Oakleaf High's Kailani Barrientos named Times-Union Athlete of the Year in girls wrestling

Senior wrestler Kailani Barrientos won the FHSAA state championship at 135 pounds with a 22-1 record.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:19pm

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An extreme close-up of a wrestler's body in motion, with vibrant, expressive brushstrokes in neon colors capturing the raw energy and power of the sport.Kailani Barrientos' state championship victory in girls wrestling showcases the growing popularity and competitiveness of the sport in Florida.Orange Park Today

Kailani Barrientos, a senior at Oakleaf High School in Orange Park, Florida, has been named the Times-Union's All-First Coast Athlete of the Year in high school girls wrestling for the 2025-26 season. Barrientos won the FHSAA state championship at the 135-pound division, completing the year with a 22-1 record.

Why it matters

Barrientos' achievement highlights the growing popularity and competitiveness of girls wrestling in Florida, which has seen a surge in participation in recent years. Her state title win underscores the talent and dedication of female wrestlers in the region.

The details

Barrientos capped off her successful senior season by winning the FHSAA state championship at 135 pounds. She finished the year with an impressive 22-1 record, dominating her opponents throughout the season.

  • Barrientos won the FHSAA state championship on March 1, 2026.
  • The Times-Union named Barrientos the All-First Coast Athlete of the Year on April 9, 2026.

The players

Kailani Barrientos

A senior wrestler at Oakleaf High School in Orange Park, Florida, who won the FHSAA state championship at 135 pounds with a 22-1 record.

Oakleaf High School

The high school in Orange Park, Florida, where Kailani Barrientos attends and wrestles.

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What they’re saying

“Barrientos speaks about her FHSAA girls wrestling championship.”

— Kailani Barrientos, Senior wrestler

What’s next

Barrientos will graduate from Oakleaf High School in the spring of 2026 and plans to continue her wrestling career at the collegiate level.

The takeaway

Kailani Barrientos' state championship win and selection as the Times-Union's Athlete of the Year showcase the growing prominence of girls wrestling in Florida and the exceptional talent of female athletes in the region.