Big Rapids Wrestler Finishes Second in State

Aaliyah Langell advances to championship match before falling to undefeated senior

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Aaliyah Langell, a wrestler from Big Rapids, Michigan, finished second in the state wrestling championships held at Ford Field in Detroit. Langell advanced to the 155-pound championship match before losing by pin to an undefeated senior opponent from Romeo.

Why it matters

Langell's impressive run to the state finals highlights the growth of girls' wrestling in Michigan, which has seen increasing participation and success in recent years. Her achievement also brings positive attention to the Big Rapids wrestling program and community.

The details

Langell won her first three matches by pin to reach the championship bout. She pinned opponents from Hartford, Pinckney, and Portage Northern before facing off against Belica Manuel of Romeo in the finals. Manuel, an undefeated senior, was able to pin Langell in 1:03 to claim the state title.

  • Langell competed at the state finals on Saturday, March 7, 2026 in Detroit.
  • She won her first three matches earlier that day to advance to the championship match.

The players

Aaliyah Langell

A wrestler from Big Rapids High School who finished second in the 155-pound division at the Michigan state wrestling championships.

Belica Manuel

A senior wrestler from Romeo High School who defeated Langell in the 155-pound state championship match.

Bruce Hoffman

The head wrestling coach at Big Rapids High School.

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What they’re saying

“I was totally thrilled with her performance. Her three wins to get to the finals were all by pin. She cruised right through the bracket.”

— Bruce Hoffman, Big Rapids Wrestling Coach (bigrapidsnews.com)

“When she got to the finals, I thought she went out with a good game plan. The young lady she ran into wrestles almost the same way she does. The same type of movement on her feet. She's a senior and was undefeated coming the night.”

— Bruce Hoffman, Big Rapids Wrestling Coach (bigrapidsnews.com)

What’s next

Langell, a junior, will look to return to the state finals next year and capture the 155-pound state championship.

The takeaway

Aaliyah Langell's impressive run to the state finals showcases the growing strength of girls' wrestling in Michigan, and highlights the success of the Big Rapids wrestling program in developing talented student-athletes.