Ironhead Wrestling Club Pins Success

Small-town program produces multiple state champions and a nationally ranked wrestler

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Eufaula Ironhead Wrestling Club has enjoyed an impressive season, with 15 of its 17 wrestlers qualifying for the State Tournament and six bringing home state medals. The club has also crowned multiple Novice State Champions, earned 'Battle for the Belt' titles, and produced several USJOC champions and placers. The highlight came when 6-Under 43-pound wrestler Riley Tarwater captured the 2026 Tulsa Nationals title, earning the distinction of being ranked the No. 1 girl wrestler in the country in her division.

Why it matters

The Ironhead Wrestling Club's success showcases the power of a small-town program with the right coaching, dedication, and community support. Despite its modest size, the club is producing elite-level wrestlers and putting Eufaula on the national wrestling map.

The details

Out of 17 Ironhead wrestlers who competed at Open Regionals, 15 advanced to the State Tournament. Six Ironhead wrestlers brought home state medals, including a state championship for Riley Tarwater in the 6-Under Girls 43-pound division. The club has also crowned multiple Novice State Champions, earned 'Battle for the Belt' titles, and produced several USJOC champions and placers.

  • The Ironhead Wrestling Club turned heads across the state this year, delivering one of its most impressive seasons to date.
  • On January 22, Riley Tarwater captured the 2026 Tulsa Nationals title and earned the distinction of being ranked the No. 1 6-Under 46-pound girl wrestler in the country.

The players

Riley Tarwater

A 6-Under Girls 43-pound wrestler who captured a State Championship and the 2026 Tulsa Nationals title, earning the distinction of being ranked the No. 1 girl wrestler in the country in her division.

Cheyenne Owens

A 15-Under Girls 126-pound wrestler who placed 4th at the State Tournament.

Emily Tarwater

A 12-Under Girls 70-pound wrestler who placed 3rd at the State Tournament.

Jaxon Fry

A 12-Under Open 110-pound wrestler who placed 7th at the State Tournament.

Tucker Hawkins

A 6-Under Open 46-pound wrestler who placed 7th at the State Tournament.

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The takeaway

The Ironhead Wrestling Club's success proves that with the right coaching, dedication, and community support, small-town programs can produce elite-level wrestlers and put their community on the national wrestling map.