Lowell High School Wrestler Cayden Yuran Aims for State Medal

The junior has qualified for the state meet and is determined to succeed with his 'refuse-to-lose mindset'.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Lowell High School junior Cayden Yuran has qualified for the state wrestling meet at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis for the first time. Yuran, who is ranked No. 13 in the 190-pound weight class, is confident that his focus on 'basic fundamentals' will carry him to a medal-winning performance despite suffering injuries last season. Yuran's coach and teammate praise his fun, 'social butterfly' personality, though they note he sometimes needs to be refocused during intense moments.

Why it matters

Yuran's qualification for the state meet is a significant achievement, as Lowell High School is sending a team-record seven wrestlers to the prestigious event. His success could inspire other young wrestlers in the community and highlight the strength of Lowell's wrestling program.

The details

After suffering meniscus tears in both knees and other injuries last season, Yuran (28-8) has turned things around this year. He won a regional title and placed second at the semistate tournament, where he lost 10-9 to Chesterton senior Lucas Anderson. Yuran is determined to have a 'refuse-to-lose mindset' at state and is confident that focusing on 'basic fundamentals' will lead him to a medal-winning performance.

  • Yuran qualified for the state meet at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis for the first time.
  • The state wrestling meet will take place this Friday night.

The players

Cayden Yuran

A junior wrestler at Lowell High School who has qualified for the state meet for the first time. He is ranked No. 13 in the 190-pound weight class.

Evan Stanley

A senior wrestler at Lowell High School who is ranked No. 1 in the 138-pound weight class. He is confident that Yuran can place at the state meet.

Kevin English

The head wrestling coach at Lowell High School, who has guided the team to a record-setting seven state qualifiers this year.

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What they’re saying

“I'm ready. I'm practicing well, getting better, pushing the gas tank. I have to go in there and not be nervous. I have to be confident, go in there hard and try to get that dub. I have to have a refuse-to-lose mindset.”

— Cayden Yuran (chicagotribune.com)

“Cayden should place. I'm excited to watch him wrestle. He's got a fun style. He's a little bit of a wild man, and I think that'll be a good thing for him.”

— Evan Stanley, Lowell High School Senior Wrestler (chicagotribune.com)

“We've talked about just attacking the six minutes in front of us. That's all we're looking at. If you win Friday night, you place, and everything beyond that is gravy.”

— Kevin English, Lowell High School Wrestling Coach (chicagotribune.com)

What’s next

The state wrestling meet at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis will take place this Friday night, where Cayden Yuran will compete for a medal.

The takeaway

Cayden Yuran's qualification for the state wrestling meet is a testament to his determination and the strength of Lowell High School's wrestling program. His 'refuse-to-lose mindset' and focus on 'basic fundamentals' could lead him to a medal-winning performance, inspiring other young wrestlers in the community.