The Powerade girls wrestling tournament on December 30, 2024, showcased exceptional talent from local schools, with Kiski Area’s Ava Golding and Plum’s Alaina Claassen claiming championship titles. Golding dominated her match in the 136-pound finals, while Claassen secured her victory in the 190-pound finals against the reigning champion. The event not only highlighted individual achievements but also the fierce competition among various schools, laying the groundwork for upcoming state championships in 2025.
On December 30, 2024, the Powerade girls wrestling tournament brought together some of the best female wrestlers from around the region at the dynamic Canon-McMillan venue. It was a fantastic day for local talent, with Kiski Area’s _Ava Golding_ and Plum’s _Alaina Claassen_ each securing championship titles in their respective weight classes. Talk about a show of strength, skill, and determination!
Ava Golding made headlines by dominating the 136-pound finals against Connellsville’s Janayah Nobles, winning with a decisive _7-0_ score. This match was particularly electrifying as it was a rematch from the previous year’s WPIAL championship, and Golding’s performance proved she meant business in the mat arena.
Meanwhile, Alaina Claassen pulled off a spectacular victory in the 190-pound finals. She faced off against the reigning champion, Natalie Rush of Canon-McMillan, and came out on top with a score of _9-5_. Last season, Alaina had already impressed everyone by clinching a title at 235 pounds, but this victory showcased her versatility and competitiveness. What a feat!
The tournament wasn’t just about the champions; many other talented wrestlers made a mark. Among the runners-up were _Chloe Speicher_ from Burgettstown (106 lbs), _Tamara Humphries_ from Brashear (112 lbs), _Paige Jox_ from Mt. Lebanon (118 lbs), _Maddee Fischer_ from Seneca Valley (130 lbs), and _Abigail Dolanch_ from Avella (142 lbs). Each wrestler put up a commendable fight, adding to the fierce competition throughout the day.
From Norwin, three young women took home third-place finishes: _Josephine Dollman_ (136 lbs), _Karsyn Champion_ (155 lbs), and _Octavia Walker_ (170 lbs). Also grabbing third were _Anna Duncan_ from South Park (124 lbs), _Alyssa Tresco_ from Kiski Area (142 lbs), _Liliana Giulianelli_ from Peters Township (190 lbs), and _Zoey Murphy_ from Southmoreland (235 lbs). These athletes showcased incredible tenacity and skill, making their schools and supporters proud.
As far as team rankings go, Canon-McMillan clearly dominated the scoreboard, racking up an impressive total of _128 points_. Norwin followed with a respectable score of _85 points_. Canon-McMillan also celebrated individual successes, with three wrestlers earning gold medals in their weight classes. The remarkable performances of _Valarie Solorio_ (100 lbs), _Audrey Calgaro_ (170 lbs), and Natalie Rush (190 lbs) solidified Canon-McMillan’s dominant presence in the tournament.
The Powerade tournament served as a vital qualifier for upcoming state championships scheduled to unfold in Hershey from March 7 to 9, 2025. Wrestlers are poised and ready to take the knowledge and experience gained from this competition to the next level.
As the dust settles from this year’s competition, we celebrate the achievements of all the participants. The dedication and hard work exhibited by these talented athletes were truly awe-inspiring. With many more competitions on the horizon, we can’t wait to see what the future holds for these fierce competitors!
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