Hernando High Wrestling Takes Third, Wins Two Titles at Tournament
Hernando High placed third out of 20 teams at the inaugural Windham Rotunda Memorial Tournament on December 7, 2025, with two Leopards capturing individual championships. The results reflect growing depth in the program, a boost for school morale, and potential local economic benefits as regional events continue to draw visiting teams.
Hernando High delivered a strong performance at the first annual Windham Rotunda Memorial Tournament on December 7, finishing third among a 20 team field. The Leopards produced two individual champions, with Corbin Helm winning the 106 pound division and Kian Blyss taking the 215 pound title. Blyss was also named tournament Most Valuable Wrestler, underscoring his standout contribution to Hernando’s team score.
The tournament brought together a broad regional field, and Hernando’s third place finish highlighted both top end talent and greater roster depth. Multiple Leopards advanced to semifinals or finals across several weight classes, contributing important team points and demonstrating the program’s competitiveness beyond its two champions. Coaches provided match by match adjustments that helped younger competitors step into varsity roles, a development cited as a key factor in the Leopards’ overall placing.
Beyond the mat, a 20 team tournament like this draws visitors and families from across the region, which can translate into incremental economic activity for local restaurants and retailers on event weekends. For Hernando County schools the performance speaks to the value of continued investment in youth athletics, both for student development and community engagement. Strong showings at regional tournaments tend to increase attendance at subsequent home matches and can support fundraising and booster efforts that underwrite travel and equipment costs.
For the squad the immediate significance is competitive momentum. Two titles and an MVP designation at an early season memorial meet give coaches a wider base of wrestlers to deploy in dual meets and tournaments ahead. The emergence of younger wrestlers in varsity roles points to a sustainable pipeline for the program and bodes well for Hernando’s prospects in conference and regional competition later in the season.
As the Leopards return to practice and prepare for upcoming events, the results from the Windham Rotunda Memorial Tournament offer a data point on program trajectory. Third place out of 20 teams, two individual champions and an MVP reflect both current strength and potential for continued growth.
