Source: La Plata Softball | Maliyah Cropper of La Plata High School after winning her weight class at the 2026 SMAC wrestling championships.

LA PLATA, Md. — Students, families, and fans at La Plata High School have plenty to celebrate this season, as both the Warriors and Lady Warriors wrestling teams captured championship victories and continue to raise the bar for the program.

The Lady Warriors continued their strong run this winter, securing their second consecutive Southern Maryland Athletic Conference team championship. The repeat title highlights the continued growth and success of the girls wrestling program, which has become one of the strongest in Southern Maryland in recent years.

Earlier this season, the Lady Warriors also captured the Manchester Valley Maverick Duals championship, adding another highlight to their banner year. The team battled through a full day of competition and secured the title in a dramatic final match against the reigning state champions. Coaches and supporters praised the group’s grit, determination and teamwork, calling the victory a reflection of the program’s continued growth and strong culture.

La Plata Wrestling Wins Regional Title, Girls Earn Second Straight SMAC Championship
Credit: La Plata High School | 2026 SMAC Champions

Girls’ wrestling is now one of the fastest-growing high school sports in the country, with participation continuing to surge in recent years. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, more than 74,000 girls competed in high school wrestling during the 2024–25 season, a 15% increase from the previous year. Nearly 1,000 additional schools have added girls wrestling programs, reflecting growing interest, expanded opportunities and increased support at both the youth and high school levels.

Source: La Plata Softball | LPHS wrestler Chloe Sullivan placed second, Imani Williams placed third, and Finley Poff finished fourth.

La Plata Boys Earn 2A Regional Crown

The La Plata boys wrestling team also celebrated a major milestone this season, capturing the 2A regional championship the school shared on Feb. 13. The victory capped off a strong year for the Warriors and secured their place in the next round of postseason competition.

The Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association state wrestling championships are scheduled for Friday, March 6, and Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro.

Learn more and get tickets at MPSSAA Wrestling State Championship Central.

La Plata Wrestling Wins Regional Title, Girls Earn Second Straight SMAC Championship
Credit: La Plata High School | The La Plata boys wrestling team poses after capturing the 2A regional championship.

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Jessica Jennings, a Tampa, Florida native, brings a rich and diverse perspective shaped by her global experiences as a U.S. Navy veteran and military spouse. After joining the Navy at 19, Jessica’s service...

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