Huskies Crown Two State Champions, Bring Home Three State Medals

Shelby-RC Huskies wrestlers win two state titles, earn three state medals at the Nebraska state wrestling tournament

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Shelby-RC Huskies wrestling team had a successful showing at the Nebraska state wrestling tournament, crowning two state champions and earning three state medals overall. Senior Eli Fjell won his second straight state title, this time in the Class D 190-pound division after winning at 215 pounds the previous year. His teammate, Coy Vrbka, capped an undefeated 43-0 season by winning the Class D 215-pound state championship. The Huskies also had three other wrestlers place at state, with Jett Vrbka earning a fourth-place medal at 175 pounds, and Makayo Confer and Brayden Nuttelman each finishing 0-2 and 1-2 respectively in their state tournament appearances.

Why it matters

Wrestling is a point of pride for the Shelby-RC community, and the Huskies' strong performance at the state tournament showcases the strength of their program. Having multiple state champions and medalists demonstrates the depth of talent on the team and the quality of coaching they receive. This success will likely boost enthusiasm and support for the wrestling program in the local area.

The details

Senior Eli Fjell won his second straight state title, this time in the Class D 190-pound division after winning at 215 pounds the previous year. His teammate, Coy Vrbka, capped an undefeated 43-0 season by winning the Class D 215-pound state championship. The Huskies also had three other wrestlers place at state, with Jett Vrbka earning a fourth-place medal at 175 pounds, and Makayo Confer and Brayden Nuttelman each finishing 0-2 and 1-2 respectively in their state tournament appearances.

  • The Nebraska state wrestling tournament took place over a three-day run at the CHI Health Center in Omaha.

The players

Eli Fjell

A senior wrestler for the Shelby-RC Huskies who won his second straight state championship, this time in the Class D 190-pound division.

Coy Vrbka

A Shelby-RC Huskies wrestler who capped an undefeated 43-0 season by winning the Class D 215-pound state championship.

Jett Vrbka

A junior wrestler for the Shelby-RC Huskies who earned a fourth-place medal at 175 pounds.

Makayo Confer

A sophomore wrestler for High Plains who finished 0-2 at the state tournament at 132 pounds.

Brayden Nuttelman

A junior wrestler for Cross County/Osceola who posted a 1-2 record at the state tournament at 138 pounds.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The Shelby-RC Huskies wrestling program demonstrated its strength and depth at the Nebraska state wrestling tournament, crowning two individual state champions and earning three state medals overall. This success will likely boost enthusiasm and support for the wrestling program in the local community, showcasing the quality of coaching and the talent of the student-athletes.