Pella Wrestler Clinches State Berth With Runner-Up Finish

Regan Roberts qualifies for state wrestling tournament after strong district performance.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Regan Roberts, a wrestler from Pella, Iowa, has qualified for the state wrestling meet for the second straight season after finishing as the runner-up in the 285-pound weight class at the Class 2A district tournament held at Benton Community. Roberts won his quarterfinal and semifinal matches by pin before falling in the championship bout, but his performance was enough to secure a spot at the upcoming state tournament.

Why it matters

Qualifying for the state wrestling tournament is a significant achievement for high school athletes, as it represents the culmination of a season's worth of hard work and dedication. Roberts' repeat qualification demonstrates his skill and consistency as a wrestler, and his performance is a source of pride for the Pella community.

The details

In the quarterfinal match, Roberts easily defeated Cain Frisch of Dike-New Hartford with a pin just over a minute into the match. His semifinal match was more challenging, but Roberts was able to secure another pin victory over Lakyr Peska of South Tama, winning just 8 seconds before the final whistle. Roberts then fell to Lucas Feuerbach of Solon in the championship match, but his earlier victories were enough to qualify him for the state tournament based on criteria.

  • On Saturday, February 15, 2026, the Class 2A district tournament was held at Benton Community.
  • Regan Roberts won his quarterfinal match by pin in just over a minute.
  • Roberts won his semifinal match by pin, defeating his opponent just 8 seconds before the final whistle.
  • Roberts lost the championship match to Lucas Feuerbach of Solon.
  • Regan Roberts will compete at the state wrestling tournament this week.

The players

Regan Roberts

A wrestler from Pella, Iowa who has qualified for the state wrestling tournament for the second straight season.

Cain Frisch

A wrestler from Dike-New Hartford who was defeated by Regan Roberts in the quarterfinal match.

Lakyr Peska

A wrestler from South Tama who was defeated by Regan Roberts in the semifinal match.

Lucas Feuerbach

A wrestler from Solon who defeated Regan Roberts in the championship match.

Hunter Lund

A wrestler from Pella who placed 3rd in the 120-pound weight class.

Carter Marshall

A wrestler from Pella who placed 4th in the 132-pound weight class.

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What they’re saying

“It feels good. I knew it was going to be tough, I lost in the finals, but that was OK. Has tough kids in the semis but I knew I was going to get it done.”

— Regan Roberts (KNIA/KRLS Sports)

What’s next

Regan Roberts will compete at the state wrestling tournament this week.

The takeaway

Regan Roberts' repeat qualification for the state wrestling tournament is a testament to his skill, dedication, and the strength of the wrestling program at Pella High School. His performance serves as an inspiration to other young athletes in the community who aspire to achieve similar success at the highest levels of competition.