Rutherford Girls Junior Wrestling was created to give girls across the Meadowlands region the opportunity to learn wrestling in a supportive, structured, and empowering environment designed specifically for them.
What makes RGJW unique is our committment to developing the whole athlete–combining quality wrestling instruction with our signature Girls Empowerment & Healthy Lifestyle Series, designed to help young athletes build confidence, wellness, leadership skills, and resilience both on and off the mat. Every girl should feel supported, encouraged, and proud of their progress.
Our program is built on a simple belief: when girls are given the right environment, they grow stronger—not just as athletes, but as confident, resilient individuals.
What Makes Our Program Different
Rutherford Girls Junior Wrestling is more than just a sports program.
Led By Women. Built for girls.
We provide a space designed specifically for girls, by girls, where athletes can feel comfortable learning, growing, and building confidence.
Beginner-Friendly Approach
No experience is needed. We meet each athlete where they are and build skills step by step.
Whole Athlete Development
In addition to wrestling, we focus on confidence, mindset, leadership, and personal growth.
Healthy Lifestyle & Empowerment Series
Our program includes guest speakers and sessions on topics like confidence, nutrition, mental wellness, and positive self-image—supporting development both on and off the mat.
Why Girls Wrestling
Girls wrestling is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, with increasing opportunities at the youth, high school, and collegiate levels.
Starting young helps girls build:
- Confidence and self-belief
- Discipline and mental toughness
- Strength and coordination
- The courage to take on new challenges
Wrestling teaches girls how to push through obstacles, believe in themselves, and succeed—skills that carry into every part of life.
Program Leadership
Michele Daly brings over 25 years of professional experience in social work, program management, and community engagement. She holds an advanced degree in direct practice with children and families, as well as an advanced degree in educational technology. Her background informs the intentional structure of Rutherford Girls Junior Wrestling, particularly its emphasis on youth development, emotional wellness, and family engagement.
As a disabled woman who utilizes a power wheelchair, Michele understands firsthand the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and equitable opportunity. These principles are not add-ons — they are foundational to the program’s design, facility selection, communication practices, and overall culture.
She is also the mother of an 8-year-old daughter who has competed in wrestling for the past three years. This lived experience as a wrestling parent reinforces the program’s commitment to creating a safe, empowering, and developmentally appropriate environment for young female athletes.
Guided by values of athlete safety, inclusion, professionalism, and sustainable growth, the program also collaborates with experienced wrestling coaches and community mentors who support athlete development and safety.
Building Something Special
We are proud to be building a program that supports girls and families across the Meadowlands region.
Whether your daughter is trying wrestling for the first time or looking to grow her skills, Rutherford Girls Junior Wrestling is a place where she can belong, build confidence, and discover her strength.
Have a question about Rutherford Girls Junior Wrestling? We’re here to help.