Athlete of the Week: Jance Novak

Junior | Boys Wrestling

Jance Novak continues to establish himself as one of the premier wrestlers in the state, turning in a dominant week for the CHS wrestling team. Novak, the reigning 2025 Class 1A 165-pound state champion, helped lead the Bulldogs to victories in their first three SCAC duals of the season on Thursday before capping the week with a championship performance at the Gut Check Invitational in Kent.

Widely regarded as one of the largest and most competitive tournaments in the Northwest, Gut Check featured more than 100 schools from all classifications and full 32-man brackets at every weight class. Novak powered through the field, winning all four of his matches in convincing fashion to claim the title.

CHS head coach Wheeler praised not only Novak’s results, but his character and work ethic.

“There are so many great things that can be said about what Jance has accomplished,” Wheeler said. “Moreover is the way Jance has chose to present his passion. He stands tall, walks with confidence and grace. He works tirelessly at improving being his best on and off the mat. It’s this combination that puts Jance as the top wrestler in the entire state.”

Athlete of the Week: Tori Black

Junior | Girls Wrestling

Tori Black is picking up right where she left off after a historic sophomore season. Last year, Black became the first CHS girls wrestler to place at the state tournament, earning a fourth-place finish. This season, the junior has continued her rise, posting a 19–5 record at 120 pounds.

This past weekend, Black captured the 120-pound championship at the Connell Invitational, winning all four of her matches—each by fall. Her run included a dominant pin in the finals and an impressive victory earlier in the day over a tough Selah opponent.

Coach Van Winkle highlighted Black’s relentless effort throughout the tournament.

“Tori wrestled with determination all day with all four wins coming by fall,” Van Winkle said. “The most impressive win was her second match of the day defeating a very tough opponent from Selah (Gabbie Gonsalves).”