State Wrestling Mat Classic Brings Top Talent Together for Three Days of Elite Competition

The 2026 WIAA State Wrestling Mat Classic delivered three days of intense competition across Washington's best high school wrestlers, showcasing the depth and skill of prep wrestling throughout the state. Held February 19-21, the event featured wrestlers from 1A, 2A, 1B, and 2B classifications competing on multiple mats for state recognition and bragging rights.

Championship Moments Across Multiple Divisions

The bracket action was fierce throughout the weekend. In the boys 2A heavyweight division, Kade West of Anacortes High School locked horns with Landon Hamblin of Aberdeen High School in a battle that showcased the physical dominance required at 285 pounds. Meanwhile, Chief Sealth's Eli Policarpio competed in the 215-pound 2A championship match against Theo Stearns of North Kitsap High School, reflecting the competitive nature of the mid-weight classes.

The smaller classifications weren't short on drama either. Kenneth Daman from Forks High School faced off against Carter Pease of River View High School in the 1B/2B 285-pound championship, while the 1A heavyweight crown saw Jake Turner of Zillah High School square off against Ulysses Betancourt of Cashmere High School. These wrestlers represented the toughness and technical skill that defines Washington's wrestling culture.

Women's Wrestling Takes Center Stage

Female wrestlers dominated headlines throughout the Mat Classic. Hailey Rains of Anacortes High School competed for the 2A 235-pound girls championship against Charlene Underwood of Toppenish High School, highlighting the growing strength of women's wrestling in Washington's WIAA structure. In the combined 1B/2B/1A girls 235-pound bracket, Aubrey Newberry from Kiona Benton High School battled Nina Siribun of Raymond/South Bend High School in what proved to be a marquee matchup for female competitors.

The inclusion and prominence of girls wrestling at the state level demonstrates how far Washington prep wrestling has evolved, giving young women opportunities to compete at the highest levels of prep sports.

Building Toward State Championships

The Mat Classic served as a crucial tune-up for wrestlers across the state, allowing competitors to test their skills against talent from different districts and regions before the official WIAA state championships. Wrestlers like Caesar Garcia of Naselle Jr/Sr High School gained valuable experience in high-pressure matches, preparing them for the postseason grind ahead.

With wrestlers from schools across western and eastern Washington competing under the lights, the Mat Classic reinforced that Washington's wrestling programs are producing elite-level competitors ready to compete on any stage. As wrestlers head into the final stretch of their seasons, the intensity and quality on display at this classic proves that Washington high school wrestling is stronger than ever.

This article was created with AI assistance. Stats and results sourced from public records.