Meridian Mustangs battle to the wire in regional semifinal

Meridian wrestling team falls short against Gladwin in close regional matchup

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Meridian's wrestling team lost a close 46-34 match against Gladwin in a Division 3 regional semifinal on Wednesday. The Mustangs battled back from an early deficit to tie the score at 22-22, but Gladwin won the next three matches to regain the lead. Meridian got late wins from Scottie Garrison and Austin Bourassa but ultimately fell short. Despite the loss, the Mustangs will be sending seven wrestlers to Saturday's individual regional in Boyne City.

Why it matters

The regional semifinal matchup between Meridian and Gladwin showcased the competitive nature of high school wrestling in Michigan. While Meridian came up short, the team's ability to rally and make it a close contest highlights the hard work and determination of the wrestlers. The individual regional tournament provides an opportunity for Meridian's top wrestlers to potentially qualify for the state championships.

The details

Meridian got an early 6-0 lead with a win by pin from Alex Sampson at 106 pounds, but Gladwin won the next four matches to go up 22-6. The Mustangs then won three straight matches, including pins by Carter Miller at 144 and Karson Yancer at 150, to tie the score at 22-22. However, Gladwin responded by winning the next three matches to regain a 40-22 advantage. Meridian got late wins by pin from Scottie Garrison at 190 and Austin Bourassa at 215 to pull within 40-34, but Gladwin sealed the victory with a pin at heavyweight.

  • The regional semifinal match took place on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Meridian Mustangs

The high school wrestling team from Meridian, Michigan.

Gladwin Flying G's

The high school wrestling team from Gladwin, Michigan.

Alex Sampson

A Meridian wrestler who won his match by pin at 106 pounds.

Brodie Pierce

A Meridian wrestler who won his match by major decision at 138 pounds.

Carter Miller

A Meridian wrestler who won his match by pin at 144 pounds.

Karson Yancer

A Meridian wrestler who won his match by pin at 150 pounds.

Scottie Garrison

A Meridian wrestler who won his match by pin at 190 pounds.

Austin Bourassa

A Meridian wrestler who won his match by pin at 215 pounds.

Jeremy Sampson

The head coach of the Meridian wrestling team.

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What they’re saying

“We could have a big day Saturday. We have some really good match-ups, and I can't wait to see who all qualifies for state.”

— Jeremy Sampson, Meridian wrestling coach (ourmidland.com)

What’s next

The Meridian wrestlers will compete in the individual regional tournament on Saturday in Boyne City, where they will have the opportunity to qualify for the state championships.

The takeaway

Despite the loss in the regional semifinal, the Meridian Mustangs wrestling team demonstrated their resilience and ability to battle back against a tough opponent. The individual regional tournament provides an opportunity for the team's top wrestlers to continue their season and potentially reach the state championships, showcasing the dedication and talent of the Meridian program.