Washington D.C., September 4, 2025
News Summary
Washington D.C. public high schools are set to welcome back varsity wrestling after a 30-year hiatus. Initiated by Wrestling to Beat the Streets D.C., the program will support students through mentoring and college counseling, providing essential equipment valued at $25,000 per school. The inaugural season will feature participation from eight D.C. schools, fostering personal growth and teamwork among student-athletes. This revival aims to uplift the lives of children in underprivileged communities, enhancing the academic and athletic landscape in the district.
Washington D.C. Welcomes Back Varsity Wrestling to Public High Schools After 30 Years
Varsity wrestling programs are set to make a significant comeback in D.C. public high schools next month, marking the first time in three decades that this sport will be available at the varsity level. This crucial development was initiated by Wrestling to Beat the Streets D.C., which is addressing startup costs and providing the necessary support for students, including mentoring, tutoring, and college counseling services.
Currently, Woodrow Wilson High School is the only institution in the District with an active wrestling club, competing primarily against private schools that feature athletes from eight different institutions. The head coach of Wilson’s wrestling club noted the unique position they hold as D.C. students, stating that they are representing their city in what they call “D.C. versus the world.”
The inaugural varsity wrestling season is projected to feature eight teams from various D.C. schools, such as Anacostia, Ballou, Bell, Cardoza, Dunbar, HD Woodson, Roosevelt, and Wilson. Plans are already in place to expand the program in the years to come, giving more students the chance to be part of Varsity Wrestling.
Wrestling to Beat the Streets D.C. is committed to supporting each participating school by providing essential equipment valued at $25,000 per school. This includes wrestling mats, uniforms, and headgear, all designed to ensure student-athletes have what they need to perform at their best.
The organization aims to raise a total of $200,000 to facilitate this initiative and its future development. Geary FitzPatrick, the President and CEO of Wrestling to Beat the Streets D.C., emphasizes that the reintroduction of wrestling is not only about sports but is also a mission to uplift the lives of children in underprivileged communities by offering them more opportunities.
Students involved in Wilson’s wrestling club have expressed excitement about the formation of varsity programs. One member, a girl who stands out as the only female on the team, conveyed her appreciation for how her hard work is being recognized as part of a more substantial initiative.
The resurgence of wrestling in D.C. is expected to create avenues for personal growth, discipline, and teamwork among student-athletes. The addition of these programs will enrich the athletic landscape within D.C. public schools, fostering a sense of community and sportsmanship.
Wrestling was previously offered as a varsity sport in D.C. public schools until its discontinuation in 1992, resulting in a 30-year gap before its reintroduction. This revival represents an exciting chapter in D.C. high school athletics, providing students with new challenges and experiences.
FAQ
- 1. When will the inaugural varsity wrestling season begin?
- The inaugural varsity wrestling season is expected to begin next month.
- 2. How many schools will participate in the inaugural season?
- Eight D.C. public high schools will participate in the inaugural season of varsity wrestling.
- 3. What is the role of Wrestling to Beat the Streets D.C.?
- Wrestling to Beat the Streets D.C. is funding startup costs and providing support services such as mentoring, tutoring, and college counseling for the wrestling programs.
- 4. What equipment will be provided to participating schools?
- Participating schools will receive wrestling mats, uniforms, and headgear, with a total value of $25,000 per school.
- 5. Why did wrestling discontinue as a varsity sport in D.C. public schools?
- Wrestling was last offered as a varsity sport in D.C. public schools in 1992, after which it has not been available until now.
Key Features of Varsity Wrestling Return
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Inaugural Season Start | Next month |
| Participating Schools | Anacostia, Ballou, Bell, Cardoza, Dunbar, HD Woodson, Roosevelt, Wilson |
| Funding for Equipment | $25,000 per school |
| Total Fundraising Goal | $200,000 |
| Last Varsity Season | 1992 |
| Primary Organization | Wrestling to Beat the Streets D.C. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Washington Public High Schools Reintroduce School Wrestling Programs
Additional Resources
- WJLA: Wrestling Returns to D.C. Public Schools
- Wikipedia: Wrestling
- Syracuse.com: Ronald Roch Obituary
- Google Search: Wrestling Coaching
- WHAS11: Wrestling Coach Killed
- Google Scholar: Wrestling Programs
- DCist: D.C. Girls Wrestling
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wrestling History
- Washington Post: Girls High School Wrestling
- Google News: High School Wrestling
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
