Mater Dei’s Isaiah Schaefer and Greg Schaefer each earn SIAC honor

Special to The Message

Mater Dei High School is proud to announce Mater Dei senior Isaiah Schaefer and Head Coach Greg Schaefer recently earned Southern Indiana Athletic Conference accolades.

Isaiah Schaefer was named the SIAC Wrestler of the Year, while Greg Schaefer was named SIAC Coach of the Year.

“This prestigious dual honor highlights Mater Dei’s long-standing excellence in wrestling and is a moment of great pride for the Wildcats community,” a press release from the school states.

Isaiah Schaefer recently captured the IHSAA state wrestling championship in the 138-pound division. He finished this season with a 47-3 record. Schaefer officially committed to continue his wrestling career at Purdue University following his graduation.

Greg Schaefer, Isaiah’s father, continues to build on Mater Dei’s storied wrestling legacy, according to the press release. A former two-time IHSAA state wrestling champion in 1995 and 1998 at Mater Dei, Greg Schaefer dedicated himself to coaching the next generation of Wildcats. Under his leadership, the Wildcats have maintained their reputation as one of the premier wrestling programs in the state.

“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized alongside my son,” Greg Schaefer said. “Isaiah’s work ethic and love for the sport are inspiring, and I’m proud of the young man he has become. This award reflects the strength of our program, our coaching staff and the commitment of every athlete who steps on the mat for Mater Dei.”

The SIAC Wrestler of the Year and Coach of the Year are chosen by nominations from other head coaches across the conference.