PHS Boys Wrestling Post Season Recap

The Portland Raiders boys wrestling team entered the postseason with clear goals and high aspirations. As with any successful program, countless hours of hard work and preparation laid the foundation for what would become an impressive run.

The Raiders began their postseason journey on February 11 at DeWitt High School, competing in the District Championship against DeWitt. Portland delivered a dominant performance, claiming the District title in commanding fashion with a 55–18 victory.

Following Team Districts, 14 wrestlers advanced to Individual Districts at Williamston High School on February 14. The Raiders had an outstanding showing, crowning four individual champions and advancing six wrestlers to Regionals. Sophomore Grady Lanz (106), Junior Branlun Simon (120), Senior Brad Meyers (190), and Junior Landon Guilford (215) each stood atop the podium as champions. Junior Griffin Opperman (150) earned a runner-up finish, while Senior Gunnar Williams (215) placed third. Two wrestlers continued their perfect seasons, further highlighting the team’s success.

Next, Portland traveled to Eaton Rapids High School on February 18 for Team Regionals—arguably one of the toughest Division 2 Regionals in the state, featuring four ranked teams. In the opening round, Portland faced Mason while Eaton Rapids squared off against Fowlerville. The winners would meet for the Regional title. Portland edged Mason in a thrilling 37–32 victory to advance. In the championship dual, the Raiders faced Eaton Rapids in a rematch from two weeks earlier, when Portland had won by a single point. Despite a tremendous team effort, Eaton Rapids claimed the Regional title with a 37–29 win.

The postseason momentum continued as six Raiders competed at Individual Regionals at Fowlerville High School on February 21. With the goal of placing in the top four to qualify for the State Finals, all six wrestlers rose to the challenge. Portland crowned three Regional Champions—Branlun Simon (120), Brad Meyers (190), and Landon Guilford (215)—with two of them maintaining perfect records on the season. Griffin Opperman (150) finished as runner-up, Grady Lanz (106) placed third, and Gunnar Williams (215) earned fourth place. All six secured their spots at the Individual State Finals, set for March 6–7 at Ford Field.

Senior Brad Meyers and Junior Branlun Simon continue to hold perfect records this season—an incredible accomplishment and a true testament to their dedication, discipline, and relentless work ethic.

The Raiders’ postseason run reflects the strength of their program, the resilience of their athletes, and the unwavering commitment to excellence that defines Portland wrestling.

Courtesy photos.

The Portland Beacon would like to thank Tara Lanz for sharing PHS boys wrestling news this season.