With a swift takedown and a decisive pin, Alliance senior Abigail Mozden is heading to the OHSAA girls’ state wrestling championship match at 135 pounds. Mozden secured her spot in the finals with a dominant 1:07 pin over Marysville’s Addi Lyon in Saturday’s semifinals, setting the stage for a chance at state gold on Sunday night in Columbus.
For Mozden, the victory is more than just a personal milestone—it’s the culmination of years of dedication and family influence. Wrestling runs deep in the Mozden household, and Abigail has drawn strength from her older brother, Aidan, who won the OHSAA Division II state championship last season as a heavyweight.
“Watching Aidan win it all last year was a huge inspiration,” Abigail said. “He’s been my biggest supporter, always pushing me to get better. Having him in my corner means everything.”
Abigail’s wrestling journey has been shaped by relentless determination. Before girls’ wrestling was sanctioned in Ohio, she struggled to gain recognition and bowed out at districts her freshman year. But she refused to be discouraged. Now, she stands one match away from claiming the same title her brother did just a year ago.
“I remember feeling like I had so much more to prove,” she said. “Now, to be here, it just feels surreal.”
Wrestling is a family affair for the Mozdens, with an uncle and cousins also involved in the sport. Yet, perhaps no bond is stronger than the one Abigail shares with her twin sister, Adilyn. The two have trained side by side for years, pushing each other to be their best. But Adilyn’s path to the finals was cut short when she was pinned in 2:36 by Gahanna Lincoln’s KyLee Tibbs in the semifinals. Adilyn is still guaranteed a podium finish.
“She’s my best friend, and I wouldn’t want to do this without her,” Abigail said. “We’ve been through it all together. I know how hard she worked, and I’m so proud of her.”
Now, with the championship within reach, she’s focused on staying aggressive and seizing her moment.
“I know I have to be locked in,” she said. “This is everything I’ve worked for. I just have to go out there and wrestle my match.”
As Abigail Mozden steps onto the mat Sunday night, she carries with her not only the aspirations of a state title but the support of a wrestling family that has shaped her into the competitor she is today.
