Avon High School has a new leader on the mat. Jacob Aven, the former head wrestling coach at Lawrence North, has been named the head wrestling coach for the Orioles, the school announced Monday.

"I am honored to join Avon High School and contribute to such a proud wrestling tradition," Aven said in a press release. "I look forward to building strong relationships with our student-athletes, families, and community while continuing to grow the program on and off the mat."

Aven brings a strong wrestling pedigree to Avon. Over the past seven years, he built Lawrence North into a competitive program, earning a reputation as a tireless worker and dedicated mentor. Before his coaching career, Aven was a standout wrestler at Zionsville High School before taking his talents to Purdue University. There, he earned Academic All-Big Ten honors for four consecutive seasons and competed in the 2019 NCAA Wrestling Championships—a testament to his discipline and skill.

"Coach Aven brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for excellence to the Orioles," said Avon athletic director Jason Young. "During his time at Lawrence North, he established himself as a tireless worker and a dedicated mentor. We are excited about the leadership and vision he brings to our wrestling program."

Aven steps into a program with a rich recent history. He replaces Alex Johns, who resigned after five seasons that produced 24 state finalists and multiple state champions. Now, Aven is tasked with ushering in a new era of wrestling at Avon—one that builds on that success while forging his own path.

For fans of Indiana high school wrestling, this is a move worth watching. Aven's blend of collegiate experience and proven coaching ability could make Avon a formidable force on the mat for years to come. Whether you're a wrestler, parent, or fan, this is a program to keep an eye on as the new season approaches.