All of Republic’s girls wrestlers fell short of qualifying for the state tournament in Columbia, but as the season ends, coach Eric Nolan said he likes the direction the program is headed.
Republic had more girls wrestlers than ever before this season, and Nolan said that is “definitely a step in the right direction for our girls team. Our numbers were up, and our girls won a lot of matches.”
Rebecca Griffin came within a match of qualifying for the state tournament, losing in the consolation semifinals. She will return, along with all but one team member, senior Kylie Vance.
“We hate to lose Kylie. She’s had a strong season and done a great job leading our girls,” Nolan said. “But I feel like the future’s bright, between what we have coming back next year with our girls, (and) a good number of eighth grade incoming freshmen that should help us next year as well.”
One sign of progress this season occurred at Republic’s home tournament, when Vance and Griffin both won their weight classes. They were the first girls from Republic to win gold at a tournament.