Lewis Central, Abraham Lincoln wrestlers shine at Iowa 3A state tournament

Quarterfinal and consolation matches highlight strong performances from local high school wrestlers

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Iowa boys wrestling state tournament in Des Moines on Thursday featured impressive showings from wrestlers representing Lewis Central and Abraham Lincoln high schools. Several Lewis Central wrestlers advanced to the quarterfinal round, including Zander Manz, Paxton Blanchard, Weston Porter, and others. Abraham Lincoln also had wrestlers compete in the consolation bracket, with Trenton Byers and Kowen Dighton among those earning wins.

Why it matters

The state wrestling tournament is a marquee event that showcases the top high school talent in Iowa. Strong performances by local wrestlers from Lewis Central and Abraham Lincoln demonstrate the depth of wrestling programs in the Omaha metro area and the competitiveness of the 3A division.

The details

Lewis Central had several wrestlers advance to the quarterfinal round, including Zander Manz at 120 pounds, Paxton Blanchard at 215 pounds, and Weston Porter at 126 pounds. Abraham Lincoln also had wrestlers compete in the consolation bracket, with Trenton Byers winning at 144 pounds and Kowen Dighton earning a victory at 175 pounds. The tournament featured intense matchups and exciting finishes as the wrestlers battled for state titles.

  • The Iowa boys wrestling state tournament took place on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Zander Manz

A wrestler for Lewis Central High School who competed in the 120-pound quarterfinal match.

Paxton Blanchard

A wrestler for Lewis Central High School who competed in the 215-pound quarterfinal match.

Weston Porter

A wrestler for Lewis Central High School who competed in the 126-pound quarterfinal match.

Trenton Byers

A wrestler for Abraham Lincoln High School who competed in the 144-pound consolation match.

Kowen Dighton

A wrestler for Abraham Lincoln High School who competed in the 175-pound consolation match.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The strong performances by wrestlers from Lewis Central and Abraham Lincoln at the Iowa 3A state tournament showcase the depth and competitiveness of high school wrestling programs in the Omaha metro area. These results highlight the hard work and dedication of the athletes, coaches, and communities that support these programs.