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Lincolnshire Today
By the People, for the People
EP's Michelle Naftzger takes fourth at IHSA Girls State Wrestling Finals
Naftzger concludes high school career with fourth-place finish, commits to wrestle for Grand View University
Published on Mar. 3, 2026
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Michelle Naftzger, a four-time state finalist and two-time medalist, earned a fourth-place finish at the IHSA Girls State Wrestling Finals. Despite an early deficit, Naftzger won her consolation semifinal match before falling to Karina Lojowski of Lincolnshire in the third-place match. Naftzger concludes her high school career with a 35-6 senior season record and has committed to wrestle for Grand View University in Des Moines next season.
Why it matters
Naftzger's fourth-place finish at the prestigious IHSA Girls State Wrestling Finals is an outstanding accomplishment, showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport. As a four-time state finalist and two-time medalist, Naftzger has cemented her legacy as one of the top high school wrestlers in Illinois. Her commitment to continue her wrestling career at the collegiate level with Grand View University is a testament to her passion for the sport and her potential for future success.
The details
Naftzger earned her way to the third-place match with a consolation semifinal win over Avery Crouch of Dwight, coming back from an early 6-2 deficit to pin Crouch in 3:53. In the third-place match, Naftzger faced off against Karina Lojowski of Lincolnshire (Stevenson), who proved to be a tough opponent. Lojowski was able to take Naftzger down twice in the first two periods, building a 6-1 lead, and a third takedown at the start of the third period sealed the win for Lojowski.
- Naftzger won her consolation semifinal match on February 27, 2026.
- Naftzger competed in the third-place match on February 28, 2026.
The players
Michelle Naftzger
A four-time state finalist and two-time medalist who concluded her high school wrestling career with a fourth-place finish at the IHSA Girls State Wrestling Finals.
Karina Lojowski
A wrestler from Lincolnshire (Stevenson) who defeated Naftzger in the third-place match at the IHSA Girls State Wrestling Finals.
Avery Crouch
A wrestler from Dwight who Naftzger defeated in the consolation semifinal match at the IHSA Girls State Wrestling Finals.
Grand View University
The college in Des Moines, Iowa where Naftzger has committed to continue her wrestling career.
What’s next
Naftzger will begin her collegiate wrestling career at Grand View University in Des Moines, Iowa next season.
The takeaway
Naftzger's fourth-place finish at the IHSA Girls State Wrestling Finals is a remarkable achievement, showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport. Despite falling short of her ultimate goal, her commitment to continue wrestling at the collegiate level with Grand View University demonstrates her passion for the sport and her potential for future success.
