NJ State Wrestling Tournament: Qualifiers Announced

Standout performances and emerging talent set the stage for an exciting state tournament in Atlantic City

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The 2026 New Jersey wrestling region championships have concluded, showcasing a wealth of talent and setting the stage for an exciting state tournament in Atlantic City. From dominant performances by St. Joseph Regional in Region 1 to the competitive battles in Region 6 and beyond, the key results and emerging trends highlight the strength and depth of the state's wrestling community.

Why it matters

The NJ state wrestling tournament is a highly anticipated annual event that showcases the top high school wrestling talent in the state. The regional championships serve as a precursor to the state tournament, providing a glimpse into the wrestlers and programs that are poised to make a strong showing at the next level. The results and storylines from the regional championships offer insights into the state of wrestling in New Jersey and the potential future stars of the sport.

The details

St. Joseph Regional (Montvale) demonstrated exceptional strength in Region 1, crowning seven champions, including Ray Burdette (106 pounds), Charles Esposito (113), Mikey Bautista (126), and Johnathon McGinty (132), who each secured their third regional titles. Region 2 saw a competitive showdown between Bergen Catholic and Paramus Catholic, with Rocco Caputo Jr. of Cedar Grove winning at 106 pounds. Delbarton emerged as a powerhouse in Region 3, with Finn Anderson (106 pounds) and Thomas Blewett (106 pounds in Region 5) among the champions. St. Peter's Prep and Seton Hall Prep were key players in Region 4, with Anthony Borrometi of St. Peter's Prep (150 pounds) a standout performer. Christian Brothers Academy (CBA) and Southern Regional dominated Region 5, with Paul Kenny (126 pounds) and Santino Edgar (106 pounds) of CBA securing victories. Region 6 featured a diverse range of winners, including Tanner Hodgins of Howell (215 pounds) and Jarairya Jean of Neptune (heavyweight). Delsea and Southern Regional were the top teams in Region 7, with Chase Hansen of Lower Cape May (138 pounds) and Anthony DePaul of Delsea (144 pounds) among the champions. Woodstown and St. Augustine were the dominant forces in Region 8, with Mateo Vinciguerra of Woodstown winning at 285 pounds.

  • The 2026 New Jersey wrestling region championships have concluded.
  • The New Jersey State Wrestling Tournament will be held in Atlantic City.

The players

St. Joseph Regional

A high school in Montvale, New Jersey that demonstrated exceptional strength in Region 1, crowning seven champions.

Ray Burdette

A wrestler from St. Joseph Regional who won the 106-pound weight class in Region 1.

Delbarton

A high school that emerged as a powerhouse in Region 3, with several wrestlers claiming titles.

Finn Anderson

A wrestler from Delbarton who won the 106-pound weight class in Region 3.

Christian Brothers Academy (CBA)

A high school that dominated Region 5, with Paul Kenny (126 pounds) and Santino Edgar (106 pounds) securing victories.

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What’s next

The New Jersey State Wrestling Tournament will be held in Atlantic City, where the qualifiers from the regional championships will compete for the ultimate prize.

The takeaway

The 2026 New Jersey wrestling regional championships have showcased the depth and talent of the state's high school wrestling community, with standout performances, emerging young stars, and the continued dominance of certain programs. The stage is set for an exciting state tournament in Atlantic City, where the top wrestlers will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete for state titles.