Girls Wrestling Growth

High school girls wrestling participation grew from 6,134 in 2009–10 to 74,064 in 2024–25—more than twelvefold within the span of 15 years.

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A nationwide footprint

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Latest participation——
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Number of schools with teams—in latest reporting season
High school girls wrestler completing a throw during a match
A high school wrestler completes a throw · Photo: Shakhan Kelly Photography, via Lourdes Athletics.
A fifteen-season rise12×

More girls have found a place on the mat—turning a small participation base into a nationwide movement.

2009–102024–25
Two women wrestlers hand-fighting from the neutral position
Neutral-position hand fight · Photo: Sgt. Michael Hunnisett, U.S. Army WCAP, public domain.

Why girls wrestling matters

The rapid growth of women's wrestling has made it one of the fastest-growing high school sports in the United States. This growth has expanded opportunities for female athletes to compete, develop leadership skills, and earn college scholarships. Beyond competition, wrestling fosters a strong sense of community while building confidence, resilience, discipline, and both physical and mental strength. These benefits extend far past the mat, equipping athletes with the skills and experiences needed for success in school, future careers, and everyday life.

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