Ludlow High School wrestler earns national honor for excellence on and off the mat
LUDLOW, Mass. (WWLP) – A Ludlow High School senior has been recognized with one of the top honors in high school wrestling, highlighting both her athletic success and leadership in the sport. Ex-Northwestern guard Jordan Clayton joins UMass Minutemen Samantha Bertini has been named the Massachusetts recipient of the 2026 National Wrestling Hall of Fame Tricia Saunders High School Excellence Award.
The prestigious award recognizes achievements in wrestling, as well as in academics, leadership, and character. Bertini compiled a career record of 144-28, including a 75-2 mark against female competitors and 69-26 against male opponents. Her career includes 90 pins, and she became the fastest female wrestler in Massachusetts history to reach 100 career wins.
Samantha Bertini (Courtesy of Ludlow High School Assistant Wrestling Coach James Soffen) Samantha Bertini (Courtesy of Ludlow High School Assistant Wrestling Coach James Soffen) She is a three-time MIAA Division III state champion and four-time finalist, as well as a three-time All-State champion. Bertini also captured a New England title in 2025 and finished as a regional finalist twice. On the national stage, she won a USA Wrestling freestyle national championship in 2024 and earned All-American honors multiple times, including at Fargo and in folkstyle competition.
Beyond her individual accomplishments, Bertini has played a key role in growing wrestling at Ludlow High School, serving as a team captain for three years and helping recruit and mentor other female wrestlers. Her efforts contributed to the development of multiple state champions and a Division III girls team state title. The award places Bertini among an elite group of high school wrestlers nationwide and reflects the continued growth of the sport, particularly for girls, in Massachusetts.
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