​Cleveland High School’s wrestling teams make history

On Saturday, Cleveland High School boys’ and girls’ wrestling teams became the first to win both the duals and traditional TSSAA Class AA State Tournament. Officials from TSSAA said it’s the first time this has happened in the Volunteer State. 

In fact, it's likely this is the first time this has happened in the country. 

“Given the relatively short history of separate girls wrestling tournaments in most of the country, combined with the double victories in individual and dual-meet tournaments, it’s very likely this is the first time that it's happened,” officials from NFHS said. 

The Blue Raiders won their 6th consecutive traditional title with 190 points. The Lady Blue Raiders secured the girls’ second state traditional title by finishing with 134 points. 

“I’m glad to be a part of this historical moment. Cleveland has always been a family and this is no different,” Boys Head Coach Joey Knox said. “It was special to watch the guys cheer for the girls and the girls cheer for the guys.” 

“I’m thankful to be a part of a wrestling community that is as passionate as the coaches and athletes,” Girls Head Coach Josh Bosken said. “We’re ready to chase another state title next year.”

It comes amid the 50th anniversary of the Title IX Law of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs and activities. Tennessee was one of the first states to sanction high school girls wrestling. 

Athletics Director Al Morris said their girls’ wrestling team continues to pave the way for future female wrestling programs.

“Women's wrestling is one of the fastest-growing sports in our country. I am proud Cleveland City Schools has embraced the change and has been an essential component to the evolution of women's opportunities,” Morris said. “The girls have continuously grown and shown how passionate they are and just how much they belong in the sport. A lot of this does not happen without key supporters such as our administration, coaches, Allan Jones, Mark Smith, and all of the families who have given the blessing to allow their daughters to try something new."