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Charles City Today
By the People, for the People
Iowa Boys State Wrestling Tournament Adjusts 2026 Schedule
New format spreads out competition across multiple days for different classes
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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The traditional Iowa Boys State Wrestling Tournament is using a different schedule for the 2026 competition. In years past, wrestling across all weight classes ran Wednesday through Saturday, but this year, only Class 3A wrestlers will compete on Wednesday, with Class 1A and 2A starting on Thursday.
Why it matters
The new schedule aims to spread out the competition over more days, potentially providing more rest time for wrestlers and allowing for better spectator experiences. It also highlights the continued popularity and importance of high school wrestling in Iowa, which is known for its strong wrestling culture and tradition.
The details
Among the 2A schools is New Hampton Turkey Valley, with five state qualifiers coached by Matt Paulus. Nashua-Plainfield coach Shane Huck, with eight Huskies qualified for state in Class 1A, says there's a trade-off starting a day later, as wrestlers will have less recovery time between matches.
- The 2026 Iowa Boys State Wrestling Tournament will take place from February 18-21, 2026.
- On Wednesday, February 18, only Class 3A wrestlers will compete.
- Class 1A and 2A wrestlers will start competing on Thursday, February 19.
- The tournament will continue on Friday, February 20 and conclude on Saturday, February 21.
The players
Matt Paulus
The head coach of the New Hampton Turkey Valley wrestling team, which has five state qualifiers competing in the 2026 tournament.
Shane Huck
The head coach of the Nashua-Plainfield wrestling team, which has eight state qualifiers competing in the 2026 tournament in Class 1A.
What they’re saying
“Among the 2A schools is New Hampton Turkey Valley, with five state qualifiers coached by Matt Paulus.”
— Matt Paulus, Head Coach, New Hampton Turkey Valley (KCHA NEWS)
“Nashua-Plainfield coach Shane Huck, with eight Huskies qualified for state in Class 1A, says there's a trade-off starting a day later.”
— Shane Huck, Head Coach, Nashua-Plainfield (KCHA NEWS)
What’s next
The Iowa Boys State Wrestling Tournament will continue on Thursday, February 19 with the first round, second round, and second round consolations for Class 1A, followed by the first round, second round, second round consolations, and quarterfinals for Class 2A and 3A.
The takeaway
The new schedule for the 2026 Iowa Boys State Wrestling Tournament aims to provide a better experience for wrestlers and spectators by spreading out the competition over more days. This reflects the continued importance and popularity of high school wrestling in Iowa, a state known for its strong wrestling tradition.
