Glow Night lights the way: ’Berg shows up for Women’s Wrestling historic debut

The lights were low – it was Glow Night – but the energy inside Seiberling Gymnasium was absolutely electric as Heidelberg University hosted its first-ever NCAA Women’s Wrestling match Wednesday night. The milestone moment followed the Men’s Wrestling team’s home opener, making for a thrilling doubleheader under the spotlight.

The stands were packed, the crowd was loud, and 'Berg pride was palpable. Despite final scores that favored John Carroll (37–11 for the men, 40–10 for the women), the night was all about celebration and community.

Adding to the excitement, two of Heidelberg’s VPs – Provost Dr. Courtney DeMayo Pugno and Ashley Helmstetter, VP for Advancement, Marketing, Alumni, and Community Relations – took to the mat for a special exhibition match to raise awareness and funds for the Women’s Wrestling program. After weeks of practice with Coach CarrieAnn Randolph and her team, the friendly showdown lived up to its billing.

Students, faculty and staff, alumni and friends rallied behind a “Choose Your Champion” campaign, backing either Team Courtney or Team Ashley. When the dust settled, Ashley edged out a 7–6 win – but the real victory came in the form of incredible support for Heidelberg’s newest athletic team. In total, $6,300 was raised to fuel the future of Women’s Wrestling at Heidelberg.

“I thought last night was phenomenal,” CarrieAnn said. “I’m really proud of Ashley and Courtney’s match. They overcame nerves … and tried something new. They also pushed their bodies and discovered strength and capabilities they didn’t realize they had.

“I loved having their daughters (Rosie Pugno and Miley Helmstetter) participate and see that example too!”

Courtney and Ashley will long remember the support they received for their efforts. “The support reminds me what a special community Heidelberg is,” Courtney said. “Last night was so much fun. It was great to support Coach CarrieAnn and the team, and to be able to help set them up for success was truly an honor.”

Ashley agreed: “Last night’s match was more than just great competition. It was a chance to show our support for our Women’s Wrestling team,” she said. “I’m deeply grateful to our donors, alumni, students, and community members who came out to cheer, contribute, and invest in the growth of this exciting new program. I’m especially honored to have been joined in this idea by my friend and colleague, Courtney DeMayo Pugno.”

CarrieAnn hopes the impact of last night is long-lasting. “My hope is that we grow interest and support for not only our women's wrestling team but women's wrestling as a whole. I definitely think we accomplished that last night!” 

While both VPs were more than willing to take on the challenge, they are now happy to return to cheering from the sidelines. But one thing’s clear: this was a night to remember, and just the beginning for Heidelberg Women’s Wrestling.