Ava Babbs, champion turned coach. She was a previous All-State Wrestler, placing third in 2024. She is one of the main reasons Lakes Girls Wrestling is as successful as it is today. She was one of the first members of the team and helped lead them to a victory at State. Now she has come back to Lakes after graduating in 2024 to be the head coach of the Girls Wrestling team. 

Coming back to wrestling has given Babbs the opportunity to give back to the sport in a new way. 

“It’s definitely a full circle moment.”

“Coming back to the program as a coach, learning from the coaches who developed me as an athlete in new ways, and coaching former teammates has been an incredible experience,” Babbs said.

This year, the team has the largest roster in Lakes Girls Wrestling history. Babbs has made a tremendous impact on the girls this season and has helped them achieve a winning record and tournament champions at the Lakes Snow Brawl. The effect Babbs has been able to make to the team is large in part to her past experience as a player. 

“My past experience has been valuable this year. Having been in the same spot, I understand the nerves, the pressure, and the demands of the sport,” Babbs said.

Her experience and leadership are game-changers when it comes to developing the wrestlers. 

“Having one of their own ex-eagles that’s been through the same as them gives her instant credibility with the wrestlers,” Boys Wrestling Coach Mark Stave said.

Coach Ava Babbs will forever be remembered in Lakes Girls Wrestling for her own accomplishments as an athlete and now as a coach. The team and Lakes as a whole are lucky to have her as an Alumni and coach, and hope to have her experience and leadership for a long time to come.