MANSFIELD — Superintendent Teresa Murphy, Athletic Director Tim Selmon, and Principal Russ Booth are proud to announce that Tessa Johnson has become the first female wrestler in Mansfield High School history to win a state championship title.
Tessa, a junior, secured the MIAA Division 2 State Championship title in the 145-pound weight class on Saturday, Feb. 22, at Salem High School.
After finishing third in the same competition last year, Tessa returned to the championship with determination and resilience, earning the top seed in this year’s tournament. She went undefeated, winning all three of her matches by pin, including a final victory against Agawam High School freshman Gabriella Ramos in under two minutes.
“Tessa’s dedication, skill, and mental toughness make her a truly special athlete,” said Head Wrestling Coach Mike Pailler. “She combines sound technical wrestling with strong conditioning and the ability to adapt to her opponents. In the finals, her opponent came out aggressive, but Tessa’s endurance and technique carried her to victory. She embraces the hard work, manages the mental challenges of the sport, and does it all with a smile.”
Tessa also finished in second place in the All-State Tournament held at Methuen High School on March 1. She finished in second place in the same tournament the previous year as well. Now, Tessa will go on to compete in the Girls' New England Tournament on March 8-9.
During the regular season, Tessa wrestled primarily in junior varsity competitions, winning most of her matches, and she has previously competed in the boys’ varsity lineup as well. Despite suffering a broken nose in practice earlier this season, she continued competing while wearing a protective mask and remained dominant throughout. Tessa excelled in girls’ competitions throughout the season, going undefeated in her pool of wrestlers at the Brendan Grant Invitational and then securing a victory at the Hockomock League Showcase.
These performances, along with her fourth-place finish in last year’s New England Tournament, earned her the top seed and set her up for success in this year MIAA Division 2 State Championship.
In addition to her championship victory, Tessa has been a key part of Mansfield’s wrestling program for the past three years. Mansfield’s wrestling program has continued to grow, with 21 athletes competing at the varsity and junior varsity levels this season. While the team faced challenges against more experienced opponents, strong performances from younger wrestlers, including Tessa, have positioned the program for future success.
Principal Russ Booth, Athletic Director Tim Selmon and Superintendent Teresa Murphy each commended Tessa on her MIAA Division 2 State Championship victory, calling it a milestone for Mansfield High School athletics.
“Tessa’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence have culminated in this historic achievement,” said Principal Booth. “Her success not only brings immense pride to our school, but it also may encourage other girls to pursue wrestling at Mansfield High.”
“This is a major accomplishment, showcasing Tessa’s ability to compete and triumph on the biggest stage for high school wrestling,” said Athletic Director Selmon. “Tessa consistently gives 100% at practice, matches, and tournaments. She’s the epitome of a competitor. She exemplifies what being a Hornet is all about. We hope her success inspires more female wrestlers within the Mansfield Public Schools community.”
“Congratulations to Tessa on this historic victory," said Superintendent Murphy. “I'd like to take this moment to also thank Head Wrestling Coach Mike Pailler, AD Selmon and all of our coaches who help provide a supportive environment for all of our student athletes to excel. Let's go Hornets!”
Photo: Mansfield High School junior Tessa Johnson won the 2025 MIAA Division 2 State Championship for girls wrestling in the 145-pound weight class at Salem High School on Feb. 22. (Photo courtesy Mansfield Public Schools)