UPDATE: The D2 Girls Wrestling Championship is underway, and the action has already produced shocking results. On February 20, 2026, in Wilkes-Barre, Cidney Schaffer stunned the competition by pinning the top seed, Rheagan Wargo, advancing to the semifinals in a breathtaking upset.
Schaffer, a freshman from Lackawanna Trail, entered the tournament as the No. 8 seed in the 100-pound bracket but demonstrated her prowess by defeating Wargo in just 3:43. This match was a pivotal moment, showcasing her strength and determination as she prepares to face defending champion Claire Gyle in the semifinals on Saturday.
Fellow competitor Emily Kivler continued her dominant streak, needing only a combined one minute to secure two pins and advance in the 112-pound bracket. Kivler, a sophomore from Nanticoke Area, is on track for another impressive season after winning the district championship last year.
“I want to make it to states. It’s a lot, to be honest,” said Kivler. “I feel great, and am just ready to wrestle.”
As the first day of competition wraps up, Hazleton Area leads the team standings with 71 points, followed by Delaware Valley with 61 points. Both teams have several athletes advancing to the semifinals, positioning themselves as strong contenders for the championship.
Schaffer’s journey has not been without challenges. She previously competed on the boys’ team and entered the tournament with a 4-0 girls record, a reflection of her limited opportunities. Despite this, she holds a Rank 5 state title in her weight class.
“It’s definitely different wrestling with boys. I feel more powerful against girls, but the boys are just more aggressive,” Schaffer explained after her match.
Teammate Payton Laytos also made waves in her 148-pound match, swiftly defeating Alexis Richmond in just 1:31. Laytos’ performance has set the stage for an exciting semifinal round, where she will face Ella Smith of Delaware Valley.
For Morgan Osburn, the competition is personal. After a challenging previous year, she is eager to return to the Central Regional Tournament. Osburn pinned her opponent in 3:22 and is poised to face Mia Gifford again, a noteworthy competitor.
Wilkes-Barre Area’s Jacqueline Hernandez celebrated her milestone of 50 career wins on this eventful day, overcoming a tough match to secure her spot in the quarterfinals.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes are on the anticipated semifinal matchups. Notable competitors include Kate Prior and Sierra Ripka, ranked No. 2 and No. 3 in the state, respectively. Their potential final clash is a must-watch.
With the stakes high and emotions running high, the D2 Girls Wrestling Championship promises thrilling action as athletes continue to push their limits. The next rounds are set to take place on Saturday, and fans are eagerly anticipating more surprises and standout performances.
Stay tuned for live updates and results as the competition progresses, and see who will emerge as champions in this high-stakes wrestling showdown!
