Chloe Hedges from Canton has been named Clutch Sports Media's 2026 Girls Wrestler of the Year, showcasing her exceptional talent in high school wrestling. In her sophomore season, Hedges achieved an impressive 35-5 record, winning over 85% of her matches and capturing multiple titles, including Mid-Illini, regional, and sectional championships. Additionally, she advanced to the consolation quarterfinals at the IHSA State Finals, narrowly missing a state placement. Hedges demonstrated significant improvement from her freshman year, underlining her status as a rising star in a rapidly growing sport.

By the Numbers
  • Record: 35 wins and 5 losses.
  • Competition wins: Titles at the Geneseo Regional and DeKalb Sectional.
  • Championships: Two consecutive Mid-Illini Conference titles.
State of Play
  • Hedges dominated numerous tournaments, including the Morris Reindeer Rumble and Canton Girls Invitational.
  • She was the only female wrestler in her coverage area to win both regional and sectional titles this season.
What's Next

Looking ahead, Hedges intends to maintain her strong academic performance while continuing to improve her wrestling skills. She aims to pursue higher education and further her achievements in the sport.

Bottom Line

Chloe Hedges is a standout athlete whose dedication and success in wrestling have set a high standard for herself and her team. Her journey reflects a commitment to both her sport and academics, indicating a promising future ahead.