Lebanon’s girls wrestling team is beginning its 2025-26 season this weekend.
Coach Matthew Neeley said the team has “a good group of seniors leading us this year.’
“Our three team captains for this season are returning state third place medalist and nationally ranked Sophiea Quinn (235), former state qualifier Andrea Childress (155/170), Lacey Malonson (100/105). Seniors (are) Alyssa Dawson (130/135) and Jalyn Malonson (135). Sophiea Quinn, Alyssa Dawson and Lacey Malonson are all approaching 100 wins,” Neeley wrote in an email to the Record.
“State qualifier Kaylee Herd is a junior and will wrestle 130/135. Junior newcomer Kylie Wimberly will see mat time later in the season,” he continued.
“Sophomores Josey Starmer, Elli Rothman, Isabella O'Dell, Carli Alford and Mallory Carl-Mummert are all returning letter winners who will be filling several varsity spots,” he said. “Sophomore newcomer Ashlyn Stires will help tremendously at the lighter weights.
Addy Bowden, Ilyanna Martinez, Natalee Joiner, Leslie Harris, Charli Meckem, Eden Gregory and Taylor Giffin make up the freshmen this year. Ilyanna Martinez and Natalee Joiner have both seen a lot of success at the youth level and we expect to see that transfer over to the HS level,” he continued.
The season kicks off today, Saturday at the first annual Neosho Girls Tournament. The team’s first home event is Dec. 9 with a triangular meet with Seckman and Ozark.
Dec. 6, Tussle for the Tiara, NKC High SchoolDec. 9, vs. Ozark/Seckman at home
Dec. 13, Nixa Tournament at Nixa High School
Dec. 18-19, KC Stampede at Hale Arena
Dec. 29-30, Wonder Woman at Battle High School
Jan. 8, vs. Monett/Bolivar/Republic at Bolivar High School
Jan. 9, Capital City Tournament at Capital City High School
Jan. 16, Willard Tiger Pride Tournament at Willard High School
Jan. 23, St. Clair Tournament at St. Clair High School
Jan. 27, vs. Marshfield, Waynesville, Hillcrest at home
Jan. 30, COC Tournament at Joplin High School
Feb. 13-14, Districts TBD
Feb. 27-28, State Tournament at the Mizzou Arena
