By Kate Tortorella ’26
Calli Gilchrist ’25 wins big at the National Prep Wrestling Championship.
This past winter, Calli Gilchrist ’25 made Choate history as the School’s first Girls’ Wrestling Prep National Champion and first Wrestling Prep Champion since 1939.
In preparation for Nationals, Gilchrist wrestled in the Boys’ Division at the New Englands Class ‘A’ League Tournament, becoming the first girl in tournament history to win in the Boys’ Division. In this tournament, she faced intense competition in the 114-pound weight class. She said, “I had some hard-fought matches, and I think those got me in the right mindset to wrestle my best at Nationals.” Gilchrist’s hard work and success at these competitions built the momentum that translated into her run at Nationals, where she captured the title by going 3-0 with three pins. Gilchrist was also awarded the Outstanding Wrestler award.
Most recently, Gilchrist traveled to Virginia Beach, North Carolina and clutched the National High School Coaches Association (NHSCA) Wrestling National Champion title for the 120-pound weight class; a competition comprising teams in both preparatory and public schools.
Gilchrist’s success resulted from the hard work and dedication she has put in throughout her wrestling career. Her prowess certainly does not go unnoticed; Gilchrist’s fellow teammates and coaches praised her for her commitment and talent. “She’s a great competitor, and honestly, she just enjoys what she does … She’s looking for the best competition and just truly loves to wrestle,” Head Wrestling Coach Mr. Ryan Roddy said.
Gilchrist’s competitiveness was evident during meets and everyday practices, where she led by example as a tough competitor. Georgina Wolfson ’25, who trained alongside Gilchrist, said, “We train five times a week, and she’s been a real leader on the team. During practices, she gets us all motivated, and she’s a fun teammate to have, but she’s also a very experienced wrestler.” At the same time, Gilchrist has been a great role model for all of the newer, less experienced wrestlers, showing them the importance of bringing their best game during tournaments and training sessions. “She gives 110% on and off of the mat, and she is always dedicated to improving her techniques, which is what has driven her to become such an amazing wrestler,” Vivi Jenkins ’26, a new member of the team, said.
Her victories have increased the Girls’ Wrestling Team’s recognition and inspired more women to participate in the sport. As wrestling welcomes more female athletes, Gilchrist hopes to be remembered as a part of the growth and legacy of women’s wrestling. “I want to continue breaking barriers to show girls what we are capable of. I want to be a role model for young athletes who want to achieve the things I have and more,” she said.
