The Ithaca High School (IHS) girls wrestling program completed its first season this winter, marking a historic moment for the Ithaca City School District (ICSD) and the student-athletes, coaches, and supporters who helped bring the rapidly growing sport to the district.
Throughout the inaugural season, the team worked tirelessly to improve their skills and embraced the challenges of building a new program.
“This sport is unique because you do not have to be of any size or stature to wrestle,” Coach Kate Zavuholnik shared. “It is inclusive by nature, and this year, the female athletes embodied that in a powerful way.”
Junior Rayna Coller made history as IHS’s first girls Section IV champion, a milestone that reflects both her hard work and the promise of girls wrestling in the district.
Girls wrestling is one of the fastest-growing high school sports in the country. The sport provides opportunities for student-athletes to develop mental toughness, leadership skills, and confidence. Participation can open doors to scholarship opportunities while helping athletes build lifelong skills.
“I am so proud of every single athlete that was brave enough to take on this sport and stick with it; the success of the program belongs to them,” Zavuholnik said. “It has been an honor to be their coach, and I look forward to expanding the program next season. I am also incredibly thankful to IHS for giving me the opportunity to set the foundation for the team and for recognizing the importance of intentionally creating female-friendly spaces in a male-dominated sport.”
The program represents an important step in expanding opportunities for student-athletes in ICSD athletics. With the inaugural season complete, the team now looks ahead to year two with the goal of building participation, experience, and continued success.