Nation’s Best Wrestlers Head to Fargo for 2026 U.S. Marine Corps Nationals

FARGO, N.D. — The 2026 U.S. Marine Corps Junior Nationals returns to the FARGODOME on the campus of North Dakota State University from July 10–18, once again bringing together the nation’s top high school wrestlers for what is widely regarded as the largest wrestling tournament in the world. With participation increasing nearly six percent in 2025 and expected to rise again across all six divisions, Fargo continues to serve as the premier stage for the sport’s next generation.

Now in its 55th year, the event has been a cornerstone of USA Wrestling since its inception in 1971, pausing only in 2020. Since merging with the 16U Nationals in 1996, the tournament has become a launching pad for future NCAA champions, World Team members, and Olympic hopefuls.

This year’s event features an adjusted schedule, with men’s freestyle set to open the week from July 10–12, followed by Greco-Roman on July 14–15, and women’s freestyle closing the event from July 16–18. An off day separates freestyle and Greco-Roman, while women’s freestyle expands to three full days of competition, reflecting its continued national growth.

The Junior division, consisting of wrestlers in grades 9–12, is loaded with nationally ranked athletes, state champions, and Fargo returners, while the 16U division continues to highlight emerging talent looking to break through on the national scene. Fargo also serves as the final stop for athletes pursuing the USA Wrestling Triple Crown, one of the sport’s most prestigious achievements.

Several returning champions enter with resumes that extend beyond Fargo success. Pennsylvania’s Nathan Schuman has emerged as one of the nation’s top lightweight prospects, backed by multiple state podium finishes and strong national tournament performances. Oklahoma’s Turner Ross has built a reputation as a consistent national contender across multiple styles, while Georgia’s Antonio Mills continues to prove himself as a high-level freestyle competitor on the national circuit.

Pennsylvania standouts Melvin Miller and Nicholas Singer also return after strong seasons that include state titles and national placements, adding depth to an already competitive field.

In Greco-Roman, Illinois remains a powerhouse with returning champions Vincent DeMarco and Kaleb Pratt, both nationally recognized for their success in Greco competition. Oklahoma’s Van Smith and Illinois’ Wyatt Medlin also return with strong credentials, including state championships and All-American finishes.

The women’s freestyle division features the largest group of returning champions, led by Pennsylvania’s Jaclyn Bouzakis and Emma Bacon, both nationally ranked athletes with success at major events such as Super 32 and USA Wrestling competitions. Minnesota’s Nora Akpan has established herself as one of the top upper-weight wrestlers in the country, while Violette Lasure of Pennsylvania, Olivia Georges of New Jersey, and Deionna Borders of Ohio each bring national recognition and consistent high-level results.

Adding to the intrigue, 23 champions from last year’s 16U division are moving up, creating compelling matchups between established names and rising stars. In the team race, Pennsylvania looks to continue its dominance after winning four divisions in 2025, while California, Illinois, Iowa, and Ohio remain strong contenders.

Competition begins Friday, July 10, with men’s freestyle preliminaries and consolations starting at 8 a.m., followed by additional sessions at 4 p.m. Action continues Saturday, July 11, with sessions beginning at 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Championship rounds take place Sunday, July 12, starting at 10 a.m. with quarterfinals, semifinals, and consolations, followed by placement matches at 3 p.m. and finals at 5 p.m.

Greco-Roman competition begins Tuesday, July 14, with opening rounds at 8 a.m. and additional sessions at 3:30 p.m. The tournament continues Wednesday, July 15, starting at 9 a.m., followed by placement matches at 4 p.m. and finals at 5:30 p.m.

Women’s freestyle begins Thursday, July 16, with opening rounds at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Wrestling continues Friday, July 17, at 9 a.m., followed by championship rounds at 3 p.m. The event concludes Saturday, July 18, with semifinals at 10 a.m., placement matches at 2 p.m., and finals at 3:30 p.m.

With a mix of returning champions, nationally ranked standouts, and emerging talent, the 2026 event is set to deliver another highly competitive and defining week in Fargo.