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Salem Today
By the People, for the People
Staunton River Wrestlers Claim Third Place at State Championships
Golden Eagles continue wrestling dominance with individual champions and placers.
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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The Staunton River High School wrestling team continued their strong performance at the state championships, placing third overall. Lawson Ayers claimed a state title, while Owen Borden, Cael Short, Nolan Milton, and Colton McGuire all placed in the top six. With all of the top wrestlers returning next season, the Golden Eagles look poised to maintain their wrestling dominance.
Why it matters
Staunton River has established itself as a wrestling powerhouse in the state, consistently producing top-tier talent and team results. The school’s continued success in the sport highlights the strength of its wrestling program and the dedication of its coaches and athletes.
The details
At the state wrestling championships held in Salem, the Staunton River Golden Eagles placed third overall as a team. Lawson Ayers won a state championship by defeating Liberty Christian Academy’s Clark Carey. Other notable individual performances included Owen Borden finishing as a state runner-up, and Cael Short, Nolan Milton, and Colton McGuire all placing in the top six.
- The state wrestling championships took place on Saturday, February 22, 2026.
The players
Staunton River High School
A high school located in Moneta, Virginia, known for its successful wrestling program.
Lawson Ayers
A wrestler for Staunton River High School who won a state championship.
Clark Carey
A wrestler for Liberty Christian Academy who was defeated by Lawson Ayers in the state championship match.
Owen Borden
A wrestler for Staunton River High School who finished as a state runner-up.
Cael Short
A wrestler for Staunton River High School who placed fourth at the state championships.
Nolan Milton
A wrestler for Staunton River High School who placed fourth at the state championships.
Colton McGuire
A wrestler for Staunton River High School who placed sixth at the state championships.
What’s next
With all of the top wrestlers returning next season, the Staunton River Golden Eagles look poised to maintain their wrestling dominance and potentially improve upon their third-place finish at the 2026 state championships.
The takeaway
Staunton River High School's wrestling program has established itself as a consistent powerhouse in the state, producing individual champions and top team finishes year after year. The school's continued success in the sport highlights the strength of its coaching, training, and commitment to developing talented wrestlers.
