Kilkeary, Greater Latrobe wrestling recognized as Shining Stars

Ohio State commit Vinny Kilkeary captured his third PIAA wrestling title in March

Tue May 02, 2023 - 1:26PM

Westmoreland Sports Network Westmoreland Sports Network
From L-R: Jeff Mikell (Smail Kia), Vinny Kilkeary, Coach Mark Mears.From L-R: Jeff Mikell (Smail Kia), Vinny Kilkeary, Coach Mark Mears.

Last Updated: Tue May 02, 2023 - 2:13PM

In a region noted for its wrestling standouts, very few grapplers enjoyed the success that Greater Latrobe’s Vinny Kilkeary achieved in his four years on the mat.

In his final match representing the Wildcats, Kilkeary secured the PIAA wrestling individual championships in March. Competing at the GIANT Center in Hershey, Kilkeary won the Class 3A 127-pound bracket. The senior claimed his third state title courtesy of an 8-5 decision against Andrew Binni of Canon-McMillan. Earlier in the tournament, Kilkeary prevailed via fall, major decision, and decision in the semifinals.

A few weeks earlier, Kilkeary achieved the same feat in the WPIAL bracket, as he registered a 10-4 decision against Binni of the host Big Macs in the 127 final. Prior to that match, Kilkeary scored three pinfalls. It marked his third consecutive district title.

Kilkeary concluded his storied career at Greater Latrobe with a record of 131-12, including a perfect 29-0 during the 2022-23 campaign. He has signed to continue his career on the mat at Ohio State.

In addition to Kilkeary, teammates Luke Willochell and Nate Roth also placed in the state tournament. Willochell earned a fifth place finish at 114 pounds and Nate Roth overcame numerous injuries to take seventh at 139 pounds.

With the Shining Stars recognition, the Greater Latrobe wrestling program will receive $500 for their booster organization courtesy of Smail Kia in Greensburg and the Westmoreland Sports Network.

ABOUT SHINING STARS: Shining Stars is a partnership between Westmoreland Sports Network and Smail Kia in Greensburg to recognize and support Westmoreland County student-athletes whose academics, community and athletic excellence shines the brightest. Two teams will be chosen as Shining Stars each season throughout the year with each receiving funding to help their booster programs.