Hanover Central juniors Julian DeLuna and Isaiah Buikema capped standout seasons by earning podium finishes at the IHSAA Boys Wrestling State Finals, highlighting a strong postseason run for the Wildcats.
The state finals took place Feb. 21-22 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, where Indiana’s top wrestlers competed following advancement through regional and semi-state competition.
DeLuna placed fifth at 106 pounds, finishing the season with an impressive 39-2 record against one of the state’s deepest weight classes. His postseason included victories over Keegan Holderman of Bremen and Aldo Origel of Rensselaer Central before securing a fifth-place finish with a dominant technical fall over Merrillville’s Rashad Nelson. Throughout the season, DeLuna recorded wins against several ranked opponents, including Center Grove’s Joseph Hamilton and Indianapolis Cathedral’s Ethan Bayliss.
Buikema added a seventh-place finish at 132 pounds, closing the year with a 30-11 record. His state tournament run included victories over South Bend Riley’s Braxton Shines, Merrillville’s Warren Brown and Lowell’s Hunter Mallory. Buikema rebounded through the consolation bracket to secure a podium finish after advancing through a competitive semi-state field at East Chicago Central.
With both wrestlers returning next season, Hanover Central’s state success reflects continued growth and momentum for the Wildcats wrestling program.
