At 155 pounds, Addeline Graser has officially etched her name into Westside High School’s wrestling history book. The senior recently earned her 150th career win. She is only the second girl in school history to reach that milestone, further solidifying her place as one of the most dominant wrestlers in the school, and in the state.
Her story began early. At just five years old, she started wrestling, originally inspired by a little sibling rivalry at home.
“I wanted to wrestle to be able to beat up my brothers. My dad got them into it, and I just wanted to always be better than them [because] I was the only girl,” Graser said.
What started as competition at home turned into a long and successful career built on dedication and drive.
Now a three-time state medalist, Graser has grown into a force on the mat. The head coach of the Westside girls wrestling team, Bob Mulligan, is proud of Graser’s accomplishments as an athlete and reflects on her growth throughout her career and through the program.
“[Graser] really has grown into a dominant wrestler. She is arguably the best girl in the state and she shows it every time she steps on the mat,” Mulligan said.
After hitting the 150-win mark, the senior has not only added another accomplishment to her personal wrestling career resume but has also set a new standard for the program and its future. Coach Mulligan emphasizes the significance of the milestone, both for her and the team.
“It just is a true testament to how hard she works and all of the hours she has put in. She’s the second girl in school history to do this so it’s definitely a milestone that all of the younger girls want to achieve,” Mulligan said.
This season, Graser’s impact extends beyond her individual success. As a team captain, she has taken on the responsibility of leading by example.
“I lead my team by making sure we are all working towards our goals and helping each other get better and better everyday,” Graser said.
Graser’s leadership has helped shape the team’s mindset as the state championship approaches. Her approach to the state tournament is direct and driven. She aims to finish out the season strong.
“I want another state title and that team title,” Graser said.
Looking to the future, Graser plans to continue wrestling in college, extending a journey that has already lasted more than a decade. Beyond that, she has her sights set on serving in the Army before deciding on her next steps.
For now, though, Graser remains locked in on the present, leading her team, chasing a state title and team title, and proving that 150 wins is not the finish line, but another step in a career defined by determination, leadership, and heart.
As the Westside girls wrestling team heads into the state championship season, their mindset is simple and focused.
“[We are going to] just do what we do and don’t worry about anything else,” Mulligan said.
