State champion has a nice ‘ring’ to it

Kendal Haynie shows her ring earned as state champion in wrestling at halftime of the Wakulla v. Gadsden football game. Joining her are Coach Tommy Haynie, Principal Michele Falk, and Coach Jon Sanchez.

By WALT JACOBS
Correspondent

The title “Kendal Haynie, 2026 State Champion” has a nice ring to it and now her copious collection of awards does too.

On Aug. 21st, at J.D. Jones Stadium, Wakulla High honored a legend in the making as Principal Michele Falk, joined by coaches Jon Sanchez and Tommy Haynie, presented Haynie with a ring commemorating her 2026 FHSAA girls state wrestling championship.
Last season, Haynie compiled a 24-0 record while only surrendering one takedown. Haynie simply dominated her competition via 20 pins and 4 technical falls while becoming the first girl to win a state title in any sport at Wakulla High.
Currently, Haynie is ranked No. 1 in the state, and 12th in the nation by FloWrestling.