SALEM: 1/30/2025: The Salem community has offered a popular youth wrestling program open to all students in grades 4-6. However, when participating girls transitioned to high school wrestling with Salem CSD, those who chose to join the varsity team were expected to compete against boys in their weight class, which often led to feelings of discouragement and isolation. Opportunities for female wrestlers changed three years ago when New York state recognized girls' wrestling as an emerging sport, paving the way for the establishment of girls' teams and competitions. The Salem girls’ wrestling team celebrates their first Adirondack League title in just their second season.
Given its history of girls’ wrestling and the need for a varsity team for these athletes, Salem Salem math teacher Frank Fronhofer and Salem Spanish teacher Christopher Fronhofer jumped right into the challenge. The brothers are Salem CSD graduates and wrestling coaches in the community. Over the years, their dedication has led to Frank being appointed as the league coordinator for the Adirondack Boys Wrestling teams as well as the Section 2 girls’ wrestling coordinator, while Christopher serves as the league coordinator for the Adirondack girls’ wrestling teams.
“The previous setup, where girls and boys competed in the same weight class, only worked for our very small girls. Most could not compete and would end up choosing another sport that offered more opportunities, said Chris Fronhofer. “Given the natural interest from those exposed to the sport or our recreation program, it made sense for us to take the lead in bringing girls' wrestling to our section.”
Last year, the girls’ wrestling team merged with Cambridge CSD after seeing strong interest in the district. The girls quickly united to take ownership of a team that is finally theirs and have recently earned their first Adirondack League Title after only two seasons. The wrestling program collaborates with all teams and their booster clubs to support all competitors equally. When the girls compete, the boys and their parents come out to support and help run the event so the competitors can enjoy the day and their parents can cheer them on. Similarly, when the boys compete, the girls and their parents do the same.
“Something about wrestling, it is rewarding unlike any sport. Our student-athletes see the payoff both on the mat and in their personal development, particularly when it comes to leadership ability, confidence, and teamwork,” said Frank Fronhofer. “During recruitment, I asked the girls to help create quotes to encourage others to get involved. All of our seniors shared that, although they had just started, they consider their time wrestling to be a significant part of their high school experience, one that has changed their perspectives.”
With the promise of a spot for female wrestlers, the recreational wrestling program has seen a spike in interest from girls. This year, the program has seen just as many girls as boys sign up and participate in the program. For additional inspiration, the youth program is frequently visited by the high school teams, who jump in to help coach and share their love of the sport. With the increase in local competition and dreams of collegiate wrestling, we expect the program to continue growing and thriving.
