Kamehameha's Chang Dominates at Wrestling Regionals

Junior Paliku Chang wins both freestyle and greco competitions in Washington

Mar. 30, 2026 at 4:06pm

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Kamehameha junior Paliku Chang won both the freestyle and greco-roman wrestling competitions at the Northwest Regional Wrestling Championships in Centralia, Washington. Chang won all five of his matches by stoppage in the freestyle division and took first place in the greco-roman competition as well, making him only the second Hawaii athlete to win both disciplines at a single tournament.

Why it matters

Chang's impressive performance at the regional championships showcases the talent and potential of Hawaii's high school wrestlers. His ability to dominate in both freestyle and greco-roman styles highlights his versatility and skill, which could bode well for his chances at the upcoming national championships.

The details

Chang, the reigning Hawaii state champion, won the freestyle competition by stopping all five of his opponents. In the greco-roman division, he won the first-place match in 1 minute and 28 seconds. Officials say Chang is only the second Hawaii athlete to win both freestyle and greco-roman titles at the same regional event, with the other being Travis Lee of Saint Louis High School at a national tournament.

  • Chang won his first Hawaii state title last month with a 7-5 victory over Pearl City's Jaden Thai.
  • The Northwest Regional Wrestling Championships took place on Sunday, March 30, 2026 in Centralia, Washington.
  • The national championships will be held in July 2026 in Fargo, North Dakota.

The players

Paliku Chang

A junior wrestler at Kamehameha Schools who won both the freestyle and greco-roman competitions at the Northwest Regional Wrestling Championships.

Jaden Thai

A wrestler from Pearl City High School who Chang defeated to win the Hawaii state title last month.

Travis Lee

A wrestler from Saint Louis High School who previously accomplished the feat of winning both freestyle and greco-roman titles at a national tournament.

Nevaeh Lavarias

A wrestler from Pearl City High School who took second in freestyle and third in greco-roman at 120 pounds.

Analu Woode

A two-time Hawaii high school champion from Nanakuli High School who won the 113-pound sophomore division at the NHCSA High School Nationals in Virginia Beach.

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What’s next

Chang and the other qualifiers from the Northwest Regional will advance to the national championships in Fargo, North Dakota in July 2026.

The takeaway

Paliku Chang's dominant performance at the Northwest Regional Wrestling Championships, where he won both the freestyle and greco-roman titles, solidifies his status as one of Hawaii's top high school wrestlers. His ability to excel in multiple disciplines will make him a top contender at the upcoming national championships.