CEDAR FALLS, Iowa — The University of Iowa women’s wrestling team showed impressive skill at the NWCA National Duals, finishing in third place after defeating No. 4 Grand Valley State, 26-15. Throughout the event, the Hawkeyes scored victories over five ranked opponents.
In the medal match against Grand Valley State, the competition began strong. Sterling Dias pulled off a notable upset at 103 pounds, winning 7-0 against Rayana Sahagun. Ava Bayless followed with a solid 6-0 win at 110 pounds.
At 117 pounds, fourth-ranked Brianna Gonzalez secured a technical fall against Libby Roberts, finishing with a dominating 10-0 score. However, 124-pound wrestler Isabella Marie Gonzales faced a setback, losing by fall to the second-ranked Sage Mortimer.
As the matches continued, top-ranked Karlee Brooks won decisively, securing an 8-3 decision over Aspen Blasko at 131 pounds. While Lilly Luft fell to Katerina Lange, who displayed her strength with a 10-0 technical fall, Cadence Diduch made a statement at 145 pounds, also winning by technical fall, 10-0.
In the heavier classes, Kennedy Blades continued the momentum for Iowa, winning by fall over Noelle Gaffney. Kylie Welker finished strong at 180 pounds with another technical fall, but Jaycee Foeller faced a tough battle at 207 pounds, losing to the fifth-ranked Sabrina Nauss.
Earlier, in their semifinal matchup against North Central College, the Hawkeyes struggled. Despite strong performances from Valarie Solorio and Karlee Brooks, Iowa ultimately lost 23-21. Particularly noteworthy was the upset win by Reese Larramendy at 145 pounds, who defeated the top-ranked Bella Mir with a late score.
After the event, head coach Clarissa Chun emphasized the need for resilience. “We have to rise and pick ourselves back up again,” she said.
The competition highlighted the growing talent in women’s wrestling. A recent survey indicated a 20% increase in female participation in wrestling at the youth level, reflecting a broader trend of acceptance and support for women in athletics. This evolution is evident not only in increased participation but also in rising viewer interest and attendance at women’s wrestling events.
Iowa’s next challenge will be the CK Mike Duroe Invitational on January 17, followed by home matches against Otterbein University and Lehigh. As the sport continues to gain traction, the Hawkeyes aim to build on their successes and keep pushing the boundaries of women’s wrestling.
For more about women’s wrestling progress, check out the National Wrestling Coaches Association for insights and statistics.
