Mar 8, 2025
Lillian Rumsey, Williamsport defeats Mai Graham, Southern Lehigh for third place during the PIAA Wrestling Championships in Hershey. DAVE KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette
HERSHEY – In the waning seconds of a second tiebreaker period, it seemed like Lillian Rumsey’s run at her second PIAA bronze had taken its finishing blow – a valiant effort thwarted by an incredible opponent. A match that had gone over six minutes without seeing a single point finally saw a score, as Southern Lehigh’s Mai Graham secured a reversal within the narrow thirty-second period.
But Rumsey didn’t see it that way.
In the next three seconds, she gathered her thoughts, getting to her stomach, then her hands. Her first attempt to roll out would find her back at square two but the next would put her in a better spot.
Establishing advantage, Graham would try to work her way out from under Rumsey. But the Millionaire would slam her back down underneath her before adjusting her positioning to secure the reversal. It was an effort that turned the momentum her way and she’d capitalize in the ensuing ultimate tiebreaker with the ride out.
“I knew if I wanted to win, I’d have to get an extra push and that’s what the last part of practices is,” said Rumsey on the effort. “I’m really glad that I didn’t finish fourth and fought through the last little bit and got third.”
CHRIS MANNING/Sun-Gazette Correspondent Williamsport’s Lillian Rumsey competes on Saturday in Hershey.
With the win, Rumsey secured her third states bronze, second under PIAA jurisdiction, to add to her repertoire of accolades. Heading into her senior season, the Millionaires holds an 88-3 career record, two District 4 titles, three regional titles and an absurd career win rate of .967.
“Definitely want to push a little more,” said Rumsey on her thoughts heading into next season.
CHRIS MANNING/Sun-Gazette Correspondent Williamsport’s coaches yell out to Lillian Rumsey during Saturday’s bout.
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