Freshman standout Charlie Strezo made headlines by winning the 120-pound title at the 2026 IHSA Class 3A Rich Township Regional.
His victory marked a breakout moment in his first varsity season, establishing him as one of Lincoln-Way West’s rising stars.
The regional championship took place os Saturday, Jan. 31, at Rich Townhip High School.
Strezo’s performance helped power the Warriors to the overall team crown, as Lincoln-Way West posted 191.5 points to edge Lincoln-Way Central and claim their 10th regional title under head coach Brian Glynn.
Lincoln‑Way West’s regional championship was a team effort, with Strezo and Max Herman (165 lbs) claiming titles, and nine other Warriors advancing as runners‑up. Michael Scott (106), Kellan Hack (113), Carter DiBenedetto (126), Brady Glynn (132), Shane Stream (138), Jack Strezo (144), Evan Gutierrez (157), and Jimmy Talley (215) all secured sectional berths. The depth across the roster showcased the Warriors’ strength, as they qualified 10 wrestlers for sectionals and reaffirmed their status as one of Illinois’ premier programs.
West’s depth proved decisive, fueled by two champions and eight runner-up finishes to outlast Central’s balanced push at 180.5 points. Lincoln-Way East made it a clean sweep of the top three for the district, finishing third with 172 behind four individual champions.
Andrew followed in fourth with 113.5 points, leaning on two champions to stay competitive, while Homewood-Flossmoor rounded out the top five at 107.5. Bradley-Bourbonnais placed sixth with 83 points, and host Rich Township finished seventh with 56.5. The results underscored the Lincoln-Way programs’ dominance, controlling the podium and setting the tone heading into sectional competition.
Beyond the IHSA competition, Strezo’s profile includes wins at major youth tournaments, including the Jon Davis Kids Open, where he notched multiple decision victories and a fall, and the Midwest Classic, where he earned a 3-1 decision.
As a freshman, he has already cracked the varsity lineup, joining his older brother Jack, a senior and state qualifier, in representing the Warriors. His early success signals a promising career trajectory, with three more seasons to build toward sectional and state contention.
