Howard Heads to Azerbaijan for Worlds

Bellport's own Cam Howard is preparing for one of the biggest competitions of his young wrestling career as he travels to Baku, Azerbaijan, to compete at the Cadet World Wrestling Championships.

Howard will represent Team USA in the 71-kilogram weight class, where he is considered one of the top competitors on the American squad. Already one of the most accomplished young wrestlers in the country, Howard now has the opportunity to add another major achievement to his growing résumé while competing against the best wrestlers from around the world.

The 71-kilogram division has traditionally been one of the toughest weight classes at the Cadet World Championships, meaning Howard will face a difficult road to the podium. Still, those who have followed his career know he has consistently risen to the occasion, making him one of Team USA's top medal contenders.

Howard will also be looking to follow in the footsteps of fellow Team USA standout Jayden James, who previously captured a Cadet World Championship title. A strong performance in Baku would further cement Howard's place among the nation's elite young wrestlers.

The Bellport standout also has a chance to make New York wrestling history. Howard is aiming to become the first New York wrestler to win a medal at the Cadet World Championships since Elijah Diakomihalis earned a bronze medal at 92 kilograms in 2024. That medal ended a lengthy drought for New York wrestlers, with Elijah's brother, Yianni Diakomihalis, being the only New Yorker to medal before him after winning back-to-back world titles in 2015 and 2016.

Representing Team USA on the world stage is an incredible honor, and Howard has already made the Bellport community proud by earning the opportunity. Now, he'll look to cap off the experience with a medal against the world's best.

As the Cadet World Championships get underway, Long Island wrestling fans will be cheering on one of their own as Cam Howard chases international glory in Azerbaijan.