Jessica Waln, a senior at Maȟpíya Lúta High School, has faced more than her share of challenges this wrestling season. After suffering a knee injury that sidelined her for over a month, Waln refused to give up on her senior year. With sheer determination, relentless work, and an unyielding love for the sport, she made a triumphant return at the Presho Invitational, one of the toughest tournaments of the season.
During her recovery, Waln struggled with being unable to wrestle. “Every day since my injury, I begged my coaches, trainer, and parents to let me wrestle,” she shared. “I cried so many times, but eventually, I just accepted it.” Despite the heartbreak, Waln remained committed to her team, attending every practice and tournament to coach and support her teammates. Helping others improve also helped her stay sharp, as she reinforced the fundamentals by teaching them to others.
Determined to return stronger, Waln threw herself into rehabilitation. She did daily exercises to strengthen her knee and gradually regained her ability to walk, run, and climb stairs. With her sights set on the Presho Invitational, she told everyone, “I’m going to wrestle at Presho.” It took considerable convincing, but she earned the opportunity to compete—and she made the most of it.
At the tournament, Waln showcased her resilience and skill, competing with confidence and energy. Her biggest moment came when she defeated Kyla Logan from Doland, the 5th-ranked wrestler in the 132-pound weight class, in a decisive 4-0 match. This upset was especially remarkable, as Waln was unranked at the time. Though she ultimately placed 4th in the tournament, her performance solidified her place as a fierce competitor.
Reflecting on her matches, Waln identified conditioning as her primary obstacle. Missing five weeks of practice left her struggling in the third periods, and she lost two close matches to the same opponent. “Both matches could have gone either way,” she admitted. “If I see her again at another tournament, I believe I can win.”
Waln’s journey this season has also been shaped by her transition to Maȟpíya Lúta High School from Lakota Tech. The move was a significant change for her, as Lakota Tech was the only school she had attended while living on the reservation. The adjustment was initially overwhelming, especially academically, but Waln persevered and is now maintaining strong grades.
Her transition was made easier by the welcoming atmosphere of Maȟpíya Lúta’s wrestling program. Coaches Nick and Clay introduced her to Caroline, the team’s only other female wrestler, and the two trained together daily in the gym before the season started. The support of her teammates and coaches, combined with the school’s inclusive environment, helped Waln feel at home in her new community.
Waln’s comeback has been a testament to her resilience and determination. “I’ve learned that anything can happen, and I need to make the most of every opportunity,” she said. “I also realized how many people are in my corner, supporting me through everything.”
As her senior season continues, Waln remains focused on improving her conditioning and competing at her highest level. Her journey has been a powerful reminder that with hard work, perseverance, and a strong support system, obstacles can be overcome—and dreams can be achieved.