Q. How and why did you start wrestling?

A. I wish I had a super cool story on how I started wrestling, but in reality I just started because when I saw my brother do it, it looked so fun, and I knew I could do it too. As for why I do wrestling, I couldn’t really imagine not doing it. It’s become part of who I am, and I enjoy the sport so much.

Q. Do you have any memorable moments in your wrestling career?

A. For me, every practice, every meet is memorable. But if I had to pick one moment, it would have to be in my second year of wrestling, when I was in 7^th grade. I wrestled this kid who had beat me before. So I was nervous before the match had started, not to mention I had gotten braces the day before so my mouth was in horrendous pain. Anyway, halfway through the match the kid hit me in the mouth, so there I was, bloody mouth and wanting to win more than ever. Well, the match went into double overtime and in the last 10 or 15 seconds I got a takedown which put the score at 4-6 and I had won. I’d never been so exhausted yet so proud of myself.

Q. Do you have a mentor, if so who?

A. My mentor most definitely is my dad. He’s been the one encouraging me and supporting me since day one, not just in wrestling but everything, and I couldn’t be more lucky to have such an amazing inspiration.

Q. How has your current season been?

A. Well, since I wrestle the lowest weight class, 106, there’s not always someone for me to wrestle, so I get the occasional forfeit, but my record is somewhere around 7-9. I’m just a freshman, so I know I have a lot more work ahead of me to be the wrestler that I want to be.

Q. Do you have a pre-match playlist, and if so who’s on it?

A. I love music, but when I’m warming up I prefer to be without it so I can be more focused. […] If by chance I do have my earphones in during a meet, it’s usually Beyoncé or Miley Cyrus.

Q. What’s your pre-match snack?

A. Usually a Coke, some Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and a bag of Skittles. I keep it simple.

Q. Do you have any advice to girls wanting to join wrestling?

A. Go for it! Too many girls want to join but don’t because they’re afraid of what people might say. Becoming part of the team was one the best things I’ve ever done. Forget what everyone says and do what you’re passionate about.