Illiana Christian senior Gabriella Costello has commenced her final high school wrestling season with a remarkable start, positioning herself as a leading contender in Indiana’s 115-pound weight class.
Costello began the year ranked ninth in the state and has substantiated that ranking with a series of early-season victories. She started with a 4–0 decision over Merrillville’s Lorielle Thomas and proceeded to dominate on November 8, securing three consecutive pins against opponents from Crown Point, Penn, and Hobart—all within two minutes. Her capacity to control matches early and seize quick opportunities has characterized her strong start.
Following two mid-November losses, including one to the state’s eighth-ranked wrestler, Costello delivered one of her best performances of the season. On November 22, she defeated Britain Whitmer of John Glenn by major decision, 19–8, and secured an 11–7 victory over Gisele Kline of Fort Wayne North Side. This comeback reinforced her status among the top competitors in the region and demonstrated her ability to adapt and finish strong.
As a senior, Costello’s experience and consistency provide stability for Illiana Christian’s lineup. Her early results indicate she is prepared for another deep postseason run as she approaches the sectional and regional stages.
Next on the schedule, Illiana Christian girls wrestling will host Valparaiso on Thursday, December 11 at 6 p.m., where Costello aims to maintain her momentum on home ground.
