Greens Farms Academy student-athletes made their mark this summer on wrestling mats, fencing pistes, and open waters before returning to campus.
Wrestling Success in Fargo
It was a standout summer for GFA wrestlers, who earned national recognition while competing with their club teams.
The biggest story came from Kayla Batres ’27, who became the first female wrestler from Connecticut to win a USA Wrestling Junior National Championship in Fargo, N.D. Batres went 6-0 in the tournament, winning every match by technical fall—including an 11-1 victory in the final. She was named Outstanding Wrestler of the event.
“I am really excited to win this,” Batres told CT Wrestling Online. “This year, I came to wrestle and get better. I have been training to get faster (on the mat).”
This was Batres’ third trip to Fargo. She previously placed second in the 16U Division at 112 pounds in 2024 and at 106 pounds in 2023.
On the boys’ side, Jaxsen Bailey ’28 also had a strong showing, becoming the first Connecticut wrestler since 2015 to earn double All-American honors. Wrestling at 126 pounds, Bailey went 11-4 overall, placing fourth in Greco-Roman and seventh in freestyle.
Other GFA wrestlers competing at Fargo included Jackson Heslin ’26, Ryan Schneider ’26, Chase Kastner ’27, and Eli Shea ’28. Kastner (126 pounds) led the group with six wins, including four straight in the consolation bracket and four technical falls overall. Heslin (126) finished 4-2, while Schneider (215) and Shea (100) each posted 2-2 records.
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Brown Sisters Excel in Summer Competition
Two rising freshmen also stood out in different sports this summer.
Aria Brown had her best showing yet at the U.S. Fencing Junior Nationals, placing fifth nationally among 231 fencers in the Y14 (14-Under) category. She also competed in the Cadet (16U) division, finishing 34th out of 217.
Meanwhile, her sister Allegra Brown advanced quickly in rowing after just two years in the sport. Competing with Saugatuck Rowing Club, she helped the 16U 8+ boat win the B final and place ninth overall at U.S. Rowing Nationals. Allegra had spent last season in the Novice group before earning her spot on the national stage.
This fall, both sisters will return to action—Aria to the fencing strip and Allegra to the water.