SPEARFISH, S.D. — The Spearfish Spartans Girls Wrestling team delivered a strong performance on their home mat, earning a 51–29 dual victory over the Aberdeen Central Golden Eagles before turning their attention to the Rapid City Invitational later in the week.
After dropping a few early weights to forfeit, the Spartans quickly found their rhythm and took control of the dual with a stretch of decisive wins in the middle and upper weights.
At 110 pounds, Morgan Little ignited the home crowd with a quick pin over Caylee Claymore, ending the match in just 42 seconds. Spearfish continued to build momentum at 125, where Jayden Werlinger secured a fall at 3:37, followed by Candice Matsuda (130) and Kimberlyn Heisler (135), who both earned pins to swing the dual firmly in the Spartans’ favor.
One of the night’s most competitive bouts came at 140 pounds, where Mathilde Matsuda battled to an 8–5 decision over Rakyrah Wallace, showing strong control and composure late in the match. The Spartans kept piling on points at 145 and 155, with Harlow McCauley and Makita Raysor each recording falls to extend the lead.
In the upper weights, Spearfish picked up valuable team points through forfeits at 190 and 235 pounds, with Marlee Heltzel and Megyn Musselman credited with victories. Although Aberdeen Central earned a pin at 170 pounds, Spearfish responded with bonus-match success, as Jillian Heisler picked up two extra-match pins at 130 and 135 to close out the evening on a high note.
With the home dual wrapped up, the Spartans carried that momentum into the Rapid City Invitational, gaining valuable mat time and competition against a deep field of teams. The combination of depth across the lineup and multiple wrestlers capable of earning bonus points continues to be a strength for Spearfish as the season progresses.
The Spartans will look to build on this performance as they prepare for upcoming duals and tournaments in the heart of the season.