Laurens Raiders Wrestling Wraps Up Historic Season with Championship Titles and State Runner-Up Finish

The Laurens Raiders wrestling team capped off an incredible season with a haul of championship titles and a strong showing at the state tournament this past weekend. The Raiders claimed the 4A Region 1 Championship, secured the Dual Upper State Championship, and finished as the 4A Dual State Runner-Up—an achievement that speaks volumes about the dedication and hard work of this talented group of athletes.

Adding to the historic season, Dakota McCall etched his name in the record books by becoming Laurens’ first state champion since 1974, winning the Class 4A 138lb State Championship. His victory marks a monumental moment for the program and showcases the growing strength of Laurens wrestling.

Head Coach Martinez, along with coaches Hughes, Chi Chi, O, McCall, and Parsons, expressed immense pride in the team’s commitment and performance throughout the season.

Raiders’ State Tournament Highlights

The Raiders had a strong showing at the South Carolina High School League (SCHSL) State Championships, with multiple wrestlers competing at the highest level:

• 106 – Crisley Martin (2-2) – Solid showing in his first State Tournament appearance.
• 113 – Abel Miles – The freshman battled hard but came up short in his matches.
• 120 – Kai McCall (3-2) – Earned a 4th place finish in a tough bracket.
• 126 – Jordan Miles – Competed hard and racked up points in tough matches.
• 138 – Dakota McCall (4-0) – 4A 138lb State Champion.
• 144 – Michael Aiken (3-1) – State Finalist, finishing as runner-up.
• 150 – Leyden Gentry (3-1) – State Finalist, finishing as runner-up.
• 157 – Jonathan Pagoada (3-2) – Came up just short in a heartbreaker in the blood round.
• 175 – Zaine Kellett (1-2) – The senior made his first state appearance in his first year of wrestling.
• 190 – Zi Priestley (2-2) – Strong performance in a competitive weight class.
• 215 – Michael Brown (1-2) – Battled in a tough bracket at 215.

Girls Division Success

• 170 – Emily Riopel (2-2) – Earned a 4th place finish and All-State Honors.

With a championship legacy building and multiple wrestlers making deep runs in the tournament, the Laurens wrestling program has cemented itself as a rising force. The dedication, resilience, and skill displayed this season set the stage for even greater achievements in the future.

Congratulations to all the Raiders wrestlers, coaches, and supporters on an outstanding season!

Photo credit: Laurens District 55 Wrestling