SWAT Wrestling Takes Third at Ridge View Invitational
The SWAT girls wrestling team dominated at the Ridge View Invitational in Holstein on Nov. 23, securing a third place finish with 149 points. This performance came against a field of 20 smashers from across the region.
Powerful Performances Across Weight Classes
The meet was packed with drama and many exciting bouts, underscored by impressive individual achievements for SWAT. Three wrestlers delivered powerhouse performances, taking second place in their respective weight classes: Stella Beattie at 170 lbs., Nadia South at 110lbs, and Jazz Christensen at 105 lbs.ix.
Supporting this strong showing was a powerful run from wrestlers who excelled, capturing third place finishes. This included Destiny Fry at 115 lbs., Bailey Lillard at 155 lbs., Ellen Gerlock at 190 lbs., and Megan Gerlock at 235 lbs.
Senior
Experience Fuels Success
Several experienced wrestlers stood out with masterful performances. Fry, after splitting her initial contest, rallied with four straight wins in the consolation round, securing the third place — three victories earned through pinfall, a testament to her strength and strategy on the mat.
Likewise,Gerlock, relying on a veteran approach, grabbed a third-place finish. After a tough semifinal loss, Gerlock made a determined climb back towards victory, pinning Madison Wright from Lewis Central, making a mark on the weekend’s matches.
South also secured second place with spirited performances, winning by fall in both the quarterfinals and semifinals, marking her mark on this challenging tournament By reaching the finals, she showcased her tenacity and aggressive approach to the sport.
Bridging the Experience Gap
Lillard, wrestling for the first time this season, started with a 1-1 record, showcasing her upset potential with four straight wins after a first-round loss. While facing tough competition, she persevered, securing a third-place ranking. Her remarkable toll of wins by pin in under a minute.
Addi Glade and Karissa Groves, gaining experience, fought hard and gained valuable experience.
The SWAT wrestlers pose an impressive challenge to other competition this season.
What were the names of the SWAT wrestlers who secured third-place finishes at the Ridge View Invitational?
## SWAT Wrestling Soars to Third at Ridge View Invitational
**[Host]** Welcome back to the show! Today we have Coach [Coach’s name, if available], coach of the SWAT girls wrestling team, fresh off their impressive third-place finish at the Ridge View Invitational. Coach, congratulations on a phenomenal performance!
**[Coach]** Thank you! We’re incredibly proud of the girls.
**[Host]** It was a tough tournament with 20 teams competing. What do you think contributed to your team’s success?
**[Coach]** Our girls have been working incredibly hard this season. Their dedication and commitment to training really showed on the mat. They supported each other, fought hard in every match, and never gave up. [[1](https://www.crestonnews.com/adair-county-free-press/2024/11/27/girls-wrestling-swat-takes-bronze-at-ridge-view/)]
**[Host]** They certainly put on a display of strength and determination. I understand Stella Beattie, Nadia South, and Jazz Christensen all secured impressive second-place finishes in their weight classes, a huge accomplishment.
**[Coach]** Absolutely! They were phenomenal. They wrestled with incredible skill and tenacity. Their performances really set the tone for the entire team.
**[Host]** And several other wrestlers also brought home some hardware, securing third-place finishes. That’s a testament to the depth and talent of your squad.
**[Coach]** Exactly! Destiny Fry, Bailey Lillard, Ellen Gerlock, and Megan [Last Name] all had incredible runs.
**[Host]** What are your expectations for the rest of the season?
**[Coach]** We’re aiming high. We want to continue to improve as a team, push each other, and make some noise at the state tournament.
**[Host]** Well Coach, thank you for your time and congratulations to you and the SWAT girls wrestling team on a fantastic tournament!
**[Coach]** Thank you!