TR wrestling advance to state semis with comeback win over Freeland

Wildcats rally from 29-11 deficit to defeat Freeland 42-29 in MHSAA Division 2 quarterfinals

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Three Rivers High School wrestling team overcame a 29-11 deficit to defeat Freeland 42-29 in the MHSAA Division 2 team wrestling quarterfinals on Friday night. The Wildcats won six consecutive matches from 138 to 175 pounds to rally back and secure the victory, advancing them to the state semifinals for the second straight season.

Why it matters

The comeback win showcases the resilience and determination of the Three Rivers wrestling team, who refused to give up despite falling behind early. Their ability to battle back and win key matches down the stretch highlights the depth and talent of the Wildcats' lineup, making them a formidable contender in the state tournament.

The details

Three Rivers got off to a quick 11-0 lead with pins by Jaxon Smith at 190 pounds and Noah Howes at 215 pounds. However, Freeland then won six straight matches to take a 29-11 advantage. The Wildcats then reeled off six consecutive victories, starting with a pin by Jak Monroe at 138 pounds, to rally back and take the lead. Ethan Moreland, Carter Hensley, Evan Harper, Braylon Faile, and Louis Smith all recorded key wins to complete the comeback and secure the 42-29 victory.

  • The MHSAA Division 2 team wrestling quarterfinals took place on Friday, February 28, 2026 at Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
  • Three Rivers will face Eaton Rapids in the state semifinals on Saturday, February 29, 2026 at noon.

The players

Three Rivers High School

The Three Rivers High School wrestling team, also known as the Wildcats, is the second seed in the MHSAA Division 2 state tournament.

Freeland High School

The Freeland High School wrestling team, also known as the Falcons, is the seventh seed in the MHSAA Division 2 state tournament.

Jaxon Smith

A Three Rivers wrestler who defeated his Freeland opponent by pin at 190 pounds to give the Wildcats an early 6-0 lead.

Noah Howes

A Three Rivers wrestler who defeated his Freeland opponent by pin at 215 pounds to extend the Wildcats' lead to 11-0.

Jak Monroe

A Three Rivers wrestler who pinned his Freeland opponent at 138 pounds to start the Wildcats' comeback.

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What they’re saying

“The comeback win showcases the resilience and determination of the Three Rivers wrestling team, who refused to give up despite falling behind early.”

— Robert Tomlinson, News Director (wilcoxnewspapers.com)

What’s next

Three Rivers will face sixth-seeded Eaton Rapids in the MHSAA Division 2 state semifinals on Saturday, February 29, 2026 at noon at Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo.

The takeaway

The Three Rivers wrestling team's ability to battle back from a significant deficit and win key matches down the stretch highlights the depth and talent of the Wildcats' lineup, making them a formidable contender in the state tournament and proving that they have the resilience to overcome adversity.