Toppenish's Adalyne Montiel and Justyce Zuniga Etch Names in WIAA History with Four Mat Classic Titles

TACOMA, WA, February 21, 2026 - The Tacoma Dome pulsed with electrifying energy at the WIAA Mat Classic XXXVII, where Washington State's finest high school wrestlers left everything on the mat. Among the champions, two names echoed louder than most, Toppenish High School's Adalyne Montiel and Justyce Zuniga, both achieving the incredibly rare feat of winning their fourth individual state titles. Montiel's historic achievement also anchored an unparalleled dynasty, as the Toppenish girls' wrestling program secured its fifth consecutive team championship, showcasing a level of dominance rarely seen in any sport.

Wildcat Girls Reign Supreme with Fifth Straight Championship

The roar of the crowd was deafening as Adalyne Montiel stepped off the mat, celebrating not just her individual glory, but the continuation of a legacy. Her four consecutive WIAA state titles are a testament to years of tireless dedication, sacrifice, and exceptional skill. Montiel has become a cornerstone of the Toppenish girls' wrestling program, leading them to an astounding fifth straight team championship in the competitive 1A/2B classification. This consistent success speaks volumes about the coaching staff, the supportive community, and the incredible work ethic of athletes like Montiel, who embody the spirit of Washington prep sports, pouring their hearts into every match and practice.

Zuniga's Dominance Matched by Wapato's Depth

On the boys' side, Toppenish High School celebrated another four-time state champion in Justyce Zuniga, whose relentless pace and unmatched technique proved too much for every opponent he faced throughout his career. Zuniga's performance was a highlight of the 2A tournament, propelling the Toppenish boys' team to a commendable second-place finish. In the 1A classification, the Wapato High School boys showcased their depth and resilience, defending their team title with a hard-fought victory. Their collective effort, built from strong individual performances across multiple weight classes, proved decisive, demonstrating how teamwork can secure championship gold. Nearby rival Zillah High School finished as the 1A runner-up, boasting three individual winners who demonstrated fierce competitive drive and a bright future for their program.

Granger Spartans Claim 2B Gold, Girls Shine Bright

The 2B boys' team title was narrowly claimed by Granger High School, whose Spartans delivered clutch performances when it mattered most. The Granger boys secured a pair of individual titles, highlighting the talent within their ranks and bringing home championship hardware. Not to be outdone, the Granger girls' team also had a stellar showing, finishing as runner-up in the 1A/2B classification. Their success was powered by a trio of standout wrestlers: Gabrielle Berger, who earned a repeat championship, demonstrating her consistent excellence; Sonia Mendoza, who finally captured the state title she had tirelessly pursued for four years, a moment of pure triumph; and freshman phenom Vanessa Torres, who launched her high school career with a state championship, hinting at a spectacular future. These athletes represent the very best of Washington's prep wrestling talent, displaying grit and determination every step of the way, proving that hard work pays off.

As the mats are rolled up and the Tacoma Dome falls silent, the stories of triumph, perseverance, and championship glory from Mat Classic XXXVII will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of Washington high school wrestlers, fueling their dreams for seasons to come.

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