“`html
14U National Duals Find New Home in Florida for 2026-2029
Wesley Chapel, Florida, is set to become the new battleground for young wrestlers as USA Wrestling awards the 14U National Duals to the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus for the next four years (2026-2029).This prestigious youth competition, featuring the nation’s top 13- and 14-year-old wrestlers, promises high-octane action and fierce competition.
Sunshine State Showdown: Key Details
The Florida Amateur Wrestling association (FAWA), in collaboration with the Florida Sports Coast Tourism Bureau and America Warrior Wrestling, will serve as the local organizing committee. The event is scheduled to take place each year in June.
According To USA Wrestling Director Of National Events, Pete Isais, “USA Wrestling is thrilled to award the 14U Boys National Duals to florida and the Southeast Region.”
- Venue: Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus, Wesley Chapel, Florida
- Dates: June, Annually (2026-2029)
- Organizers: Florida Amateur Wrestling Association (FAWA), Florida Sports Coast Tourism Bureau, america Warrior Wrestling
FAWA Co-State Chairpersons Steve Mocco and David Mason expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We are super excited to host the USA Wrestling 14U National Duals.”
What to Expect at the 14U National Duals
The 14U National Dual Meet Championships is the annual national championship for boys aged 13-14. Wrestling teams representing various state associations will compete in both freestyle and Greco-Roman disciplines, showcasing their skills and vying for the coveted national title. Participation is exclusive to teams selected and attending through their respective state associations.
Did You Know? The event was previously known as the Schoolboy National Duals and has a rich history dating back to 1994.
A Premier Facility
The Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus boasts a 98,000 square-foot indoor sports arena, tailor-made for competitive indoor sports. the facility includes a multitude of features:
- Multipurpose area
- 360-degree viewing mezzanine
- Fitness center
- Team meeting and coach’s area
- Sports medicine office
- Food and beverage concessions
- Two outdoor multipurpose fields
- Ample parking
The venue will accommodate 19 mats, including one on a raised platform, within its 70,000 square-foot hardwood floor arena, divided into two interior zones with a connecting hallway.
Convenient Accommodation and Travel
Attendees will find lodging convenient with the Residence Inn co-located at the venue and the Fairfield Inn within a 10-minute walk. An additional 10 hotels are located within an 11-minute drive.
Tampa International Airport is the closest at just 29.3 miles from the venue. Other options include St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (39.5 miles), Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (72.9 miles), and Orlando International Airport (84 miles).
A Storied History: 14U National Duals Locations
Florida becomes only the third state to host the 14U National Duals as 1994, joining Indiana (1994-2022) and Pennsylvania (2023-2025). Wesley Chapel is only the sixth city to ever host this event.
| Years | Location |
|---|---|
| 1994-2003, 2004-2022 | Indianapolis/Yorktown/Lebanon/Franklin, Indiana |
| 2023-2025 | Oaks, Pennsylvania |
| 2026-2029 | Wesley Chapel, Florida |
The Impact of Youth Wrestling
Youth wrestling programs, like those supported by USA Wrestling and FAWA, play a pivotal role in developing discipline, physical fitness, and mental toughness in young athletes. These programs not only teach wrestling techniques but also instill values that benefit participants throughout their lives.
Participating in competitive events such as the 14U National Duals provides invaluable experience, fostering sportsmanship and resilience. team USA often sees athletes who have honed their skills through such programs,highlighting the importance of early development in achieving national and international success.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where will the 14U National Duals be held from 2026-2029?
- The 14U National Duals will be held at the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus in Wesley Chapel, Florida, from 2026 through 2029.
- Who are the key organizers of the 14U National Duals in Florida?
- The Florida Amateur Wrestling Association (FAWA), in conjunction with Florida Sports Coast Tourism Bureau and America Warrior Wrestling, are the primary organizers.
- What age group can participate in the 14U National Dual Meet Championships?
- the 14U national Dual Meet Championships are for boys in the 14U age group,which includes those who are 13-14 years old.
- What styles of wrestling are featured at the 14U National Duals?
- The 14U National Duals feature the Olympic disciplines of freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling.
- Which airport is closest to the Wiregrass Ranch Sports campus for the 14U National Duals?
- Tampa international Airport is the closest airport,located approximately 29.3 miles from the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus.
- Has Florida hosted the 14U National Duals before?
- No, Florida will be the third state to host the 14U National Duals since its inception in 1994, following Indiana and Pennsylvania.
