While much of the focus at Fargo often centers on the boys’ divisions, we are incredibly proud of the groundbreaking efforts and impressive results from our Team North Carolina women. They represented our state with exceptional skill and heart, and we celebrate their significant achievements on this national stage.
We are thrilled to announce that two of our incredible young women earned All-American honors at USMC Nationals! Faith Bane, battled her way to the semifinals, ultimately placing 5th at Junior 145, showcasing incredible resilience and technical prowess. Another driven competitor, Savada Kitchen, fought hard to secure an 8th-place finish in the 16U division 207 class, proving her place among the nation’s elite. These are monumental achievements and a testament to their dedication and the growing strength of women’s wrestling in North Carolina.
While we observed similar opportunities for growth as the boys, the experience at Fargo illuminated the most critical area for growth distinct to the women’s program: the sheer numbers. We brought 14 talented young women across two divisions to Fargo. In stark contrast, states like Illinois arrived with a staggering 144 young women. This disparity in participation numbers directly impacts the depth of our talent pool and the intensity of our internal competition leading up to national events.
For any young woman in North Carolina with national goals and collegiate aspirations, this tournament is not just important; it’s a necessity. Unlike the boys’ folkstyle base, Freestyle is the collegiate style for women, making early and consistent engagement in it even more vital for future success.
Our call to action for women’s wrestling in NC is clear: we need more girls wrestling freestyle, more often, and with national goals in these international styles. Growing our numbers will naturally elevate the level of competition, create more robust training environments, and ultimately lead to more North Carolina women standing on the Fargo podium and pursuing collegiate wrestling dreams.
Moving Forward: The Future is Bright for NC Wrestling
The USMC Nationals at Fargo isn’t just a tournament; it’s a vital benchmark and an unparalleled learning experience. We leave Fargo more determined than ever. We’re incredibly proud of the effort and commitment shown by every member of Team North Carolina.
The future of NC Wrestling is bright, but it will be built on a foundation of greater intention, deeper experience, refined knowledge, and unwavering effort. We know what it takes, and we’re committed to putting in the work to ensure that next year, and in the years to come, Team North Carolina is even more prepared to contend for glory on the Fargodome’s grand stage.
NEXT: Part 4: Moving Forward: The Future is Bright for NC Wrestling
