Sophie Barnes Named First Inductee into the Lewis Central Girls Wrestling Hall of Fame
Posted January 12, 2026
Beginning this year, Lewis Central is proud to establish a new tradition by inducting one individual annually into the Lewis Central Girls Wrestling Hall of Fame—an honor reserved for those who were instrumental in building the program into the powerhouse it is today. It comes as no surprise that the inaugural inductee is Sophie Barnes.
Sophie Barnes was the pioneer of girls wrestling at Lewis Central. From the moment she stepped onto the mat as a freshman, she brought immediate notoriety, attention, and credibility to the program. Her talent, determination, and trailblazing spirit helped lay the foundation for what LC Girls Wrestling has become.
Throughout her high school career, Sophie achieved remarkable success. She was a four-time state medalist, a state finalist, and a Fargo Junior National All-American. She also made history as the first female wrestler at Lewis Central to earn the coveted “Animal” t-shirt and the first female wrestler to reach 100 career wins. Each milestone not only reflected her individual excellence but also elevated the visibility and respect of girls wrestling at LC.
After high school, Sophie continued her wrestling career at Iowa Western Community College, where she became a collegiate All-American and finished fourth in the nation in 2024—further solidifying her legacy as one of the program’s all-time greats.
If not for Sophie Barnes, Lewis Central Girls Wrestling would not look the way it does today. Her impact extends beyond her competitive accomplishments. Sophie is currently a senior at Bellevue University, majoring in Business Analysis Management, and she has returned to Lewis Central as the Assistant Coach for the Girls High School Wrestling program, continuing to shape and inspire the next generation of wrestlers.
Please join us in giving a round of applause to the first inductee into the Lewis Central Girls Wrestling Hall of Fame—Sophie Barnes!
