DC Wrestling Club Shines Through Postseason, Crowns State Champion
Apr 27, 2026 01:43PM ● By Connie Ware
25/26 IKWF State Champions: Journee Bybee, Hunter Voss, Ashton Hardin
DC Wrestling Club Shines Through Postseason, Crowns State Champion [2 Images]
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The DC Wrestling Club continued its strong tradition of excellence this season, producing standout performances throughout the postseason and finishing with an impressive showing at the IKWF State Wrestling Championship.
From early practices to weekend tournaments, DC wrestlers put in countless hours refining their skills and building confidence on the mat. That hard work paid off as many of the club’s athletes advanced to Regional competition, gaining valuable postseason experience and setting the stage for a strong Sectional showing.
Battling Through Sectionals
DC Wrestling Club traveled to Rock Island for the Sectional Tournament, bringing 31 wrestlers ready to compete at a high level—and they did not disappoint.
In a highly competitive field, 11 DC wrestlers advanced out of Sectionals, showcasing the strength and depth of the program. Those advancing included:
Every athlete who stepped onto the mat represented DC with heart, grit, and determination. While some wrestlers saw their season come to an end at Sectionals, their effort and growth throughout the year reflected the continued rise of the program.
A special highlight came from the Bantam Girls Division, which earned an impressive 2nd place team finish—a testament to the hard work and dedication these athletes put in all season long.
State Stage: IKWF Championship in Peoria
The season culminated at the IKWF State Wrestling Championship, held March 13–14, 2026, at the Peoria Civic Center.
Competing against the top youth wrestlers in Illinois, DC Wrestling Club made its presence known, with three wrestlers earning podium finishes at the state level, including a state champion. Leading the way was Journee Bybee, who captured the 1st Place Championship in the Girls Bantam Division – 45 lb. weight class, finishing the season with an outstanding 35-7 record while displaying dominant technique and composure throughout the tournament.
Hunter Voss delivered an exceptional season, placing 7th in the Boys Intermediate Division – 122 lb. weight class and finishing the year with an impressive 39-2 record.
Ashton Hardin also reached the podium, earning 7th place in the Boys Senior Division – 188 lb. weight class after battling through a tough bracket.
Other Local State Highlights
In addition to DC Wrestling Club’s success, two other Chillicothe wrestlers also competed at the state tournament and delivered outstanding performances.
Zoey Willis captured 1st Place in the Girls Bantam Division – 55 lb. weight class, while Ryder Carroll earned a strong 6th place finish in the Boys Novice Division – 69 lb. weight class.
Building More Than Wrestlers
Beyond wins and losses, DC Wrestling Club continues to build young athletes through discipline, resilience, and teamwork. Coaches and families alike recognize the character being developed within the program.
“This group represents what wrestling is all about,” a coach said. “Their effort, attitude, and commitment to each other is and always will be something special.”
Looking Ahead
With a state champion leading the way and several athletes gaining valuable experience on the biggest stage, the future is bright for DC Wrestling Club.
As the 2026 season comes to a close, the program celebrates not only its achievements, but also the continued growth of its athletes—both on and off the mat.
For information on joining this club, please feel free to reach out to Jeff or Bridgette Bybee at 309-621-5181.