Port Clinton Middle Schooler Makes History as First Girls Wrestling State Qualifier

Reagan Laird, a 170-pound wrestler, earned a spot at the Ohio Athletic Committee Girls Junior High Wrestling State Championships.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Reagan Laird, a student at Port Clinton Middle School, has made history by becoming the first girl in the school's brand-new wrestling program to qualify for the Ohio Athletic Committee (OAC) Girls Junior High Wrestling State Championships. Laird, competing in the 170-pound weight class, earned her spot at the prestigious tournament by taking third place at the OAC Junior High Districts.

Why it matters

Laird's achievement is significant as it represents a milestone for the growing sport of girls wrestling in Ohio. Her success not only highlights her own dedication and talent but also serves as an inspiration for other young female athletes who may be considering the sport.

The details

Laird, in her first year of wrestling, has quickly established herself as a serious competitor, facing and defeating experienced wrestlers, including those with state-level talent. Head Coach Jalen Skutt praised Laird's self-confidence, determination, and ability to fight back in tough situations, which have been key to her success.

  • Laird earned her spot at the state tournament by taking third place at the OAC Junior High Districts on February 8, 2026.
  • The Ohio Athletic Committee Girls Junior High Wrestling State Championships will be held on March 22, 2026, in Youngstown.

The players

Reagan Laird

A student at Port Clinton Middle School who has become the first girl in the school's brand-new wrestling program to qualify for the Ohio Athletic Committee (OAC) Girls Junior High Wrestling State Championships.

Jalen Skutt

The head coach of the Port Clinton Middle School wrestling team, who praised Laird's self-confidence, determination, and ability to fight back in tough situations.

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What they’re saying

“It's her self-confidence and her determination to earn everything she gets. She works really hard and never gives up.”

— Jalen Skutt, Head Coach (thebeacon.net)

“I constantly picture myself standing on top of that podium in March. I've worked really hard both during the off-season and the season to get to this point, and I'm going to keep pushing myself to reach that goal.”

— Reagan Laird (thebeacon.net)

“It feels surreal. I feel super accomplished to have achieved this goal. I really hope my story encourages other girls to come out and try wrestling here at Port Clinton Middle School.”

— Reagan Laird (thebeacon.net)

What’s next

The Ohio Athletic Committee Girls Junior High Wrestling State Championships will be held on March 22, 2026, in Youngstown, where Laird will compete for the state title.

The takeaway

Laird's historic achievement as the first girl wrestler from Port Clinton Middle School to qualify for the state tournament serves as an inspiration for other young female athletes, highlighting the growing opportunities and visibility for girls wrestling in Ohio.