After a long season filled with numerous tournaments and wrestling matches, the Emerson Wrestling Team will be competing in the UIL District Wrestling tournament on Jan. 29 (boys) Jan. 30 (girls) at Memorial High School. Each girl will be competing in their respective weight class in hopes to advance to the regional tournament.

The team has gone through months of preparation leading up to the tournament, their mornings consisting of three hour long practices where they spend their time working on technique, stamina and building strength.

“We are working really hard to improve our technique and get stronger each day. I personally am focused on enhancing the skills I have to become a better wrestler. However, as a team we really worked on developing those technical skills,” Eden Wessner, 10, said.

In addition to improving their technique they also ensure that they are prioritizing healthy habits to guarantee elevated results at the tournament.

“To prepare for the tournament we make sure we are eating right and maintaining our weight so we can compete. We try to take care of our bodies by stretching and taking our time to learn things during practice,” Anyeddiah Coleman, 10, said.

Nonetheless, the wrestlers have faced some challenges both mentally and physically that posed problems in their prior matches.

“We lose more on the mental side when we get in a tough match. It can be overwhelming and ends up affecting our physical performances, but we work hard to get over that hurdle and do our best,” Coleman said.

Despite the obstacles they encountered this season, they continue to persevere and learn from their previous matches.

“This wrestling season I have worked hard to motivate my team. I want them to know it’s not about the wins and losses, it is about how we practice, move on and learn from that,” Team Captain Summer Rodgers, 12, said.

Due to the hard work and effort they have put in this season, they are extremely excited and have high expectations for the upcoming tournament.

“I am hoping to get first place at the tournament and also win the district championship as a team. I hope we all make it to regionals and advance to the state competition,” Rodgers said.

The wrestling team is well prepared to face whatever comes their way in the upcoming district tournament. The Charge wishes the Emerson Girls Wrestling Team the best of luck as they aim for success at Memorial High School.