High School Wrestling Star Proposes to Girlfriend After Winning State Title

Blaise Cronk surprised his girlfriend with a proposal moments after clinching the state wrestling championship in Montana.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Blaise Cronk, a high school senior from Columbia Falls, Montana, won the 165-lb. state wrestling championship on Saturday. Immediately after his victory, Cronk dropped to one knee and proposed to his girlfriend, who was in the crowd. The heartwarming moment was captured on video and has gone viral on social media.

Why it matters

Cronk's proposal after his big win showcases the emotional and personal side of high school sports. The story highlights the special bond between the young couple and the support of Cronk's wrestling coach, who is also his girlfriend's father.

The details

In the viral video, Cronk can be seen presenting his surprised girlfriend with a ring and then picking her up and spinning her around as the two embrace. Cronk had been planning the proposal "for a while" and said he wanted to time it perfectly with his state championship win. He had the blessing of his girlfriend's father, who is also his wrestling coach.

  • Cronk won the 165-lb. state wrestling championship on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
  • Moments after his victory, Cronk proposed to his girlfriend on the gym floor.

The players

Blaise Cronk

A high school senior from Columbia Falls, Montana, who won the 165-lb. state wrestling championship and then proposed to his girlfriend immediately after his victory.

Jesse Schaeffer

Cronk's wrestling coach, who is also the father of Cronk's girlfriend and gave his blessing for the proposal.

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What they’re saying

“We've been dating for two years now, and it's been just a long time coming. It was absolutely magical. Just a dream moment.”

— Blaise Cronk, High School Wrestler (Montana Sports)

“He ended up in a lucky situation, because if he hadn't got that done, I think I would have grabbed him by the wrist and said, 'No, not happening.' Obviously, it showed in his match. The pressure this sport creates — this atmosphere is wearing. Only having one match the whole day and obviously he'd been thinking about [it] a lot.”

— Jesse Schaeffer, Wrestling Coach (Montana Sports)

What’s next

After graduation, Cronk plans to take a gap year and then enter the United States Air Force Academy.

The takeaway

Cronk's heartwarming proposal after his state championship win showcases the personal and emotional side of high school sports, where athletes can celebrate their biggest achievements with their loved ones.