As wrestling season kicks off, the Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS) girls wrestling program is growing stronger, thanks to the support of the community and the dedication of Coach Kendric Birden. Taking on the role as head coach for the girls’ wrestling team this year, Birden has already made a significant impact, recruiting 40 girls […]
As wrestling season kicks off, the Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS) girls wrestling program is growing stronger, thanks to the support of the community and the dedication of Coach Kendric Birden. Taking on the role as head coach for the girls’ wrestling team this year, Birden has already made a significant impact, recruiting 40 girls from 10 middle schools in the district. His primary goal is to make the sport accessible to all, regardless of financial constraints.
“My purpose for middle school girls is just development, have fun, and teach the sport,” Birden explained. “Just to believe in yourself and know you can do anything if you just try.”
Birden and his coaching staff noticed that some girls were coming to practice in street clothes due to a lack of appropriate athletic gear. In response, they put out a call for donations, requesting items like shoes, sports bras, and compression shorts to ensure that every athlete could participate comfortably and confidently. Within days, the wrestling community and local supporters stepped in to meet the team’s needs, demonstrating the tight-knit support network around the sport.
“My girls don’t come from mansions. Sometimes their parents have just enough to cover bills, so there isn’t extra for sports equipment,” Birden said. “That’s my purpose—to give these metro kids and urban kids the same opportunity that suburban kids have.”
With 75% of the DMPS student population qualifying for free and reduced lunch, the need for support is critical. Birden’s call for help was answered by the wrestling community, which he describes as “huge” and always willing to lend a hand. “It was just amazing,” Birden remarked, grateful for the outpouring of donations. “If you ask for help, they will. That’s just how the wrestling community is.”
A former wrestler and Hoover High School alum, Birden is not only focused on building a strong team but also on expanding girls’ wrestling opportunities throughout the district. He hopes to establish a wrestling program at every high school in Des Moines and is currently seeking sponsorships to support his vision. With a team wishlist and ongoing community support, he’s optimistic about growing the program further.
The DMPS middle school girls wrestling team will showcase their skills on November 7, with their first competition following on November 21. Meanwhile, the high school girls team will officially start their season on November 4, equipped and ready for success.
