The Kokomo Lady Wildkat wrestling team recently competed in the New Palestine Invitational, showcasing determination and skill as they entered their first competition of the season. The team brought nine wrestlers to the mat, including six who were wrestling for the very first time. With such a mix of experience levels, the LadyKats aimed to set a solid foundation and build confidence in their inaugural match. Coach Bough’s emphasis on preparation and resilience paid off as each wrestler pushed themselves to perform at their best. Despite the challenges of facing numerous seasoned opponents, the LadyKats finished among the top 15 teams out of 30 schools in attendance. This impressive result exceeded expectations, especially given the high number of debuting wrestlers. The team’s collective grit and determination allowed them to overcome nerves and deliver a strong showing. The atmosphere at the invitational was electric, with each LadyKats match drawing enthusiastic support from teammates and fans. Coach Bough expressed his pride and satisfaction with the team’s debut performance. “For the first meet, we are far beyond my expectations,” he stated. His focus on technical fundamentals and team camaraderie contributed to the LadyKats’ success, helping even the most inexperienced wrestlers feel prepared and confident. His praise reflects his belief in the team’s potential and his excitement for what lies ahead this season. Looking forward, the LadyKats plan to take a couple of days to rest and recover from the intense competition. On Monday, Coach Bough will lead the team in a film review session to identify areas for improvement and reinforce their strengths. The early success at New Palestine has set a promising tone for the LadyKats’ season, and with Coach Bough’s guidance, they are sure to build on this solid foundation in future meets. Jacob Bough