Northfield Comes Up Just Short, Finishes Dramatic Runner‑Up at TRC Championships
By Ed Shenefield | Jan 24, 2026 8:14 PM
Bunker Hill, Ind. — In one of the tightest finishes in recent conference history, the Northfield Varsity Wrestling Team turned in a powerhouse performance at the 2026 Three Rivers Conference Championships, finishing second overall with 243 points—just four points shy of capturing the team title. Across 14 weight classes, the Norse demonstrated balance, depth, and resilience, earning two individual TRC championships, four runners‑up, and nine additional podium finishes. The strong showing kept Northfield in contention for the conference crown until the final heavyweight bout. Leading the way were senior Tayten Barlow (144 lbs) and junior Elijah Gahl (175 lbs), who each went 4–0 en route to conference titles. Barlow secured multiple first‑period falls before pinning Wabash’s Corbin Goshert in the championship round. Gahl, meanwhile, extended his undefeated season to 39–0, capping his day with a finals pin over Wabash standout Remington Cressell. Northfield’s presence in the championship rounds continued with four additional finalists. Cooper Good (120 lbs), Brayden Rice (138 lbs), Rylan Turner (215 lbs), and Cail Dunphy (285 lbs) all battled their way to second‑place finishes, each compiling 3–1 records and contributing crucial points that helped keep the Norse within striking distance of the TRC title. The team’s depth proved equally valuable. Lucas Law (150 lbs) and Luke Eviston (157 lbs) claimed third‑place honors with strong 4–1 performances, while Kedryk Haecker (106 lbs), Kyle Brown (126 lbs), Mason Steller (165 lbs), and Rylan Schultz (190 lbs) added important fourth‑place finishes. Rounding out the scoring, Kiptyn Haecker (113 lbs) and Wyatt Steller (132 lbs) finished fifth in their respective divisions. Head Coach Shenefield praised the team’s tenacity and its ability to rise to the moment. “Our athletes battled from the opening whistle to the final match,” he said. “The way our wrestlers fought back through consolation rounds to secure critical team points shows the heart of this program. We are proud of every member of this roster.” With the conference tournament now behind them, the Norse set their sights on the upcoming IHSAA State Series. Riding strong momentum—and with multiple wrestlers entering the postseason in top form—Northfield aims to carry its success into sectional competition and beyond.








