Bailey Chafin, without doubt the most accomplished wrestler coming out of Sweet Home High School’s girls program, signed a letter of intent Thursday, May 28, to start her college career at Southwestern Oregon Community College.
Chafin signed during a brief ceremony in front of teammates and friends in the school library, flanked by her parents, Deana and Justin
Chafin.
Chafin, who has won three state OSAA titles but suffered a serious knee injury that ended her junior season in the state finals, said she decided to join the Lakers’ program “because it felt right.”
“It was super late in my decision making, and I looked at a lot of other schools, and I just, I didn’t feel a draw towards them,” she said. She added that “money” was another concern and other schools “were just too expensive.”
“This one is a really, really good deal, and I’m super excited for the opportunities I’m gonna get.”
She said she plans to slide into the varsity lineup upon arrival.
Southwestern Oregon finished ninth overall (out of 28 teams) with 81 points at the 2026 NJCAA Women’s Wrestling Championship. Anna Spencer, wrestling at 138 pounds, captured the national title at 138 pounds and Zoe Brewer was third at 103 pounds.
Coach Steve Thorpe said he agreed that Southwestern was a good fit for Chafin.
“I love the idea that she’s going to Southwestern because it’s in-state, it’s affordable, and she can wrestle right off the bat, and she doesn’t need proving ground,” he said. “She can step into the lineup right now and wrestle and contend for them.”
Plus, he added, former Husky Jayce Miller is on the men’s team “so she’ll have some familiarity, but she also knows girls that are on the team.”
Chafin said she plans to use Southwestern as a stepping stone to a four-year program.
Since she is undecided on a career, she said, she plans to major in general studies.
Thorpe said Chafin qualifies for a spot on a college roster.
“She’s the most decorated women’s wrestler in the history of Sweet Home wrestling – three state titles and four regional titles,” he said. “And she’s done it with the adversity of a shoulder surgery and a knee surgery,” Thorpe said. “She just doesn’t have quit. I think that’s something that’s instilled to her, through her parents. I think that she’s, you know, grown up to be tough, and that’s what she is.”
Chafin said she heard from “probably ten-ish schools, a really good amount,” but this one just felt right.”
“We’re just proud of her and what she’s done for Sweet Home wrestling, and, and we’re gonna be praying for her and taking care of her however we can.”