The Ware County Gator Wrestling program once again proved its place among the elite on Saturday, January 10, 2026, as it hosted and captured the Region 1-AAAA Wrestling Dual Championship at Ware County High School. Competing in front of the home crowd, the Gators continued their dominant tradition by claiming the region title in emphatic fashion.
Entering the tournament as the No. 1 seed, Ware County earned a first-round bye. The Gators wasted no time making a statement in the semifinals, recording an 84-0 shutout of Benedictine - the maximum number of points a team can score in a dual meet. The momentum carried into the championship match, where Ware County controlled the action from start to finish to defeat Wayne County 49 - 18 and secure the region crown.
The championship marks the 12th Region title in program history and the first under the leadership of Head Coach Williamson, a milestone achievement for both the team and the coaching staff.
Four Gators were named Wrestlers of the Day for their outstanding performances. Jordan Maxwell, Gunter Fore, Collin Deal, and Colton Miller each went a perfect 2 - 0 on the day, recording two pinfalls apiece while maximizing bonus points for the team.
Additional undefeated performers included Da’Marion Zanders (tech fall and forfeit), Evan Thomas (pinfall and forfeit), and Jaden McKelvin (decision and forfeit), all finishing 2 - 0. Going 1 - 0 on the day were Noah Paul (pinfall), Aaron Bennett (tech fall), Leve Moore (forfeit), and Andy Ignacio (forfeit). Wrestlers posting 1 - 1 records included Ashton Cox (pinfall win), Rodrigo Reyes (forfeit win), Maleek Mackey (forfeit win), Jalen Hampton (pinfall win), and Kyler Matthews (pinfall win).
With the region championship secured, the Gators now turn their focus to the GHSA Class 4A State Duals Championships, scheduled for January 16 - 17 at Ola High School in McDonough, Georgia, as they continue to pursue their team goals. Before heading to state, Ware County will get a final tune-up when they travel to Bacon County for a quad match on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
For more photos, please click the link below.
1/10/2026: Wrestling Region Duals
Go Gators!