The Phoenix girls wrestling team has been consistently high performing since the year they were first established. Girls wrestling alone has been constantly improving, especially here in the valley. The Phoenix wrestlers and coaches have made a huge legacy for themselves which will remain long after their gone. This team has a powerful goal which is not only to win a second consecutive state title, but to be constantly improving the new generation of wrestlers. The Phoenix coaches believe, and state at team practices, that the wrestlers are the future of the Phoenix team and of all wrestling. 

Girls wrestling became a CHSAA sanctioned sport in 2021 when Phoenix competed at their first state championship at which they had no individual placers. Despite a rough start, it didn’t take long for this team to become a leading force in Colorado girls wrestling. They finished the 2024 season being state runner ups as a team, but soon after finishing out the 2025 season with their first state championship title with a lead of over 50 points. This year Phoenix looks to secure a second straight title at the state tournament on February 19. 

Although many believe the team has taken a hit due to the graduating seniors, the wrestlers and coaches have all faith that they will dominate like they did last year. “We’re at the top and we will stay there for a while,” said 115 lb Phoenix wrestler Edi Linsacum. 

Phoenix has been constantly overlooked, given lower rankings than they believe is deserved. Last year, going into the second half of the season, Phoenix was ranked 7th overall as a team after having a consistent ranking at 3rd. “It felt like a slap in the face. We took second at one tournament where we underperformed, and they dropped our ranking,” said Linsacum “we made it up at the end of the season and that’s all that matters.”

District 51 Phoenix are projected to have many high placing girls at the state tournament as many are ranked in the top 5 of their weight class according to InsideCo Wrestling. Shylee Tuzon holds the top spot at her weight class, 170 lbs, and is the only Phoenix wrestler with a season ranking of number 1. Tuzon had a 2nd place state finish last year along with Claris McCoy who were the team’s highest placers. Despite not having an individual state champ, Phoenix took the team title showing how deep the talent runs within the team and district.

There is much to be praised about this team, including the effort and discipline these athletes possess. Their strength as a team is untouched in Colorado which became evident in the 2024-2025 season. It is clear this team is here to stay… stay at the top that is.