The 1965 CHS Football Coaches included Jerry Germain, Head Coach, Jim Stuart, Assistant Coach, and W.O. Smith, Line Coach & Freshman-Sophomore Coach. Steve Wright and Mike Herrell were the two Football Managers. Team Captains were Kike Korando, Joel Thornton, and Larry Surman.
The Chester High School Varsity Cheerleaders included Joyce Clevenger, Joselyn Hargis, Shelia Linton, Gayle Lowery, Susan Preusse, Patsy Smith, Patty Sweany, and Lynn Weber.
On the night of the tribute at the current CHS Football game, Stadium Announcer Luke Lochhead, boldly announced during the pre-game festivities, “Attention everyone! This evening we are thrilled to welcome members of the 1965 YellowJacket Football Team. During halftime, we will honor them with a brief presentation recognizing their achievements from 60 years ago”.
Immediately following the traditional arrival of the current Chester High School Football Team and their “run-out” onto W.O. Smith Field for pre-game activities, The 2025 Football YellowJackets ran over to where the 1965 Football Champions were seated in the CHS Football Grandstands and “tipped their hats” to those formers players.
Stadium Announcer, Luke Lochhead then proclaimed. “On behalf of the YellowJackets Football Team and the CHS Community, we proudly honor you with a special “Tip of Our Cap” from our own Chester YellowJackets. Your legacy inspires us all!”
Immediately after the last notes were played by the Chester High School Marching YellowJackets during their halftime show, which was directed by Steve Colonel, CHS Band Director, Marching YellowJackets Stadium Announcer, Dr. Jim Beers, gave a brief summary of the 1965 SEC Championship Football Team’s accomplishments.
Beers said, “We have with us this evening, members of the 1965 YellowJacket Football Team. They are with us tonight celebrating the 60th Anniversary of winning the school’s first outright conference championship!” Beers then proceeded to give a brief list of their championship season’s accomplishments. Some of those very impressive facts included the following items.
CHS FREE BASKETBALL BROADCAST (HERRIN AWAY GAME)
Today, Chester High School will host our first away game, multiplatform basketball game broadcast, streaming simultaneously on Hudl, YouTube, and Facebook from Herrin, IL.
For your convenience, QR codes are included in the attached graphics, and the links are provided below. We invite you to join us for this exciting event!|
Hudl: https://fan.hudl.com/usa/il/chester/organization/14289/chester-high-school
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChesterHighSchoolIL
Facebook: Chester Community Unit School Dist No 139
In the event of any issues with the Facebook Live feed, we encourage you to utilize one of the alternative platforms available. Thank you for your understanding.
TRANSMISIÓN GRATUITA DE BALONCESTO DE CHS (PARTIDO DE VISITA EN HERRIN)
Hoy, Chester High School transmitirá nuestro primer partido de visita con una transmisión multiplataforma de baloncesto, que se emitirá simultáneamente en Hudl, YouTube y Facebook desde Herrin, IL.
Para su conveniencia, los códigos QR están incluidos en los gráficos adjuntos y los enlaces se proporcionan a continuación. ¡Los invitamos a acompañarnos en este emocionante evento!
Hudl: https://fan.hudl.com/usa/il/chester/organization/14289/chester-high-school
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChesterHighSchoolIL
Facebook: Chester Community Unit School Dist No 139
En caso de presentarse algún problema con la transmisión en vivo de Facebook, le recomendamos utilizar una de las plataformas alternativas disponibles. Gracias por su comprensión.
Today, Chester High School will host our first away game, multiplatform basketball game broadcast, streaming simultaneously on Hudl, YouTube, and Facebook from Herrin, IL.
For your convenience, QR codes are included in the attached graphics, and the links are provided below. We invite you to join us for this exciting event!|
Hudl: https://fan.hudl.com/usa/il/chester/organization/14289/chester-high-school
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChesterHighSchoolIL
Facebook: Chester Community Unit School Dist No 139
In the event of any issues with the Facebook Live feed, we encourage you to utilize one of the alternative platforms available. Thank you for your understanding.
TRANSMISIÓN GRATUITA DE BALONCESTO DE CHS (PARTIDO DE VISITA EN HERRIN)
Hoy, Chester High School transmitirá nuestro primer partido de visita con una transmisión multiplataforma de baloncesto, que se emitirá simultáneamente en Hudl, YouTube y Facebook desde Herrin, IL.
Para su conveniencia, los códigos QR están incluidos en los gráficos adjuntos y los enlaces se proporcionan a continuación. ¡Los invitamos a acompañarnos en este emocionante evento!
Hudl: https://fan.hudl.com/usa/il/chester/organization/14289/chester-high-school
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChesterHighSchoolIL
Facebook: Chester Community Unit School Dist No 139
En caso de presentarse algún problema con la transmisión en vivo de Facebook, le recomendamos utilizar una de las plataformas alternativas disponibles. Gracias por su comprensión.
CHS: POETRY OUT LOUD REGIONAL COMPETITION
On Saturday February 14th, Chester High School students Revolution Chaput and Brodie M. Mattingly competed in the regional Poetry Out Loud competition at Artspace 304 in Carbondale, Illinois.
The Southern Illinois region includes students from Freeburg to Metropolis, enrolled in grades 9 - 12. Students selected three poems to recite from memory. Potential poems are curated by The Illinois Art Council, and this year all poems represented the excellence and history of The United States in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
After three rounds, judges awarded CHS junior Revolution Chaput with the second place title, and Freeburg Community High School student Rebekah Kreighbaum won first place.
Revolution and Rebekah will compete against other Illinois high school regional winners in the state round of Poetry Out Loud on March 2nd in Springfield, Illinois.
*Two winners from Illinois will advance to a national competition, held in Washington, D.C., this April.
CHS: COMPETENCIA REGIONAL DE POETRY OUT LOUD
El sábado 14 de febrero, los estudiantes de Chester High School, Revolution Chaput y Brodie M. Mattingly, compitieron en la competencia regional de Poetry Out Loud en Artspace 304 en Carbondale, Illinois.
La región del sur de Illinois incluye estudiantes desde Freeburg hasta Metropolis, inscritos en los grados 9 a 12. Los estudiantes seleccionaron tres poemas para recitar de memoria. Los poemas posibles son seleccionados por el Consejo de las Artes de Illinois, y este año todos los poemas representaron la excelencia y la historia de los Estados Unidos en celebración del 250.º aniversario de la nación.
Después de tres rondas, los jueces otorgaron a la estudiante de tercer año de CHS, Revolution Chaput, el título de segundo lugar, y la estudiante de Freeburg Community High School, Rebekah Kreighbaum, obtuvo el primer lugar.
Revolution y Rebekah competirán contra otros ganadores regionales de escuelas secundarias de Illinois en la ronda estatal de Poetry Out Loud el 2 de marzo en Springfield, Illinois.
Dos ganadores de Illinois avanzarán a una competencia nacional, que se llevará a cabo en Washington, D.C., este abril.
On Saturday February 14th, Chester High School students Revolution Chaput and Brodie M. Mattingly competed in the regional Poetry Out Loud competition at Artspace 304 in Carbondale, Illinois.
The Southern Illinois region includes students from Freeburg to Metropolis, enrolled in grades 9 - 12. Students selected three poems to recite from memory. Potential poems are curated by The Illinois Art Council, and this year all poems represented the excellence and history of The United States in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
After three rounds, judges awarded CHS junior Revolution Chaput with the second place title, and Freeburg Community High School student Rebekah Kreighbaum won first place.
Revolution and Rebekah will compete against other Illinois high school regional winners in the state round of Poetry Out Loud on March 2nd in Springfield, Illinois.
*Two winners from Illinois will advance to a national competition, held in Washington, D.C., this April.
CHS: COMPETENCIA REGIONAL DE POETRY OUT LOUD
El sábado 14 de febrero, los estudiantes de Chester High School, Revolution Chaput y Brodie M. Mattingly, compitieron en la competencia regional de Poetry Out Loud en Artspace 304 en Carbondale, Illinois.
La región del sur de Illinois incluye estudiantes desde Freeburg hasta Metropolis, inscritos en los grados 9 a 12. Los estudiantes seleccionaron tres poemas para recitar de memoria. Los poemas posibles son seleccionados por el Consejo de las Artes de Illinois, y este año todos los poemas representaron la excelencia y la historia de los Estados Unidos en celebración del 250.º aniversario de la nación.
Después de tres rondas, los jueces otorgaron a la estudiante de tercer año de CHS, Revolution Chaput, el título de segundo lugar, y la estudiante de Freeburg Community High School, Rebekah Kreighbaum, obtuvo el primer lugar.
Revolution y Rebekah competirán contra otros ganadores regionales de escuelas secundarias de Illinois en la ronda estatal de Poetry Out Loud el 2 de marzo en Springfield, Illinois.
Dos ganadores de Illinois avanzarán a una competencia nacional, que se llevará a cabo en Washington, D.C., este abril.
CECC, CGS, CHS: STAFF TRAINING NOTICE
CUSD 139 staff from CECC, CGS, and CHS will be participating in a scheduled training at CHS on Friday, February 13. Municipal and County law enforcement personnel will also be involved, along with possible participation from officers representing neighboring jurisdictions.
This collaborative training is part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe, secure, and supportive environment for our students, staff, and community.
CECC, CGS, CHS: AVISO DE CAPACITACIÓN DEL PERSONAL
El personal de CUSD 139 de CECC, CGS y CHS participará en una capacitación programada en CHS el viernes 13 de febrero. El personal de las fuerzas del orden municipales y del condado también participará, junto con la posible participación de oficiales de jurisdicciones vecinas.
Esta capacitación colaborativa forma parte de nuestro compromiso continuo de mantener un entorno seguro, protegido y de apoyo para nuestros estudiantes, personal y comunidad.
CUSD 139 staff from CECC, CGS, and CHS will be participating in a scheduled training at CHS on Friday, February 13. Municipal and County law enforcement personnel will also be involved, along with possible participation from officers representing neighboring jurisdictions.
This collaborative training is part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe, secure, and supportive environment for our students, staff, and community.
CECC, CGS, CHS: AVISO DE CAPACITACIÓN DEL PERSONAL
El personal de CUSD 139 de CECC, CGS y CHS participará en una capacitación programada en CHS el viernes 13 de febrero. El personal de las fuerzas del orden municipales y del condado también participará, junto con la posible participación de oficiales de jurisdicciones vecinas.
Esta capacitación colaborativa forma parte de nuestro compromiso continuo de mantener un entorno seguro, protegido y de apoyo para nuestros estudiantes, personal y comunidad.
CHS VALENTINES DAY PBIS (11:30am DISMISSAL)
Tomorrow is our Valentine’s Day–Themed PBIS Celebration Day! We are looking forward to a fun and positive way to recognize student success.
Please note that tomorrow will be an 11:30 a.m. dismissal.
CCSI Students:
You may choose to attend either the PBIS Celebration or your regularly scheduled Friday CCSI program.
Workforce & Opt-Out Students:
There will be no Workforce or Opt-Out periods tomorrow. Attendance is required for the full school day.
All CCSI/Opt-Out/Workforce need to check in at the Media center in the morning tomorrow.
We hope everyone is excited and ready to enjoy a great PBIS Celebration Day!
DÍA DE PBIS DE SAN VALENTÍN DE CHS (SALIDA A LAS 11:30 a.m.)
¡Mañana es nuestro Día de Celebración de PBIS con temática de San Valentín! Estamos entusiasmados por reconocer el éxito estudiantil de una manera divertida y positiva.
Por favor, tenga en cuenta que mañana la salida será a las 11:30 a.m.
Estudiantes de CCSI:
Pueden elegir asistir a la Celebración de PBIS o a su programa regular de CCSI de los viernes.
Estudiantes de Workforce y Opt-Out:
Mañana no habrá períodos de Workforce ni de Opt-Out. La asistencia es obligatoria durante todo el día escolar.
Todos los estudiantes de CCSI/Opt-Out/Workforce deben registrarse en el Centro de Medios por la mañana.
¡Esperamos que todos estén emocionados y listos para disfrutar un excelente Día de Celebración de PBIS!
CHS TRAPSHOOTING SPIRIT WEAR ONLINE STORE
Show your support for our Chester High School Yellow Jacket Trapshooting program with gear from the our Spirit Wear Store:
https://chestertrapshooting26.itemorder.com/
TIENDA EN LÍNEA DE ROPA DE ESPÍRITU DE CHS – TRAPSHOOTING
¡Demuestre su apoyo a nuestro programa de Trapshooting de los Yellow Jackets de Chester High School con artículos de nuestra tienda de ropa de espíritu escolar!
https://chestertrapshooting26.itemorder.com/
Show your support for our Chester High School Yellow Jacket Trapshooting program with gear from the our Spirit Wear Store:
https://chestertrapshooting26.itemorder.com/
TIENDA EN LÍNEA DE ROPA DE ESPÍRITU DE CHS – TRAPSHOOTING
¡Demuestre su apoyo a nuestro programa de Trapshooting de los Yellow Jackets de Chester High School con artículos de nuestra tienda de ropa de espíritu escolar!
https://chestertrapshooting26.itemorder.com/
CHS SOFTBALL SPIRIT WEAR ONLINE STORE
Show your support for our Chester High School Yellow Jacket Softball program with gear from the our Spirit Wear Store:
https://stores.inksoft.com/WS132384
TIENDA EN LÍNEA DE ROPA DE ESPÍRITU DE CHS – SÓFTBOL
¡Demuestre su apoyo a nuestro programa de sóftbol de los Yellow Jackets de Chester High School con artículos de nuestra tienda de ropa de espíritu escolar!
https://stores.inksoft.com/WS132384
Show your support for our Chester High School Yellow Jacket Softball program with gear from the our Spirit Wear Store:
https://stores.inksoft.com/WS132384
TIENDA EN LÍNEA DE ROPA DE ESPÍRITU DE CHS – SÓFTBOL
¡Demuestre su apoyo a nuestro programa de sóftbol de los Yellow Jackets de Chester High School con artículos de nuestra tienda de ropa de espíritu escolar!
https://stores.inksoft.com/WS132384
CHS Winter Senior Night Information for Boys Basketball, Cheer, Band and Dance
See attached graphic.
Información de la Noche de Seniors de Invierno de CHS para Baloncesto Masculino, Porristas, Banda y Danza.
Vea el gráfico adjunto.
See attached graphic.
Información de la Noche de Seniors de Invierno de CHS para Baloncesto Masculino, Porristas, Banda y Danza.
Vea el gráfico adjunto.
CHS Girls' Basketball Regional Information. Good Luck Ladies!!
Información Regional del Baloncesto Femenino de CHS. ¡Buena suerte, chicas!
Información Regional del Baloncesto Femenino de CHS. ¡Buena suerte, chicas!
CHS: JANUARY PBIS STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
We are pleased to recognize our January PBIS Students of the Month. These students have been acknowledged by our faculty for exemplifying this month's character trait: SELF-DISCIPLINE. Our school community is committed to fostering positive character traits that contribute to a constructive learning environment.
Thank you for your continued support.
CHS: ESTUDIANTES PBIS DEL MES DE ENERO
Nos complace reconocer a nuestros Estudiantes PBIS del Mes de enero. Estos estudiantes han sido reconocidos por nuestro personal docente por ejemplificar el rasgo de carácter de este mes: AUTODISCIPLINA. Nuestra comunidad escolar está comprometida con el fomento de rasgos de carácter positivos que contribuyen a un ambiente de aprendizaje constructivo.
Gracias por su continuo apoyo.
We are pleased to recognize our January PBIS Students of the Month. These students have been acknowledged by our faculty for exemplifying this month's character trait: SELF-DISCIPLINE. Our school community is committed to fostering positive character traits that contribute to a constructive learning environment.
Thank you for your continued support.
CHS: ESTUDIANTES PBIS DEL MES DE ENERO
Nos complace reconocer a nuestros Estudiantes PBIS del Mes de enero. Estos estudiantes han sido reconocidos por nuestro personal docente por ejemplificar el rasgo de carácter de este mes: AUTODISCIPLINA. Nuestra comunidad escolar está comprometida con el fomento de rasgos de carácter positivos que contribuyen a un ambiente de aprendizaje constructivo.
Gracias por su continuo apoyo.
CHS: PBIS JACKET SHOUT-OUTS WEEKS 18-19
Chester High School is pleased to acknowledge the recipients of our weeks 18-19 of PBIS Jacket Shout-Outs. Jacket Shout-Outs provide a platform for teachers to commend students who have made positive contributions to our learning community. We extend our gratitude to these students for their exemplary efforts and for serving as role models for their peers. Thank you!
CHS: RECONOCIMIENTOS PBIS JACKET – SEMANAS 18-19
Chester High School se complace en reconocer a los estudiantes que recibieron los reconocimientos PBIS Jacket correspondientes a las semanas 18 y 19. Los Jacket Shout-Outs brindan una plataforma para que los maestros feliciten a los estudiantes que han hecho contribuciones positivas a nuestra comunidad de aprendizaje. Extendemos nuestro agradecimiento a estos estudiantes por sus esfuerzos ejemplares y por servir como modelos a seguir para sus compañeros. ¡Gracias!
Chester High School is pleased to acknowledge the recipients of our weeks 18-19 of PBIS Jacket Shout-Outs. Jacket Shout-Outs provide a platform for teachers to commend students who have made positive contributions to our learning community. We extend our gratitude to these students for their exemplary efforts and for serving as role models for their peers. Thank you!
CHS: RECONOCIMIENTOS PBIS JACKET – SEMANAS 18-19
Chester High School se complace en reconocer a los estudiantes que recibieron los reconocimientos PBIS Jacket correspondientes a las semanas 18 y 19. Los Jacket Shout-Outs brindan una plataforma para que los maestros feliciten a los estudiantes que han hecho contribuciones positivas a nuestra comunidad de aprendizaje. Extendemos nuestro agradecimiento a estos estudiantes por sus esfuerzos ejemplares y por servir como modelos a seguir para sus compañeros. ¡Gracias!
CHS Football recognizes four 2025 YellowJackets for record-setting season ( 2 of 2)
Tray Peters, Ethan Colvis, TaShawn Palacio and Karim Landeros receive honors at CHS Basketball game
BY JIM BEERS
TaShawn Palacio
TaShawn Palacio, a junior, had the greatest receiving season in the history of Chester High School. He broke two records set by former YellowJacket receiver Jim Howie back in 1986. Palacio set new records for “Single-season receiving yards” and “Single-season receiving touchdowns”.
At CHS in 2025, TaShawn earned the team award for being the YellowJackets’ “Offensive Weapon”. Coach Billy Belton said, “TaShawn is the player that every opponent has to prepare for. If they don’t stop him, they can’t stop the YellowJacket team!”
TaShawn earned the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division “All-Conference” title for both Defensive Back and Wing Back. His new CHS school records included “Most Single-Season Receiving Yards” with 900 yards and “Single-Season Receiving Touchdowns” with 13 Touchdowns. He ended 2025 with 44 overall receptions and averaged 20.45 yards per reception.
Palacio also earned the “All-South Award” and finished 19th in the State of Illinois in Class 2A in Receiving. Just as impressive is the fact that he further earned recognition for his academic accomplishments having earned the coveted “All-State Academic Award”. For his sports prowess, TaShawn was honored by being named as a 2025 “All-State Honorable Mention” recipient for his receiving skills and accomplishments.
Karim Landeros
Finally, Karim Landeros, a junior, also broke two school records in the 2025 season. Karim broke the CHS record for the number of “Yards per Punt” with an average of 40.6 yards per punt. The previous record was set by Karim’s brother, Jared Landeros, back in 2021. Jared had a record of 39 yards per punt.
Karim also set a new Chester High School record for “Most All-Time PAT’s. He finished 2025 with a total of 98 PAT’s. The previous record was set by Curt Owen. Karim earned “All-Conference” honors from the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division for his skills on the Defensive Line. Finally, Landeros earned the honor of being selected to the 2025 “All-State Academic Team” for his academic accomplishments at CHS.
PHOTO 3
CHS junior football player, TaShawn Palacio poses for a photo just after CHS Head Football Coach, Billy Belton presented him with a commemorative football for his 2025 record-breaking season in 2025. Palacio set a new Single Season record of 900 Receiving Yards as well as a new school record of Single-Season Receiving Touchdowns with 13. He also finished 19th in the State of Illinois in Class 2A for his receiving skills.
PHOTO 4
Head Chester Football Coach, Billy Belton, presents Karim Landeros, a junior, with a commemorative football, for his record-breaking 2025 season at CHS. Landeros set a new record for Single-Season Punting with 40.6 Yards Per Punt. In addition, Karim set a second record of 98 PAT's, the All Time Leader in PATs at Chester High School.
PHOTO 5
All four Chester High School Record-Breakers for the 2025 CHS YellowJacket Football Season include (left to right) Ethan Colvis, Tray Peters, TaShawn Palacio, and Karim Landeros. All four were recognized and honored at a special ceremony Friday February 6 at a Chester High Schol basketball game when Chester hosted Red Bud. All four are holding their commemorative footballs they received from CHS Head Coach Bill Belton at the ceremony.
Tray Peters, Ethan Colvis, TaShawn Palacio and Karim Landeros receive honors at CHS Basketball game
BY JIM BEERS
TaShawn Palacio
TaShawn Palacio, a junior, had the greatest receiving season in the history of Chester High School. He broke two records set by former YellowJacket receiver Jim Howie back in 1986. Palacio set new records for “Single-season receiving yards” and “Single-season receiving touchdowns”.
At CHS in 2025, TaShawn earned the team award for being the YellowJackets’ “Offensive Weapon”. Coach Billy Belton said, “TaShawn is the player that every opponent has to prepare for. If they don’t stop him, they can’t stop the YellowJacket team!”
TaShawn earned the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division “All-Conference” title for both Defensive Back and Wing Back. His new CHS school records included “Most Single-Season Receiving Yards” with 900 yards and “Single-Season Receiving Touchdowns” with 13 Touchdowns. He ended 2025 with 44 overall receptions and averaged 20.45 yards per reception.
Palacio also earned the “All-South Award” and finished 19th in the State of Illinois in Class 2A in Receiving. Just as impressive is the fact that he further earned recognition for his academic accomplishments having earned the coveted “All-State Academic Award”. For his sports prowess, TaShawn was honored by being named as a 2025 “All-State Honorable Mention” recipient for his receiving skills and accomplishments.
Karim Landeros
Finally, Karim Landeros, a junior, also broke two school records in the 2025 season. Karim broke the CHS record for the number of “Yards per Punt” with an average of 40.6 yards per punt. The previous record was set by Karim’s brother, Jared Landeros, back in 2021. Jared had a record of 39 yards per punt.
Karim also set a new Chester High School record for “Most All-Time PAT’s. He finished 2025 with a total of 98 PAT’s. The previous record was set by Curt Owen. Karim earned “All-Conference” honors from the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division for his skills on the Defensive Line. Finally, Landeros earned the honor of being selected to the 2025 “All-State Academic Team” for his academic accomplishments at CHS.
PHOTO 3
CHS junior football player, TaShawn Palacio poses for a photo just after CHS Head Football Coach, Billy Belton presented him with a commemorative football for his 2025 record-breaking season in 2025. Palacio set a new Single Season record of 900 Receiving Yards as well as a new school record of Single-Season Receiving Touchdowns with 13. He also finished 19th in the State of Illinois in Class 2A for his receiving skills.
PHOTO 4
Head Chester Football Coach, Billy Belton, presents Karim Landeros, a junior, with a commemorative football, for his record-breaking 2025 season at CHS. Landeros set a new record for Single-Season Punting with 40.6 Yards Per Punt. In addition, Karim set a second record of 98 PAT's, the All Time Leader in PATs at Chester High School.
PHOTO 5
All four Chester High School Record-Breakers for the 2025 CHS YellowJacket Football Season include (left to right) Ethan Colvis, Tray Peters, TaShawn Palacio, and Karim Landeros. All four were recognized and honored at a special ceremony Friday February 6 at a Chester High Schol basketball game when Chester hosted Red Bud. All four are holding their commemorative footballs they received from CHS Head Coach Bill Belton at the ceremony.
CHS Football recognizes four 2025 YellowJackets for record-setting season ( 1 of 2)
Tray Peters, Ethan Colvis, TaShawn Palacio and Karim Landeros receive honors at CHS Basketball game
BY JIM BEERS
The 2025 Chester High School YellowJacket Football Team had an outstanding season! The YellowJackets recorded a regular-season record of 8 wins and just 1 loss. The Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division record was 5-0, an undefeated season. It was back-to-back seasons with a conference championship.
Chester made the IHSA Class 2A State Football Playoffs for the 8th year in-a-row and hosted Maroa-Forsyth at W.O. Smith Field in Round 1 of the 2025 playoffs. The Jackets lost, 26-14, but Maroa-Forsyth eventually advanced all the way to the Class 2A State Championship game where they lost, to finish 2nd in the State of Illinois in Class 2A.
Chester gave them their hardest challenge in the playoffs until the championship game when they were defeated. The YellowJackets finished the 2025 season with an overall record of 8 wins and just 2 losses.
Coach Billy Belton said, “This year we outscored our opponents on an average of 37-38 points. The seniors finished their combined years of conference play with a record of 19-1. They made it to the playoffs for the 8th year in-a-row. The team broke all kinds of records!”
Four particular YellowJackets broke school records this season. For their efforts, Chester High School recognized and honored these fine young players, 2 seniors and 2 juniors, at a ceremony Friday February 6 during the CHS vs Red Bud basketball game.
Those honored include seniors Ethan Colvis and Tray Peters and juniors TaShawn Palacio and Karim Landeros. Each of these outstanding athletes were introduced at the ceremony and received a special football for their record-breaking seasons.
Ethan Colvis
Ethan Colvis, a senior, is the first YellowJacket in 12 years to rush for 1,000 yards in a single season. He averaged 8.21 yards per carry and scored 14 rushing touchdowns. He was one of three players to earn the title of “Elite Warrior” which is the equivalent of being a YellowJacket “Most Valuable Player” (MVP). Colvis was also a Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division “All-Conference” selection as both an Offensive Running Back and a Defensive Linebacker.
More impressive was the fact that he earned the title of Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division “Player of the Year”. Colvis further earned a place on the “All-South” squad. Ethan was extremely impressive with his selection to the Academic All-State Team. Finally, Mr. Colvis was a 1st Team All-State Football player.
Tray Peters
Tray Peters, a senior, was a “YellowJacket Elite Warrior” which is equal to being selected as a team’s “Most Valuable Player” and hardest worker. There were three such team awards for the 2025 season. Mr. Peters earned “All-Conference” honors for both Quarterback and Defensive Back in the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division. He further earned the title of Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division “Offensive Player of the Year”.
Mr. Peters set two school records this season. First was for “Passing Touchdowns” and the second was for “Pass Completion Percentage”. These two former records were just set last year by former CHS Quarterback Zain Al-Jassim.
Tray had a great year with three games in which he had five Passing Touchdowns. Peters finished the 2025 football season with 25 Single-Season Passing Touchdowns (a new record), 1,657 passing yards, and 99 overall passing completions. His completion percentage was 65%. This was the highest completion percentage in CHS school history (a new record). Mr. Peters was also an “All-South” selection, and an “Academic All-State” honoree.
PHOTO 1
Chester High School senior football player, Ethan Colvis, was one of four CHS football players to be recognized with a commemorative football for his record-breaking accomplishments on the field in 2025. With Colvis is his father, Matt Colvis, an Assistant Coach for the YellowJackets. Colvis was the first Chester player in 12 years to rush for 1,000 yards. Colvis has just signed to continue his football career at the collegiate level at McKendree University next fall.
PHOTO 2
CHS Head Football Coach, Billy Belton presents CHS senior quarterback, Tray Peters, with a commemorative football for his record-breaking 2025 season. Peters set two school records, one for Most Passing Touchdowns (25), and the other for best Passing Completion Percentage (65%).
Tray Peters, Ethan Colvis, TaShawn Palacio and Karim Landeros receive honors at CHS Basketball game
BY JIM BEERS
The 2025 Chester High School YellowJacket Football Team had an outstanding season! The YellowJackets recorded a regular-season record of 8 wins and just 1 loss. The Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division record was 5-0, an undefeated season. It was back-to-back seasons with a conference championship.
Chester made the IHSA Class 2A State Football Playoffs for the 8th year in-a-row and hosted Maroa-Forsyth at W.O. Smith Field in Round 1 of the 2025 playoffs. The Jackets lost, 26-14, but Maroa-Forsyth eventually advanced all the way to the Class 2A State Championship game where they lost, to finish 2nd in the State of Illinois in Class 2A.
Chester gave them their hardest challenge in the playoffs until the championship game when they were defeated. The YellowJackets finished the 2025 season with an overall record of 8 wins and just 2 losses.
Coach Billy Belton said, “This year we outscored our opponents on an average of 37-38 points. The seniors finished their combined years of conference play with a record of 19-1. They made it to the playoffs for the 8th year in-a-row. The team broke all kinds of records!”
Four particular YellowJackets broke school records this season. For their efforts, Chester High School recognized and honored these fine young players, 2 seniors and 2 juniors, at a ceremony Friday February 6 during the CHS vs Red Bud basketball game.
Those honored include seniors Ethan Colvis and Tray Peters and juniors TaShawn Palacio and Karim Landeros. Each of these outstanding athletes were introduced at the ceremony and received a special football for their record-breaking seasons.
Ethan Colvis
Ethan Colvis, a senior, is the first YellowJacket in 12 years to rush for 1,000 yards in a single season. He averaged 8.21 yards per carry and scored 14 rushing touchdowns. He was one of three players to earn the title of “Elite Warrior” which is the equivalent of being a YellowJacket “Most Valuable Player” (MVP). Colvis was also a Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division “All-Conference” selection as both an Offensive Running Back and a Defensive Linebacker.
More impressive was the fact that he earned the title of Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division “Player of the Year”. Colvis further earned a place on the “All-South” squad. Ethan was extremely impressive with his selection to the Academic All-State Team. Finally, Mr. Colvis was a 1st Team All-State Football player.
Tray Peters
Tray Peters, a senior, was a “YellowJacket Elite Warrior” which is equal to being selected as a team’s “Most Valuable Player” and hardest worker. There were three such team awards for the 2025 season. Mr. Peters earned “All-Conference” honors for both Quarterback and Defensive Back in the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division. He further earned the title of Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division “Offensive Player of the Year”.
Mr. Peters set two school records this season. First was for “Passing Touchdowns” and the second was for “Pass Completion Percentage”. These two former records were just set last year by former CHS Quarterback Zain Al-Jassim.
Tray had a great year with three games in which he had five Passing Touchdowns. Peters finished the 2025 football season with 25 Single-Season Passing Touchdowns (a new record), 1,657 passing yards, and 99 overall passing completions. His completion percentage was 65%. This was the highest completion percentage in CHS school history (a new record). Mr. Peters was also an “All-South” selection, and an “Academic All-State” honoree.
PHOTO 1
Chester High School senior football player, Ethan Colvis, was one of four CHS football players to be recognized with a commemorative football for his record-breaking accomplishments on the field in 2025. With Colvis is his father, Matt Colvis, an Assistant Coach for the YellowJackets. Colvis was the first Chester player in 12 years to rush for 1,000 yards. Colvis has just signed to continue his football career at the collegiate level at McKendree University next fall.
PHOTO 2
CHS Head Football Coach, Billy Belton presents CHS senior quarterback, Tray Peters, with a commemorative football for his record-breaking 2025 season. Peters set two school records, one for Most Passing Touchdowns (25), and the other for best Passing Completion Percentage (65%).
CHS recognizes six Lady Jackets on “Senior Night 2026” ( 2 of 2)
Riley Lochhead, Lillian Diskey, Natalie Guetersloh, Jessica Stumpe, Aubrey Coleman, and Lexi Mott are honored at pre-game ceremony Thursday February 5
BY JIM BEERS
Jessica Stumpe (24)
Jessica is the daughter of Scott Stumpe and Jennifer Cartwright. She has played basketball all four years. She also competed in track and field all four years. Her freshman through junior years she was on the CHS golf team. Finally, her freshman and sophomore years she played volleyball.
Her favorite memory is decorating the gym for the game that was dedicated to Coach Jeff Mott last year when they won against Red Bud. Her advice to the underclassmen is to always bring 100% to practice and games. Further, she said “don’t be hard on yourselves and enjoy games and have fun!”
After graduation Jessica plans to enjoy her summer with friends and family before heading to college. She thanked all of her coaches for always pushing her to get better and for believing in her even when she didn’t believe in herself. Finally, she thanked her parents and family for coming to every game and supporting her. Lastly, Jessica thanked her fellow seniors for being so funny and amazing. She was very thankful for getting to spend her senior year with them!
Aubrey Coleman (31)
Aubrey is the daughter of Brad and Jen Colman. She played basketball all four years at CHS. She played volleyball her freshman year and ran track her freshman and sophomore years. Her favorite basketball memory is beating Red Bud at the game dedicated to Coach Jeff Mott.
Aubrey’s advice to underclassmen is to play with confidence and to show up for your team. Always give forth your best effort. After graduation she plans to attend Renaissance Beauty School to earn a degree in cosmetology and get her license.
Aubrey thanked her Mom for always being there to guide her and her Dad for always showing up and pushing her to be the best she can be. She further thanked her grandpa Pat who instilled in her the same love and passion he had for the game. Finally, Aubrey thanked Coach Jeff Mott for all of his time and effort he has dedicated to the players.
Lexi Mott (33)
Lexi is the daughter of Jeff and Tracy Mott. She has played basketball all four years at CHS and is also a starter on both the softball and volleyball teams. Her favorite basketball memory was raising money for her Dad, Jeff Mott, and Carterville’s Coach, Eli Gunter, to support both of their battles with cancer.
Lexi earned a single game scoring record of 38 points; a career rebounding record; a career free throw record for most made free throws; a 1000th point Club membership; and she just recently broke a career points scored record for surpassing the record of Jennifer Coleman set when she was in high school of 1,566 points. Lexi surpassed that record during the Red Bud game 2-5-26.
Lexi advised the underclassmen to show up and work hard every single day. She thanked her coaches and teammates for always pushing her. She also thanked her parents, brothers and grandparents for supporting her throughout her career.
Senior Night 2026 was a huge success and the girls played their hearts out and beat Red Bud, 50-48, in overtime. The huge crowd made it all the more enjoyable and the CHS Pep Band, Football players, Pep Club, CHS Cheerleaders, and CHS Dance team made it all the more enjoyable and memorable.
PHOTO 4: Jessica Stumpe (24), daughter of Scott Stumpe and Jennifer Cartwright Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 5: Aubrey Coleman (31), daughter of Brad and Jen Coleman Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 6: Lexi Mott (33), daughter of Jeff and Tracy Mott Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 7: Chester's six Lady Jacket Basketball players and their parents proudly stand center court after being introduced at Chester High School's "Senior Night 2026" prior to the CHS vs Red Bud game Thursday February 5. The Lady Jackets defeated Red Bud for the third time this season, 50-48, in overtime on Senior Night. Jim Beers Photo
Riley Lochhead, Lillian Diskey, Natalie Guetersloh, Jessica Stumpe, Aubrey Coleman, and Lexi Mott are honored at pre-game ceremony Thursday February 5
BY JIM BEERS
Jessica Stumpe (24)
Jessica is the daughter of Scott Stumpe and Jennifer Cartwright. She has played basketball all four years. She also competed in track and field all four years. Her freshman through junior years she was on the CHS golf team. Finally, her freshman and sophomore years she played volleyball.
Her favorite memory is decorating the gym for the game that was dedicated to Coach Jeff Mott last year when they won against Red Bud. Her advice to the underclassmen is to always bring 100% to practice and games. Further, she said “don’t be hard on yourselves and enjoy games and have fun!”
After graduation Jessica plans to enjoy her summer with friends and family before heading to college. She thanked all of her coaches for always pushing her to get better and for believing in her even when she didn’t believe in herself. Finally, she thanked her parents and family for coming to every game and supporting her. Lastly, Jessica thanked her fellow seniors for being so funny and amazing. She was very thankful for getting to spend her senior year with them!
Aubrey Coleman (31)
Aubrey is the daughter of Brad and Jen Colman. She played basketball all four years at CHS. She played volleyball her freshman year and ran track her freshman and sophomore years. Her favorite basketball memory is beating Red Bud at the game dedicated to Coach Jeff Mott.
Aubrey’s advice to underclassmen is to play with confidence and to show up for your team. Always give forth your best effort. After graduation she plans to attend Renaissance Beauty School to earn a degree in cosmetology and get her license.
Aubrey thanked her Mom for always being there to guide her and her Dad for always showing up and pushing her to be the best she can be. She further thanked her grandpa Pat who instilled in her the same love and passion he had for the game. Finally, Aubrey thanked Coach Jeff Mott for all of his time and effort he has dedicated to the players.
Lexi Mott (33)
Lexi is the daughter of Jeff and Tracy Mott. She has played basketball all four years at CHS and is also a starter on both the softball and volleyball teams. Her favorite basketball memory was raising money for her Dad, Jeff Mott, and Carterville’s Coach, Eli Gunter, to support both of their battles with cancer.
Lexi earned a single game scoring record of 38 points; a career rebounding record; a career free throw record for most made free throws; a 1000th point Club membership; and she just recently broke a career points scored record for surpassing the record of Jennifer Coleman set when she was in high school of 1,566 points. Lexi surpassed that record during the Red Bud game 2-5-26.
Lexi advised the underclassmen to show up and work hard every single day. She thanked her coaches and teammates for always pushing her. She also thanked her parents, brothers and grandparents for supporting her throughout her career.
Senior Night 2026 was a huge success and the girls played their hearts out and beat Red Bud, 50-48, in overtime. The huge crowd made it all the more enjoyable and the CHS Pep Band, Football players, Pep Club, CHS Cheerleaders, and CHS Dance team made it all the more enjoyable and memorable.
PHOTO 4: Jessica Stumpe (24), daughter of Scott Stumpe and Jennifer Cartwright Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 5: Aubrey Coleman (31), daughter of Brad and Jen Coleman Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 6: Lexi Mott (33), daughter of Jeff and Tracy Mott Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 7: Chester's six Lady Jacket Basketball players and their parents proudly stand center court after being introduced at Chester High School's "Senior Night 2026" prior to the CHS vs Red Bud game Thursday February 5. The Lady Jackets defeated Red Bud for the third time this season, 50-48, in overtime on Senior Night. Jim Beers Photo
CHS recognizes six Lady Jackets on “Senior Night 2026” ( 1 of 2)
Riley Lochhead, Lillian Diskey, Natalie Guetersloh, Jessica Stumpe, Aubrey Coleman, and Lexi Mott are honored at pre-game ceremony Thursday February 5
BY JIM BEERS
Thursday February 5 was “Senior Night” for the 2025-26 Chester High School Lady Jackets Basketball Team. The event took place at the Chester High School Lady Jackets vs Red Bud Lady Musketeers Basketball game. It was the next-to-the-last home game for the six senior ladies and a large crowd showed up at CHS Colbert Memorial Gymnasium to honor the senior Lady Jackets.
The game featured the Lady Jackets and the Lady Musketeers from Red Bud. It was a Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division match-up and the Chester Lady Jackets came into the contest with a 2-game winning streak. Their overall record was 14-11 and they had a Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division record of 3-4.
In between the JV game and the warm-ups for the Varsity game CHS Athletic Director and other CHS Administrators conducted the “Senior Night” ceremony. This season Chester has a large number of senior players. For the first time in many years there are six seniors on the Lady Jackets team.
Seniors and their parents were recognized in numerical uniform order. The following players were introduced by stadium announcer Mike Lochhead. The order of introductions were as follow, including Riley Lochhead (21), Lillian Diskey (21), Natalie Guetersloh (22), Jessica Stumpe (24), Aubrey Coleman (31) and Lexi Mott (33).
Chester High School Cheerleaders, Dance Team members and underclassmen team members formed a tunnel at the entrance of the Lady Jacket locker room. As the respective players were introduced to the crowd, they entered Colbert Gym and walked through the human tunnel. As they made their way through the line of fellow underclassmen players, cheerleaders and dance team members, they were presented with balloons and gift bags and lots of congratulatory greetings. Player biographical sketches follow.
Riley Lochhead (11)
Riley is the daughter of Tony and Jennifer Lochhead. This is her third year on the basketball team. She also played golf. Her favorite is basketball is beating Red Bud at the game that was dedicated to Coach Jeff Mott. Her advice for underclassmen was to practice like you play. It is as important as playing in games. Riley had a rough year having to sit out for about four weeks with a stress fracture. She just returned to the lineup about two weeks ago.
After graduation Riley plans to go to cosmetology school. She wants to thank her Mother for her support, even though she really doesn’t understand the game. She also thanked her Dad for helping her become a better player. Finally, Riley thanked her grandpa Mike Lochhead for being her No. 1 supporter.
Lillian Diskey (21)
Lillian is the daughter of David and Tonya Diskey. She played basketball all four years at CHS. She also played volleyball her freshman and sophomore years and she is a key member of the CHS Track and Field Team. Her favorite memory is surprising Coach Mott with a game dedicated to him while winning against Red Bud. After graduation Lillian will go to SWIC to study radiology.
Her advice to underclassmen is to always give 100% in both practice and games and to enjoy every minute of it because it flies by fast! She thanked her family for always coming to her games to support her, and her coaches for always pushing her to do her best. She also thanked her teammates for all the memories. Lastly, Lillian thanked her Mom for all the hard work she does to push her and for being her No. 1 supporter.
Natalie Guetersloh (22)
Natalie is the daughter of Jacob and Amy Guetersloh. She played basketball all four years at CHS. She was further involved with track and cheerleading. Her favorite memory is playing against Red Bud and beating them at the game they had for Coach Jeff Mott.
Her advice to underclassmen is to always give 100% effort in practice and games, but most importantly to have fun! After graduation, Natalie plans to go to college. Her area of concentration is undecided. She thanked her parents and coaches and Rylee Shemonic for helping her get through the hard practices.
PHOTO 1: Riley Lochhead (11) daughter of Tony and Jennifer Lochhead Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2: Lillian Diskey (21) daughter of David and Tonya Diskey Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 3: Natalie Guetersloh (22) daughter of Jacob and Amy Guetersloh Jim Beers Photo
Lady Jackets battle Red Bud to a 50-48 overtime “Senior Night” victory (4 of 4)
Chester honors six seniors in heart-warming pre-game ceremony including Riley Lochhead (11), Lillian Diskey (21), Natalie Guetersloh (22), Jessica Stumpe (24), Aubrey Coleman (31), and Lexie Mott (33)
BY JIM BEERS
With 5.5 seconds on the clock, Jessica Stumpe grabbed a monster rebound on a missed Red Bud shot. Coach Jeff Mott immediately called a time out. When play resumed, Lexi Mott grabbed another dramatic rebound to end the game with Chester winning, 50-48.
When asked for his comments on the game Coach Mott said, “The atmosphere was awesome! The girls don’t get that kind of crowd, band, cheerleaders, and dance team very often. It’s nice to see people come out and support these girls because I really think they are a special group.”
“We knew coming in you can throw out the records because it’s Red Bud. They play physical and tough man-to-man defense. They have played a ton of really good teams really close. We played hard, but we got into a little foul trouble early and that disrupted our flow. What I love is that the next person in line always stepped it up!”
Jessica and Lexi both had huge games. Marlie Caby came up big in several key moments. Aubrey and Lillian both did really well with the pressure and getting the ball into the paint to our posts.”
“It was a great win on Senior Night and it was great to see Lexi move past Jennifer Coleman in all-time scoring in front of that big crowd. Jennifer had 1,566 points and Lexi needed 17 to pass her, which she did and then some. She is now 2nd all time.”
In the win, the Lady Jackets were led by Lexi Mott who scored 21 points. She actually led all players on either team. Jessica Stumpe had 14 points. Marlie Caby added six points and Lillian Diskey had five points. Rounding out the Chester scoring was Aubrey Coleman with four points.
Red Bud was led by Lilly Minemann and Ava Wagner, each who scored 13 points apiece. Other contributors included Emma Carter (9), Nora Rothlisberger (4), Kendra Ehret (4), Brooke Grohmann (3), and Addy Piel (2).
With the win, Chester improved to an overall record of 15 wins and 11 losses. In the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division, the Lady Jackets improved to an even 4 wins and 4 losses. The Jackets played non-conference DuQuoin Saturday February 7 in a rare afternoon game at DuQuoin.
PHOTO 3
Jessica Stumpe (24) looks for an open teammate in the first quarter of the CHS vs Red Bud game Thursday February 5. The Lady Musketeer defense, Emma Carter (10) kept Chester's Lexi Mott (33) all tied up throughout much of the game. In spite of the extremely physical treatment, Mott was the overall top scorer on either team with 21 points. Lexi connected for ten "hard-fought" field goals and was perfect at the free throw line making her "only" free throw of the evening, in spite of the rough play and double-teaming she received all night. In the overtime period, Mott scored Chester's only two field goals for four of the Lady Jackets' six points. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 4
Thursday February 5 there was a packed house on hand to support the Lady Jackets basketball team when they hosted the Lady Musketeers from Red Bud. The Chester High School Pep Band played all night and the CHS Dance Team performed at halftime. The CHS Cheerleaders were on hand to cheer and the CHS Pep Club was in the Beehive behind the south basket to keep YellowJacket spirit alive. The CHS Football team was also there to support the girls. Both Chester and Red Bud had big crowds. Shown here, everyone in Colbert Memorial Gymnasium stood to attention as the CHS Pep Band, under the direction of Steve Colonel, played the National Anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner". Jim Beers Photo
Chester honors six seniors in heart-warming pre-game ceremony including Riley Lochhead (11), Lillian Diskey (21), Natalie Guetersloh (22), Jessica Stumpe (24), Aubrey Coleman (31), and Lexie Mott (33)
BY JIM BEERS
With 5.5 seconds on the clock, Jessica Stumpe grabbed a monster rebound on a missed Red Bud shot. Coach Jeff Mott immediately called a time out. When play resumed, Lexi Mott grabbed another dramatic rebound to end the game with Chester winning, 50-48.
When asked for his comments on the game Coach Mott said, “The atmosphere was awesome! The girls don’t get that kind of crowd, band, cheerleaders, and dance team very often. It’s nice to see people come out and support these girls because I really think they are a special group.”
“We knew coming in you can throw out the records because it’s Red Bud. They play physical and tough man-to-man defense. They have played a ton of really good teams really close. We played hard, but we got into a little foul trouble early and that disrupted our flow. What I love is that the next person in line always stepped it up!”
Jessica and Lexi both had huge games. Marlie Caby came up big in several key moments. Aubrey and Lillian both did really well with the pressure and getting the ball into the paint to our posts.”
“It was a great win on Senior Night and it was great to see Lexi move past Jennifer Coleman in all-time scoring in front of that big crowd. Jennifer had 1,566 points and Lexi needed 17 to pass her, which she did and then some. She is now 2nd all time.”
In the win, the Lady Jackets were led by Lexi Mott who scored 21 points. She actually led all players on either team. Jessica Stumpe had 14 points. Marlie Caby added six points and Lillian Diskey had five points. Rounding out the Chester scoring was Aubrey Coleman with four points.
Red Bud was led by Lilly Minemann and Ava Wagner, each who scored 13 points apiece. Other contributors included Emma Carter (9), Nora Rothlisberger (4), Kendra Ehret (4), Brooke Grohmann (3), and Addy Piel (2).
With the win, Chester improved to an overall record of 15 wins and 11 losses. In the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division, the Lady Jackets improved to an even 4 wins and 4 losses. The Jackets played non-conference DuQuoin Saturday February 7 in a rare afternoon game at DuQuoin.
PHOTO 3
Jessica Stumpe (24) looks for an open teammate in the first quarter of the CHS vs Red Bud game Thursday February 5. The Lady Musketeer defense, Emma Carter (10) kept Chester's Lexi Mott (33) all tied up throughout much of the game. In spite of the extremely physical treatment, Mott was the overall top scorer on either team with 21 points. Lexi connected for ten "hard-fought" field goals and was perfect at the free throw line making her "only" free throw of the evening, in spite of the rough play and double-teaming she received all night. In the overtime period, Mott scored Chester's only two field goals for four of the Lady Jackets' six points. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 4
Thursday February 5 there was a packed house on hand to support the Lady Jackets basketball team when they hosted the Lady Musketeers from Red Bud. The Chester High School Pep Band played all night and the CHS Dance Team performed at halftime. The CHS Cheerleaders were on hand to cheer and the CHS Pep Club was in the Beehive behind the south basket to keep YellowJacket spirit alive. The CHS Football team was also there to support the girls. Both Chester and Red Bud had big crowds. Shown here, everyone in Colbert Memorial Gymnasium stood to attention as the CHS Pep Band, under the direction of Steve Colonel, played the National Anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner". Jim Beers Photo
Lady Jackets battle Red Bud to a 50-48 overtime “Senior Night” victory (3 of 4)
Chester honors six seniors in heart-warming pre-game ceremony including Riley Lochhead (11), Lillian Diskey (21), Natalie Guetersloh (22), Jessica Stumpe (24), Aubrey Coleman (31), and Lexie Mott (33)
BY JIM BEERS
The Lady Musketeers then used the final 3:24 to launch a 9-0 run to get within one point of Chester, 33-32, to close out the third quarter. During that run Emma Carter hit a basket to get things started with a basket at the 3:24 mark to get Red Bud within eight points (CHS 33-RBHS 25). With 2:34 to play, Ava Wagner drained two free throws to get the Musketeers within six points, 33-27.
With 1:27 on the clock in the 3rd quarter, Lilly Minemann hit a huge 3-pointer to narrow the Chester lead to just three points, 33-30. Chester then called a time out to calm things down. With only .28 on the clock, Kendra Ehret knocked down a final shot to get Red Bud within one point, 33-32. That’s how the third quarter would end.
The 4th quarter was a wild affair with four lead changes and three ties. At the final buzzer in regulation play, the score was tied 41-41.
Coming into the 4th quarter Chester had a slim, 33-32 lead. Red Bud’s Kendra Ehret scored a 2-pointer a minute into the period to give the Lady Musketeers a 34-31 lead over Chester (6:57).Chester’s Lillian Diskey answered with a bucket of her own at 6:10 to regain a Chester lead, 35-34. At the 5:40 mark, Chester’s Marlie Caby was fouled and made one of her two free throws to extend the Lady Jacket lead to 36-34. Red Bud called a time out.
After the time out, Red Bud tied the game, 36-36 on Ava Wagner’s 2-pointer. On Chester’s next possession Jessica Stumpe connected on a 2-pointer to re-take Chester’s lead again, 38-36, with 4:00 on the clock. Chester then called a time out at 3:53.
The Lady Jacket defense went to work and held Red Bud scoreless, and at the 3:33 mark when Marlie Caby knocked down another basket to extend Chester’s lead to 40-36. Ten seconds later, Chester’s Lillian Diskey was fouled and made one of two free throws. Chester led, 41-36 with 3:23 to play. Chester then called a time out at the 2:56 mark.
On Red Bud’s next possession Ava Wagner struck again with a basket with 2:43 remaining in the game. She was fouled and completed the three-point play by making her free throw. Red Bud was just two points away, 41-39. Red Bud’s Ava Wagner tied the game, 41-41, with another field goal. On the next play (1:59), Red Bud’s Nora Rothlisberger fouled out of the game.
With only 0:48 on the clock, Red Bud made things really suspense-filled when Lilly Minemann drained a three pointer to take a 44-41 Red Bud lead. Chester’s Marlie Caby answered with a basket 11-seconds later to get Chester back within one point, 44-43.
On Red Bud’s next possession Ava Wagner was fouled and went to the free throw line with 18.8 seconds to play. She missed both free throws and the Lady Warriors still led, 44-43. With just 14.4 seconds to play, Chester’s Lillian Diskey was fouled and went to the free throw line. She made things very scary for Jackets fans when she missed her first free throw. On the second opportunity, Diskey swished her shot and tied the game, 44-44.
Red Bud got the ball with 14.4 seconds to play in regulation. They called time out with 6.6 seconds on the clock. Chester’s defense did a great job keeping the Musketeers from getting the win, and the game went into overtime!
The excitement and nerve-wracking competition continued throughout the entire 4:00 overtime with a lead change, a tie, and three more lead changes before the final horn sounded with Chester on top with a 2 point, 50-48, lead for the win.
Red Bud drew first blood in the O.T. when Lilly Minemann knocked down a shot. Red Bud took a two-point, 46-44 lead. It took Chester two minutes before they tied the game again at 46-46 on Lexi Mott’s bucket (2:00).
Just 20-seconds later (1:41), Jessica Stumpe was fouled and made one free throw. CHS extended the lead to 47-46. Red Bud’s Emma Carter popped a basket with only 1:12 remaining in the overtime to re-take the lead for the Musketeers, 48-47.
Tensions were high and stomach acid was flowing freely among Lady Jacket fans. With just 23.3 seconds left to play, Chester’s Lexi Mott battled her way to yet another Chester field goal. That basket gave Chester the lead, 49-48.
The YellowJacket defense stood tall and firm in the final 23.3 seconds. Chester’s Marlie Caby was fouled with 13.7 seconds to play and made one of her free throws to extend Chester’s lead, 50-48.
Chester honors six seniors in heart-warming pre-game ceremony including Riley Lochhead (11), Lillian Diskey (21), Natalie Guetersloh (22), Jessica Stumpe (24), Aubrey Coleman (31), and Lexie Mott (33)
BY JIM BEERS
The Lady Musketeers then used the final 3:24 to launch a 9-0 run to get within one point of Chester, 33-32, to close out the third quarter. During that run Emma Carter hit a basket to get things started with a basket at the 3:24 mark to get Red Bud within eight points (CHS 33-RBHS 25). With 2:34 to play, Ava Wagner drained two free throws to get the Musketeers within six points, 33-27.
With 1:27 on the clock in the 3rd quarter, Lilly Minemann hit a huge 3-pointer to narrow the Chester lead to just three points, 33-30. Chester then called a time out to calm things down. With only .28 on the clock, Kendra Ehret knocked down a final shot to get Red Bud within one point, 33-32. That’s how the third quarter would end.
The 4th quarter was a wild affair with four lead changes and three ties. At the final buzzer in regulation play, the score was tied 41-41.
Coming into the 4th quarter Chester had a slim, 33-32 lead. Red Bud’s Kendra Ehret scored a 2-pointer a minute into the period to give the Lady Musketeers a 34-31 lead over Chester (6:57).Chester’s Lillian Diskey answered with a bucket of her own at 6:10 to regain a Chester lead, 35-34. At the 5:40 mark, Chester’s Marlie Caby was fouled and made one of her two free throws to extend the Lady Jacket lead to 36-34. Red Bud called a time out.
After the time out, Red Bud tied the game, 36-36 on Ava Wagner’s 2-pointer. On Chester’s next possession Jessica Stumpe connected on a 2-pointer to re-take Chester’s lead again, 38-36, with 4:00 on the clock. Chester then called a time out at 3:53.
The Lady Jacket defense went to work and held Red Bud scoreless, and at the 3:33 mark when Marlie Caby knocked down another basket to extend Chester’s lead to 40-36. Ten seconds later, Chester’s Lillian Diskey was fouled and made one of two free throws. Chester led, 41-36 with 3:23 to play. Chester then called a time out at the 2:56 mark.
On Red Bud’s next possession Ava Wagner struck again with a basket with 2:43 remaining in the game. She was fouled and completed the three-point play by making her free throw. Red Bud was just two points away, 41-39. Red Bud’s Ava Wagner tied the game, 41-41, with another field goal. On the next play (1:59), Red Bud’s Nora Rothlisberger fouled out of the game.
With only 0:48 on the clock, Red Bud made things really suspense-filled when Lilly Minemann drained a three pointer to take a 44-41 Red Bud lead. Chester’s Marlie Caby answered with a basket 11-seconds later to get Chester back within one point, 44-43.
On Red Bud’s next possession Ava Wagner was fouled and went to the free throw line with 18.8 seconds to play. She missed both free throws and the Lady Warriors still led, 44-43. With just 14.4 seconds to play, Chester’s Lillian Diskey was fouled and went to the free throw line. She made things very scary for Jackets fans when she missed her first free throw. On the second opportunity, Diskey swished her shot and tied the game, 44-44.
Red Bud got the ball with 14.4 seconds to play in regulation. They called time out with 6.6 seconds on the clock. Chester’s defense did a great job keeping the Musketeers from getting the win, and the game went into overtime!
The excitement and nerve-wracking competition continued throughout the entire 4:00 overtime with a lead change, a tie, and three more lead changes before the final horn sounded with Chester on top with a 2 point, 50-48, lead for the win.
Red Bud drew first blood in the O.T. when Lilly Minemann knocked down a shot. Red Bud took a two-point, 46-44 lead. It took Chester two minutes before they tied the game again at 46-46 on Lexi Mott’s bucket (2:00).
Just 20-seconds later (1:41), Jessica Stumpe was fouled and made one free throw. CHS extended the lead to 47-46. Red Bud’s Emma Carter popped a basket with only 1:12 remaining in the overtime to re-take the lead for the Musketeers, 48-47.
Tensions were high and stomach acid was flowing freely among Lady Jacket fans. With just 23.3 seconds left to play, Chester’s Lexi Mott battled her way to yet another Chester field goal. That basket gave Chester the lead, 49-48.
The YellowJacket defense stood tall and firm in the final 23.3 seconds. Chester’s Marlie Caby was fouled with 13.7 seconds to play and made one of her free throws to extend Chester’s lead, 50-48.