The event that wrestling fans have been eagerly awaiting is nearly here. This Thursday marks the start to the state wrestling tournament in Omaha, Nebraska. For the second year in a row, boys and girls will have the same opportunity to compete for the championship at this historic event this weekend. The strong fighters of Westside wrestling have been busy preparing for the tournament, and 3 News Now took time out to meet up with them on Wednesday. All eyes will be on these impressive competitors as they take their best shots at glory during this highly anticipated match.
Head Coach Bob Mulligan and his team of girls wrestlers have been preparing for this upcoming weekend’s tournament for months. The message is clear, they are ready to show off their hard work and determination. With an impressive average of 40-50 matches each under their belts, the team is confident in their skill. This season has been a monumental one for Nebraska, as it marks the first year that girls wrestling is a sanctioned sport. It is sure to be an exciting tournament where these talented athletes can show what they have achieved. Coach Mulligan and his team know that time and dedication have paid off and are sure to represent Nebraska proudly this weekend.
Zoey Barber is an ambitious sophomore, and no surprise – she’s taking the road less travelled with her peers. She, along with four other girls from her school, are headed to the state tournament – an accomplishment that wasn’t on Zoey’s radar when she started high school. Her focus, now one step closer to achieving a goal she never imagined was possible, has been incredibly sharp. Demandingly practical, Zoey claims to approach each match with a singularly narrow wavelength of intensity; fighting tooth and nail for victory in every round. This cool yet methodical approach will surely leave Zoey at the top – win or lose.
Reagan Rosseter is an experienced wrestler, having dedicated over 10 years to the sport. She will be returning to state this year as the reigning title holder, yet her journey was not always smooth sailing. Her first match was met with discouragement from a referee who suggested she take up cheerleading instead, but goodness knows she didn’t let that stop her! Since then, Reagan has developed a keen passion for the sport, saying “The atmosphere is pretty much just you; you go out there and do your thing, for team points – I just love it!” Only someone with true passion and determination makes it this far in any field of study; props to Reagan for setting a great example.
In 2001, Carly Gossman made history as the first girl to qualify for state in Nebraska competing against the boys. Even though it was considered frowned upon at the time, Gossman was lucky because she had amazing coaches and devoted teammates who helped minimize any negativity that came her way. Watching girls compete against each other brings out emotion from Gossman; she becomes overwhelmed with joy seeing them being supported, encouraged, and pushed to do their best. Her advice for aspiring athletes is simple: make sure to give it your all no matter what.
Don’t let fear or anxiety stop you from reaching your highest potential – this is the message Gossman gave to the girls competing in a premier wrestling event. The talk seemed to have resonated with them, as 3 News Now reporter Molly Hudson reported that they were eager and prepared for the big event. What’s more, their enthusiasm was shared across Nebraska – the championship round of the competition has been completely sold out! It’s clear that girls wrestling has gained unprecedented popularity in recent years, and these high-achieving athletes are continuing to inspire more people all around.
