NCC women’s wrestling ready to defend national title

The NCC women’s wrestling squad expects victory throughout the season in their pursuit to defend their national title. This is especially important for the team considering that in 2023, multiple wrestlers secured All-American status. Among them are Jaslynn Gallegos, ’24, and Kendra Ryan, ’25, both in the 109-pound weight category. Amani Jones, ’25, returns in the 123-pound weight class. and Sara Sterner, ’25, in the 130-pound weight class.

Coach Joe Norton has set ambitious goals for the upcoming season. However, the objectives remain consistent with previous years. There is a focus on achieving an undefeated record in dual meets. As a result, Norton expects the squad to capture the National Duals title in January. This would lead to clinching the National Collegiate Women’s Wrestling Championship (NCWWC) in March. Norton aspires to see some of the team’s athletes qualify for the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team.

Meticulous additions

The Cardinals’ goals become attainable with the addition of talented newcomers to the team. The new season has brought 14 freshmen, along with the 34 returners. Among those returners, Niya Gaines, ’24, and Asia Nguyen-Smith, ’24, will both be back from injury. This season, NCC also welcomes four new transfers hailing from different parts of the country.

Sarina Bertam, ’25, joins from William Jewell College, where she achieved a 2-2 record in the National Tournament in 2022. Tatum Heikkila, ’25, a 2021-2022 NCWWC All-American, transferred from Colorado Mesa University. She finished seventh in the National Tournament during her freshman year. Larissa Gallo, ’25, a two-time All-American, made the move from Iowa Western College. Dasia Yearby, ’26, formerly of Limestone College, is another addition to NCC this season. 

“We were meticulous in recruiting them in order to ensure that we got the right batch of freshmen and transfers, and we nailed it,” said Norton.

Leadership Values

The team has identified key leaders who are instrumental in steering their path to success. Norton says that Ryan, Jones, Emma Grimm, ’25, Yele Aycock, ’25 and Sydney Petzinger, ’25, have already demonstrated their potential.

Last season, Jones tied her freshman record for most wins in the program at 35. She is number one in her weight class.

In addition to Jones, Norton expects Grimm to surprise many this season. The efforts of Aycock, Ryan and Petzinger continue to serve as a source of motivation for the entire team. This sets the stage for a promising season ahead.

Cardinals’ wrestling team impresses with strong start to season

The Cardinals hold the top contender spot. Their eagerness to showcase their skills and determination on their home turf was prominent when 26 Wrestlers opened their season by placing in their respective weight classes. On Nov. 4., at the Pointer Open hosted by UW-Stevens Point, several Cardinals stood out with exceptional performances.

Maddie Avila, ‘26, won first place in the 101-pound weight class. Meanwhile, Ryan also claimed first place in the 109-pound division. The 116-pound weight class showcased Janessa George, ’27, coming back in her bout. She earned third place. The 123-pound class saw Jones emerge victorious, and Sterner secured second place in the 130-pound division. Lastly, Aycock succeeded in the 136-pound weight class, ultimately taking first place.

The Cards’ next event in their efforts to defend their national title will be against Adrian College on Nov. 11.