Despite a tough night on the scoreboard, the LaPorte Slicers wrestling team showed grit, resilience, and plenty of promise in their recent dual meet against the Portage Indians. The final score favored Portage, 54–13, but the match featured several strong individual performances that continue to highlight the Slicers’ determination and depth as the season progresses. The loss moves LaPorte’s overall record to 16–13, a mark that reflects both the challenges of a competitive schedule and the team’s ability to battle through it. Leading the way were several standout efforts on the mat. Grant Uhlemann earned a hard-fought decision victory, improving his season record to an impressive 25–9 and showcasing his consistency and experience. Lucas Marshall continued his perfect run this season with a commanding major decision win, moving to 8–0 and proving he is a force to watch in his weight class. Perhaps most emphatically, Porter Ivankovig delivered a pin to cap off his match, pushing his record to an outstanding 31–3 and providing a spark of momentum for the Slicers. While the dual did not go LaPorte’s way, performances like these demonstrate the heart of this team and the progress being made in the wrestling room every day. Each match offers valuable lessons, and the Slicers are using those lessons to sharpen their skills and strengthen their resolve as postseason competition approaches. The LaPorte Slicers won’t have to wait long to get back into action. They return to the mat this Saturday, January 17th, at the Duneland Athletic Conference Tournament, hosted by Portage High School. Wrestling is set to begin at 9:00 a.m., and the Slicers will look to turn recent experience into success as they compete against some of the area’s best.