Cabrillo Girls Wrestling: A Season of Breakthroughs and Resilience Under Coach Miiya Adames
The 2025 winter season was nothing short of historic for the Cabrillo High School Girls Wrestling team. Guided by the relentless leadership of Head Coach Miiya Adames, the team achieved major milestones, broke personal records, and laid a strong foundation for the future of the program. In a sport that demands equal parts grit and heart, the Cabrillo girls showed they were more than ready to rise to the challenge.
From sending wrestlers to CIF Masters for the first time to one senior making it all the way to state, this was a season of firsts, growth, and fierce determination.
Breaking Through: Carter and Koenig Lead the Way
The heart of Cabrillo’s success story this season revolves around two standout athletes: Leilah Carter and Hayley Koenig. Both wrestlers achieved personal and program-firsts by advancing to CIF Masters—a level of competition neither had reached in previous seasons. But Koenig’s journey didn’t stop there. She went on to qualify for State, becoming a beacon of inspiration for the entire team.
“Leilah and Hayley really grew this year,” said Coach Adames. “They went all out and worked their hardest. I’m just glad that for Hayley’s senior year, she went out with a bang.”
That sentiment echoes what every coach dreams of—seeing their athletes push past limits, peak at the right time, and leave a lasting legacy in their final season.
A Season of Growth and Grit
Reflecting on the season as a whole, Coach Adames describes it in one word: great. This wasn't just about winning matches—it was about developing skills, building confidence, and getting the team to where they needed to be, both mentally and physically.
“I feel the season went great. I got my girls to where they need to be,” she shared. “And seeing two of my girls make it to CIF Masters, with one going on to State, that was a huge highlight.”
But wrestling is also a sport that tests resolve in the face of injuries, setbacks, and high-pressure moments. The Cabrillo team faced these challenges head-on, embodying the toughness that wrestling demands.
“We did have a few girls get injured,” Coach Adames admitted, “but they shook it off and got back to work.” That spirit of resilience became a cornerstone of the team’s identity.
Leadership that Shaped the Room
Wrestling is often seen as an individual sport, but team culture can make all the difference. This year, the team was fortunate to have two senior captains who set the tone for everyone else: Monique Deleon and Hayley Koenig.
“Well, my team seniors are actually my two captains,” Coach Adames said. “They really showed leadership in the room. They helped one another out, and they definitely brought the energy—and the laughter.”
It’s that mix of accountability, encouragement, and levity that kept morale high and created a space where athletes could thrive. Whether helping a teammate with technique or lifting spirits after a tough match, these seniors left their mark not just in competition, but in the everyday moments that build a strong team culture.
The Next Generation Is Ready
With a memorable season in the books and some major talent graduating, what’s next for Cabrillo Girls Wrestling?
For Coach Adames, it’s all about the future—and she sees something special in her returning athletes.
“What excites me the most about my returning players is that I can see them grow,” she said. “Not just grow—but make so much improvement and go even further with wrestling.”
That mindset—focused on development, improvement, and opportunity—is what has turned the program into a competitive force. With the right coaching and the foundation built by this year’s seniors, the younger wrestlers now have both role models and a clear path to follow.
Offseason Goals: Strengthening the Mind and Body
The grind never stops in wrestling, and the offseason is just as important as the regular season. For Coach Adames, the focus this summer is clear: wellness, conditioning, and self-care.
“This year, our journey is about getting their bodies right,” she explained. “Taking care of themselves and getting in the best shape possible.”
In a physically demanding sport like wrestling, injury prevention and conditioning are crucial. But beyond the physical, this goal speaks to a holistic approach to training—where rest, nutrition, and mental health are valued alongside strength and skill.
This focus ensures that when the next season rolls around, the Cabrillo squad will be stronger, smarter, and more prepared than ever.
Legacy in Motion
Every season tells a story. For Cabrillo Girls Wrestling in 2025, the story was one of breakthroughs and boldness, led by a coach who continues to mold competitors and champions in both attitude and ability.
Coach Adames didn’t just guide her team to personal and program milestones—she created an environment where girls could push limits, learn from adversity, and develop leadership qualities that will serve them for life.
The departure of seniors like Koenig and Deleon will leave big shoes to fill. But their impact will continue to echo through the wrestling room, in the discipline, drive, and dreams of those who follow.
Final Thoughts
As the mats are rolled up and medals tucked away, the 2025 season leaves behind more than just wins—it leaves behind a legacy of growth, a culture of leadership, and a blueprint for success.
With promising underclassmen, a clear offseason plan, and Coach Adames at the helm, Cabrillo Girls Wrestling is just getting started.
The future is bright, the journey continues—and one thing is certain: this team is ready to wrestle for more.
For updates and performance stats, stay tuned to Cabrillo High School athletics or connect with Coach Adames for details.
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