This episode traces the real beginnings of girls wrestling in Illinois, showing that 2022 was a milestone but not the start, through a conversation with coach Sarah Doty about early pioneers, clubs, and community advocates who built opportunities long before official recognition.

It explores youth and club foundations, how the IHSA state series changed participation, ongoing challenges like recognition and competitive depth, and what needs to happen next to keep girls not just trying wrestling, but staying and thriving in the sport.

About Sarah Doty: Sarah Doty is a three-time college All-American and experienced women’s wrestling coach who has been closely involved in the growth of girls wrestling in Illinois. She has coached at the collegiate, club, and state levels, including work with Edwardsville Wrestling Club and Team Illinois, and has helped develop athletes from the youth level through national competition. Her background as both a wrestler and coach gives her a unique perspective on how girls wrestling has evolved and where the sport is headed next.

About Illinois Girls Wrestling Podcast: The Illinois Girls Wrestling Podcast celebrates athletes, coaches and families helping girls wrestling grow across Illinois. With interviews, practical advice and stories, the podcast connects and supports IL girls wrestling community—on and off the mat.

Visit http://www.ilgirlswrestling.com/

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About the Host: Lena Burkut is the host and creator of the Illinois Girls Wrestling Podcast, a show dedicated to sharing the stories, experiences, and voices shaping girls wrestling in Illinois. Through conversations with wrestlers, coaches, officials, parents, and other members of the wrestling community, she focuses on helping families better understand the sport while highlighting the continued growth of girls wrestling. Lena also brings a background in journalism, communications, and visual storytelling to the podcast, with a strong interest in building a more informed, connected, and supportive wrestling community.