by Oh did we forget to mention? Women’s wrestling is a RAPIDLY growing sport, with the Ironman (much like for the boys), is a showcase for girls’ wrestling as well. According to tournament emcee, “we want at least 100 more girls at this tournament”. Women’s wrestling has set itself some lofty goals, but these goals are amazingly achievable.
This level of wrestling shattered all expectations folks, the level of competition was STAGGERING. Take Jaclyn Bouzakis, sister of tOSU wrestler Nic Bouzakis, who hammered her way away to a quick 9-2 lead with 3 massive takedowns. She made quick work of her opponent Alvarado, snatching a tech fall with less than 10 seconds left in the first period.
The entire gymnasium was treated to high-level handfighting, superb leg attacks, and aggressive past faced, “flow” wrestling from move to move. Most of the crowd could not contain their excitement, with chants yelling “THREE” (the amount of points you receive for a takedown).
Sitting near fans and immersing yourself into the culture was phenomenal, fans and not just parents knew exactly what was going on.
Schools like Massillon Perry, Blair Academy (NJ), and Wyoming Seminary (PA) are amongst many schools adopting girls wrestling into their athletics programs. Even schools in the SWC like Berea-Midpark and Avon Lake for example have started girls wrestling programs as well.
Deionna Borders, 2x state placer and Berea-Midpark Titan and one of two wrestlers representing her conference in the women’s tournament, will be wrestling today.
Northeast Ohio is also represented by schools like North Royalton, Avon Lake, and Brecksville.
The finals will begin today Sunday the 8th, as the women of Ironman will conclude the tournament. And if the boys were as exciting as they were, imagine how much fun the girls finals will be!
