Panhandle wrestlers earn state medals at Nebraska high school girls state tournament

OMAHA, Neb. — The 2025 Nebraska School Activities Association Girls State Wrestling Championships wrapped up Wednesday at the CHI Health Center in Omaha with a number of Panhandle wrestlers finishing on the podium.

Chase County’s Hayley Rusher capped off a perfect 47-0 season by claiming the state championship at Class B 145 pounds. Rusher dominated the bracket, pinning each of her opponents on the way to the finals, where she secured the title with a 15-0 technical fall victory over Stanton’s Bekah Butterfield.

Scottsbluff’s Jazmyn Garcia earned a state runner-up finish at 190 pounds in Class A after battling through the bracket with three straight decision victories. She fell to Nebraska City’s Makayla Vasser in the championship match.

Other Panhandle wrestlers also earned spots on the podium. Chase County’s Peyton Owens placed fourth at Class B 140 pounds, Chadron’s Bristol Prado finished fifth at Class B 120 pounds, Bayard’s Carlie McKibbin took sixth at Class B 100 pounds, Gering’s Rileigh Dane placed sixth at 100 pounds in Class A and Mitchell’s Avalina Stoner finished third in Class B at 100 pounds.