Unusual suspects win first boys team titles, while Soldotna girls secure back-to-back victories in 2024.

Hayden Martin from South High School emerged as the victor in the 215-pound boys DI state wrestling championship, defeating Gage Runnels of SWDP at the UAA Alaska Airlines Center in Anchorage on December 21, 2024. The Alaska high school state wrestling season came to a close with the ASAA state championship tournament, where the Soldotna girls successfully defended their title.

However, the Student Wrestling Development Program (SWDP) team and the Mt. Edgecumbe boys won their first-ever team championships in a dominant fashion. SWDP, based in Fairbanks, showcased remarkable growth since finishing next to last four years ago. This time, they amassed 357.5 points, beating South Anchorage to win the team title.

In the Division II boys, Dalton Henry from Haines High claimed victory in the 171-pound category, edging out Graelin Chaney of Dillingham High. Additionally, Brayden Woods from Homer High took the top spot in the 160-pound category. Donovan Standifer of Mt. Edgecumbe secured the championship in the 285-pound category.

Overall, the state championships witnessed outstanding performances and uplifting stories of perseverance. Individual wrestlers like Hayden Martin and Mia Hannevold demonstrated resilience and determination to emerge victorious in their respective weight classes. With thrilling matchups and exceptional talent on display, the 2024 Alaska high school state wrestling championships were a celebration of skill, dedication, and sportsmanship.

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