Evanston’s Girls Wrestling team’s 2024-25 campaign was defined by the individual success of Kennedy Murray, who became the first girl to win a conference title in the program’s history. She also won two bouts at the State Championships, just short of claiming a medal.
“It was great to see some girls’ representation downstate last year,” said Head Coach Rudy Salinas.
Aside from Murray, Jerni Marshall, and Fatima Gomez were key players for the Kits last season, who qualified for sectionals but were unable to join Murray downstate. The latter of which will return this season and is expected to be a key leader for the team. Sophomore Samantha Gipson is another notable varsity returnee who finished with a winning record last season of 16-14. Salinas expects her to take a massive step up this year and make a deep postseason run, and she will be key to the Kits making it back to state.
The Kits’ path to State will be tough as their sectionals and conference contain many of the sports powerhouses, like Warren, Round Lake, New Trier, and Zion-Benton.
“For girls, are conference is super tough, so if they have success in the regular season in those matchups, it can be a good indicator of their chances in the postseason,” stated Salinas.
With the team being only four years old, the program’s first priority is still expansion in participation.
“Our girls’ program is growing exponentially, which is really amazing to see,” commented Salinas.
