Isaiah Sweeney
Apr 30, 2025
Howell’s rising star dominates at U.S. Open to earn spot on Team USA for the U17 World Championships in Greece
April 10, 2025 – Howell, NJ
Tanner Hodgins is taking New Jersey wrestling to the world stage.
The Howell High School standout and Shore Thing Wrestling Club athlete delivered a commanding performance at the 2025 U.S. Open Wrestling Championships in Las Vegas, capturing the U17 national title at 92 kg and earning a coveted spot on the U.S. U17 World Team.
In the best-of-three finals, Hodgins shut out his opponent in back-to-back bouts — winning 8-0 in the opener and sealing the series with a 10-0 technical fall in just 1:44. The win not only cemented his status as one of the nation’s top young wrestlers but also earned him the opportunity to represent the United States at the U17 World Championships in Athens, Greece.
Earlier in the 2024–2025 season, Hodgins proved his mettle at the NJSIAA State Championships, where he secured third place at 190 lbs. His state tournament run included dominant wins like a technical fall over Jake Zemsky (23-8 in 4:22) and a 6-4 decision over Carl Betz in the third-place match.
From the Shore Conference to the world stage, Hodgins’ rise has been fueled by elite-level training, relentless drive, and a growing resume of national and international experience.
As he prepares for the upcoming World Championships, Hodgins carries not only his personal goals — but the pride of New Jersey wrestling — into battle on the global mat.