Olathe North Girls Wrestling: A Powerful Run and a Program on the Rise
The 2025 winter wrestling season was one for the record books at Olathe North High School, as the Girls Wrestling team, led by Head Coach Dylan Hitchcock, delivered an incredible campaign that showcased elite talent, impressive growth, and the strength of a program rapidly becoming a powerhouse in Kansas wrestling.
With a blend of senior leadership, breakout performers, and individual state accolades, Olathe North didn’t just compete—they commanded attention, placing 2nd in the Sunflower League, 3rd at Regionals, and finishing 5th in the state. It was a season defined by clutch performances, rising stars, and a legacy cemented by a remarkable senior class.
Dominance on the Mat: Star Power Shines Bright
The Eagles' lineup was loaded with talent this year, and the results speak for themselves. Five wrestlers placed in the top five at state, including two finalists and a State Champion—an extraordinary achievement in a fiercely competitive Kansas field.
At the top of the list is Makenzie Sharp, who captured the state title at 140 lbs, a crowning moment in her stellar season and a huge point boost for the team. Sharp’s path to the top was defined by technical precision and unwavering confidence.
“Makenzie’s state title was a highlight not only for her but for our entire program,” Coach Hitchcock said. “She set the tone and inspired everyone around her.”
Right alongside her were multiple standouts who made their own mark at the state level. Kaylan Hitchcock, wrestling at 145 lbs, not only finished as the State Runner-Up, but also led the team in season wins and total points scored, anchoring the lineup and setting a fierce pace in every match.
In the upper weights, Kennedy Graham (190 lbs) and Molly Marty (235 lbs) each reached the state finals, coming away as runners-up and demonstrating dominance throughout the postseason. Notably, Marty made one of the most dramatic leaps of the season, going from junior varsity a year ago to standing on the state podium in 2025.
“Molly’s growth was phenomenal,” Coach Hitchcock said. “She worked relentlessly and earned every bit of her success.”
Zjedai Royal-Bey, wrestling at 155 lbs, rounded out the group with a 5th place finish at state, adding yet another strong performance to an already loaded Olathe North squad.
Season Highlights and Defining Moments
Olathe North’s season had several high points, but none more thrilling than the semifinal round at the state tournament, where the team went 4 for 4, sending a powerful message to every program in Kansas.
“That semifinal round was a turning point,” Hitchcock said. “The energy, the focus, and the execution were all there. Our girls showed that they belonged among the elite.”
That breakout round was not only a massive confidence booster—it ultimately propelled Olathe North to a top-five finish in the state, capping a postseason run that validated the team’s hard work and unity.
Leadership and Legacy: The Senior Class Impact
This year’s team leaned heavily on its veterans, with 10 seniors, five of whom held starting lineup roles. Their leadership formed the core of the team’s identity—steady, focused, and fiercely supportive of one another.
“They were the backbone of our team,” Coach Hitchcock noted. “Their energy, leadership, and competitive drive built the culture we needed to succeed.”
This senior class has now etched its legacy into the fabric of the program, both through its results and its impact on younger wrestlers. Their mentorship and commitment will be felt for years to come, and their shoes will be difficult to fill.
Rising Stars and Program Momentum
Though the Eagles will bid farewell to a large senior group, the future remains incredibly bright. This season provided glimpses of emerging talent, and Coach Hitchcock is already seeing the seeds of next year’s success beginning to grow.
The development of wrestlers like Molly Marty, who blossomed from JV into a state finalist, is evidence of the program’s depth and coaching. That kind of progression bodes well for the underclassmen waiting in the wings.
“Our returning group is hungry,” Hitchcock said. “They’ve learned from the best, and they’re ready to carry the torch.”
Several of the program’s younger athletes have already shown promise in training and junior varsity events, and with the bar now raised, there’s every reason to believe Olathe North will remain in contention for league and state honors.
Offseason Goals: Building on the Foundation
Looking ahead, the primary goal for Coach Hitchcock and his staff is simple: keep improving.
“We want to continue building our depth, developing skills, and helping our athletes grow every day,” he said.
Offseason training will focus not just on technique, but also on physical development, mental toughness, and cultivating leadership among the returning wrestlers. The team will look to sharpen their edge with summer camps, open mats, and strength training to ensure they come back even stronger for the 2026 season.
Another key area of focus will be filling the leadership void left by the graduating seniors. Coach Hitchcock is confident that with the culture now firmly in place, new leaders will step up naturally—and the program will thrive.
A Program Ascending
In just a few years, Olathe North has grown from a developing team into a state-level contender in girls wrestling. The 2025 season stands as the strongest testament to that progress so far—a campaign filled with standout performances, state placers, and powerful leadership.
From a state champion, to multiple finalists, to a team that placed high in every major tournament, the Eagles have proven they’re here to stay.
Coach Hitchcock credits the athletes, parents, and coaching staff for their tireless work and belief in what they’re building.
“We’ve created a family here,” he said. “Everyone supports each other, pushes each other, and shares in the success.”
With a strong foundation, a wave of young talent, and a program culture built on grit and growth, Olathe North Girls Wrestling is not just proud of where it’s been—but ready for where it’s going next.
For season stats and match results, visit Olathe North's team page on TrackWrestling or KSHSAA.
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