During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the lack of support for girls' wrestling programs within the local school district. Derek Cunningham, a representative from Malwa, highlighted the urgent need for additional coaching staff to facilitate competitive opportunities for female wrestlers.

Cunningham pointed out that while there is no contention regarding the appointment of a coach, the absence of a dedicated coach for the girls' team is problematic. He noted that a proposal for an additional coach had been submitted by the head wrestling coach back in March but had not progressed through the necessary committees. This oversight has left the six girls on the MAwA wrestling team at a disadvantage, as they are currently required to compete against boys, which Cunningham argued is inequitable and detrimental to their chances of securing scholarships.

The discussion underscored the growing popularity of girls' wrestling, which has seen increased participation and success on a national level. Cunningham emphasized that the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) will soon prohibit girls from competing against boys in dual meets, making the need for dedicated coaching support even more pressing.

Cunningham's appeal highlighted the disparities in coaching resources, noting that other sports, such as girls' softball and baseball, benefit from multiple coaches, while the wrestling program struggles to provide adequate support. He urged the board to recognize the importance of equitable funding and resources for all athletic programs, particularly as the feeder programs continue to grow.

The meeting concluded with a call for action to address these disparities, ensuring that female athletes receive the necessary support to compete fairly and pursue their athletic aspirations.