Sophomore Cameron Lord has been wrestling for just a year and a half, but she’s already made her mark by earning a spot at the district duel, competing for a chance to go to states. Reflecting on the experience, she said, “District duals went well! We won one of our duals and were just a few points away from getting second and qualifying for regionals. It was one of our teammate’s 100th wins, so that was a really cool thing to celebrate too. Overall, everyone wrestled well, and it was a lot of fun.”
Even as a relatively new wrestler, Cameron has faced her share of challenges. “Losing is a really tough part of wrestling. When you’re out there on the mat, it’s just you against the other person, so all the pressure is on your shoulders. Sometimes losses are hard to deal with, especially at big tournaments. Losing can really mess with my mindset, but I just have to reset, fix my focus, and get ready for the next match,” she shared.
Despite the challenges, Cameron’s passion for wrestling is unwavering. “I love wrestling for so many reasons. First of all, the people. My team is like my second family, and I don’t know what I’d do without them,” she said.
Although her wrestling journey is just beginning, Cameron already has made a lot of memories: “I’ve made so many friends and had so many great matches, so it’s hard to choose. But one of my favorites has to be qualifying for states my freshman year. It was my first year wrestling, so no one really expected it. It was such an amazing feeling to realize I’d made it to the big tournament I have been working toward all year. All my teammates were there, and I was so happy to share that moment with them and to make my parents and coaches proud. There have been so many moments like this since, but that one stands out because it was my first.”
For Cameron, wrestling is about more than just the sport. It’s the challenge that keeps her coming back, even during tough practices when all she wants to do is go home. She knows the payout will be worth it. Wrestling helps her reach my goals, builds her confidence, and reminds her of how hard she has worked to get here. “Honestly, I don’t know what I would do without this sport.” shared Cameron.
