Arianna Stallworth appreciates what a difference a year can make on the mats.

In her first year at the varsity level last season, the current junior posted an overall 9-7 record. This season, Stallworth has gained a better sense of comfortability and already doubled his win total with an 18-7 record.

Stallworth credited working on her neutral position and taking more shots as a major change toward her success. She was the runner-up in her 1118-pound weight class at the War of the Shore tournament in Maryland Jan. 10.

“My season is going pretty good,” beamed Stallworth. “I’ve seen a lot of improvement from last season. I do feel more confident, although I do doubt myself occasionally. I’m trying to work on that.

“I feel I am improving as it is only my second year, but I am wrestling the best I have in the last year.”

Aeriel, her sister and a district and regional qualifier, has played a big role in her overall development. “Aeriel has been an extreme factor in helping me improve as a wrestler, mentally and physically,” stressed the younger Stallworth. “She serves as a challenge when wrestling with each other in the room, but constantly wrestling someone like her has made me better. She pushes me to do better no matter what, she tells me I can when I say I can’t, and she is always in my corner cheering me on.”

Her older sister, who has a 12-3 record this season, has shared in her sister’s success.

“She is having a really great season,” boasted Stallworth of her younger sister. “I’m so proud of her.”

Head coach Mike Rusnock has been pleased with his team’s overall effort. They placed fourth as a team at the War of the Shore tournament, and Ashlie Montano-Giron (155) and Esmeralda Serrano (170) were also runners-up along with Stallworth.

“They have been wrestling great lately,” said Rusnock of his team. “Arianna has been consistent all year, and she has really made improvements. Ashlie and Esmeralda also have been very consistent.”

Rusnock also cited how first-year wrestlers Anaiz Espinal (190) and Madison Beirele (190-235) have quickly made an impact. Beirele’s pin at 235 secured a win over Wilson Jan. 22.

“Anaiz Espinal is a newcomer and has acclimated quickly to the sport,” said Rusnock. “Madison Beierle did sign up for wrestling last year, but suffered a season-ending injury at the start of last season. This is her first real year practicing and wrestling. She just had a great win against Wilson to guarantee a team win.”

Rusnock likes his team’s chances in the upcoming postseason. The District 11 tournament is Feb. 14-15 at Freedom.

“We’re dealing with some pain and injuries, but we should be healing up now for our last stretch of the season,” said Rusnock. “Our lineup is all set for districts for the most part. We have three girls between 124 and 130, and we still need to finalize that for the tournament.”