Episode 15: Growing Pains: The Future of Illinois Girls Wrestling

This episode explores the current state and future of girls wrestling in Illinois, covering growth trends, co-ops, sectional balance, and the possibility of splitting into 1A/2A divisions. Guests discuss fairness, best practices for co-ops, and how new programs (like ISA) could affect the high school pipeline. The conversation emphasizes practical steps to increase participation, create fairer competition, and keep the sport accessible while rewarding athletes who put in the work, with encouragement for wrestlers, coaches, and families to stay engaged and patient as the sport evolves. Chris Gochis is Kaneland High School Girls Wrestling Assistant Coach, Illinois MatWomen rankings contributor for IHSA girls wrestling, Illinois Girls Wrestling Rankings & Results Admin. Midwest Black Mambas Girls National Team Head Coach -------------------------------------- New episode every Wednesday (this is a plan)! ---------- We are a baby podcast with a huge mission, and we would love your help - share the success of Girls' wrestling in the State of Illinois. If you like what you see, leave us a review (we heard that it really helps),  subscribe,  and share our podcast with other wrestling families ---------- Want to be our guest? Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/3CAjj1b6XcrgJA1v7. We are looking for insights from club and team coaches, expertise from industry experts, and inspiring stories from girls-wrestlers. You can also email us at [email protected] ---------- Looking for a club to join? Start your search at https://www.ikwf.org/clubs Ready to learn more about USA Wrestling? https://www.themat.com/ Join the discussion in the Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17hayuBGgw/ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok See girls wrestling grow Flow Wrestling 2024-25 commitment list    Flow Wrestling 2025-26 commitment list --------------------------------------------