04/30/2026
What an incredible weekend at King of the Mat.
We had wrestlers from 11 different states come together to compete — and they brought it. From the first whistle to the last match, the intensity, toughness, and sportsmanship were on full display.
Awards fit for warriors… swords, daggers, and diamond-studded belts. And for those who earned it — the ultimate reward… a seat on the King’s throne.
A special thank you to my immediate friends/family I couldn’t do it without you and also our Smitty’s Barn family — the crew that shows up early, stays late, and does the heavy lifting. From setting up and breaking down, to running tables, working apparel, and cleaning up — you are the backbone of this event.
To all the wrestlers — you made this event what it is.
To the parents — thank you for the time, travel, and support you give your kids. It doesn’t go unnoticed.
Big thank you to the coaches from all across New England — for everything you pour into these athletes every day.
A huge thank you to our head referee, George Kacavis, and his entire crew — your professionalism, consistency, and long hours on the mat keep this tournament running the right way.
Thank you to our photographers who will soon be posting all pictures taken at the event.
A big thank you to the New England Sports Hub — it seems like everybody loved the venue, and the staff was by far the best. You helped make this a great experience for everyone involved.
King of the Mat has been growing for 11 years. From day one, the focus has never been on profit over presentation — it’s always been about giving these kids an experience they’ll never forget. The mindset has always been simple: give, give, give, and the event will grow because of what the athletes experience at our events. Thank you all for the support you’ve shown over the past 11 years.
Also — sorry it took a few days to get this posted. The work doesn’t stop when the tournament ends. Between getting mats back to the schools and teams that lent them, packing everything up, and going through inventory to prepare for the next King of the Mat… it’s a grind.
We’re very proud to see the success of KOTM … the future is bright for many years to come.
“It’s good to be King”
