Castelli captures 16U state freestyle title, extending Hononegah’s rising wrestling legacy

OAK FOREST — Hononegah sophomore Bella Castelli added another major accomplishment to her fast‑rising wrestling career Saturday, winning the 16U 135‑pound state championship at the Illinois Girls Freestyle State Championships at Oak Forest High School.

The event, hosted by Illinois/USA Wrestling, brings together the state’s top 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U and USA Junior girls competitors. Castelli didn’t just navigate the bracket — she dominated it.

She opened her day with a commanding 13‑2 technical fall over Brooklyn Peterie, using her pace and precision to control every exchange. In Round 2, she was even more efficient, rolling to a 10‑0 technical fall against Londyn Long.

Castelli saved her strongest finish for the championship match. Facing Catherine Diehl with the state title on the line, she seized momentum early and closed the bout by fall at 3:13, securing the 2026 16U 135‑pound crown.

For Castelli, the victory is another step in a climb that has accelerated quickly over the past two seasons. She is coming off a standout year for Hononegah, finishing the season at 27‑4. For the Indians her overall record sits at 70‑26. Her offseason commitment — technique refinement to strength development — continues to fuel her rise.

Castelli said she is “very excited” about the championship and views it as both validation and motivation. With "state title" now added to her resumé, she remains focused on sharpening her overall wrestling and pushing toward the next level.

Castelli’s latest achievement adds another highlight to her expanding presence on the state stage. Her momentum shows no signs of slowing as she continues her ascent in Illinois girls wrestling.