Rural Grit: Stirling Senior Girls Wrestling Team Conquers the Mat

What happens when a group of young women from small rural communities discover their inner strength through wrestling? The Stirling Senior Girls Wrestling program defies expectations and builds champions on and off the mat. 

Under the leadership of Head Coach Drew Walters, Assistant Coaches Esther Beazer, and Kyle Nixon, the team has experienced remarkable growth in numbers and reputation. From a single female wrestler a few years ago, the program has flourished into a thriving force with nearly 20 dedicated young women. Their success on the mat and their positive influence off it have garnered attention across the Westwind School Division and province.

The 2A ASAA (Alberta School's Athletic Association) senior team includes grade 10-12 athletes from Stirling, Raymond, and Magrath. This diverse group has forged a strong sense of unity and determination, contributing significantly to the team's rapid rise.

Building a Team, Building Confidence

For many of these athletes, wrestling provides a unique space to push their limits in ways they never imagined. Assistant Coach Esther Beazer, a former high school wrestler, understands the sport's transformative power.

"Wrestling is unique because it creates a space for athletes who might not find their niche on traditional teams," she explains. "It's an individual sport that simultaneously builds an incredible sense of team spirit. The growth I witness in these girls—physically and mentally—is truly inspiring."

The sport has been transformative for seniors Jessica Froese and Courtney Wert, both from Raymond. Jessica joined her second year after a friend encouraged her to try it.

"Wrestling teaches you how to deal with adversity," Jessica shares. "You learn to adapt in any situation and grow in character. It's not just about physical strength but learning to focus and give 100% mentally. We're successful because of the positive environment that our coaches have created, and all of us come from these small towns where we have that rural grit."

Courtney was inspired to join the team by watching her younger sister wrestle during her first year. "I've gained so much confidence from wrestling," she says. "At first, I was terrified stepping onto the mat, but as the season has progressed, I've learned to trust myself and my abilities. I never realized how strong I truly was until I started this sport."

Both athletes emphasize the deep friendships they've forged through wrestling. "You get so close with your teammates," Jessica says. "Even the people you compete against—there's a level of respect that comes with wrestling." Courtney agrees, adding, "We push each other to be better, and that support makes this team so special."

A Sport That Demands the Best

Wrestling boasts one of the longest seasons in high school athletics, stretching from late October to March. The athletes train three times a week for two-hour practices in Stirling, focusing on conditioning, technique, and mental preparation. The dedication required is significant, but the rewards are even greater.

"Wrestling matches are two three-minute halves, and it doesn't sound like a lot," reflects Assistant Coach Esther Beazer, "but those are the most physical six minutes of your life, and they can get really intense."

"There's a saying that once you've wrestled, everything else in life is easier," adds Coach Walters. "Wrestling pushes you past your perceived limits, both physically and mentally, and teaches you to keep moving forward no matter what. It's not just about winning matches—it's about developing a mindset that prepares you for anything."

That mindset has fueled the Stirling team's impressive success. They have secured multiple victories, including winning the team banner at Provincials for the past two years—a testament to their unwavering dedication and hard work. 

The province is divided into wrestling zones, with Calgary and Edmonton each having their own zone. In contrast, the rest of the province comprises the rural zone. The journey to the provincial championships begins with the rural qualifiers, where the top performers advance to the rural provincial competition. Red Deer will host the rural provincial championships from February 28th to March 1st this year. From there, the top five rural wrestlers and the top five from both the Calgary and Edmonton zones will compete at the provincial championship in Calgary from March 14th to 15th. 

The team consistently dominates in rural competitions, frequently placing among the top contenders in Alberta. They regularly compete at tournaments across the province, culminating in these opportunities to qualify for Rural Provincials and, ultimately, the Provincial Championships. For those aspiring to compete at the highest level, the Nationals will take place in Calgary this year.

More Than Just a Sport

Beyond the thrill of competition, wrestling has profoundly impacted the athletes' personal lives. Many team members are multi-sport athletes, using the endurance and strength they gain from wrestling to excel in other sports, such as rugby, track and field, and cross country.

Jessica, who also plays rugby and competes in track and cross country, finds wrestling the perfect complement to her other athletic pursuits. "Wrestling conditions you in a way that no other sport does," she says. "The strength and endurance I build here translate directly to the rugby field. The intensity of wrestling helps me stay aggressive and maintain my stamina during games."

Courtney, who participated in other sports before discovering wrestling, agrees that it has uniquely challenged her. "Wrestling is a different kind of conditioning," she explains. "The required endurance pushes you beyond what you think you're capable of. That mental toughness has helped me in school, too. I'm more focused, more disciplined, and better at managing my time."

Both athletes agree that wrestling has given them far more than physical strength; it has prepared them for life's challenges. "You can carry these lessons with you forever," Jessica says. "The confidence, the resilience, and the mindset you cultivate in wrestling shape you as a person."

Courtney adds, "It's not just about competition. It's about realizing that you're capable of more than you ever imagined. That's something I'll carry with me long after I graduate."

Looking Ahead: The Future of Stirling Wrestling

Coach Drew Walters sees a bright future for the team as the sport's popularity continues to surge across the region.

"Our program is expanding, and we're seeing increasing interest from athletes across the division," he explains. "Wrestling is becoming a real force in rural Alberta. While the largest programs tend to be in urban centers, we're proving that rural teams can compete at a high level. I believe we'll see more high schools in the area develop their own teams in the coming years."

With a program that continues to flourish, the Stirling Senior Girls Wrestling Team is proving that wrestling is more than just a sport—it's a powerful catalyst for building strength, grit, and unwavering confidence that extends far beyond the wrestling mat.