Hoffman Estates wrestlers celebrate Valentine's Day in special way

On Valentine's Day, the Hoffman Estates High School wrestling program participated in a community service project called “Random Acts of Kindness.”

Student-athlete wrestlers delivered valentines made by elementary school students from District 54 to senior residents at Alden Poplar Creek Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Hoffman Estates.

“I felt this was a great opportunity for our student-athletes to continue to learn through the experience of connecting with people that they would not normally be around in the community,” said Head Wrestling Coach Tony Ganas. “Also, this community service project was a chance to show how Hoffman Estates High School promotes citizenship and having a well-rounded education by permitting student-athletes to showcase the skills they have learned at HEHS to the community.”

The wrestlers passed out the valentines, interacted with residents, some of whom are wheelchair-bound, by singing, dancing and dishing ice cream treats. The wrestlers also assisted the Alden Poplar Creek staff in their annual coronation of the King and Queen of St. Valentine's Day.

The Hoffman Estates wrestling team has continued to build a winning tradition by finishing the season with four Mid Suburban League Conference medalists and a sectional qualifier.

The 2011-12 HEHS Wrestling Squad members are Tylic Grace, Junior Castillo, Pedro Gonzalez, Connor McCreary, Josh Bost, Daniel Gordon, Brendan Gorvett, Marcus Hill, David Sweeney, Jose Montesinos, Brian Miller, Erin Banker, Kyle Hendle, Kyle Luketich, Danny Sullivan, Joe Gundling, Oscar Salas, Jeremy Halverson, Zack Roddy, Alex Tooren, Jose Cruz, John Dueno and Eric Psonak.

Coaches are Tony Ganas, Hector Castellanos and Matt Willock.