JCSD Launches Girls Wrestling Program: A Historic Milestone

In a groundbreaking decision, Janesville High School is making history with the introduction of its first-ever girls wrestling program. After months of discussion and planning, the school board gave unanimous approval to establish the team, marking a significant step forward for the school’s athletic program and its commitment to providing opportunities for all students.

The idea of a girls wrestling team has been gaining momentum at JCSD for years, fueled by growing interest among female athletes and the sport’s increasing popularity nationwide. Wrestling, long considered a male-dominated sport, has seen tremendous growth among girls in recent years, with high schools and colleges across the country expanding their programs.

JCSD wasted no time assembling its inaugural team. The program attracted a diverse group of athletes, some with prior wrestling experience and others eager to try the sport for the first time. Under the guidance of Head Coach Dylan Wrage and Assistant Coach Amber Hoth, the team has been training rigorously to prepare for their debut season.

Coach Wrage expressed his enthusiasm for leading this historic team, “The season is going great so far. The girls are getting better everyday, and they show up with a positive attitude. They have a desire to get better daily, and we also have a lot of fun.”

The launch of the girls wrestling program has sparked excitement throughout the JCSD community. The team’s first meet, held Monday night, was a momentous occasion. Several parents, family members and fans traveled to Lake Mills to cheer on the team for the inaugural meet. The team showcased incredible determination and sportsmanship.

For the athletes themselves, joining the team is about more than learning moves and winning matches…it’s about being part of something bigger. Sophomore wrestler Addison Busemen shared her thoughts before the first meet, “I feel like we have a good group of girls to start the program with, we have quality coaches pushing us, and a community that wants the best for all of us. We could go far with the right opportunities.” Wrestlers Abby Jones and Isabel Barnes agree that “being one of the first girls to wrestle for Janesville is great!”

As the season progresses, the girls wrestling team aims to inspire other students to consider joining the wrestling program. With a strong foundation in place, the future looks bright for the team and the sport as a whole.

For now, the focus remains on growth, both on and off the mat. Coach Wrage summed it up best, “We get to build a program from the ground up, and in doing so we get to make history. Not just for our team, but we are wrestling for every girl who ever went to Janesville and never got the opportunity to wrestle.”

Janesville High School’s inaugural girls wrestling team has already made its mark in the school’s history books. With continued support from the community, this program is sure to leave a lasting legacy.