On Saturday, Feb. 22, at Beaumont High School, Rim High sophomore Hailey Chapman qualified for the state wrestling championship for the second year in a row.

The difference this year was Hailey did so as the 121-pound champion, becoming the school’s first female CIF SS Masters champion. The last time Rim had a male Masters champion was 18 years ago.

Hailey dominated the competition with four pins through to the semi-finals against San Dimas, Valley View, La Mirada and Ventura. which guaranteed her place in the top eight of the Southern Section. During the finals match, she earned a decision against Tan from MLK that placed her at the top of the podium.

Hailey is having a stellar season with a 36-4 record and 27 pins. She is the San Andreas League champion, CIF SS individuals champion and now Masters champion.

“I’m so proud of her!” said Pete Ferrara, Rim’s head wrestling coach. “She put a lot of time in training this summer and during the wrestling season – it’s paying off! She is a joy to work with and fun to be around.

“Rim Wrestling is very proud to have an outstanding young woman like Hailey to represent us at the state tournament on Thursday!” Ferrera added.

Hailey heads to the state finals in Bakersfield from Feb. 27-29 where she will compete against the top 32 female wrestlers in her bracket.