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Columbus High vs. West Delaware: 1A Finals Heat Up

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. bus-high-vs-west-delaware-1a-finals-heat-up.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 22:41 GMT by Sports Illustrated
      Locales: Iowa, UNITED STATES

A Look Across the Classes

The competition has been particularly fierce in Class 1A, where schools with smaller enrollments often showcase a unique blend of grit and technical skill. Columbus High School has a strong presence in the finals, boasting contenders in multiple weight classes, including Cobe Rouse at 285 lbs. West Delaware is also a force to be reckoned with, placing wrestlers in several championship bouts. The 126-pound clash between Cael Hughes (Columbus) and Carson Toms (West Delaware) is shaping up to be an early highlight, a battle of two consistently high-performing wrestlers with contrasting styles.

In Class 2A, the spotlight shines on Fort Madison and Sioux City Heelan, both sending multiple athletes to the finals. Kysen Menke (Ephesus-Mid-Prairie) versus Tegan Berg (Webster City) at 138 lbs. promises a tactical duel, while the heavyweight showdown between Hunter Thompson (Fort Dodge) and Zach Olson (Bettendorf) could be a physically dominant affair. The increased depth of talent in 2A is a testament to the growing popularity of wrestling in mid-sized Iowa schools.

Class 3A, traditionally dominated by programs from the Des Moines metro area, continues to deliver high-caliber wrestling. Ankeny High School, a perennial powerhouse, has a significant number of wrestlers vying for titles, particularly at 126 and 152 lbs. However, challengers from Fort Madison and West High are determined to disrupt the established order. The 195-pound match between Caleb Fuller (Dowling) and Carter Maas (Ankeny) is anticipated to be a particularly competitive and strategic battle.

Finally, Class 4A consistently showcases the most physically imposing and technically refined wrestlers in the state. Cedar Falls appears to be the team to beat, with finalists in multiple weight classes. The battles between Cedar Falls and Pleasant Valley are often fiercely contested and today's finals will be no different. The 285-pound match between Drake Brandt (Cedar Falls) and DeShawn Baker (Burlington) is predicted to be a brutal test of strength and endurance.

Key Matchups to Watch

Beyond the class-specific highlights, certain individual matchups deserve extra attention. The 138-pound showdowns in both 1A and 3A pit highly ranked wrestlers against each other, representing a microcosm of the overall competition. The consistency of Mason Ruhl (Denver) in 1A versus Drew Peterson (Clear Creek-Amana) could prove decisive, while Beau Hazen (Ankeny) in 3A and Jaden Klein (Fort Madison) are both known for their aggressive takedown attempts.

Another intriguing bout is the 160-pound match in Class 2A, featuring Jake Manning (CR-Pride) and Wyatt Mitchell (Sioux City North). Both wrestlers have demonstrated exceptional endurance throughout the season, suggesting a potentially grueling and tactical contest. In 4A, the 174-pound clash between Jaxon Pettigrew (Cedar Falls) and Kade Krause (Muscatine) promises a high-scoring affair, as both athletes are known for their offensive prowess.

The Future of Iowa Wrestling

These championships aren't just about crowning individual and team champions; they're also about identifying the next generation of wrestling talent. Several athletes competing today have already received interest from Division I college programs, and a strong performance could solidify scholarship offers. The intensity and competitiveness of Iowa high school wrestling are renowned nationally, consistently producing wrestlers who excel at the collegiate level and beyond.

Today's events at the Wells Fargo Arena are set to be a showcase of athleticism, determination, and sportsmanship. As the wrestlers step onto the mat, they'll be not only competing for a state title but also carrying the pride of their schools and communities. The 2026 Iowa High School State Wrestling Championships are a testament to the enduring legacy of this beloved sport in the Hawkeye State.