Coaching girls isn't the same as coaching boys. But most people don't realize that until they're in the thick of it. For Emily and Pete Dorman from No Excuses Sportswear, stepping into the world of girls wrestling opened their eyes to what was missing. Not only with proper and well fitting gear for girls, but also how we support and foster female athletes so they thrive. This conversation isn't just about singlets. It's about shifting the culture, raising the standard, and showing girls that they deserve more than being included. They deserve to be centered.

When my daughter first stepped into a wrestling room, I felt the deep respect this sport commands. Its tradition, toughness, and discipline have shaped generations of athletes. As a teacher, I’ve always valued the life lessons wrestling can offer: grit, resilience, accountability. But I also saw clearly that the system wasn’t built with girls in mind. From coaching to culture to uniforms, the unspoken message was that girls could participate, but only if they adapted to a model designed for boys. I’ve seen this from every angle: the educator, the parent, the coach, and now the advocate. And while I appreciate where the sport has come from, I’m determined to help shape where it goes next, into a future that makes room for every girl who wants to step on the mat.