Wellsboro Becomes 16th School In District IV To Start Girls Wrestling Program

By: Ed Weaver  /  November 16, 2023  /  Photo: High On The Mountain Photography

Wellsboro has joined the ranks of one of the fastest growing sports by approving a girls wrestling program to begin in 2023-24.

The school board voted and unanimously approved the new program earlier this week at Monday's meeting.

"Girls Wrestling is the fastest growing sport in the country and we are very excited as an athletic department to give these girls this opportunity," Wellsboro Athletic Director Matt Rendos said. "We look forward to an exciting first year of girls wrestling and to continue to build the program for future success."

Wellsboro is the latest PIAA District IV school to field a girls wrestling program. Currently 16 schools, including Wellsboro, in District IV, which spans Bradford, Columbia, Lycoming, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga and Union counties, to field a team. Wellsboro's newest sport will compete at both the Varsity and Junior High levels. There are currently 15 girls in 7-12th grades signed up to participate.

"On behalf of my staff and I, we'd like to thank the School Board and Administration for sponsoring this opportunity for our female athletes," head coach Bryce Bitner said. "They will now have the opportunity to compete against other females physically similar and near the same experience levels around the state. We are so excited to provide this opportunity and appreciate all the support from the many community members, parents, school board members, and administrators who helped make this possible.

"While the interest in wrestling has been rejuvenated in the last four years, experience will not be a barrier," continued Bitner. "Our mission is to expand the sport and we are more than willing to help teach and spread the knowledge and experience we have to those interested in being a part of the program."

The girls' season will consist of matches against Athens, Northeast Bradford, Sugar Valley Rural Charter, and potentially Towanda, along with tournaments and dual meet events. There will also be an individual post-season tournament for both grade levels.