Moscow Middle School has launched its first-ever girls wrestling team,offering a new athletic prospect adn fostering confidence among its young athletes. The team’s inaugural season is already building momentum, culminating in the upcoming ”Queen of the Mat” tournament.
The program’s creation marks a significant step in expanding wrestling opportunities for girls in the region. Eighth-grade wrestler Solveig Hunter described being involved as “really cool,” adding, “to be part of the start of the sport growing even bigger is such a unique experience, to see how all these girls are stepping out of their comfort zones to do amazing things.”
Confidence is a recurring theme among the wrestlers. Hunter said the team ”made me so much more comfortable and confident.” Eighth-grader Taylor Edwards, who described herself as shy, noted wrestling has helped her gain self-confidence, a sentiment echoed by sixth-grader Hazel Luvaas, who is wrestling for the first time this year. “I wanted to see how strong I could be and how tough I could be,” Luvaas said.
Luvaas and her sixth-grade teammate Piper Carr,a multi-sport athlete participating in five other sports,both expressed enjoyment in the challenge of pinning their opponents. Coaches prioritized a supportive environment, according to Coach Zimmerman, aiming to foster a “big family atmosphere.” The wrestlers confirmed the positive team dynamic,speaking highly of their teammates and coaches.
Moscow Middle School will host the “Queen of the Mat” tournament on Monday, featuring regional schools. the event is scheduled from 3-7 p.m. at the Bear Den.
Kuipers can be reached at akuipers@dnews.com.
