Episode 14: IHSA 2026 Girls State Preview: What to Expect and Predictions with Coach Mike Hamilton

The IHSA Girls Wrestling State Finals are here—and whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned wrestling family, State weekend can feel big. In this episode of the Illinois Girls Wrestling Podcast, host Lena Burkut is joined by Michael James Hamilton for a full Girls State Preview—including how the weekend works, what wrestlebacks mean, what to watch for in real time, and State predictions.  We cover the State 101 in the plain language (tournament flow, session mindset, wrestlebacks), what makes State different (pace, pressure, edge awareness, mat IQ), and the small moments that decide matches. Then we close with bracket-based storylines and predictions—what to expect, where matchups get tricky, and which factors could swing podium runs. Plus: a practical tournament-day checklist for athletes and parents—warm-up rhythm, staying warm between matches, and what to say (and not say) after a match. Coach Mike Hamilton is a father of 4 daughters, 3 of them have or are currently wrestle at college. He is also a coach with 12 years of experience and is currently coaching at the Compound in Chenoa, IL -------------------------------------- New episode every Wednesday (this is a plan)! ---------- We are a baby podcast with a huge mission, and we would love your help - share the success of Girls' wrestling in the State of Illinois. If you like what you see, leave us a review (we heard that it really helps),  subscribe,  and share our podcast with other wrestling families ---------- Want to be our guest? Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/3CAjj1b6XcrgJA1v7. We are looking for insights from club and team coaches, expertise from industry experts, and inspiring stories from girls-wrestlers. You can also email us at [email protected] ---------- Looking for a club to join? Start your search at https://www.ikwf.org/clubs Ready to learn more about USA Wrestling? https://www.themat.com/ Join the discussion in the Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17hayuBGgw/ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok See girls wrestling grow Flow Wrestling 2024-25 commitment list    Flow Wrestling 2025-26 commitment list --------------------------------------------