Seven wrestlers from B.C.’s Lower Mainland will compete for Canada at the 2025 U20 World Championships in Bulgaria from Aug. 17–24.
Local Talent Heading to Bulgaria for U20 Worlds
Seven wrestlers from B.C.’s Lower Mainland communities are set to represent Canada at the 2025 U20 World Wrestling Championships, taking place in Bulgaria from Aug. 17 to 24. Athletes from Maple Ridge, Port Moody, Surrey, and Abbotsford will compete against top wrestlers from around the globe.
Strong Track Records Lead the Way
Maple Ridge’s Madisyn Groff and Agnia Krakovska, Port Moody’s Ella Finding, Surrey’s Rohit Bal, and Abbotsford’s Rupinder Johal, Michaeljeet Grewal, and Tejvir Dhinsa bring a history of provincial and international success to the team. Johal, a Simon Fraser University athlete, finished second in the women’s 76 kg division at the 2025 U20 Pan-Am Championships in Peru and previously won gold at the 2022 Canada Summer Games.
Rising Stars in New Divisions
Grewal, competing in the 92 kg freestyle category, earned silver at the U20 Pan-Ams and moves up from the U17 age group, where he previously won gold. Dhinsa, wrestling in the 97 kg freestyle division, also captured silver at the U20 Pan-Ams, marking his second consecutive medal at the event. Both Grewal and Dhinsa have dominated provincial competitions and train at Burnaby Mountain Wrestling Club alongside other team members.
Preparing for Global Competition
Canada’s delegation includes 18 athletes, coaches, and support staff, with 15 wrestlers returning from the Pan-Am medal-winning team. “After an outstanding showing at the Pan-Am Championships, we’re heading into Worlds with strong momentum and confidence,” said Chris Woodcroft, high performance director for Wrestling Canada Lutte. “This talented group brings both experience and determination to the international stage.”
Community Support and Recognition
The Lower Mainland wrestlers carry strong local support, with families, schools, and clubs celebrating their selection. Several athletes have been recognized for their achievements, including Grewal, who was named Sport BC Male High School Athlete of the Year in 2025.
Eyes on the Podium
As the athletes travel to Bulgaria on Aug. 17, focus turns to preparation, strategy, and execution. With a combination of experience, proven talent, and community backing, these Lower Mainland wrestlers aim to make a lasting mark at the U20 World Championships.
This article is original and written specifically for Surreyspeak.com
