SANDPOINT — Before making the trip to the USA Wrestling National Championships in Fargo, N.D., the best Idaho had to offer had one weeklong stop to make: Sandpoint. 

Sandpoint wrestling had the honor of hosting the 2026 Idaho Girls National Team camp, welcoming 50 of the state's top high school wrestlers from 30 schools and six collegiate wrestlers. SHS girls wrestling head coach Valerie Johansen said the athletes didn't just wrestle but trained their leadership through mental performance sessions and team-building activities.  

"It was incredible to watch young women from every corner of Idaho unite under one goal while building friendships that will last well beyond their competitive careers," Johansen said.  

The camp prepped the girls for what was to come at the national championships, but also united the leaders of the growing sport under one roof, Johansen said. Five high school coaches made the trip up north, allowing the girls to learn from a wealth of experience, in addition to the other wrestlers. 

Johansen said the event was only made possible by the local businesses, families and volunteers who stepped up. She said that their kindness is exactly what makes Sandpoint a special place and made the experience one that the athletes won't forget. 

"As the team departed for Fargo this week, they left with not only improved skills but also a stronger sense of pride in representing Idaho on the national stage," Johansen said.  

Idaho will be represented by Sandpoint High's Mackenzee Donenfeld and Isabella Stark in the junior division and Rhaelyn Schedlbauer in the 16U division.