For the second time in NDB history, six women are taking the risk of participating in a male-dominated sport: wrestling. Last year, the wrestling team had its inaugural year, making history on campus. This winter sport spans from November to February.
Practices are held six days a week from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Serra, and each session is packed with intense, high-energy training. Wrestlers begin with strength and conditioning, completing anywhere from 25 to 100 push-ups along with sprints and other cardio exercises designed to build endurance. In addition, athletes also spend 2–3 days a week lifting in the weight room, focusing on developing power and full-body strength essential for competition. Once conditioning wraps up, the team transitions into wrestling technique and drills, working on takedowns, escapes, and improving their overall form on the mat. Despite the two-hour-long practices, the physical and mental effort wrestlers put in pushes them to make the most out of practice.
Head Coach, Jeff Serini, who has been coaching wrestling since 1990, described that their goals for this season are to continue building their numbers by publicizing this sport as an option for students and scheduling more all-girls events. Focusing on creating all-girl matches and empowering women is essential for combating the sexist stereotypes surrounding this sport.
“People assume it’s more male-dominated. But most of my teammates are not the stereotype of that. A lot of people I met through wrestling are shy, quiet kids that just want to try something out, and it’s important to recognize that there’s more than one stereotype,” explained senior Cat Dorf.
Wrestling not only builds physical and mental strength but also empowers women to grow. Serini emphasized how meaningful the sport is for young women and reflected on how the sport shapes athletes on and off the mat. Serini explained, “All the characteristics that it provides and helps build women. The sense of pride, the sense of self, everything that goes along with wrestling, the self-drive, even though it’s a very individual sport, it does build camaraderie as a team sport.”
A smaller roster creates an environment where athletes connect quickly and consistently. Training side by side allows students to build trust in one another. Over time, those bonds grow into genuine, lasting friendships.
Throughout this season, this team will continue to make their mark on campus and contribute to the evolution of this sport for future seasons and Tigers. With each game, practice, and community event, the players demonstrate not only their athletic skill but also their dedication, teamwork, and leadership. Their commitment fosters a culture of perseverance and sportsmanship that extends beyond the field. As they face challenges, celebrate victories, and learn from mistakes, the team strengthens the bonds among teammates and coaches. Their legacy will leave a lasting impact on the school and the wider athletic community, paving the way for continued growth and excellence in this sport for generations to come.
