Rossville Wrestlers Earn Seventh-Place Finishes at State

Jacob Weaver and Jacob Cole battle through tough brackets to reach the podium

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Under the bright lights of the IHSAA Boys State Wrestling Finals, Rossville's Jacob Weaver (157 lbs) and Jacob Cole (175 lbs) proved they belonged among Indiana's elite wrestlers. Both athletes fought through demanding brackets to earn seventh-place finishes in their respective weight classes, capping remarkable seasons with podium honors.

Why it matters

Rossville's success at the state wrestling finals is a significant accomplishment for the small community, as the event represents the highest level of high school wrestling in Indiana. Having two wrestlers reach the podium speaks to the strength of the school's wrestling program and the dedication of the student-athletes.

The details

Weaver opened the tournament with a dominant technical fall victory before falling to the eventual quarterfinalist. He then regrouped and battled through the consolation bracket, earning a hard-fought 1-0 decision in the seventh-place match. Cole also won his opening match before falling in the quarterfinals. He then lost in the consolation round but rebounded to claim seventh place with a 3-1 decision.

  • The 2026 IHSAA Boys State Wrestling Finals took place at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
  • Weaver and Cole competed on Friday, February 21, 2026.

The players

Jacob Weaver

A wrestler from Rossville High School who competed in the 157-pound weight class at the 2026 IHSAA Boys State Wrestling Finals.

Jacob Cole

A wrestler from Rossville High School who competed in the 175-pound weight class at the 2026 IHSAA Boys State Wrestling Finals.

Dr. Jim Hanna

The Superintendent of Rossville Consolidated School District.

Nathan Burkle

The Athletic Director of Rossville High School.

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What they’re saying

“It was truly uplifting to watch both young men compete Friday night in the opening round. From the moment they walked into Gainbridge Fieldhouse during the Parade of Champions to the moment each of them earned that first-round victory, they brought tremendous pride to Rossville Schools. Their effort, sportsmanship, and determination on that stage reflect the very best of our students and our community.”

— Dr. Jim Hanna, Superintendent of Rossville Consolidated School District (carrollcountydailynews.com)

“We could not be prouder of Jacob Weaver and Jacob Cole. Competing at the IHSAA State Finals is an incredible accomplishment, but to battle through those brackets and finish seventh in the state speaks volumes about their character and preparation. They represented Rossville wrestling with toughness, composure, and class from start to finish.”

— Nathan Burkle, Athletic Director of Rossville High School (carrollcountydailynews.com)

The takeaway

Rossville's success at the state wrestling finals demonstrates the strength of the school's program and the dedication of its student-athletes. Weaver and Cole's ability to battle through challenging brackets and earn podium finishes is a testament to their resilience and the support they receive from the Rossville community.