Huntsville Hosts Alabama High School Wrestling State Championships

Event marks 18 years in the city, with growing participation from female wrestlers

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Alabama High School Wrestling State Championships, a Huntsville staple since 2008, are underway once again. This year's event holds special significance, as it marks the second year that girls have been competing in the state-level competition, highlighting the growing popularity and success of female wrestlers.

Why it matters

The inclusion of girls' wrestling in the state championships reflects a broader trend of increasing participation and opportunities for female athletes in traditionally male-dominated sports. This shift challenges traditional notions of athleticism and provides more equitable access to competitive outlets.

The details

The Huntsville Sports Commission has hosted the Alabama High School Wrestling State Championships since 2008, demonstrating the city's long-term commitment to the event. The championships not only showcase athletic talent but also provide a significant economic boost to the local community, with visitors contributing to businesses, hotels, and restaurants.

  • The first weigh-ins for the championships take place on Thursday morning at 8:30.
  • The championship finals are scheduled for noon on Saturday.

The players

Huntsville Sports Commission

The organization that has hosted the Alabama High School Wrestling State Championships in Huntsville since 2008.

Mark Russell

The Executive Director of the Huntsville Sports Commission, who expressed excitement about the growing participation of girls in the championships.

National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS)

The organization that officially sanctioned girls' wrestling as a distinct sport with its own rules and regulations in 2020.

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What they’re saying

“It's been so much fun to watch the girls win a championship... It's just really rewarding to have the girls in this championship.”

— Mark Russell, Executive Director, Huntsville Sports Commission (Instagram)

What’s next

The Huntsville Sports Commission is expected to continue hosting the Alabama High School Wrestling State Championships, with a focus on maintaining the event's positive atmosphere and providing equitable opportunities for all athletes, including the growing number of female wrestlers.

The takeaway

The inclusion of girls' wrestling in the Alabama High School Wrestling State Championships in Huntsville is a testament to the evolving nature of high school sports and the increasing recognition of female athletes' abilities. This shift towards greater inclusivity and diversity in traditionally male-dominated sports can inspire more young women to pursue their athletic passions and challenge traditional gender norms.