In what was their first-ever season as a team, the Bayside Lady Bears took to the mats with passion, resilience, and an unmistakable determination to prove they belong.
A Foundation Built on Grit
Every member of the squad was new to the sport this season—both wrestlers and coach alike—but what they lacked in experience, they made up for in commitment. Reina Pacheco (145), Shelby Long (170), Daphne Perhealth (235), Grace Reek (135), Selah Reid (155), and Cassidy Sullivan (155) were instrumental in building Bayside’s presence on the mat. Three of these wrestlers placed at girls' regionals, and nearly all spent time in the win column throughout the year.
“The biggest win was simply not quitting,” said Coach Sawyer. “It’s hard to build a girls' program from the ground up—and they showed up every day ready to learn.”
From Humble Beginnings to Podium Finishes
Coach Sawyer admits he entered the season with some uncertainty, unsure how his limited experience and a team full of rookies would fare. But tournament after tournament, the Lady Bears exceeded expectations. The real turning point came during back-to-back top-four team finishes late in the season. “That was the moment they realized they belonged,” Sawyer said.
Growth in the Room and on the Mat
Two wrestlers stood out for their growth: Selah Reid and Daphne Perhealth, both of whom embraced bigger roles as the season progressed. Selah, one of the team’s two seniors, brought heart and leadership to every practice. Meanwhile, Daphne consistently improved and became a vital piece of the team’s competitive push.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Injuries tested the team’s resolve, with three wrestlers sidelined early and another missing most of the season with a concussion. Still, the squad continued to show up and work. “We have bad days like everyone else,” said Sawyer. “We clock out, reset, and come back ready. I want them to enjoy this.”
Senior Leadership with Heart
This year’s seniors, Selah Reid and Rhea Behlok, both left lasting marks. Selah’s work ethic and motivation led the way. Rhea, despite early nerves and self-doubt, showed flashes of raw aggression and promise. “When she got out of her head, she kicked butt,” said her coach. “I have high hopes for her.”
Eyes on the Future
Now that the first-season jitters are gone, Sawyer is fired up for what’s next. “They know what to expect now,” he said. “I’m excited to see who wants to lead, who wants to rank, and who’s ready to push each other to be great.”
Offseason Focus
The program will be working on developing more aggressive, pressure-oriented wrestling, helping athletes stay on the offensive and keep opponents off balance. Coach Sawyer also continues to grow in his own coaching style, emphasizing support and positivity.
, Shelby Long (170), Daphne Perhealth (235), Grace Reek (135), Selah Reid (155), and Cassidy Sullivan (155) were instrumental in building Bayside’s presence on the mat. Three of these wrestlers placed at girls' regionals, and nearly all spent time in the win column throughout the year.
“The biggest win was simply not quitting,” said Coach Sawyer. “It’s hard to build a girls' program from the ground up—and they showed up every day ready to learn.”
From Humble Beginnings to Podium Finishes
Coach Sawyer admits he entered the season with some uncertainty, unsure how his limited experience and a team full of rookies would fare. But tournament after tournament, the Lady Bears exceeded expectations. The real turning point came during back-to-back top-four team finishes late in the season. “That was the moment they realized they belonged,” Sawyer said.
Growth in the Room and on the Mat
Two wrestlers stood out for their growth: Selah Reid and Daphne Perhealth, both of whom embraced bigger roles as the season progressed. Selah, one of the team’s two seniors, brought heart and leadership to every practice. Meanwhile, Daphne consistently improved and became a vital piece of the team’s competitive push.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Injuries tested the team’s resolve, with three wrestlers sidelined early and another missing most of the season with a concussion. Still, the squad continued to show up and work. “We have bad days like everyone else,” said Sawyer. “We clock out, reset, and come back ready. I want them to enjoy this.”
Senior Leadership with Heart
This year’s seniors, Selah Reid and Rhea Behlok, both left lasting marks. Selah’s work ethic and motivation led the way. Rhea, despite early nerves and self-doubt, showed flashes of raw aggression and promise. “When she got out of her head, she kicked butt,” said her coach. “I have high hopes for her.”
Eyes on the Future
Now that the first-season jitters are gone, Sawyer is fired up for what’s next. “They know what to expect now,” he said. “I’m excited to see who wants to lead, who wants to rank, and who’s ready to push each other to be great.”
Offseason Focus
The program will be working on developing more aggressive, pressure-oriented wrestling, helping athletes stay on the offensive and keep opponents off balance. Coach Sawyer also continues to grow in his own coaching style, emphasizing support and positivity.)
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