ELMHURST, Ill. – The Elmhurst University women's wrestling team battled through a hard-fought dual against Manchester University, falling 34–16 in its home opener but showing bright flashes across several weight classes, including four victories by fall.

At 103 pounds, Claire Crouch started the evening on a high note, earning a win by forfeit to put Elmhurst on the board early. Manchester then answered with a string of falls before the Bluejays mounted a strong mid-dual response.

At 131 pounds, Bella Curcuru put together a determined performance, earning Elmhurst's first contested win of the night with a 13–2 technical fall at 4:44, showcasing relentless offense from start to finish.

The Bluejays continued their momentum in the upper weights. Lily Avalos (160 lbs.) dominated her match, recording a first-period fall in 1:43 to secure six team points, while Juliana Lefort (180 lbs.) followed suit with a pin at 2:08 after taking control midway through the first period. Anjali Gonzalez closed the dual with a decisive 45-second fall at 207 pounds, giving Elmhurst four pins or technical falls on the night.

Despite the final score, Elmhurst's young lineup displayed energy, fight, and resilience early into the season, with multiple wrestlers showing improved offensive attacks and mat composure against a seasoned Manchester squad.

The Bluejays return to the mat next Tuesday November, 18th at 6:00 pm, looking to build on their aggressive start and turn strong individual performances into dual victories.