The Omaha Westside High School girls wrestling team solidified its place at the top of Class A this season, earning the 2026 Nebraska School Activities Association state championship in a thrilling finish. Guided by head coach Bob Mulligan, the Warriors scored 131 team points to edge out Kearney by just 3.5 points, securing the second state title in program history.
The championship was the result of true team depth. Six Westside wrestlers qualified for the state tournament, and every single one finished on the podium. In a tightly contested team race that saw the lead shift late in the tournament, the Warriors stayed composed and delivered when it mattered most, locking up the title in the final match.
Senior Addeline Graser provided the decisive performance, winning the 155-pound state championship and clinching the team victory. The win marked her second individual state title, further cementing her impact on the program. Senior Macy Barber capped off her high school career with a third-place finish at state, the fourth time she has reached that mark, while Brooklyn Dilworth competed tough at districts to help propel the team’s postseason momentum.
At 100 pounds, Mara Vanderpool battled her way to the state finals and finished as runner-up, contributing valuable team points. Throughout the season, she also earned key victories at major tournaments, demonstrating the consistency and competitiveness that defined the Warriors’ lineup.
Coach Mulligan credited the team’s close-knit culture and daily commitment to improvement as the foundation for their success.
“Our culture and family aspect and just how the girls competed and got better every day,” Mulligan said.
He also highlighted the senior leadership that guided the team through the season.
“The seniors had a great finish. Addeline Graser was a state champ for the second time, Macy Barber got third for the fourth time and Brooklyn Dilworth competed hard at the district meet,” said Mulligan.
Westside’s championship run was built on sustained excellence. After capturing the state title in 2024 and finishing as runner-up in 2025, the Warriors entered this season determined to reclaim the top spot. Their strong postseason performance included winning the A-5 district title with a 46–29 victory over Lincoln High, setting the tone for their state tournament success.
By finishing ahead of strong programs like Kearney, Norfolk, Lexington, and Grand Island, Westside once again demonstrated why it has become one of Nebraska’s premier girls wrestling programs since the sport was officially sanctioned.
When asked about the season’s highlight, Mulligan did not hesitate.
“For sure winning the State Championship,” Mulligan said.
With returning talent and a culture built around steady growth, the Warriors are already focused on what is next.
“They are going to continue to improve and hopefully compete for another championship next year,” said Mulligan.
This championship was not luck. It was preparation, resilience, and a team effort from top to bottom, proof that Westside girls wrestling continues to set the standard.
