Story By: PCMS Activities Director and Vice Principal, Chris King

Photos By: PCMS Photography Students

Pittsburg Community Middle School was excited and honored to have had the opportunity to host its first-ever Girls' Wrestling Competition for our 7th—and 8th-grade wrestling programs. On October 29th, PCMS hosted six other area schools, and the atmosphere was electric. If anyone doubted the abilities of our young ladies to be aggressive, physical, and tenacious, then this event would have put any doubts to rest.

Before the competition began, the ladies were introduced as representatives of their schools. They marched in carrying school banners and were given an ovation from the crowd. Eighty-eight girls from seven schools (Chanute, Columbus, Girard, Fort Scott, Independence, Parsons, and Pittsburg) competed in 90 matches in one evening for this event.

When asked about the event, Tambree Davis, Head PCMS girls coach, said, "It was inspiring to host the first all-girl event and have so many ladies be a part of the movement. As we were lining up for the parade, I got chills as I looked around and saw so many girls in singlets, wrestling shoes, and headgear, realizing just 15 years ago that this was non-existent. Having an all-girls' team has allowed our girls' program to grow and gives us the opportunity to continue that growth." She said, "My wrestlers love having their own team; one wrestler noted that "it smells better this year without the boys," and "I like having a girls' team." She added, "It is inspiring to be a part of this new wave of girls' wrestling; sit back and watch these girls. I promise you that you will also be inspired." Rob Johnson, PCMS Boys' head wrestling coach, said, "It is really exciting to see the growth of the girls' program. I am especially excited about the fact that having separate girls' wrestling and basketball seasons allows more girls to be introduced to the sport of wrestling."

Our girls' wrestling team heads to Independence on Monday, November 4th, for their next girls' only tournament. I know that it will be a great event, and our Dragon ladies will do their part. Dragon Pride will be on display. Thank you to everyone who supports our programs, specifically this historic season for our Dragon Ladies.