Cumberland Valley’s Eliana White-Vega Wins Gold at First Ever Girls Wrestling PIAA State Championship
Seth Beardsley
Staff Writer
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Eliana White-Vega, a senior at CV High School, brought home gold at the first PIAA PA State Championship in girls wrestling history.
The win was actually her second time in the spotlight that day. The first was when
she sang the Nationl Anthem to begin the tournament.
Eliana went 37-1 this season being undefeated in PA with her only loss in Ohio. Eliana won the victory in the 124 pound finals after a hard fought match (10-8) over an opponent from Mariana Bracetti Academy at the Giant Center March 9.
Knowing it was going to be a tough match in front of a crowd of thousands, Eliana talked about her pre-match feelings.
“My heart was pounding but at the same time I felt immense peace knowing that I was given the opportunity to accomplish one of my goals in something that brings me so much joy. I knew this opponent was very seasoned and good, but I also knew that she was extremely kind and I always love wrestling her because of her humble disposition and incredible sportsmanship.”
As the buzzer sounded and the clock read zeros, Eliana only had one thought, “‘Thank. You. Jesus.’” Eliana said, “The match was extremely intense and utterly exhausting. Not even for a second could I spare relaxing or taking a breather. I needed every last second to win that match and I was so grateful that my mental toughness did not give in especially when I was not moving as I would have hoped to. I felt like God had gifted me with that win and the only thing running through my head was my appreciation for his grace towards me… and relief to be done haha I was so exhausted.”
Eliana also had the gift of her father coaching from the corner of the mat.
“My dad was very proud of me. More than anyone, he has seen the sacrifices I've made the past three years to get where I am now. He has seen the tears, the perseverance, the exhaustion, the heartbreak I've pushed through to be able to continue improving. He has supported me, believed in me, refined me, loved me, encouraged me, and listened to all my worries and thoughts in wrestling and life. He knows me in and out and he also knows how hard mentally and physically I was pushing that match. I was so happy about winning, but seeing the joy and pride in my fathers face before I hugged him sunk deeper than the Gold medal they put around my neck. I made my Dad proud; that is priceless. Although I know for sure he would have been proud of me regardless.
White-Vega led a host of CV wrestlers in the first ever girls' tournament.