Winter sports have officially kicked off at Westside High School, bringing with them major changes—including the long-anticipated opening of the Life Complex. With practices beginning in mid-November, the upgraded facilities have already made a noticeable impact on all programs, especially the rapidly growing girls wrestling team. The new space has energized athletes and elevated the program’s expectations.
“For me the new facility is a fresh start,” senior captain Macy Barber said. “I would’ve loved to have my senior year in the old room, but our program needed and deserved that new room. We all love it in there…it makes everyone more driven and excited for the season.”
The Warriors enter this winter with both experience and fresh energy. Last season, the girls wrestling program—only four years old—finished as state runner-up and qualified multiple wrestlers individually. The team’s success included three state finalists, one state champion, and two additional state placers. Despite graduating standouts Zoey and Piper, who both earned collegiate scholarships, the roster now features 23 athletes, combining seasoned leaders with new talent ready to make their mark.
“Last season was a great year for the team,” Barber said. “The team ended up getting runner-up, which wasn’t the goal but still pretty good. It does make the team hungry and want to get a team title.” She added that the overall level of skill in the room continues to push everyone: “We all build off of each other, so having girls that have talent makes the team gain confidence.”
Head coach Bob Mulligan echoed that excitement. “I felt like we had a successful season—it’s hard to be upset about a runner-up finish,” Mulligan said. “This year we are hungry for more and our goal is to compete for a state championship!”
The Warriors return several high-achieving athletes, including state champion Addeline Graser, state finalist Mara Vanderpool, three-time state placer Macy Barber, and returning placers Ireland Dyer and Gabriell Price. Mulligan believes their leadership will be crucial: “I’m excited to see them keep elevating and seeing what all they can accomplish!”
With upgraded facilities, a motivated roster, and championship ambitions, the Westside girls wrestling team steps confidently into the winter season. Their first varsity/JV invitational will take place in Coralville, Iowa on Friday, December 5, with opponents and times still to be announced. The first local meet will follow on December 11 at Aurora High School.
As the Warriors prepare to open competition, they know the path ahead will demand resilience and discipline. But with renewed purpose—and a room that reflects their rising status—they aim to prove they’re not just contenders, but champions in the making.
