Hazen High School wrestlers win back-to-back state titles

Vina Nguyen and Ari Jacobson claim championships at Mat Classic XXXVII

Feb. 24, 2026 at 11:15pm

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Vina Nguyen and Ari Jacobson of Hazen High School in Washington state both won state wrestling championships at the Mat Classic XXXVII tournament held at the Tacoma Dome. Nguyen defended her 105-pound title from the previous year, becoming the first Hazen wrestler to win back-to-back state crowns. Jacobson won her first state title, competing at 170 pounds.

Why it matters

The success of the Hazen High School wrestling program, with two state champions in consecutive years, highlights the growth of girls' wrestling in Washington state and the school's ability to develop elite talent. Nguyen and Jacobson's accomplishments bring pride to their school and community, while also serving as an inspiration for other young wrestlers.

The details

Nguyen, a senior, finished her high school career with a 92-3 record and two state titles. She won her second championship match in the second round. Jacobson, a junior, defeated the third-seed from Spanaway Lake High School to claim her first state crown, overcoming a significant weight difference between the two wrestlers. The two teammates have supported each other throughout their journeys, sharing advice and strategies.

  • Nguyen won the 100-pound state title at Mat Classic XXXVI in 2025.
  • Nguyen and Jacobson won their state championships at Mat Classic XXXVII on February 20, 2026.

The players

Vina Nguyen

A senior at Hazen High School who won her second consecutive state wrestling championship, becoming the first wrestler in school history to achieve that feat.

Ari Jacobson

A junior at Hazen High School who won her first state wrestling title, competing in the 170-pound division.

Karlee Brummett

The third-seed from Spanaway Lake High School who Jacobson defeated to claim the 170-pound state championship.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so proud. How about that? I started wrestling my freshman year. To become a two time state champ and place third my sophomore year, there is not much more I could have asked of myself. I put in so much work and gave all I had. I am pretty proud of myself.”

— Vina Nguyen

“We shared everything. She placed her sophomore year like me. She's a state champ her junior year and a state champ next year. My whole path is her path. That is something I find really cool and really exciting. I am looking forward to what she is going to do in the future.”

— Vina Nguyen

What’s next

Nguyen has completed her high school wrestling career, while Jacobson will look to defend her state title as a senior next year.

The takeaway

The Hazen High School wrestling program has established itself as a powerhouse, producing back-to-back state champions in Vina Nguyen and Ari Jacobson. Their success highlights the growth of girls' wrestling in Washington and the ability of the Hazen program to develop elite talent.