As the Royals girls wrestling season is in full swing, one athlete has emerged as a standout among the rest. Freshman Jaelyn Fowler has been competing at the varsity level all season, an impressive accomplishment for a first-year high school wrestler. Through 21 matches, Fowler has posted a strong 14–7 record.

However, success did not come easily for Fowler. During her middle school years, she struggled to find wins. “My last two years of wrestling, I was new and barely won,” Fowler said. “My middle school record was 11–24.” Despite those early challenges, Fowler used them as motivation rather than setbacks.

After a year of preparation, Fowler entered her freshman season with a new mindset. “During my freshman season, I learned very quickly that I must put in the work if I want to win and improve—the work won’t do itself,” she said. That dedication and willingness to compete at a high level have propelled Fowler into becoming a key contributor to the Royals wrestling team.

Wrestling at the varsity level is no easy feat, especially as a freshman, but Fowler has battled her way to a winning record. With each victory, her confidence continued to grow. “Then I started winning, and all my confidence was back,” Fowler said.

While Fowler has already achieved success this season, she has her sights set on even bigger goals. She hopes to leave a lasting legacy during her freshman year while laying the foundation for future success. “For the remainder of my freshman season, I hope I make sectionals, maybe regionals, and the goal would be state,” Fowler said.

Although winning and competition are major parts of who Fowler is as an athlete, she values the sport and her teammates just as much. “Regardless, I am so thankful for whatever my outcome may be and how far my coaches and teammates have taken me,” she said. “I will continue to lift and wrestle in the offseason to keep getting better and better.”