Northwoods Athletes win big at World Pankration Championships

North Woods champions Saoirse Cichy, Haley Peterson and Nicole Peterson recently returned from the 10th World Pankration Athlima Championships in Timisoara, Romania, with a collection of medals and memorable experiences. 

Representing Team USA, the athletes competed against international opponents, bringing pride to their North Woods community.

Saoirse Cichy, at just 12, was the youngest competitor for Team USA. Competing in the 12–14-year-old, 57 kg division, she earned two gold medals in grappling (-57 kg and -63 kg), a silver in kickboxing, and a bronze in semi-contact pankration. 

A seventh grader at Northland Pines SOAR Middle School, she trains year-round in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts at Groundwork Grappling in Rhinelander.

Nicole Peterson, 16, was in her second world championship, securing three gold medals—one of which was won by technical knockout (TKO)—and two silver medals. 

Nicole also won a joint silver with a trophy in the Palismata event alongside her sister Haley, and another silver and trophy shared with teammate Ethan Potrykus for Palismata. Nicole attends Watersmeet Township School.

Haley Peterson, 18, also in her second world championship, earned five silver medals and one bronze, showing resilience after an illegal kick left her with a broken nose and concussion early in the tournament. 

Despite her injury, Haley earned medals by stepping onto the mat to bow out for each match. She attends Gogebic Community College.

The U.S. team took second place overall, with Haley and Nicole contributing to the team’s shared trophy. 

The trio was photographed at the historic Gateway Lodge in Land O’ Lakes, a venue with a legacy of athletic excellence. The lodge’s pool once served as a training ground for Olympic medalists Wendy and Laurie Lansbach, adding a local historic touch to the North Woods champions’ journey.