Let us introduce you to Lindsey Rywolt.
Editor’s Note: Women’s History Month is celebrated from March 1st – Sunday, March 31st.
The Stratford Crier is kicking off Women’s History Month with a Stratford High School student making history.
By Brandon Tomlinson
Lindsey Rywolt of Stratford is the first female wrestler in school history to not only be all state, but also win the first annual New England Regional Championship, being just the 4th placer in Stratford High School history.
Lindsey began wrestling her sophomore year, where she quickly found her love for the sport. She is a 3 time state placer, where her senior year she was crowned champion. Lindsey dedicated her off season with training and competition with Southside Wrestling Club in Bridgeport.
In November, she placed at the Iowa Preseaon Nationals, becoming a USAW All-American.
Her other accolades this year include, 2024 Eastern States Champion, where she beat the number 13th ranked girl nationally at her respective weight class in the finals by score of 11-5. She also was champion of the All Girls Queen of the mat and named Most Outstanding Wrestler (MOW). She was champion of the CT Girls State Open and New England Interscholastic Girls Championship where she was also named MOW of the tournament.
Lindsey was a 2x captain for Stratford high, her dedication, hard work and leadership has helped to set the precedent for many athletes. She has been a staple in growing women’s wrestling, where the team now has seven girls on the team that strive to follow in Lindsey’s footsteps.
Lindsey is currently ranked 29th in the nation as she looks to compete in a U20 world team trial in the middle of April. She is seeking out colleges that have established wrestling teams, where she will continue to compete as she studies nursing.
- What were some challenges you faced this season and how did you overcome those obstacles?
One major challenge I faced during this season was finding what moves/attacks worked for me. To resolve this, I thought about my strengths and picked what moves worked for my skill set and hammered on them until I could accomplish them without giving thought.
- Explain the importance of being the first female wrestler to go all state in Stratford high school
Becoming all state has been a huge goal of mine since beginning this sport. Having the ability to make history in being the first female in Stratford to accomplish such a task and represent where I grew up made me feel on top of the world.
- What was going through your head when you won your final match?
As soon as that whistle blew to end the match I immediately started planning the training for my next goal. New England’s.
- What has the sport of wrestling done/helped you with in your life?
Wrestling has changed me in so many ways for the better. My grades improved, I made goals for myself and had major realizations as to who I want to become and what I want to do in life.
- What is your experience with training and conditioning
In the beginning, it was tough, however my coaches always assured me it would get easier. After sticking with it for so long not only did it become easy, it became a necessity into my everyday routine. The rest days have now become the hard days.
- How do you handle the pressure of competing at a high level?
Practicing certain breathing techniques and following a routine I’ve come up with really helps calm the nerves and pressure when having to perform at large events. Also not worrying about the competition ahead and just focusing on the matches as they come plays a big part so I can focus on what I need to do in that moment and not in the future.
- What advice would you give to aspiring young athletes.
Almost everything you do in your sport is mental. Your mindset matters most. Going into a game or match thinking you’re gonna loose, you’ve already lost. Going in knowing it’ll be tough but having faith you can push through with the end goal being success, you’ll surprise yourself.
There is presently a Go Fund Me page: Lindsey’s CT National Team Trip
To fund her trip this summer with the CT National Team in Fargo, North Dakota at the United States of America Wrestling (USAW) Freestyle National Championships. “The funds I am looking to raise will cover the cost of travel, hotel and uniforms. I am asking for the support of my friends, family, teammates and friends/fans of wrestling to help me get there for a once in a lifetime experience! Thank you for taking the time to read my story.” Lindsey
