Junior Ella Brown took fifth place at the IGHSAU (Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union) State Championships on February 2, 2024, at the Xtream Arena in Coralville, Iowa.

This was Brown’s second state appearance. In 2023, before going into state, she was undefeated with a record of 32-0 and ended her season going 35-2 and placing fifth at the championship.

“I’ve definitely grown mentally, and honestly this season has been the best I’ve ever done,” Brown said.

Brown has been wrestling since fourth grade while juggling other sports including bowling, gymnastics, basketball, soccer and softball. As Brown got older, she decided to stick with softball and wrestling.

With these sports having different seasons, it’s a little easier to balance during school, but playing all of them can create a packed schedule.

“It’s definitely hard to do off-season for both, so my schedule’s pretty full,” said Brown.

Brown was inspired by her little sister. When she was younger, she got tired of sitting at all her sister’s practices and decided to give wrestling a try. It started as a hobby but little did she know it would have such a big impact on her life. Wrestling would lead her to multiple state tournaments before the end of her junior year.

“She is handling tough matches and situations better with every tournament,” said Kennedy Girls Varsity Wrestling coach Craig Mallicoat. “Ella has also learned how to focus better in the practice room. This is helping other wrestlers focus on the sport as well.”

Brown is not only great at what she does but is also a supportive and caring teammate. She always makes an effort to make everyone feel included and takes the initiative to help others all the time.

“It doesn’t matter if it is a brand new wrestler or one with experience,” said Mallicoat. “Ella works hard to pass on her knowledge of the sport.”