📣 We Want to Hear from YOU!
Chester School District is launching a long-term Strategic Plan, and your voice matters. As part of this process, we are conducting a Community Survey to gather valuable input from parents, employees, board members, and community members.
Your feedback will help guide our priorities, shape district goals, and strengthen the future of our schools.
📝 Please take a few minutes to complete the survey:
🔗 https://forms.gle/ZnSEDCqxxYnSjP1J8
📱 Or scan the QR code in the image attached to this post!
The survey is open to all stakeholders—including parents, staff, students, alumni, business owners, and residents who want to be part of shaping our future.
Thank you for being an important part of Chester CUSD 139’s continued growth and success.
#ChesterCUSD139 #StrategicPlanning #CommunityEngagement #YourVoiceMatters #TogetherWeGrow
Chester School District is launching a long-term Strategic Plan, and your voice matters. As part of this process, we are conducting a Community Survey to gather valuable input from parents, employees, board members, and community members.
Your feedback will help guide our priorities, shape district goals, and strengthen the future of our schools.
📝 Please take a few minutes to complete the survey:
🔗 https://forms.gle/ZnSEDCqxxYnSjP1J8
📱 Or scan the QR code in the image attached to this post!
The survey is open to all stakeholders—including parents, staff, students, alumni, business owners, and residents who want to be part of shaping our future.
Thank you for being an important part of Chester CUSD 139’s continued growth and success.
#ChesterCUSD139 #StrategicPlanning #CommunityEngagement #YourVoiceMatters #TogetherWeGrow
CHS: PBIS JACKET SHOUT-OUTS WEEKS 15-16
Chester High School is pleased to acknowledge the recipients of our weeks 15-16 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 SHOUT-OUTS” – SEMANAS 15-16
Chester High School se complace en reconocer a los estudiantes homenajeados durante las semanas 15-16 de los PBIS Jacket Shout-Outs. Los Jacket Shout-Outs brindan a los docentes una plataforma para felicitar a los estudiantes que han realizado 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 15-16 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 SHOUT-OUTS” – SEMANAS 15-16
Chester High School se complace en reconocer a los estudiantes homenajeados durante las semanas 15-16 de los PBIS Jacket Shout-Outs. Los Jacket Shout-Outs brindan a los docentes una plataforma para felicitar a los estudiantes que han realizado 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: Please review the letter below regarding a high school–only pilot program.
Chester High School sincerely thanks Delta Kappa Gamma and Beth Stumpe Bell for their time and dedication in developing and supporting the Art Grant for our students.
CECC February Staff Member of the Month Submissions Link
To nominate a CECC staff member for Staff Member of the Month, please follow the link below.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSduZ-5jfftrGx_qSRMAbdO0mYK1TSwdcGrSVPRCj5j-jhuNjg/viewform?usp=dialog
To nominate a CECC staff member for Staff Member of the Month, please follow the link below.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSduZ-5jfftrGx_qSRMAbdO0mYK1TSwdcGrSVPRCj5j-jhuNjg/viewform?usp=dialog
CIT Round 1 is complete! (2 of 2)
Saxony wins Game 3 over Lovejoy, 62-38; Chester beats Valmeyer in Game 4, 64-30
BY JIM BEERS
With just 3:58 left in the first half, Valmeyer’s Graham Knobloch hit a basket. CHS led, 24-7, with 3:02 left in the half. At the 2:32 mark, Chester’s Tallen James knocked down another field goal, was fouled and completed the three point play to give Chester a 27-7 lead. To close out the first half, Tallen James drained Chester’s 5th 3-pointer of the game. The Jackets led by 23 points, 30-7.
The 3rd quarter was huge for both teams. Chester scored an additional 26 points and Valmeyer scored 12 points. The Jackets opened with a huge 13-0 run. During that run, Tallen James and Trey McCartney each hit 3-pointers. TaShawn Palacio drained two baskets and Kross Jany got his name in the books with traditional three point play with a basket and a free throw. Chester led, 43-7 at the 5:24 mark.
With 4:55 remaining in the 3rd quarter, Valmeyer’s Gavin Rau hit a bucket. Chester led, 43-9. Tray Peters then hit a bucket and Trey McCartney drained Chester’s 8th 3-pointer of the contest. CHS led, 48-9 with 3:38 left in the frame.
The final 3:22 of the 3rd quarter the Pirates outscored the Jackets10-8. CHS took a 56-19 lead into the 4th quarter. In that run, Trey McCartney sank two free throws, Rusty Korando made two baskets for four points, and Kross Jany drained a 2-pointer. Valmeyer had ten points from Gavin Rau (2), Evan Hill (3), and Carter McSchooler (5). Chester led by 37 points, 36-19 to end the 3rd period.
Throughout the 4th quarter, there was a continuous clock due to Chester’s 37-point lead. During the final period, Valmeyer outscored Chester by three points, 11-8. The Pirates had scoring from Evan Hill (6), and Carter McSchooler (5). Chester had eight points from Mitchell Liter (6), and Paxton Beam (2). The Jackets won the game by 30 points, 64-30.
In the win, Chester was led by three players. TaShawn Palacio had 14 points, Trey McCartney (14), and Tallen James (12). Other YellowJacket scorers included Kross Jany (7), Mitchell Liter (6), Tray Peters (5), Rust Korando (4), and Paxton Beam (2). CHS made 6-of-11 free throws (54%). They also made 10 Three-pointers and 14 two-pointers.
Valmeyer was led by Evan Hill who scored 17 points. He was the game’s top scorer. Carter McSchooler recorded 7 points. Finally, Gavin Rau, Tallen Jakimauskas, and Graham Knobloch each scored two points apiece.
With the win, Chester advances to the Championship Bracket. With the loss. Valmeyer will move to the Consolation Championship bracket. The Pirates will face Lovejoy at 6:00 p.m. in Game 7 Thursday January 15. Chester will battle Saxony at 7:30 p.m. Thursday January 15 in Game 8.
PHOTO 2
TaShawn Palacio (21) scored 14 points in the game against Valmeyer Tuesday January 13. The event was Game 4 of the 62nd Annual Chester Invitational Tournament. His efforts helped win the game, 64-30, over the Valmeyer Pirates. Jim Beers Photo
Saxony wins Game 3 over Lovejoy, 62-38; Chester beats Valmeyer in Game 4, 64-30
BY JIM BEERS
With just 3:58 left in the first half, Valmeyer’s Graham Knobloch hit a basket. CHS led, 24-7, with 3:02 left in the half. At the 2:32 mark, Chester’s Tallen James knocked down another field goal, was fouled and completed the three point play to give Chester a 27-7 lead. To close out the first half, Tallen James drained Chester’s 5th 3-pointer of the game. The Jackets led by 23 points, 30-7.
The 3rd quarter was huge for both teams. Chester scored an additional 26 points and Valmeyer scored 12 points. The Jackets opened with a huge 13-0 run. During that run, Tallen James and Trey McCartney each hit 3-pointers. TaShawn Palacio drained two baskets and Kross Jany got his name in the books with traditional three point play with a basket and a free throw. Chester led, 43-7 at the 5:24 mark.
With 4:55 remaining in the 3rd quarter, Valmeyer’s Gavin Rau hit a bucket. Chester led, 43-9. Tray Peters then hit a bucket and Trey McCartney drained Chester’s 8th 3-pointer of the contest. CHS led, 48-9 with 3:38 left in the frame.
The final 3:22 of the 3rd quarter the Pirates outscored the Jackets10-8. CHS took a 56-19 lead into the 4th quarter. In that run, Trey McCartney sank two free throws, Rusty Korando made two baskets for four points, and Kross Jany drained a 2-pointer. Valmeyer had ten points from Gavin Rau (2), Evan Hill (3), and Carter McSchooler (5). Chester led by 37 points, 36-19 to end the 3rd period.
Throughout the 4th quarter, there was a continuous clock due to Chester’s 37-point lead. During the final period, Valmeyer outscored Chester by three points, 11-8. The Pirates had scoring from Evan Hill (6), and Carter McSchooler (5). Chester had eight points from Mitchell Liter (6), and Paxton Beam (2). The Jackets won the game by 30 points, 64-30.
In the win, Chester was led by three players. TaShawn Palacio had 14 points, Trey McCartney (14), and Tallen James (12). Other YellowJacket scorers included Kross Jany (7), Mitchell Liter (6), Tray Peters (5), Rust Korando (4), and Paxton Beam (2). CHS made 6-of-11 free throws (54%). They also made 10 Three-pointers and 14 two-pointers.
Valmeyer was led by Evan Hill who scored 17 points. He was the game’s top scorer. Carter McSchooler recorded 7 points. Finally, Gavin Rau, Tallen Jakimauskas, and Graham Knobloch each scored two points apiece.
With the win, Chester advances to the Championship Bracket. With the loss. Valmeyer will move to the Consolation Championship bracket. The Pirates will face Lovejoy at 6:00 p.m. in Game 7 Thursday January 15. Chester will battle Saxony at 7:30 p.m. Thursday January 15 in Game 8.
PHOTO 2
TaShawn Palacio (21) scored 14 points in the game against Valmeyer Tuesday January 13. The event was Game 4 of the 62nd Annual Chester Invitational Tournament. His efforts helped win the game, 64-30, over the Valmeyer Pirates. Jim Beers Photo
CIT Round 1 is complete! (1 of 2)
Saxony wins Game 3 over Lovejoy, 62-38; Chester beats Valmeyer in Game 4, 64-30
BY JIM BEERS
Round 1 of the 62nd Annual Chester Invitational Tournament is complete. Tuesday January 13 featured Saxony and Lovejoy in Game 3 and Chester and Valmeyer in Game 4. Saxony Lutheran School defeated Lovejoy by a score of 62-38 and Chester won over Valmeyer, 64-30.
Day 2, Game 3: Saxony 62-Lovejoy 38
Saxony led the entire game against Lovejoy. The Crusaders led 18-7 after the first quarter and 37-19 at halftime. The 3rd quarter was huge for Saxony as they outscored the Wildcats, 21-8, to lead by 31 points, 58-27 at the end of three quarters. The Wildcats outscored the Crusaders, 11-4 in the 4th quarter, but still lost by 24 points, 62-38.
In the win, Saxony was led by four players who scored in double figures including Bryce Gaebler (13), Brayden Zoellner (11), James Hope (11), and Eli Raddemann (10). Other contributors included Na’Shaun Davis (7), Simon May (4), Baylor Wilson (4), and Welsh (2).
Lovejoy was led by two players who scored in double figures. Keith Bowens led all scorers with 18 points and Mylan Brown scored 12 points. Other scorers included Odell Jordan (4), Deshawn Barnes (2), and Tyren Tolden (2).
The Game 3 win advances Saxony to the Championship side of the bracket. The Game 3 loss moves Lovejoy to the Consolation bracket. Saxony will face Chester in Game 8 Thursday January 15 at 7:30 p.m. Lovejoy will face Valmeyer in Game 7 Thursday January 15 at 6:00 p.m.
Day 2, Game 4: Chester 64-Valmeyer 30
The Chester YellowJackets led the entire game against Valmeyer. Chester came into the game, 6-11 and Valmeyer came into the game, 7-10.
Chester’s Tallen James struck first blood at the 7:35 mark knocking down a huge 3-pointer to start the 1st quarter. Tray Peters then hit a 2-pointer (4:50) and Trey McCartney drained Chester’s second three (4:26) to give the Jackets an 8-0 run.
The Pirates scored their first and only basket of the opening quarter at the 3:29 mark on an Evan Hill bucket. CHS led, 8-2. In the closing 2:29, the YellowJackets used two 3-pointers and a 2-pointer to complete another run, this time 7-0. At the end of the 1st quarter Chester led by 14 points, 16-2.
The Pirates struck first in the second quarter. Evan Hill drained a 3-pointer at 7:19. CHS led, 16-5. Chester’s Trey McCartney then went on an 8-0 run of his own scoring three, speed layups and two free throws. Chester led, 21-5 at the 5:39 mark.
PHOTO 1
Trey McCartney (32) was one of Chester's top scorers Tuesday night in Game 4 of the 2026 CIT. McCartney scored 14 points in the 64-30 win over Valmeyer. Jim Beers Photo
Saxony wins Game 3 over Lovejoy, 62-38; Chester beats Valmeyer in Game 4, 64-30
BY JIM BEERS
Round 1 of the 62nd Annual Chester Invitational Tournament is complete. Tuesday January 13 featured Saxony and Lovejoy in Game 3 and Chester and Valmeyer in Game 4. Saxony Lutheran School defeated Lovejoy by a score of 62-38 and Chester won over Valmeyer, 64-30.
Day 2, Game 3: Saxony 62-Lovejoy 38
Saxony led the entire game against Lovejoy. The Crusaders led 18-7 after the first quarter and 37-19 at halftime. The 3rd quarter was huge for Saxony as they outscored the Wildcats, 21-8, to lead by 31 points, 58-27 at the end of three quarters. The Wildcats outscored the Crusaders, 11-4 in the 4th quarter, but still lost by 24 points, 62-38.
In the win, Saxony was led by four players who scored in double figures including Bryce Gaebler (13), Brayden Zoellner (11), James Hope (11), and Eli Raddemann (10). Other contributors included Na’Shaun Davis (7), Simon May (4), Baylor Wilson (4), and Welsh (2).
Lovejoy was led by two players who scored in double figures. Keith Bowens led all scorers with 18 points and Mylan Brown scored 12 points. Other scorers included Odell Jordan (4), Deshawn Barnes (2), and Tyren Tolden (2).
The Game 3 win advances Saxony to the Championship side of the bracket. The Game 3 loss moves Lovejoy to the Consolation bracket. Saxony will face Chester in Game 8 Thursday January 15 at 7:30 p.m. Lovejoy will face Valmeyer in Game 7 Thursday January 15 at 6:00 p.m.
Day 2, Game 4: Chester 64-Valmeyer 30
The Chester YellowJackets led the entire game against Valmeyer. Chester came into the game, 6-11 and Valmeyer came into the game, 7-10.
Chester’s Tallen James struck first blood at the 7:35 mark knocking down a huge 3-pointer to start the 1st quarter. Tray Peters then hit a 2-pointer (4:50) and Trey McCartney drained Chester’s second three (4:26) to give the Jackets an 8-0 run.
The Pirates scored their first and only basket of the opening quarter at the 3:29 mark on an Evan Hill bucket. CHS led, 8-2. In the closing 2:29, the YellowJackets used two 3-pointers and a 2-pointer to complete another run, this time 7-0. At the end of the 1st quarter Chester led by 14 points, 16-2.
The Pirates struck first in the second quarter. Evan Hill drained a 3-pointer at 7:19. CHS led, 16-5. Chester’s Trey McCartney then went on an 8-0 run of his own scoring three, speed layups and two free throws. Chester led, 21-5 at the 5:39 mark.
PHOTO 1
Trey McCartney (32) was one of Chester's top scorers Tuesday night in Game 4 of the 2026 CIT. McCartney scored 14 points in the 64-30 win over Valmeyer. Jim Beers Photo
Lady Jackets win at Red Bud, 46-30, over Lady Musketeers (2 of 2)
Win improves Chester girls to 11-9 overall and 2-2 in the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division
BY JIM BEERS
Chester’s Marlie Caby hit a field goal and made two free throws to lead the Lady Jackets’ 3rd quarter scoring. Lillian Diskey, Jessica Stumpe and Lexi Mott each scored two points apiece for Chester’s ten points. After three quarters of play, Chester led by 12 points, 33-21.
Chester’s Marlie Caby hit a 3-pointer at the 5:09 mark, to kick-off the final quarter. CHS led, 34-21. Just 14-seconds later, the Jackets scored again to extend Chester’s lead to 36-21. The Musketeers then went on a brief, 4-0 run to get within 11 points, 36-25, with 4:28 left in the game.
Chester’s Lexi Mott then came to the free throw line to leisurely knock down two free throws. CHS led, 38-25, at the 4:08 mark. Six seconds later the Jackets sent Red Bud to the free throw line. The Musketeers made both free throws and trailed by 11 points, 38-27, with 4:02 to play. At the 3:18 mark, Red Bud made yet another free throw to trail by just 10 points, 38-28.
Chester senior Natalie Guetersloh (22) knocked down a 2-foot bank shot with 2:48 to play to boost Chester’s score to 40-28. That effort began a 6-0 Lady Jacket run that ended with Lillian Diskey connecting for back-to-back free throws and Lexi Mott scoring two points. CHS led, 44-28, with 2:19 left on the clock.
In the final two minutes, each team would score again to make the final score, 46-30. In the final frame, Chester outscored Red Bud, 13-9, to secure the victory.
In the win, the Lady Jackets were led by Lexi Mott who scored 17 points. She was followed by Jessica Stumpe (9), Lillian Diskey (8), Marlie Caby (7), Aubrey Coleman (3), and Natalie Guetersloh (2). The Jackets shot 75 % from the free throw line (9-of-12). They also made 14 two-pointers and 2 three-pointers.
The Red Bud Musketeers did not have anyone score in double figures, but they did have six players contribute to the final offense of 30 points. Wagner led with 9 points, followed by Carter (6), Whealan (4), Rothlisberger (4), Ehret (4), and Minemann (2). Red Bud made 12-of-19 from the free throw line (63%). They made six 2-pointers and two 3-pointers.
With the win, the YellowJackets improved to an overall record of 11 wins and nine losses. In the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division race, the Jackets improved to 2-2. The Lady Jackets have the rest of the week off. They will return to action next week with three home games.
Tuesday January 20 the Jackets host Anna-Jonesboro. Thursday January 22 Steeleville will come to town. Saturday January 24 Chester will face Marissa again for the second time in two weeks.
PHOTO 2
Lexi Mott (33) a senior forward for the Chester High School Lady Yellowjackets Basketball Team was the high scorer Monday January 12 when CHS traveled to Red Bud. It was a Cahokia Conference game and the Jackets win, 46-30. Mott scored 17 points to help lead her team to victory. Jim Beers Photo
Lady Jackets win at Red Bud, 46-30, over Lady Musketeers (1 of 2)
Win improves Chester girls to 11-9 overall and 2-2 in the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division
BY JIM BEERS
After 15 games in a little over one month, the Chester High School Lady Jackets Basketball Team was blessed with just one game during the week of January 12-19. Monday January 12 the Jackets traveled to Red Bud to challenge the Red Bud Lady Musketeers.
The Musketeers are also members of the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division. It was the first meeting of the two teams in conference play, but they played against each other in Week 1 on November 19 in the 2025 Sparta Tournament. At that time, the Lady Jackets defeated the Musketeers, 35-31.
In this current meeting the Lady Jackets flew out of the nest and stung the Musketeers 16-0 after one quarter of play. In that vicious attack, Jessica Stumpe led the team with a 3-pointer, a 2-pointer, and perfect 2-for-2 free throw shooting for a total of seven points. Lexi Mott scored five points and Lillian Diskey added four points.
In the second quarter Red Bud outscored Chester 9-7 to trail by 14 points, 23-9, at halftime. In that frame, Musketeers Whelan (3), Carter (2), Rothlisberger (2), and Ehret (2), combined for nine points. The Jackets were led by Lexi Mott who made a pair of field goals and Aubrey Coleman who drained a 3-pointer for Chester’s seven points.
After halftime, The Musketeers came out strong again and outscored the Lady Jackets, 12-10. After not sending any Musketeers to the free throw line in the entire first half, Chester sent Red Bud players to the free throw line ten times in the 3rd quarter, with the Musketeers making half of them (5 points). Wagner also connected for a 3-pointer, Carter made a field goal, and Ehret hit a field goal.
PHOTO 1
CHS senior Natalie Guetersloh (22) saw lots of action Monday January 12 when the Lady Jackets traveled to Red Bud to compete in a Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division match-up. Guetersloh played the entire 4th quarter and scored a short jumper at the 2:48 mark to start a 6-0 run for Chester, The Jackets won the game, 46-30 to improve to 11-9 overall and 2-2 i9n the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division. Jim Beers Photo
Win improves Chester girls to 11-9 overall and 2-2 in the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division
BY JIM BEERS
After 15 games in a little over one month, the Chester High School Lady Jackets Basketball Team was blessed with just one game during the week of January 12-19. Monday January 12 the Jackets traveled to Red Bud to challenge the Red Bud Lady Musketeers.
The Musketeers are also members of the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division. It was the first meeting of the two teams in conference play, but they played against each other in Week 1 on November 19 in the 2025 Sparta Tournament. At that time, the Lady Jackets defeated the Musketeers, 35-31.
In this current meeting the Lady Jackets flew out of the nest and stung the Musketeers 16-0 after one quarter of play. In that vicious attack, Jessica Stumpe led the team with a 3-pointer, a 2-pointer, and perfect 2-for-2 free throw shooting for a total of seven points. Lexi Mott scored five points and Lillian Diskey added four points.
In the second quarter Red Bud outscored Chester 9-7 to trail by 14 points, 23-9, at halftime. In that frame, Musketeers Whelan (3), Carter (2), Rothlisberger (2), and Ehret (2), combined for nine points. The Jackets were led by Lexi Mott who made a pair of field goals and Aubrey Coleman who drained a 3-pointer for Chester’s seven points.
After halftime, The Musketeers came out strong again and outscored the Lady Jackets, 12-10. After not sending any Musketeers to the free throw line in the entire first half, Chester sent Red Bud players to the free throw line ten times in the 3rd quarter, with the Musketeers making half of them (5 points). Wagner also connected for a 3-pointer, Carter made a field goal, and Ehret hit a field goal.
PHOTO 1
CHS senior Natalie Guetersloh (22) saw lots of action Monday January 12 when the Lady Jackets traveled to Red Bud to compete in a Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division match-up. Guetersloh played the entire 4th quarter and scored a short jumper at the 2:48 mark to start a 6-0 run for Chester, The Jackets won the game, 46-30 to improve to 11-9 overall and 2-2 i9n the Cahokia Conference, Illinois Division. Jim Beers Photo
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2026 Chester Invitational Tournament is underway!
62nd Annual event features 8 local teams, January 12-13th at CHS Colbert Gymnasium
BY JIM BEERS
The 62nd Chester High School CIT (Chester Invitational Tournament) tipped off Monday January 12. The popular event is thought to be the longest-running high school boys’ basketball tournament south of I-70. This year’s event runs January 12-13 at Chester High School.
The 2026 CIT features Valle High School in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, Lebanon High School from Lebanon, Illinois, New Athens High School from New Athens, Illinois, Saxony Lutheran High School from Jackson, Missouri, Lovejoy High School from Lovejoy, Illinois, Chester High School from Chester, Illinois, and Valmeyer High School from Valmeyer, Illinois.
Round 1 games will be played Monday January 12 (Games 1 & 2) and Tuesday January 13 (Games 3 & 4). Round 2 games will be played Wednesday January 14 (Games 5 & 6), and Thursday January 15 (Games 7h & 8). There are NO games FRIDAY JANUARY 16. Championship Day is Saturday January 17 and features four games, 7th Place Game, Consolation Championship Game, 3rd Place Game, and the Championship Game.
Day 1 of Round 1 is already in the books. Results for Game 1 and Game 2 are as follow:
Game 1: Valle 55-Lebanon 41
Lebanon started out the game hot and outscored Valle, 18-14 after one quarter. In the second quarter Valle turned the tables and outscored Lebanon, 19-11, to lead by four points, 33-29 at halftime.
Valle managed to maintain their momentum in the 3rd quarter and outscored Lebanon by four points, 10-6. Lebanon led by eight points, 43-35, at the end of the 3rd quarter. Down the stretch, Valle held on to their momentum ad outscored Lebanon by sis points, 12-6, to win the game by 14 points, 55-41.
In the win, Lebanon was led by three players who scored in double figures including Bertrand (18), Viox (15), and Naeger (12). Other contributors included Marbury (4), Griffard (2) and Kutz (2).
In the loss, Lebanon had two players score in double figures. Washington and Ware each scored 17 points apiece and Adams (5) and Okal (2) rounded out the offense.
With the win, Valle advanced to Round 2 on Wednesday January 14. They will play Game 6 at 7:30 p.m. New Athens. Lebanon will play Day 2 at 6:00 p.m. in Game 5 vs Perryville.
Game 2: New Athens 75-Perryville 46
New Athens led the entire Game 2 of Day 1, Monday January 12. The Yellowjackets outscored Perryville by six points in the first quarter, 17-11. In the second quarter, New Athens outscored Perryville by seven points, 19-12, to lead by 13 points, 36-23.
To start the second half, the game was still competitive with both teams able to battle for the win. The third quarter, however, turned out to be devastating for the Pirates as New Athens outscored them by 15 points, 26-11, to lead by 28 points, 62-34, after three periods. In the 4th quarter New Athens outscored Perryville by just 1 point, 13-12, but it was too late to play catch-up. The Yellowjackets won the game by 29 points, 75-46.
In the win, New Athens had a total of 10 players contribute to the offensive total number of points. Three of those 10 players scored in double figures including Steinwagner (23), Sullivan (12), and Taylor (10). Other contributors included Dachsteiner (8), Lauer (6), Sieber (5), Will Mulholland (4), Wyatt Mulholland (3), Badgett (2), and Kimbrell (2).
Perryville was led by two players who scored in double figures. Wendel scored 15 points and Paisley scored 12 points. Other contributors included Schilli (7), Rodewald (7), Cahoon (3), and Huber (2).
With the loss, Perryville will play at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday January 14 in Game 5 of Round 2 vs Lebanon. With the win, New Athens advanced to the Championship side of the bracket to face Valle in Game 6 of Round 2 on Wednesday January 14.
Day 2 of Round 1: Tuesday January 13 Game 3 features Saxony vs Lovejoy at 6:00 p.m.
Day 2 of Round 1: Tuesday January 13 Game 4 features Chester vs Valmeyer at 7:30 p.m.
62nd Annual event features 8 local teams, January 12-13th at CHS Colbert Gymnasium
BY JIM BEERS
The 62nd Chester High School CIT (Chester Invitational Tournament) tipped off Monday January 12. The popular event is thought to be the longest-running high school boys’ basketball tournament south of I-70. This year’s event runs January 12-13 at Chester High School.
The 2026 CIT features Valle High School in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, Lebanon High School from Lebanon, Illinois, New Athens High School from New Athens, Illinois, Saxony Lutheran High School from Jackson, Missouri, Lovejoy High School from Lovejoy, Illinois, Chester High School from Chester, Illinois, and Valmeyer High School from Valmeyer, Illinois.
Round 1 games will be played Monday January 12 (Games 1 & 2) and Tuesday January 13 (Games 3 & 4). Round 2 games will be played Wednesday January 14 (Games 5 & 6), and Thursday January 15 (Games 7h & 8). There are NO games FRIDAY JANUARY 16. Championship Day is Saturday January 17 and features four games, 7th Place Game, Consolation Championship Game, 3rd Place Game, and the Championship Game.
Day 1 of Round 1 is already in the books. Results for Game 1 and Game 2 are as follow:
Game 1: Valle 55-Lebanon 41
Lebanon started out the game hot and outscored Valle, 18-14 after one quarter. In the second quarter Valle turned the tables and outscored Lebanon, 19-11, to lead by four points, 33-29 at halftime.
Valle managed to maintain their momentum in the 3rd quarter and outscored Lebanon by four points, 10-6. Lebanon led by eight points, 43-35, at the end of the 3rd quarter. Down the stretch, Valle held on to their momentum ad outscored Lebanon by sis points, 12-6, to win the game by 14 points, 55-41.
In the win, Lebanon was led by three players who scored in double figures including Bertrand (18), Viox (15), and Naeger (12). Other contributors included Marbury (4), Griffard (2) and Kutz (2).
In the loss, Lebanon had two players score in double figures. Washington and Ware each scored 17 points apiece and Adams (5) and Okal (2) rounded out the offense.
With the win, Valle advanced to Round 2 on Wednesday January 14. They will play Game 6 at 7:30 p.m. New Athens. Lebanon will play Day 2 at 6:00 p.m. in Game 5 vs Perryville.
Game 2: New Athens 75-Perryville 46
New Athens led the entire Game 2 of Day 1, Monday January 12. The Yellowjackets outscored Perryville by six points in the first quarter, 17-11. In the second quarter, New Athens outscored Perryville by seven points, 19-12, to lead by 13 points, 36-23.
To start the second half, the game was still competitive with both teams able to battle for the win. The third quarter, however, turned out to be devastating for the Pirates as New Athens outscored them by 15 points, 26-11, to lead by 28 points, 62-34, after three periods. In the 4th quarter New Athens outscored Perryville by just 1 point, 13-12, but it was too late to play catch-up. The Yellowjackets won the game by 29 points, 75-46.
In the win, New Athens had a total of 10 players contribute to the offensive total number of points. Three of those 10 players scored in double figures including Steinwagner (23), Sullivan (12), and Taylor (10). Other contributors included Dachsteiner (8), Lauer (6), Sieber (5), Will Mulholland (4), Wyatt Mulholland (3), Badgett (2), and Kimbrell (2).
Perryville was led by two players who scored in double figures. Wendel scored 15 points and Paisley scored 12 points. Other contributors included Schilli (7), Rodewald (7), Cahoon (3), and Huber (2).
With the loss, Perryville will play at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday January 14 in Game 5 of Round 2 vs Lebanon. With the win, New Athens advanced to the Championship side of the bracket to face Valle in Game 6 of Round 2 on Wednesday January 14.
Day 2 of Round 1: Tuesday January 13 Game 3 features Saxony vs Lovejoy at 6:00 p.m.
Day 2 of Round 1: Tuesday January 13 Game 4 features Chester vs Valmeyer at 7:30 p.m.
CECC STAFF OF THE MONTH
CECC is excited to announce our Staff Member of the Month for January, Mrs. Becky Gielow!!
CECC is excited to announce our Staff Member of the Month for January, Mrs. Becky Gielow!!
19th Annual Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic is in the books! (2 of 2)
2026 Champions are the Marissa Meteors; Runners Up are Chester Lady Jackets
BY JIM BEERS
Championship Game: Marissa 54-Chester 51
The Championship Game was a highly contested event from start-to-finish. Marissa started off big outscoring Chester, 17-10, in the first quarter. Chester answered with a 14-8 second quarter to get within one point, 25-24, at halftime.
The Meteors outscored the Lady Jackets, 14-13, in the 3rd quarter to take a two-point lead, 39-37, after three quarters of play. Down the stretch both teams fought hard and exchanged field goals with changed leads until the final seconds. In the end, The Lady Meteors outscored the Lady Jackets by one point, 15-14, to win the game by just three points, 54-51.
In the win, Marissa was led by one person who scored in double figures. Peyton Bickert scored 19 points. She was followed by Kaitlyn Klingeman (9), Ayla Ranck (7), Kearston Alstat (6), Kennedy Trieb (6), Allie Seiber (3), and Payten Parry (3).
In the loss, Chester had two players score in double figures. Lexi Mott scored 19 points and Jessica Stumpe scored 14 points. Other contributors included Lillian Diskey (9), Marlie Caby (7), and Aubrey Coleman (2).
3rd Place Game: Trico 48-Cobden 32
Trico led throughout the game. The Lady Pioneers led 17-7 after the first quarter and 29-10 at the half. In the third quarter, Cobden outscored Trico, 12-11, but still trailed by 18 points, 40-22. Down the 4th quarter stretch, the Lady Appleknockers outscored the Lady Pioneers, 10-8, but it was too-little-too-late, as Trico won the game, 48-32.
In the win, Trico was led by three players who scored in double figures including Lily Ebers (14), Hayleigh Franklin (11), and Greta Jones (10). Other contributors included Whitney Lovel (9), Morgan Durham (2) and Hazel Helmers (2).
In the loss, Cobden was led by two players who scored in double figures. Both Natalie Franklin and Emma Young scored 10 points apiece. Other scorers included Berkli Holtman (6), Mallory Adamitis (3), Griffin (2), and Ford (1).
Consolation Championship Game: Sparta 46-Dupo 28
Sparta and Dupo each scored 13 points apiece in the first quarter to tie, 13-13, after one period. The Lady Bulldogs outscored the Lady Tigers, 11-5, in the 2nd quarter to lead, by six points, 24-18, at halftime.
The third quarter was a wash for Dupo as Sparta shut out the Tigers 10-0 in the third frame to lead by 16 points, 34-18, after three quarters of play. The 4th quarter was close with Sparta only edging Dupo by two points, 12-10, but at the final buzzer, the Lady Bulldogs won by 18 points, 46-28.
In the win, Sparta had three players score in double figures including Liberti Johnson (12), Kaylynn French (12), and Sierra Starr (11). Ruthie Pillars added 6 points, Brynlea Keller added 3 points, and Maria Sangurima scored 2 points.
In their loss, Dupo did not have anyone score in double figures, but they did have six people score to get their 28 points. The Lady Tigers were led by Demiyah Chairs who scored 8 points. She was followed by Addison Mitchell (7), Kylie Kloess (7), and Kaitlyn Roberts, Keara Prater, and Maryann Esser who each scored two points apiece.
7th Place Game: New Athens 51-Steeleville 34
The Steeleville Lady Warriors came out strong in the first quarter and outscored the Lady Yellowjackets, 19-6. The tables turned in the second frame as New Athens outscored Steeleville, 20-2, to take a 5-point lead, 26-21, at the half.
The 3rd quarter was slim for both teams, but New Athens outscored Steeleville, 7-3, to lead by nine points, 33-24, after three periods. The 4th quarter put the game out of reach for the Lady Warriors as the Lady Yellowjackets outscored Steeleville 18-10, to win the game, 51-34.
In the win, New Athens was led by three players who scored in double figures. Peyton Jones led all players with 17 points and Brooke Deterding and Avery Albers each scored 13 points apiece. Other scorers included Nora Hager (4), Palin Deterding (3), and Riley Richardson (1).
PHOTO 2
Two Chester players made the 2026 All-Tournament Team of the 19th Annual Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Tournament. Lexi Mott (33) was not only a member of the All-Tournament Team, but she was the tournament Most Valuable Player (MVP). Jessie Stumpe (right) was a member of the All-Tournament Team. Jennifer Cartwright Photo
2026 Champions are the Marissa Meteors; Runners Up are Chester Lady Jackets
BY JIM BEERS
Championship Game: Marissa 54-Chester 51
The Championship Game was a highly contested event from start-to-finish. Marissa started off big outscoring Chester, 17-10, in the first quarter. Chester answered with a 14-8 second quarter to get within one point, 25-24, at halftime.
The Meteors outscored the Lady Jackets, 14-13, in the 3rd quarter to take a two-point lead, 39-37, after three quarters of play. Down the stretch both teams fought hard and exchanged field goals with changed leads until the final seconds. In the end, The Lady Meteors outscored the Lady Jackets by one point, 15-14, to win the game by just three points, 54-51.
In the win, Marissa was led by one person who scored in double figures. Peyton Bickert scored 19 points. She was followed by Kaitlyn Klingeman (9), Ayla Ranck (7), Kearston Alstat (6), Kennedy Trieb (6), Allie Seiber (3), and Payten Parry (3).
In the loss, Chester had two players score in double figures. Lexi Mott scored 19 points and Jessica Stumpe scored 14 points. Other contributors included Lillian Diskey (9), Marlie Caby (7), and Aubrey Coleman (2).
3rd Place Game: Trico 48-Cobden 32
Trico led throughout the game. The Lady Pioneers led 17-7 after the first quarter and 29-10 at the half. In the third quarter, Cobden outscored Trico, 12-11, but still trailed by 18 points, 40-22. Down the 4th quarter stretch, the Lady Appleknockers outscored the Lady Pioneers, 10-8, but it was too-little-too-late, as Trico won the game, 48-32.
In the win, Trico was led by three players who scored in double figures including Lily Ebers (14), Hayleigh Franklin (11), and Greta Jones (10). Other contributors included Whitney Lovel (9), Morgan Durham (2) and Hazel Helmers (2).
In the loss, Cobden was led by two players who scored in double figures. Both Natalie Franklin and Emma Young scored 10 points apiece. Other scorers included Berkli Holtman (6), Mallory Adamitis (3), Griffin (2), and Ford (1).
Consolation Championship Game: Sparta 46-Dupo 28
Sparta and Dupo each scored 13 points apiece in the first quarter to tie, 13-13, after one period. The Lady Bulldogs outscored the Lady Tigers, 11-5, in the 2nd quarter to lead, by six points, 24-18, at halftime.
The third quarter was a wash for Dupo as Sparta shut out the Tigers 10-0 in the third frame to lead by 16 points, 34-18, after three quarters of play. The 4th quarter was close with Sparta only edging Dupo by two points, 12-10, but at the final buzzer, the Lady Bulldogs won by 18 points, 46-28.
In the win, Sparta had three players score in double figures including Liberti Johnson (12), Kaylynn French (12), and Sierra Starr (11). Ruthie Pillars added 6 points, Brynlea Keller added 3 points, and Maria Sangurima scored 2 points.
In their loss, Dupo did not have anyone score in double figures, but they did have six people score to get their 28 points. The Lady Tigers were led by Demiyah Chairs who scored 8 points. She was followed by Addison Mitchell (7), Kylie Kloess (7), and Kaitlyn Roberts, Keara Prater, and Maryann Esser who each scored two points apiece.
7th Place Game: New Athens 51-Steeleville 34
The Steeleville Lady Warriors came out strong in the first quarter and outscored the Lady Yellowjackets, 19-6. The tables turned in the second frame as New Athens outscored Steeleville, 20-2, to take a 5-point lead, 26-21, at the half.
The 3rd quarter was slim for both teams, but New Athens outscored Steeleville, 7-3, to lead by nine points, 33-24, after three periods. The 4th quarter put the game out of reach for the Lady Warriors as the Lady Yellowjackets outscored Steeleville 18-10, to win the game, 51-34.
In the win, New Athens was led by three players who scored in double figures. Peyton Jones led all players with 17 points and Brooke Deterding and Avery Albers each scored 13 points apiece. Other scorers included Nora Hager (4), Palin Deterding (3), and Riley Richardson (1).
PHOTO 2
Two Chester players made the 2026 All-Tournament Team of the 19th Annual Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Tournament. Lexi Mott (33) was not only a member of the All-Tournament Team, but she was the tournament Most Valuable Player (MVP). Jessie Stumpe (right) was a member of the All-Tournament Team. Jennifer Cartwright Photo
19th Annual Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic is in the books! (1 of 2)
2026 Champions are the Marissa Meteors; Runners Up are Chester Lady Jackets
BY JIM BEERS
The 19th Annual Chester High School Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Tournament is completed and in the books! This year’s weather cooperated beautifully and all five nights/sessions went without a hitch.
Marissa and Chester battled it out for four quarters and the final decision was not reached until the final seconds of the contest. The Marissa Meteors edged the host Lady Jackets by just three points, 54-51. The Meteors were Tournament Champions and the Chester Lady Jackets were Runners-Up. Both teams were awarded trophies.
Trico and Cobden faced off in the game for 3rd Place. The Lady Pioneers led the entire game and won by 16 points, 48-32. Trico was awarded the 3rd Place Trophy, finishing 3rd. The Lady Appleknockers finished in 4th Place.
Sparta and Dupo competed for the title of Consolation Champion. The game was competitive for the first half, but the Lady Bulldogs led by 18 points, 46-28, at the final buzzer. They were awarded the Consolation Championship Trophy, having placed 5th overall. The Dupo Tigers finished in 6th Place.
New Athens and Steeleville played for the 7th Place title. The Lady Yellowjackets won, 51-34, to claim the honor. The Lady Warriors finished in 8th Place.
MVP and All-tournament Team Honorees
The Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the tournament was Chester’s Lexi Mott (#33)
The All-Tournament Team included:
Championship Game
Marissa: Peyton Bickert (#32)
Kennedy Trieb (#5)
Chester: Lexi Mott (#33)
Jessica Stumpe (#24)
3rd Place Game
Trico: Whitney Lovel (#23)
Hayleigh Franklin (#4)
Consolation Championship Game
Sparta: Liberty Johnson (#2)
Ruthie Pillers (#15)
7th Place Game
Steeleville: Rylan Reiss (#24)
New Athens: Brooke Deterding (#3)
PHOTO 1
The Chester High School Lady Jackets finished 2nd Place in the 19th Annual Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Tournament. The Jackets faced Marissa in the Championship game Saturday January 10. The game was close throughout all four quarters, but Chester fell down the stretch to lose the Championship by just three points, 54-51. Tonya Diskey Photo
2026 Champions are the Marissa Meteors; Runners Up are Chester Lady Jackets
BY JIM BEERS
The 19th Annual Chester High School Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Tournament is completed and in the books! This year’s weather cooperated beautifully and all five nights/sessions went without a hitch.
Marissa and Chester battled it out for four quarters and the final decision was not reached until the final seconds of the contest. The Marissa Meteors edged the host Lady Jackets by just three points, 54-51. The Meteors were Tournament Champions and the Chester Lady Jackets were Runners-Up. Both teams were awarded trophies.
Trico and Cobden faced off in the game for 3rd Place. The Lady Pioneers led the entire game and won by 16 points, 48-32. Trico was awarded the 3rd Place Trophy, finishing 3rd. The Lady Appleknockers finished in 4th Place.
Sparta and Dupo competed for the title of Consolation Champion. The game was competitive for the first half, but the Lady Bulldogs led by 18 points, 46-28, at the final buzzer. They were awarded the Consolation Championship Trophy, having placed 5th overall. The Dupo Tigers finished in 6th Place.
New Athens and Steeleville played for the 7th Place title. The Lady Yellowjackets won, 51-34, to claim the honor. The Lady Warriors finished in 8th Place.
MVP and All-tournament Team Honorees
The Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the tournament was Chester’s Lexi Mott (#33)
The All-Tournament Team included:
Championship Game
Marissa: Peyton Bickert (#32)
Kennedy Trieb (#5)
Chester: Lexi Mott (#33)
Jessica Stumpe (#24)
3rd Place Game
Trico: Whitney Lovel (#23)
Hayleigh Franklin (#4)
Consolation Championship Game
Sparta: Liberty Johnson (#2)
Ruthie Pillers (#15)
7th Place Game
Steeleville: Rylan Reiss (#24)
New Athens: Brooke Deterding (#3)
PHOTO 1
The Chester High School Lady Jackets finished 2nd Place in the 19th Annual Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Tournament. The Jackets faced Marissa in the Championship game Saturday January 10. The game was close throughout all four quarters, but Chester fell down the stretch to lose the Championship by just three points, 54-51. Tonya Diskey Photo
Chester beats Trico, 55-51, and
Sparta wins over New Athens, 51-32 on Day 4 of LJMWC (3 of 3)
Chester will advance to Championship game, and Sparta will play for Consolation Championship
BY JIM BEERS
It turns out that the game was far from over, however, as neither team was willing to terminate their desire and intention to win the game! Trico struck first blood with a basket by lily Ebers at the 6:54 mark. CHS still led, 38-35. With 6:08 to play, Chester’s Lexi Mott made a free throw to extend the Lady Jacket lead to 39-35.
At the 5:10 mark Trico’s Greta Jones hit a bucket to get the Lady Pioneers within two points, 39-37. Chester answered with a Lexi Mott 2-pointer making the score Chester 41-Trico 37, with 4:56 to play. The give-and-take continued when Trico’s Lily Ebers connected for two points at the 4:32 mark, to cut the Chester lead to two points, 41-39. With 4:11 to play, Trico called a full time out. During that opening half of the 4th quarter, Trico enjoyed a 6-3 run.
From the 3:38 mark until the 1:46 mark there would be five lead changes and one tie. Trico took the lead, 42-41, at 3:48 when Hayleigh Franklin drained a 3-pointer. At the 3:06 mark, Chester re-took the lead, 43-42, on a Marlie Caby basket. Five seconds later Trico tied the game, 43-43 when Greta Jones hit a free throw. Just 14 seconds later, Chester re-took the lead, 44-43 on a Marlie Caby Free throw. The Lady Pioneers answered with a Greta Jones 2-pointer to re-take the Trico lead, 45-44. The see-saw finished when Chester’s Lexi Mott sank back-to-back free throws to re-take the Chester lead, 45-45, with only 1:46 to play in the game. During that see-saw period, Trico led with a 6-5 offensive production.
Chester took a time out with just 1:32 to play in the game with a one point, 46-45, lead. The game was far from over at that point, however. There was still much action and thrilling excitement left during the final 1:13 of the game!
In the final 1:13 Chester orchestrated a 9-5 run to win the game. During that stretch the Lady Jackets hit 7-of-7 free throws and one field goal. This fact demonstrates the great importance of making free throws with the clock stopped.
Lexi Mott made back-to-back free throws at the 1:13 mark. CHS led, 48-45. With 49.5 seconds left to play, Chester’s Aubrey Coleman hit a field goal. Chester led, 50-45. With 28.4 seconds left, Lillian Diskey made two free throws. CHS extended its lead to 52-45.
Just when it looked as if the Lady Jackets were going to walk away with the win, Trico’s Whitney Lovel drained a 3-pointer with 18.6 seconds left to play in the game to get the Lady Pioneers back within four points, 52-48. Just 4.4 seconds later, Chester’s Lillian Diskey was fouled and went to the line. She sank both free throws to extend Chester’s lead back to six points, 54-48, at the 14.2 mark.
There was still drama to be experienced with 14.2 second on the clock. Chester’s Aubrey Coleman went to the line and made one free throw at the 9.2 mark giving Chester a 55-48 advantage. Trico spent its last bit of time and possession at the free throw line as Hayleigh Franklin hit both ends of a fret how opportunity to give the Lady Pioneers their final score of the game. Chester won, 55-50.
In the win, Chester had 4-of-5 players score in double figures. Lexi Mott had 13 points, and Lillian Diskey, Jessica Stumpe, and Aubrey Coleman each scored 12 points apiece. Marlie Caby added six points. The Lady Jackets made 16-of-23 free throw attempts (70%). They also made three 3-pointers and 15 two-pointers.
Trico was led by Whitney Lovel who scored 15 points, and Hayleigh Franklin who added 14 points. Greta Jones contributed nine points and Lily Ebers added eight points. Finally, Hazel Helmers scored four points. The Lady Bulldogs were 6-of-13 at the free throw line (46%). They also made 4 three-pointers and 16 two -pointers.
PHOTO 4
Jessica Stumpe (24) gets ready to unleash one her many field goals in the game against Trico. The occasion was the Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Semi-Final round. Stumpe scored 12 points on one 3-pointer, 4 traditional 2-pointers, and perfect 1-for-1 free throw shooting. Her offense and spunky defense helped her team beat Trico by a score of 55-50 and advance to the Championship game Saturday January 10 at 4:30 pm. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 5
CHS senior forward Lexi Mott (33) jumps ball against Trico Lady Pioneer Hazel Helmers (21) in the Semi-Final game of the 19th Annual CHS Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Tournament. Mott,a senior, was Chester's highest scorer with 13 points. Her rebounding and defensive efforts helped her team beat Trico, 55-50. Jim Beers Photo
Sparta wins over New Athens, 51-32 on Day 4 of LJMWC (3 of 3)
Chester will advance to Championship game, and Sparta will play for Consolation Championship
BY JIM BEERS
It turns out that the game was far from over, however, as neither team was willing to terminate their desire and intention to win the game! Trico struck first blood with a basket by lily Ebers at the 6:54 mark. CHS still led, 38-35. With 6:08 to play, Chester’s Lexi Mott made a free throw to extend the Lady Jacket lead to 39-35.
At the 5:10 mark Trico’s Greta Jones hit a bucket to get the Lady Pioneers within two points, 39-37. Chester answered with a Lexi Mott 2-pointer making the score Chester 41-Trico 37, with 4:56 to play. The give-and-take continued when Trico’s Lily Ebers connected for two points at the 4:32 mark, to cut the Chester lead to two points, 41-39. With 4:11 to play, Trico called a full time out. During that opening half of the 4th quarter, Trico enjoyed a 6-3 run.
From the 3:38 mark until the 1:46 mark there would be five lead changes and one tie. Trico took the lead, 42-41, at 3:48 when Hayleigh Franklin drained a 3-pointer. At the 3:06 mark, Chester re-took the lead, 43-42, on a Marlie Caby basket. Five seconds later Trico tied the game, 43-43 when Greta Jones hit a free throw. Just 14 seconds later, Chester re-took the lead, 44-43 on a Marlie Caby Free throw. The Lady Pioneers answered with a Greta Jones 2-pointer to re-take the Trico lead, 45-44. The see-saw finished when Chester’s Lexi Mott sank back-to-back free throws to re-take the Chester lead, 45-45, with only 1:46 to play in the game. During that see-saw period, Trico led with a 6-5 offensive production.
Chester took a time out with just 1:32 to play in the game with a one point, 46-45, lead. The game was far from over at that point, however. There was still much action and thrilling excitement left during the final 1:13 of the game!
In the final 1:13 Chester orchestrated a 9-5 run to win the game. During that stretch the Lady Jackets hit 7-of-7 free throws and one field goal. This fact demonstrates the great importance of making free throws with the clock stopped.
Lexi Mott made back-to-back free throws at the 1:13 mark. CHS led, 48-45. With 49.5 seconds left to play, Chester’s Aubrey Coleman hit a field goal. Chester led, 50-45. With 28.4 seconds left, Lillian Diskey made two free throws. CHS extended its lead to 52-45.
Just when it looked as if the Lady Jackets were going to walk away with the win, Trico’s Whitney Lovel drained a 3-pointer with 18.6 seconds left to play in the game to get the Lady Pioneers back within four points, 52-48. Just 4.4 seconds later, Chester’s Lillian Diskey was fouled and went to the line. She sank both free throws to extend Chester’s lead back to six points, 54-48, at the 14.2 mark.
There was still drama to be experienced with 14.2 second on the clock. Chester’s Aubrey Coleman went to the line and made one free throw at the 9.2 mark giving Chester a 55-48 advantage. Trico spent its last bit of time and possession at the free throw line as Hayleigh Franklin hit both ends of a fret how opportunity to give the Lady Pioneers their final score of the game. Chester won, 55-50.
In the win, Chester had 4-of-5 players score in double figures. Lexi Mott had 13 points, and Lillian Diskey, Jessica Stumpe, and Aubrey Coleman each scored 12 points apiece. Marlie Caby added six points. The Lady Jackets made 16-of-23 free throw attempts (70%). They also made three 3-pointers and 15 two-pointers.
Trico was led by Whitney Lovel who scored 15 points, and Hayleigh Franklin who added 14 points. Greta Jones contributed nine points and Lily Ebers added eight points. Finally, Hazel Helmers scored four points. The Lady Bulldogs were 6-of-13 at the free throw line (46%). They also made 4 three-pointers and 16 two -pointers.
PHOTO 4
Jessica Stumpe (24) gets ready to unleash one her many field goals in the game against Trico. The occasion was the Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Semi-Final round. Stumpe scored 12 points on one 3-pointer, 4 traditional 2-pointers, and perfect 1-for-1 free throw shooting. Her offense and spunky defense helped her team beat Trico by a score of 55-50 and advance to the Championship game Saturday January 10 at 4:30 pm. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 5
CHS senior forward Lexi Mott (33) jumps ball against Trico Lady Pioneer Hazel Helmers (21) in the Semi-Final game of the 19th Annual CHS Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Tournament. Mott,a senior, was Chester's highest scorer with 13 points. Her rebounding and defensive efforts helped her team beat Trico, 55-50. Jim Beers Photo
Chester beats Trico, 55-51, and
Sparta wins over New Athens, 51-32 on Day 4 of LJMWC (2 of 3)
Chester will advance to Championship game, and Sparta will play for Consolation Championship
BY JIM BEERS
Trico jumped out to a quick 6-0 lead in the opening 2:20. Ebers, Franklin, and Lovel each hit baskets in that opening run. Chester called a time out at the 5:40 mark.
After the time out, the Lady Jackets went on a 7-0 run of their own to take a 7-6 lead at the 2:14 mark. Trico called a time out after Hazel Helmers was called for a foul at the 2:03 mark. Just 11-seconds after the time out, Chester’s Aubrey Coleman popped a 3-pointer to complete a CHS 10-0 run with just 1:48 remaining in the 1st quarter.
Trico ended the quarter on a 5-2 run as Lovel drained a 3-pointer and Greta Jones knocked down a shot. Chester’s 1st quarter points came from Aubrey Coleman (5), Jessica Stumpe (3), Lillian Diskey (4), and Lexi Mott (2). Chester led, 12-11 at the end of the opening 8:00.
The Lady Jackets buzzed out hard and fast in the second quarter and stung Trico with a 12-0 run to extend their lead by 13 points, 24-11. During that run Jessica Stumpe started the frenzy with a bucket at 6:35. She then got a loose ball and drove coast-to-coast making a layup. She was fouled in the process and completed the traditional three-point play. Chester led, 17-11 with 5:16 to play in the second quarter.
At the 4:22 mark, Chester’s Lexi Mott made the back end of a “two free throw” attempt. CHS led, 18-11. Senior Lillian Diskey then went on a tirade with back-to-back steals and coast-to-coast trips that were completed with exciting made layups. With 2:10 to play, the Lady Jackets led, 22-11.
Not to be outdone, Chester’s Aubrey Coleman got a steal on Trico’s next possession. Coleman took the steal, drove the length of the floor and scored, to extend Chester’s lead to 24-11 at the 1:50 mark. On Chester’s next possession, Lilian Diskey got another steal and drove the length of the floor for what could have been another fast-break score, but her shot missed the spot as she was shooting. No foul was called.
On Trico’s next possession, Hazel Helmers broke Chester’s 12-0 run when she knocked down a shot with .49 remaining in the second quarter. Chester’s Jessica Stumpe and Trico’s Hayleigh Franklin each scored in the remaining 30 seconds. At the buzzer, Chester had ended a 14-4 run, to lead by 11 points, 26-15 at the half.
The second quarter was critical to the YellowJacket’s success. The lady Jackets, who basically use five key players, worked extremely hard throughout that period to establish a nice, 11-point lead. Players executed a great game plan and put in an enormous amount of heart and energy to accomplish their goal.
With the loss of senior Riley Lochhead weeks ago to a broken leg, Coach Jeff Mott uses sophomore Marlie Caby as the next in line to round out the starting lineup. Each game Mott relies heavily on those five starters to shoulder most of every game, putting very much stress and physical demand on that group. There is little room or availability of experienced personnel to provide varsity relief. That fact sometimes takes a toll on the Lady Jacket energy level.
That fact was seen in the 3rd quarter as Trico came out strong and determined to challenge Chester throughout the remainder of the game. When the Jackets came out of the locker room after halftime, fatigue was quite apparent from the first half battle. During the 3rd quarter the Jackets committed five early turnovers and committed four key fouls which negatively reflected on the outcome of the period.
Before Chester was forced to call a time out at the3:29 mark, the Lady Pioneers managed a 9-4 run to get within six points of Chester, 30-24. During that run, Whitney Lovel (5), Hayleigh Franklin (2), and Hazel Helmers (2) teamed up to get Trico back in the game. Chester’s Marlie Caby (2) and Jessica Stumpe (2) kept Chester alive.
With just .51 left in the 3rd quarter, the Pioneers managed to tie the game, 33-33. During that run Trico outscored Chester 9-3 on the efforts of Lily Ebers (5), Whitney Lovel (2), and Greta Jones (2). Chester was only able to come up with three points as Lillian Diskey made the back end of a two point freed throw attempt and Carlie Caby connected for a 2-point field goal.
In the final 35.3 seconds, Chester came alive and ended the 3rd quarter with a 5-0 run as Lexi Mott calmly made both of her free throw attempts (2) and Aubrey Coleman drained a 3-pointer at the buzzer (3). Chester re-took the lead, 38-33, to end the period. That five point finish took much wind out of the Trico sails, and gave a renewed life to the Chester effort.
Sparta wins over New Athens, 51-32 on Day 4 of LJMWC (2 of 3)
Chester will advance to Championship game, and Sparta will play for Consolation Championship
BY JIM BEERS
Trico jumped out to a quick 6-0 lead in the opening 2:20. Ebers, Franklin, and Lovel each hit baskets in that opening run. Chester called a time out at the 5:40 mark.
After the time out, the Lady Jackets went on a 7-0 run of their own to take a 7-6 lead at the 2:14 mark. Trico called a time out after Hazel Helmers was called for a foul at the 2:03 mark. Just 11-seconds after the time out, Chester’s Aubrey Coleman popped a 3-pointer to complete a CHS 10-0 run with just 1:48 remaining in the 1st quarter.
Trico ended the quarter on a 5-2 run as Lovel drained a 3-pointer and Greta Jones knocked down a shot. Chester’s 1st quarter points came from Aubrey Coleman (5), Jessica Stumpe (3), Lillian Diskey (4), and Lexi Mott (2). Chester led, 12-11 at the end of the opening 8:00.
The Lady Jackets buzzed out hard and fast in the second quarter and stung Trico with a 12-0 run to extend their lead by 13 points, 24-11. During that run Jessica Stumpe started the frenzy with a bucket at 6:35. She then got a loose ball and drove coast-to-coast making a layup. She was fouled in the process and completed the traditional three-point play. Chester led, 17-11 with 5:16 to play in the second quarter.
At the 4:22 mark, Chester’s Lexi Mott made the back end of a “two free throw” attempt. CHS led, 18-11. Senior Lillian Diskey then went on a tirade with back-to-back steals and coast-to-coast trips that were completed with exciting made layups. With 2:10 to play, the Lady Jackets led, 22-11.
Not to be outdone, Chester’s Aubrey Coleman got a steal on Trico’s next possession. Coleman took the steal, drove the length of the floor and scored, to extend Chester’s lead to 24-11 at the 1:50 mark. On Chester’s next possession, Lilian Diskey got another steal and drove the length of the floor for what could have been another fast-break score, but her shot missed the spot as she was shooting. No foul was called.
On Trico’s next possession, Hazel Helmers broke Chester’s 12-0 run when she knocked down a shot with .49 remaining in the second quarter. Chester’s Jessica Stumpe and Trico’s Hayleigh Franklin each scored in the remaining 30 seconds. At the buzzer, Chester had ended a 14-4 run, to lead by 11 points, 26-15 at the half.
The second quarter was critical to the YellowJacket’s success. The lady Jackets, who basically use five key players, worked extremely hard throughout that period to establish a nice, 11-point lead. Players executed a great game plan and put in an enormous amount of heart and energy to accomplish their goal.
With the loss of senior Riley Lochhead weeks ago to a broken leg, Coach Jeff Mott uses sophomore Marlie Caby as the next in line to round out the starting lineup. Each game Mott relies heavily on those five starters to shoulder most of every game, putting very much stress and physical demand on that group. There is little room or availability of experienced personnel to provide varsity relief. That fact sometimes takes a toll on the Lady Jacket energy level.
That fact was seen in the 3rd quarter as Trico came out strong and determined to challenge Chester throughout the remainder of the game. When the Jackets came out of the locker room after halftime, fatigue was quite apparent from the first half battle. During the 3rd quarter the Jackets committed five early turnovers and committed four key fouls which negatively reflected on the outcome of the period.
Before Chester was forced to call a time out at the3:29 mark, the Lady Pioneers managed a 9-4 run to get within six points of Chester, 30-24. During that run, Whitney Lovel (5), Hayleigh Franklin (2), and Hazel Helmers (2) teamed up to get Trico back in the game. Chester’s Marlie Caby (2) and Jessica Stumpe (2) kept Chester alive.
With just .51 left in the 3rd quarter, the Pioneers managed to tie the game, 33-33. During that run Trico outscored Chester 9-3 on the efforts of Lily Ebers (5), Whitney Lovel (2), and Greta Jones (2). Chester was only able to come up with three points as Lillian Diskey made the back end of a two point freed throw attempt and Carlie Caby connected for a 2-point field goal.
In the final 35.3 seconds, Chester came alive and ended the 3rd quarter with a 5-0 run as Lexi Mott calmly made both of her free throw attempts (2) and Aubrey Coleman drained a 3-pointer at the buzzer (3). Chester re-took the lead, 38-33, to end the period. That five point finish took much wind out of the Trico sails, and gave a renewed life to the Chester effort.
Chester beats Trico, 55-51, and
Sparta wins over New Athens, 51-32 on Day 4 of LJMWC (1 of 3)
Chester will advance to Championship game, and Sparta will play for Consolation Championship
BY JIM BEERS
Thursday January 8 was Day 4 of the 2026 Chester High School Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic. It was the final day of the Semi-Finals for the Championship games of both the Consolation Bracket and the Tournament Championship Bracket.
Game 7 featured Sparta vs New Athens in the Consolation Bracket and Chester vs Trico in the Championship Bracket. Sparta defeated New Athens, 51-32, and Chester beat Trico, 55-51. Sparta will compete in Game 10 Saturday January 10 at 1:30 noon vs Dupo for the Consolation Championship, and Chester will play for the Tournament Championship Saturday January 10 at 4:30 p.m. vs Marissa.
Game 7: Sparta 51- New Athens 32
The first quarter was competitive with Sparta leading New Athens, 11-8, after the first quarter. The Lady Bulldogs maintained the lead in the second quarter by outscoring the Lady Yellowjackets, 14-8. At halftime, Sparta led, 25-16.
The Lady Bulldogs turned on the steam in the 3rd quarter outscoring New Athens, 16-4, to extend the lead to 41-20. Down the stretch, the Lady Yellowjackets outscored the Lady Bulldogs, 12-10, but it was too-little-too-late, with Sparta securing the win, 51-32.
New Athens had two players score in double figures. Brooke Deterding scored 16 points and Avery Albers scored 10 points. Other contributors included Palin Deterding, Ally Barr, and Nora Hager with two points apiece. The Lady YellowJackets made 4-of-14 free throws (29%). They also made 11 two-pointers and 2 three-pointers.
Sparta also had two players score in double figures. Liberti Johnson scored 14 points and Ruthie Pillers scored 12 points. Other contributors included Sierra Starr (8), Kaylynn French (5), Brynlea Keller (5), Serenity Richardson (4), and Maria Sangurima (3). The Lady Bulldogs made 6-of-9 free throws (67%). They also made 9 two-pointers and 9 three-pointers.
Game 8: Chester 55-Trico 50
The Championship Semi-Final game between the Chester Lady YellowJackets and the Trico Lady Pioneers was an exciting and hard-fought contest between two very feisty and determined teams. It was a great game with lots of ups-and-downs and lots of excitement, drama, and suspense. It was anybody’s game right up until the final seconds.
PHOTO 1
CHS Lady Jacket Marlie Caby (35), a sophomore, goes up for a basket Thursday January 8 when Chester hosted Trico in the LJMWC Championship Semi-Final. Caby scored six points and handled thew ball much of the time in the 55-50 win over the Lady Pioneers. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2
CHS senior Lillian Diskey (21) goes up for one of her many fast break streaks Thursday January 8 when Chester hosted Trico in the Semi-Final of the 2026 Lady Jacket Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Tournament. In the 55-50 win over Trico, Diskey scored 12 points and a great night creating many defensive stops and steals. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 3
Aubrey Coleman (31) a senior Lady Jacket Basketball shooting guard looks to make a pass to one of her teammates Thursday January 8 when Chester hosted the Trico Lady Pioneers in the Semi-Final of the Championship Round of the 19th Annual Lady Jacket Mid-Winter Classic Tournament. For the night Coleman scored 12 points and played scrappy defense. Jim Beers Photo
Sparta wins over New Athens, 51-32 on Day 4 of LJMWC (1 of 3)
Chester will advance to Championship game, and Sparta will play for Consolation Championship
BY JIM BEERS
Thursday January 8 was Day 4 of the 2026 Chester High School Lady Jackets Mid-Winter Classic. It was the final day of the Semi-Finals for the Championship games of both the Consolation Bracket and the Tournament Championship Bracket.
Game 7 featured Sparta vs New Athens in the Consolation Bracket and Chester vs Trico in the Championship Bracket. Sparta defeated New Athens, 51-32, and Chester beat Trico, 55-51. Sparta will compete in Game 10 Saturday January 10 at 1:30 noon vs Dupo for the Consolation Championship, and Chester will play for the Tournament Championship Saturday January 10 at 4:30 p.m. vs Marissa.
Game 7: Sparta 51- New Athens 32
The first quarter was competitive with Sparta leading New Athens, 11-8, after the first quarter. The Lady Bulldogs maintained the lead in the second quarter by outscoring the Lady Yellowjackets, 14-8. At halftime, Sparta led, 25-16.
The Lady Bulldogs turned on the steam in the 3rd quarter outscoring New Athens, 16-4, to extend the lead to 41-20. Down the stretch, the Lady Yellowjackets outscored the Lady Bulldogs, 12-10, but it was too-little-too-late, with Sparta securing the win, 51-32.
New Athens had two players score in double figures. Brooke Deterding scored 16 points and Avery Albers scored 10 points. Other contributors included Palin Deterding, Ally Barr, and Nora Hager with two points apiece. The Lady YellowJackets made 4-of-14 free throws (29%). They also made 11 two-pointers and 2 three-pointers.
Sparta also had two players score in double figures. Liberti Johnson scored 14 points and Ruthie Pillers scored 12 points. Other contributors included Sierra Starr (8), Kaylynn French (5), Brynlea Keller (5), Serenity Richardson (4), and Maria Sangurima (3). The Lady Bulldogs made 6-of-9 free throws (67%). They also made 9 two-pointers and 9 three-pointers.
Game 8: Chester 55-Trico 50
The Championship Semi-Final game between the Chester Lady YellowJackets and the Trico Lady Pioneers was an exciting and hard-fought contest between two very feisty and determined teams. It was a great game with lots of ups-and-downs and lots of excitement, drama, and suspense. It was anybody’s game right up until the final seconds.
PHOTO 1
CHS Lady Jacket Marlie Caby (35), a sophomore, goes up for a basket Thursday January 8 when Chester hosted Trico in the LJMWC Championship Semi-Final. Caby scored six points and handled thew ball much of the time in the 55-50 win over the Lady Pioneers. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2
CHS senior Lillian Diskey (21) goes up for one of her many fast break streaks Thursday January 8 when Chester hosted Trico in the Semi-Final of the 2026 Lady Jacket Mid-Winter Classic Basketball Tournament. In the 55-50 win over Trico, Diskey scored 12 points and a great night creating many defensive stops and steals. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 3
Aubrey Coleman (31) a senior Lady Jacket Basketball shooting guard looks to make a pass to one of her teammates Thursday January 8 when Chester hosted the Trico Lady Pioneers in the Semi-Final of the Championship Round of the 19th Annual Lady Jacket Mid-Winter Classic Tournament. For the night Coleman scored 12 points and played scrappy defense. Jim Beers Photo
CHS: DECEMBER PBIS STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
We are pleased to recognize our December PBIS Students of the Month. These students have been acknowledged by our faculty for exemplifying this month's character trait: CARING. Our school community is committed to fostering positive character traits that contribute to a constructive learning environment.
Thank you for your continued support.
Not pictured: Tesa Ray
CHS: ESTUDIANTES DEL MES DE DICIEMBRE – PBIS
Nos complace reconocer a nuestros Estudiantes del Mes de PBIS de diciembre. Estos estudiantes han sido reconocidos por nuestro personal por ejemplificar el rasgo de carácter de este mes: CUIDADO / SOLIDARIDAD. Nuestra comunidad escolar está comprometida a fomentar rasgos de carácter positivo que contribuyan a un ambiente de aprendizaje constructivo.
Gracias por su continuo apoyo.
No aparece en la foto: Tesa Ray
We are pleased to recognize our December PBIS Students of the Month. These students have been acknowledged by our faculty for exemplifying this month's character trait: CARING. Our school community is committed to fostering positive character traits that contribute to a constructive learning environment.
Thank you for your continued support.
Not pictured: Tesa Ray
CHS: ESTUDIANTES DEL MES DE DICIEMBRE – PBIS
Nos complace reconocer a nuestros Estudiantes del Mes de PBIS de diciembre. Estos estudiantes han sido reconocidos por nuestro personal por ejemplificar el rasgo de carácter de este mes: CUIDADO / SOLIDARIDAD. Nuestra comunidad escolar está comprometida a fomentar rasgos de carácter positivo que contribuyan a un ambiente de aprendizaje constructivo.
Gracias por su continuo apoyo.
No aparece en la foto: Tesa Ray
CHS: RANDOLPH COUNTY startUP
StartUP is thrilled to present our unique version of Spirit Week! We are a group of passionate entrepreneurs who are proud of our achievements and want to share them with you while adding some fun. Spirit Week will begin on Monday, January 12.
CHS: RANDOLPH COUNTY StartUP - RECORDATORIO
StartUP está encantado de presentar nuestra versión única de la Semana del Espíritu Escolar. Somos un grupo de emprendedores apasionados que estamos orgullosos de nuestros logros y queremos compartirlos con ustedes mientras añadimos un poco de diversión.
La Semana del Espíritu Escolar comenzará el lunes, 12 de enero.
CHS: Fall 2025 REPORT CARDS
Fall Semester Grades are posted. Report cards are available on TeacherEase.
CHS: Boletas de Calificaciones – Otoño 2025
Las calificaciones del semestre de otoño ya están publicadas. Las boletas de calificaciones están disponibles en TeacherEase.
