On Iowa women’s wrestling media day, Iowa women’s wrestling coach Clarissa Chun addressed the upcoming season. The team returns nine All-Americans, including four defending national champions, and welcomes seven freshmen and four transfers.
Chun highlighted the benefits of training in the new state-of-the-art Goschke Center and emphasized the importance of continuous improvement, rather than focusing solely on outcomes. She praised transfer Kennedy Blades for her quick integration into the team and discussed the growth of leadership within the program, particularly from the current juniors who have embraced guiding the newcomers.
Chun also addressed the hunger and competitive spirit of the incoming freshmen, noting their desire to challenge for starting positions. Chun reflected on the culture established at Iowa, which has attracted top recruits and transfers, and expressed a desire to see more Division I programs, especially in Power Five conferences, add women’s wrestling. She also gave an update on injuries, stating that Nyla Valencia and Haley Ward will be out for the season but the rest of the roster is ready.
Chun concluded by discussing the importance of international training opportunities, mentioning the recent collaboration with the Canadian team and last year’s experience with the Ukrainian team. She also previewed the upcoming U23 World Championships, where three Hawkeyes will compete, including Macey Kilty, Kylie Welker, and Skye Realin.
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Short Time Wrestling Podcast: Episode 755 – Recorded October 15, 2024 by the University of Iowa