Little Rock Central High Girls’ Wrestling Team Shines as Trailblazers in the Sport
Little Rock, AR – Under the glow of a new field house at Earl Quigley Stadium, the girls’ wrestling team from Little Rock Central High School is breaking barriers and making history. In April, they clinched the state championship, marking the first team wrestling title—boys or girls—in Central history, and the first for the Little Rock School District.
As they prepare for the upcoming national tournament in Fargo, North Dakota, the team, currently ranked 48th in the nation, has become a powerhouse that defies stereotypes. Instead of fitting the typical profile of high school wrestlers, their roster is a tapestry of diversity, featuring seven Black girls, two biracial, two Latina, one Indian, and two white wrestlers.
"We are proud of our diversity," said senior co-captain Ar’kiya "Tonka" Taylor, a two-time state champion. "When we go to meets, our lineup looks different from everyone else’s.”
The team’s success is a testament to coaches Aaron Butler and Adam Cline, who have been integral in growing the program since wrestling became a sanctioned sport for girls in Arkansas in 2020. Their commitment to promoting inclusivity has resulted in a thriving team, despite early challenges like inadequate facilities.
“The journey hasn’t always been easy, but we are just happy to have a place to practice,” Taylor noted, reflecting on their past struggles with poor conditions.
As they gear up for national competition, the team’s confidence is palpable. “This is what we’ve been working for,” said sophomore Markita Harper. “There’s about to be some action!”
By overcoming obstacles and proud of their uniqueness, the Central High girls are not just winning titles—they are changing the landscape of youth wrestling in Arkansas.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
