SPOKANE, WA — The lights of the 2026 USA Wrestling Women’s Nationals shone brightest on a pair of California’s most resilient competitors this weekend. At the U20 level, the proving ground for future Olympic hopefuls—Aubree Gutierrez (Surfside X Wrestling) and Marlee Solomon (Costa Mesa) navigated through elite fields to secure their spots on the championship platform, further solidifying the Golden State’s reputation as a cradle of world-class freestyle talent.

The Gutierrez vs. Whiting Trilogy
At 53KG, Aubree Gutierrez authored one of the most compelling narratives of the tournament. Her journey to the finals was a statement in itself, highlighted by a gritty 13-8 semifinal victory over 2025 U20 World Team Member Abbi Cooper. That win alone sent ripples through the arena, but the best-of-three finals series against Wisconsin’s Taylor Whiting was where the real drama unfolded.

After a narrow 6-3 loss in the opening match, Gutierrez responded with the ferocious “never-say-die” attitude that has defined her career. In the second match, she decided out of the officials’ hands, pinning Whiting in a lightning-fast 1:32. The winner-take-all third match was a tactical masterclass from both sides, coming down to the final whistle. While Whiting edged out a 5-4 victory to earn the seat to Bratislava, Slovakia, Gutierrez proved she is firmly entrenched in the upper echelon of the nation’s 53KG elite.

Solomon Stands Tall at 55KG
In the 55KG bracket, Marlee Solomon of Costa Mesa showcased the technical growth that has made her a name to watch on the national circuit. Solomon’s run to the finals was clinical, setting up a clash with the formidable Everest Leydecker.

While Leydecker ultimately secured the World Team spot with scores of 10-0 and 11-0, the result doesn’t diminish the achievement of reaching the finals at this level. In the world of U20 freestyle, making the “Big Stage” best-of-three series is a rare credential that separates the elite from the pack. Solomon’s silver medal performance in Spokane provides a massive momentum boost as she continues her ascent in the international style.

PHOTO BY USA WRESTLING