Decatur, IL – Millikin University Women's Wrestling made history on Thursday night, when the Big Blue took the mat for the first time against Blackburn College. Millikin dominated the night, winning the first dual in program history by a score of 36-10.
 
Tessa Donaldson opened the night at 103 pounds with the first bout win in program history, defeating Kenzie Goodman via a 10-0 tech fall. After Blackburn responded with a win via fall at 110 to take the lead 5-4, J Colbert scored another 10-0 tech fall victory to put Millikin back in front. Leading 8-5, Ava Babbs pinned her opponent in 50 seconds at 124. Coupled with a win for Anika Lair by forfeit at 131, Millikin's lead ballooned to 17 points at 22-5.

Entering the back half of the card, Kyla Johnson kept the momentum for Millikin with a 10-0 tech fall win. Natalin Hout won by forfeit at 145, before Blackburn scored another win by fall at 160. Faith Barrett won the last contested bout of the night at 180, a 10-0 tech fall victory. Berlynn Te'Rinah Solia-Tago claimed the final bout by forfeit at 207, and the final score rested at 36-10 in Millikin's favor.

"What an exciting and historic night for both programs, and for the continued growth of women's wrestling." Said Director of Wrestling Ryan Birt. "To see so many fans come out and support these women, and recognize the hard work being put in at both schools was really special. I'm incredibly proud of our women, and the work they've put in since day one. From early morning lifts to everything they do in the wrestling room. To see that pay off with a win in our first dual is something we'll always remember. It's a great first step for our program, and we're excited to see what lies ahead for Millikin women's wrestling."

The Big Blue improve to 1-0 with the win, and will take on Illinois Wesleyan in the program's first dual against a CCIW opponent on Sunday in Bloomington.