Seventy-First High School Girls Wrestling: A 2025 Season Marked by Grit, Growth, and Groundbreaking Success
The 2025 winter season for the Seventy-First High School girls wrestling team was a story of determination, growth, and breakthrough achievements. Head Coach Rodney Harris led a young and spirited group of female grapplers to new heights, making a statement in the local and regional wrestling circuits. With multiple wrestlers qualifying for the Women’s Individual State Championship and a team tournament championship under their belts, the Lady Falcons showed that their program is on the rise.
Key Contributors: Fresh Faces Making a Big Impact
Coach Harris pointed to several standout wrestlers who were instrumental in the team’s success, most notably freshman Alyvia Hawkins. Despite being undersized by nearly 60 pounds when she moved up to the 235-pound weight class, Hawkins demonstrated remarkable skill and resilience, compiling an impressive 23–5 overall record. Her determination paid off as she clinched the Mideast Regional Championship at that weight and earned a spot at the prestigious Women’s Individual State Championship in 2025.
Hawkins’ ability to compete—and succeed—against heavier opponents was a testament not only to her skill but also to the coaching and team environment that supported her rapid growth. Her performance set a new standard for the program, inspiring teammates and coaches alike.
A Season of Success and Milestones
The Lady Falcons had a successful campaign filled with tournament medals and notable achievements. In addition to Hawkins’ breakthrough, two other female grapplers, Saliyah Brooks (185 lbs) and Chakira Kodjo (138 lbs), also qualified for the 2025 Women’s Individual State Championship. Their performances at the state level highlighted the depth of talent on the roster and the program’s growing reputation.
The team’s collective highlight came when they won the Pinecrest Lady Patriots Tournament, a defining moment for the season. Claiming first place and the team championship plaque was not only a testament to individual performances but also demonstrated the strength of the team as a cohesive unit.
Defining Moments and Turning Points
Coach Harris described the victory at the Pinecrest Lady Patriots Tournament as the pivotal moment of the season. This tournament win boosted the team’s confidence and showcased their ability to come together under pressure and perform at a high level.
Additionally, the continued development of key players as the season progressed helped shift momentum. Sophomore wrestlers Chakira Kodjo (138 lbs) and Le’Aja Porter (126 lbs) grew into more prominent roles, contributing significantly to the team’s success and adding valuable points in dual meets and tournaments.
Overcoming Challenges: Team Resilience
Injuries and losses are inevitable in any competitive sport, but the Lady Falcons handled adversity with maturity and unity. Coach Harris emphasized how the team “rallied behind one another through all the injuries and losses,” which helped each wrestler grow stronger both mentally and physically.
This close-knit support system created an environment where wrestlers pushed each other to improve and embraced a team-first mentality. The coaching staff and athletes recognized that the challenges faced throughout the season ultimately contributed to their overall growth and better performance.
Leadership From the Senior Ranks
Seventy-First’s girls wrestling program was led by just one senior this season: Sara Swilling. Despite being the lone senior, Swilling’s leadership was felt throughout the team. Coach Harris praised her toughness and tenacity, describing her as “tough as a nail” and a vital influence on her younger teammates.
Swilling’s experience and leadership helped set the tone for the season, especially important for a young team with many underclassmen stepping into key roles. Her example both on and off the mat provided a model of dedication and perseverance for the entire squad.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
Coach Harris expressed optimism for the future of the Seventy-First girls wrestling program. With seven returning starters and an influx of new wrestlers joining the team, the foundation is set for continued growth and success.
The returning athletes have already gained valuable experience from their breakthrough 2025 season, and the program’s culture of hard work and resilience will support their continued development. The combination of experienced starters and fresh talent is expected to push the team to new heights in upcoming seasons.
Offseason Focus: Strength and Conditioning
To prepare for the next season, the team will concentrate on improving its physical conditioning. Coach Harris highlighted the importance of “working harder in the weight room on Strength and Conditioning,” a crucial element for wrestling success.
This focus on physical preparedness will help wrestlers maximize their performance on the mat, reduce injury risk, and compete effectively in their respective weight classes. Offseason training plans will likely include strength training, cardio conditioning, and wrestling technique drills to ensure the Lady Falcons arrive ready to compete at their highest level.
Tracking the Progress: Where to Find the Stats
For fans, family, and supporters eager to follow the team’s progress, Coach Harris recommended checking NCPrep-Sports.com and MaxPreps.com for individual and team statistics. These platforms provide comprehensive coverage of high school sports, allowing followers to track match results, tournament outcomes, and individual wrestler records.
Final Thoughts: A Season of Promise and Growth
The 2025 winter season for Seventy-First High School’s girls wrestling program was a landmark year. From Alyvia Hawkins’ impressive individual achievements to the team’s first-place finish at the Pinecrest Lady Patriots Tournament, the Lady Falcons proved that they are a force to be reckoned with.
With strong leadership, emerging talent, and a commitment to growth and resilience, the program is poised for continued success. Coach Harris and his team look forward to building on this foundation, fueled by hard work and the drive to elevate Seventy-First girls wrestling to new competitive levels.
The future looks bright for the Lady Falcons, and their 2025 season will be remembered as a pivotal chapter in the history of their program.
 and Chakira Kodjo (138 lbs), also qualified for the 2025 Women’s Individual State Championship. Their performances at the state level highlighted the depth of talent on the roster and the program’s growing reputation.
The team’s collective highlight came when they won the Pinecrest Lady Patriots Tournament, a defining moment for the season. Claiming first place and the team championship plaque was not only a testament to individual performances but also demonstrated the strength of the team as a cohesive unit.
Defining Moments and Turning Points
Coach Harris described the victory at the Pinecrest Lady Patriots Tournament as the pivotal moment of the season. This tournament win boosted the team’s confidence and showcased their ability to come together under pressure and perform at a high level.
Additionally, the continued development of key players as the season progressed helped shift momentum. Sophomore wrestlers Chakira Kodjo (138 lbs) and Le’Aja Porter (126 lbs) grew into more prominent roles, contributing significantly to the team’s success and adding valuable points in dual meets and tournaments.
Overcoming Challenges: Team Resilience
Injuries and losses are inevitable in any competitive sport, but the Lady Falcons handled adversity with maturity and unity. Coach Harris emphasized how the team “rallied behind one another through all the injuries and losses,” which helped each wrestler grow stronger both mentally and physically.
This close-knit support system created an environment where wrestlers pushed each other to improve and embraced a team-first mentality. The coaching staff and athletes recognized that the challenges faced throughout the season ultimately contributed to their overall growth and better performance.
Leadership From the Senior Ranks
Seventy-First’s girls wrestling program was led by just one senior this season: Sara Swilling. Despite being the lone senior, Swilling’s leadership was felt throughout the team. Coach Harris praised her toughness and tenacity, describing her as “tough as a nail” and a vital influence on her younger teammates.
Swilling’s experience and leadership helped set the tone for the season, especially important for a young team with many underclassmen stepping into key roles. Her example both on and off the mat provided a model of dedication and perseverance for the entire squad.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
Coach Harris expressed optimism for the future of the Seventy-First girls wrestling program. With seven returning starters and an influx of new wrestlers joining the team, the foundation is set for continued growth and success.
The returning athletes have already gained valuable experience from their breakthrough 2025 season, and the program’s culture of hard work and resilience will support their continued development. The combination of experienced starters and fresh talent is expected to push the team to new heights in upcoming seasons.
Offseason Focus: Strength and Conditioning
To prepare for the next season, the team will concentrate on improving its physical conditioning. Coach Harris highlighted the importance of “working harder in the weight room on Strength and Conditioning,” a crucial element for wrestling success.
This focus on physical preparedness will help wrestlers maximize their performance on the mat, reduce injury risk, and compete effectively in their respective weight classes. Offseason training plans will likely include strength training, cardio conditioning, and wrestling technique drills to ensure the Lady Falcons arrive ready to compete at their highest level.
Tracking the Progress: Where to Find the Stats
For fans, family, and supporters eager to follow the team’s progress, Coach Harris recommended checking NCPrep-Sports.com and MaxPreps.com for individual and team statistics. These platforms provide comprehensive coverage of high school sports, allowing followers to track match results, tournament outcomes, and individual wrestler records.
Final Thoughts: A Season of Promise and Growth
The 2025 winter season for Seventy-First High School’s girls wrestling program was a landmark year. From Alyvia Hawkins’ impressive individual achievements to the team’s first-place finish at the Pinecrest Lady Patriots Tournament, the Lady Falcons proved that they are a force to be reckoned with.
With strong leadership, emerging talent, and a commitment to growth and resilience, the program is poised for continued success. Coach Harris and his team look forward to building on this foundation, fueled by hard work and the drive to elevate Seventy-First girls wrestling to new competitive levels.
The future looks bright for the Lady Falcons, and their 2025 season will be remembered as a pivotal chapter in the history of their program.){kind=tracking}
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