Hickman Wrestlers Claim Team Title at 2026 Cheesehead Invitational

KAUKAUNA, Wis. — In one of the most competitive high school wrestling events of the early season, the Hickman High School wrestling team delivered a statement performance at the 2026 Cheesehead Invitational, posting the top team score in a field loaded with nationally ranked programs.

Competing on January 9–10 at Kaukauna High School a two-day tournament that annually draws talent from across the country. Hickman finished first overall with 468.5 points, edging out a strong Southeast Polk (Iowa) squad and Montini Catholic (Illinois). 

The Invitational tested depth and resilience. With only ten scorers on the mat, Hickman’s lineup consistently delivered points, challenging and defeating athletes from states as diverse as Iowa, Illinois, Tennessee and beyond. Notable among the field were nationally ranked teams that have become fixtures at the Cheesehead in recent seasons. 

While individual placers varied across weight classes, it was Hickman’s collective effort, particularly in the consolation brackets where bonus points were crucial that separated them from the rest of the field. Competing without the depth of a 14-man squad, the Kewpies’ efficiency highlighted a level of preparation and mental fortitude that sets the tone for the remainder of the winter.

Hickman’s lineup made the most of its opportunities, advancing wrestlers deep into competitive brackets across several weights:

• Luke Hayden (175 lbs, Jr.) — 3rd place
• Beau Waldron (190 lbs, Jr.) — 3rd place
• Brady McMurtry (138 lbs, Jr.) — 4th place
• Quincey Crawford (144 lbs, So.) — 4th place
• Dominic Marchack (113 lbs, Fr.) — 5th place
• Shane Oswald (150 lbs, Jr.) — 8th place
• Taryn Nichols (157 lbs, Sr.) — 8th place
• Aidan McMurtry (126 lbs, Fr.) — 9th place
• Hogan Benter (132 lbs, Jr.) — 10th place
• Cooper Sapp (285 lbs, So.) — 10th place

Several underclassmen competed against elite competition, while upper weights provided critical placement points that ultimately separated Hickman from the rest of the field.

For Missouri wrestling fans, Hickman’s success underscores the state’s continued presence on the national stage. In a sport where tournament victories hinge on narrow margins and every match counts, the Kewpies showed they can compete not just regionally, but nationally.

As the season progresses toward district and state championships in the spring, this result will resonate with opponents and supporters alike a benchmark performance from one of Missouri’s most storied programs.

Top 2026 Cheesehead Invitational Team Scores