The Hamburg Area high school girls wrestling team has opened the season strong in their first two tournaments, showing their growth. Competing against experienced teams, Hamburg finished third out of nine teams that had plenty of more players in their second tournament, an achievement that shows overall team effort.
According to Coach David Roche, the team’s performance exceeded expectations. “The team finished third in team points and from a normal standpoint. This is as good as I’ve seen a girls wrestling team perform,” Roche said. With more than half the roster being brand new to the sport, early success was not guaranteed, but the girls quickly proved they were ready to compete.
Head coach Laura Nemes emphasized the effort and mindset displayed by the team. “Everyone worked extremely hard,” Laura said. “The girls were tough, regardless of winning or losing, they gave their best effort every match.” That determination was especially evident as several athletes earned their first-ever wins, moments Laura described as rewarding to witness.
One of the most noticeable changes from the first tournament to the second was an increase in confidence and aggressiveness. Laura explained that the opening tournament served as an introduction to the environment, while the second showed how much the team had to learn. “They came in more prepared, more aggressive, and more confident,” she said. Roche agreed, adding that the growth between tournaments was clear in both mindset and performance.
Team chemistry also played a major role in the team’s success. Despite wrestling being an individual sport, the girls consistently supported one another. “The tea, chemistry and how well everyone cheers for each other is amazing,” Roche said. Whether coming off a win or loss, teammates were always there to encourage one another and keep spirits high.
Several individual performances stood out, including Raynee Dunleavy, who showed significant improvement from the first tournament to the second. After a timid start early in the season, Dunleavy returned with confidence and aggression, earning a second place finish in the second tournament. Another highlight came from Chelsey Oviedo, who earned her first two career wins and a moment Roche said was especially memorable.
Coaches also highlighted how rewarding it has been watching the team grow. “Seeing everyone progress is the best part,” Laura stated. Roche echoed the same statement, noting that weekly improvements and personal development of each athlete is what makes coaching this team special.
Looking ahead, the team has set goals. With a full roster for the first time in the program’s history, Hamburg aims to continue placing among the top teams in tournaments and compete for the county title later in the season. Both coaches believe that the foundation being built now will benefit the program for years to come.
For girls considering joining the team, Laura has a simple message, “If you are even slightly interested, come to a practice and try it. It may look scary, but it’s not.” Roche added that wrestling builds confidence and teaches athletes how to face adversity, lessons that extend far beyond the mat.
Individually, Hamburg saw strong performances across both tournaments. In the opening tournament, Daisy Nemes had 1st place at 155 pounds with a perfect 4-0 record plus four pins, while Jocelynn Sprentall also earned first place with 3-0 including a tech-fall, pin, and decision at 124 pounds. Sheila Kern placed first at 235 pounds with two pins, and Sophia Cruz-Garcia finished third after earning two wins. In the second tournament, Daisy repeated as champion 155 going 3-0 with two pins, while Sheila once again took first. Raynee Ann Dunleavy followed at second with two pins, Koa Binder earned third at 142, and Sprentall finished third with four wins and three pins. Hamburg’s consistent individual success helped the team finish third out of the nine teams in the second tournament.
Through hardwork, the Hamburg girls wrestling team has already made its mark early in the season, proving effort can lead to great results.
