For the first time in 20 years, 6 girls are on the roster for the OA Wrestling Team. In the past, there has been on average only 1 girl, but this year its a whole different team and atmosphere.
Out of the 6 girls on the team there are two returners: Sophomore Shannon Tran and Junior Emma Andromalos. Coach Pomella says ¨This year we made a strong effort to recruit as many girls as possible¨. The team’s efforts payed off and this year 4 new girls joined: Senior Emily Dias, Junior Sophia Murphy, Sophomore Amaya Smith, and Freshman Jaelyn Kelly.
Senior Emily Dias, who just started wrestling this year, got into wrestling because of her recent decision to join the military. Emily says that ¨Coming in as a girl, into a male-dominant sport is something not a lot of girls are up for; It is not easy for us girls to settle in with guys who we know are stronger than us¨. Emily’s experience on the team has been nothing but positive, ¨I love the team and the memories and friendships we make are incredible¨ she says. Emily states ¨I am proud that this year we have 6 girls on the team; I hope wrestling continues to grow for the girls¨.
This is the first time the team has decorated the halls for senior night. Coach Pomella says ¨As a boys sport it usually does not get done, but yesterday at the end of practice the idea was floated and the girls jumped on it¨ and after 3 hours of decorating, the team was able to have their very first decorated hall for senior night.
Overall the wrestling teams season has been going good. They have a 15-8 record because of injuries, coach Pomella says ¨We have had more injuries this year than ever, so we are going into meets with half a team¨. The team hopes to heal up for Sectionals on 2/11. Good Luck to our Wrestling team!