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Bayside High School Girls Wrestling Season Preview https://create.play1.io/news/bayside-high-school-girls-wrestling-season-preview-2/
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, Shelby Long (170 lbs), Daphne Perhealth (235 lbs), Grace Reek (135 lbs), Selah Reid (155 lbs), and Cassidy Sullivan (155 lbs). Three of these “Lady Bears” placed at the regional tournament, and nearly all of them saw winning records during the season—a remarkable achievement for a first-year group of wrestlers.
“These girls showed up, stuck with it, and proved they deserve to be on the mat with anyone,” Sawyer said.
Exceeding Expectations: From Doubt to Dominance
Coming into the season, Coach Sawyer admitted to having some understandable nerves.
“I was scared of going out there and embarrassing not only the girls, but our program,” he confessed. “Being a new coach with limited experience, trying to help rookies build confidence and learn the sport—it was a huge responsibility.”
Despite the pressure, Bayside’s girls embraced the challenge. Their development was rapid, and their performances exceeded all expectations.
The season’s high points came during its final stretch, with the Lady Bears placing in the top four at back-to-back tournaments—a result that proved their hard work and resilience were paying off.
“It was a defining moment,” Sawyer recalled. “That stretch showed the girls they were capable—and that they belonged.”
Growth in Every Match: Rising Leaders Emerge
Among the rising stars of the season, Selah Reid and Daphne Perhealth stood out as athletes who took on larger roles as the weeks went by.
“Selah showed heart, determination, work ethic—she was always motivated to be better,” said Sawyer of the senior leader. “She led by example and left a legacy of toughness and grit.”
Perhealth, wrestling in one of the heavier weight classes, developed into a formidable force and displayed tremendous growth, both technically and mentally.
In every match, the Lady Bears got better—and some, like Rhea Behlok, overcame more than just physical challenges.
“She came in not expecting much,” said Sawyer. “She was nervous, unsure, even broke down at times. But when she stopped putting pressure on herself, she was incredible. Aggressive. Determined. I have high hopes for her future.”
Overcoming Injuries and Setbacks: Mental Toughness on Display
The road wasn’t always smooth. Bayside faced its share of adversity, including injuries that sidelined several wrestlers—one after only three matches, another missing seven of nine tournaments due to a concussion.
But in a testament to the team’s culture, they pushed through.
“We just kept showing up and working,” Sawyer explained. “When we had off days, we took a break. We clocked out, reset, and came back the next day ready. I want them to enjoy what they do—we’re not going to be miserable doing it.”
It was a refreshing, human-first philosophy in a sport that often demands mental and emotional toughness alongside physical grit. And it worked.
Leaving a Legacy: The Senior Class Impact
Though the team was young, Bayside was fortunate to have two seniors help set the tone.
Selah Reid, described by her coach as one of the hardest-working athletes he’s ever coached, led with action and encouragement.
Meanwhile, Rhea Behlok found her stride late in the season, but when she did, she was a force.
“Even when she wasn’t fully sure of what she was doing,” said Sawyer, “she was aggressive, determined, and always gave it her all.”
Together, these two athletes helped establish a culture that future teams will continue to build upon.
Eyes on the Future: What’s Next for Bayside Wrestling
With the first season now in the books, Coach Sawyer’s excitement about the future is contagious.
“What excites me most is that the girls have now gotten rid of the first-time jitters,” he said. “They know what to expect, and they know how much harder they can push.”
The offseason will be focused on increasing aggression and sharpening their strategy.
“I’m slightly defensive by nature,” Sawyer admitted, “and it rolls onto them. I want them to learn how to keep their opponents off balance—find what works for them, and stay confident in it.”
The team’s returners have a full year of experience under their belts now, and Sawyer is eager to see who steps up to lead, who pushes their teammates, and who rises to chase postseason glory.
Track Their Progress
Fans, families, and supporters can keep up with Bayside Girls Wrestling stats and tournament results through:
Track Wrestling: https://www.trackwrestling.com
Additional results can also be found on https://www.kabrawrestling.com, which tracks high school wrestling tournaments throughout the season.
A Season of Firsts—and a Lifetime of Lessons
The 2025 season will always hold a special place in Bayside wrestling history. It was the year the girls’ team was born, the year they proved they belonged, and the year a group of first-timers became fierce competitors.
For Coach Sawyer and the Lady Bears, this wasn’t just about wins or placements—it was about believing in themselves, embracing the grind, and making history together.
And the best part?
They’re just getting started.)
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