Lawson Haarala Selected to Represent Team Arizona at Junior National Duals

Notre Dame Preparatory junior Lawson Haarala has been selected to the Arizona Junior Dual Team and will represent Team Arizona at the Junior National Duals in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, June 16–20.

The Junior National Duals bring together some of the top high school wrestlers in the country, providing athletes the opportunity to compete against elite national competition while representing their state.

Haarala earned his selection through a season marked by consistency, dedication, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

“It’s a huge honor,” Haarala said. “Being chosen for Team Arizona feels like a validation for all the early mornings and extra reps I put in. It’s the feeling of knowing all the hard work is paying off and getting noticed.”

According to Notre Dame Prep Assistant Coach Steve Battista, Haarala’s daily approach to training helped set him apart.

“Lawson has earned this opportunity through his commitment and consistency,” Battista said. “He brings 110% every time he steps into the room, no exceptions. He’s constantly asking questions, actively seeking feedback, and learning from every coach and every training partner he encounters.”

Battista also noted the significant growth Haarala demonstrated throughout the season.

“His growth has been significant across the board,” Battista said. “Technically, he’s become more efficient and disciplined. Mentally, he’s tougher, more confident, and more composed in situations.”

As he prepares for the national event, Haarala is eager to test himself against some of the nation’s best wrestlers.

“What I’m most excited about is the opportunity to use my skills against the best in the country,” Haarala said. “I want to see how my pace and intensity work on a national level. I’m ready to embrace the challenge and compete with the confidence I’ve gained.”

Haarala views the opportunity as more than an individual accomplishment, seeing it as a chance to represent the continued growth of the Notre Dame Prep wrestling program.

“It means a lot to represent Notre Dame wrestling on a national level,” Haarala said. “We are building a new culture here at NDP, and I want to be a part of that and show everyone what our program is becoming.”

Head Coach Matt Zismann said Haarala’s selection is a reflection of the work he has invested in his development.

“I am very proud and excited for this moment in Lawson’s career,” Zismann said. “He has spent a lot of time working with coaches and other wrestlers to be ready to take the next step.”

As Haarala heads to Milwaukee this month, he will represent both Team Arizona and Notre Dame Prep on one of the sport’s biggest stages, continuing to build on a promising wrestling career while helping elevate the Saints wrestling program.