To the Greater Middlesex Conference Athletic Directors,

We, the undersigned coaches, athletes, and supporters of girls wrestling, respectfully petition the Greater Middlesex Conference (GMC) to reinstate the Girls Wrestling Division for the upcoming season.

The GMC has long been a leader in advancing girls wrestling in New Jersey. Our conference proudly hosted the first sanctioned girls conference tournament in the state, setting the standard for opportunity and inclusion in this growing sport. The GMC continues to be one of the most well-represented conferences at the state level—producing three state finalists and two state champions in 2024. These accomplishments are a direct reflection of the GMC’s commitment to promoting athletic equity and excellence.

Last year, the GMC took a historic step by implementing a dedicated Girls Division. This decision energized athletes, coaches, and communities across our conference. In just one year, participation grew from eight girls teams to twelve, as programs worked tirelessly to recruit, develop, and increase participation of female wrestlers. Eliminating the division now, after already completing one season last year, would undermine that progress and send the wrong message to young women who have dedicated themselves to representing their schools and the GMC with pride.

Moreover, this decision comes at a time when girls wrestling in New Jersey is expanding statewide, with the NJSIAA now sponsoring a girls team tournament for the first time. They are also expanding to start district tournaments, where local head-to-head matches will be crucial for post-season seeding. To remove our division now would not only be a step backward for the GMC, but a disservice to our athletes and to the sport itself.

Concerns about forfeits should not dictate the elimination of our division. In boys divisions, programs frequently face similar challenges with incomplete lineups, yet the divisions remain intact. Coaches manage their rosters strategically, utilizing the 33-match limit as best suits their team’s and wrestler’s needs. The same flexibility and understanding should apply to our girls programs.

The GMC has always valued competition and growth. The conference title is determined at a single day GMC Tournament, and the division title through season-long dual meets —a structure that has worked effectively. To deny the girls the chance to compete for a division title, especially after a successful division competition last year, would be inequitable and detrimental to their continued progress.

We urge the GMC Athletic Directors to reconsider and reinstate the Girls Division for the upcoming season. Cancelling the division, particularly this close to the start of the season, would not only harm the momentum of our existing programs but would also discourage future growth in girls wrestling throughout our conference and state.

The GMC has been a pioneer in supporting girls wrestling since its inception. We ask you now to continue leading—not to reverse course—by giving these athletes the chance they deserve to compete, grow, and make history once again.

Respectfully submitted,