Ludlow High School senior Samantha Bertini has etched her name into both school and national history, earning one of the sport’s most prestigious honors. Bertini has been selected as the recipient of the Tricia Saunders High School Excellence Award, a distinction that recognizes not only elite performance on the mat but also excellence in academics, leadership, and character. Bertini has also been inducted into the 2026 National Wrestling Hall of Fame.Bertini’s wrestling journey is rooted in a deep and extensive background in the sport, and her accomplishments reflect years of relentless dedication. She finishes her high school career as a state record holder and the fastest female wrestler to reach 100 career victories—an extraordinary milestone that underscores her dominance.By the numbers, Bertini’s career is nothing short of remarkable. She compiled an overall record of 144-28, including an impressive 75-2 mark against female competitors and a highly competitive 69-26 record against male opponents. Even more telling is her aggressive, match-ending ability, recording 90 career pins.
On the national stage, Bertini has consistently proven herself among the best in the country. She captured a USA Wrestling Freestyle National Championship in 2024 and earned All-American honors twice. She also competed at the prestigious USA Wrestling Folkstyle Nationals, further solidifying her reputation as one of the nation’s top wrestlers. In Massachusetts, she has been recognized as both a First Team All-State Female Champion and a First Team Western Massachusetts Champion.
Regionally, Bertini’s success has continued to stack up. She claimed a New England Championship in 2025 and reached the finals twice during her career. At the state level, she is a three-time MIAA All-State Champion and four-time finalist, as well as a three-time MIAA Division 3 State Champion and four-time finalist.
Bertini has also dominated the tournament circuit. She is a two-time champion of the Tomkiel Invitational, earning Outstanding Wrestler honors both times, and a two-time Senator Cup champion, again being named Outstanding Wrestler. Competing against boys, she captured Outstanding Wrestler honors at the Nighthawk Classic—another testament to her ability to excel across all levels of competition.
Beyond her individual accolades, Bertini has been a cornerstone of the Ludlow wrestling program. Serving as a team captain for three years, she has demonstrated leadership, commitment, and a passion for growing the sport within her school community.
Samantha Bertini’s career stands as one of the most decorated in Ludlow High School history. With her selection for the Tricia Saunders High School Excellence Award, she not only represents the pinnacle of high school wrestling achievement but also sets a lasting standard for future Ludlow athletes to follow.