Evelyn Holmes-Smith wins second straight state title

ENTERPRISE, Ala. (WTVY) – Girls’ wrestling is a growing sport here in the state of Alabama, and a freshman from Enterprise is etching her name in the history books.

Evelyn Holmes-Smith is now a two-time Alabama Girls Wrestling State Champion after sweeping her competition in the 116-pound weight class over the weekend.

“It’s really amazing,” Holmes-Smith said. “You know, that was my goal for this year and to know that I’ve accomplished that means I’ve worked hard and that feels really good to me.”

Holmes-Smith climbed to the top step of the tournament podium after pinning her opponent just 45 seconds into the championship game.

“I just wanted to be done with it, and I didn’t really want to mess around or get caught up in anything,” Holmes-Smith said. “So I just went over there and did what I was supposed to do.”

Corporate wrestling head coach Matt Pipkins added: “It’s hugely impressive. This athleticism has taken her so far that you know, once she truly perfects the art of wrestling, she will be unstoppable.

Holmes-Smith is now the very first Enterprise wrestler in program history to win back-to-back state titles.

“People will look at that wall and they’ll be like, ‘I want to be like her and I want to wrestle,'” Holmes-Smith said. “It just inspires more people to get out here on the mat and try this sport.”

An unreal athlete on the mat, Holmes-Smith doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon with three years remaining as a Wildcat wrestler.

“I would like to continue to be a five-time state champion in high school and then hopefully wrestle in college and even the Olympics.”

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