Waterman makes history as Republic’s first state girls wrestling qualifier

Millie Waterman became the first girl in Republic history to qualify for the state wrestling tournament, finishing fourth at 120 pounds in the Class 2 District 3 tournament at Belton, Saturday.
Waterman secured her state berth by defeating Nixa’s Abigail Weitzel 7–3. The win avenged Waterman’s loss to Weitzel at the Central Ozark Conference tournament one week earlier.
“It felt pretty amazing. I’m really, really excited for state. I’m very proud of myself,” Waterman said.
The breakthrough came after Waterman fell one win short of qualifying as a sophomore last year, losing in the bubble match that could have earned her a state berth.
Three other Republic wrestlers won multiple matches at districts. Bre-Elle Gutierrez went 3–2 with three pins at 110 pounds. Gabby Shanks at 135 pounds and Abby Horn at 130 pounds each finished 2–2, with all wins coming by fall.
“This group of girls has been outstanding. They’re setting the tone for future success, and [Waterman] showing that resilience and being able to get a win against someone that beat her in conference says a lot about the direction of our program,” Republic coach Eric Nolan said