Lincoln-Way West boys wrestling stepped onto Illinois’ biggest stage at the IHSA Individual Wrestling State Finals, highlighted by Max Herman’s fifth-place finish at 165 pounds and a determined performance from Brady Glynn at 132.
The event marked an important milestone for the team as it faced some of the toughest competition in high school wrestling. The tournament provided an opportunity for both athletes to demonstrate their preparation and resilience against top-ranked opponents from across the state.
The 2026 IHSA Boys Individual Wrestling State Championships were held Feb. 19–21 at the State Farm Center in Champaign, where the Warriors competed against the state’s best in one of the most demanding postseason environments in high school wrestling. According to Lincoln-Way West, “Herman showed resilience throughout the tournament, battling back through the consolation bracket after an early loss to keep his season alive… Wrestling multiple high-pressure matches in a short span, he found momentum when it mattered most, earning key victories to reach the medal rounds… Herman closed his state run with a hard-fought 9-7 decision in the fifth-place match, securing a podium finish and capping a memorable postseason performance.”
Glynn also participated at 132 pounds. According to Lincoln-Way West, “Glynn also embraced the challenge at 132 pounds, competing with composure against a deep field of ranked opponents… He earned a narrow 6-5 consolation victory before adding a technical fall to remain in medal contention… Glynn ultimately finished one win shy of the podium after a tightly contested 1-0 decision in the wrestlebacks… Lincoln-Way West’s appearance in Champaign reflected the toughness and preparation required to reach the state finals, as both wrestlers represented the Warriors with grit, persistence and pride on wrestling’s biggest stage.”
The performances by Herman and Glynn underscored Lincoln-Way West’s presence among Illinois’ top high school wrestling programs during this year’s championship event.
