It’s time to wrestle into the new Winter season, which means that the H-F girls’ wrestling team’s practices are in full swing.

Some of the wrestlers have been spending their offseason either resting or getting ready for practices. Junior Amara Nwoye spent most of her time attending offseason practices and camps offered by H-F and taking time to relax before the season starts.

For the season, there are goals and expectations to be met. According to head coach Scott Aronson, he plans to expand the team and create a safe environment for the wrestlers. 

“My goal for the season is to build a larger team than last year, and we have girls coming out. To create a culture of positivity and support,” Aronson stated.

There have been some challenges for some of the girls. “Challenges for me would be constantly going over a move at practice and getting it at practice, but then not getting it in the match,” according to Nwoye, “Or doing a move that I know I can do at practice or because I’ve done it in the tournaments as well.”

A typical practice for the team is conditioning, warm-ups and instructional time. For some wrestlers, practice can be the hardest part of their day mentally. 

For senior London Grandy,“The hardest part about practicing for a big match is having a good mindset or just being worried about what’s next.”

Some things  can be a little difficult and challenging for the wrestlers. For Nwoye, going to practice and knowing how difficult it is for her. “But the hardest part is coming to practice, knowing that practice is going to be hard, and going through it anyway,” said Nwoye.

The girls are looking forward to the upcoming season. They hope to compete at state this year. Nwoye is looking forward to making it to state.

“So, going to state, and whatever happens after. And, hanging out with my teammates,” Nwoye said. 

The team dynamic and work ethic have been a significant factor in getting through matches and big games. Aronson feels the work ethic should be the girls’ main focus. 

“Right now, this season, the work ethic should be absolutely second to none. 
These girls want to succeed, they support each other, they are looking forward to starting practices,” Aronson proclaimed.

But in the wrestlers’ eyes, it’s nothing but fun for them and support from each other. Grandy feels like the support between the wrestlers is great. 

“In my eyes, our team dynamic is good. We always support each other on and off the mat with everything. We uplift each other by being in every match, and we make sure we can hear each other,” Grandy stated.

The team has been practicing very hard for this season and they are looking to move forward with competition.