Justice High School Girls’ Wrestling Team Gears Up for New Season
Fairfax, VA – As winter sports take center stage this season, a new excitement is brewing within the Justice High School community: the launch of the girls’ wrestling team. This year marks a significant change in Fairfax County, which is introducing girls’ wrestling alongside boys’ volleyball as new athletic offerings.
The Justice Lady Wolves kicked off their scrimmages on November 23 at West Springfield High School, showcasing their hopes for a competitive season. Head Coach Benjamin Alvarado expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “A lot of things are on the horizon. I look forward to seeing what our girls could do, but I’m looking forward to how the county handles it as a whole.” His remarks point to a sense of camaraderie and opportunity among athletes of varying skill levels.
Last season, Sophia Cardoza, a standout wrestler from Justice, competed on the boys’ team and achieved impressive success, finishing second in the state tournament. Alvarado highlighted her potential for this upcoming season, emphasizing that she is healthy and ready to tackle challenges. “Wrestling is a great fit for her because of her character. If she’s not challenged, she’s bored,” he mentioned.
With a strong wrestling tradition at Justice, Alvarado believes this year’s roster can also carve out their niche on the mat. “She was going against guys in the 300s,” he added, proud of Cardoza’s resilience. Now, having a dedicated girls’ wrestling program is a landmark achievement that the athletes have long awaited.
Many female wrestlers participated on boys’ teams over the years, but this year marks the first time they get a separate program. “It’s really a great time to be a female wrestler at Justice,” Alvarado stated. He also highlighted the importance of learning from more experienced wrestlers to help newcomers adapt to the sport.
Overall, Alvarado aims to create an inclusive environment, welcoming all skill levels and focusing on personal growth. As he puts it, “The takeaway will go with you through life and in everything that you do. It shows up in many aspects of life, from overcoming adversity to achieving big goals. Life is a wrestling match.”
As the season progresses, the Justice Lady Wolves aim to make a name for themselves and build a legacy in girls’ wrestling while setting high expectations for athletes like Cardoza.
