Ames High Junior Makes History with 100 Wins in Wrestling

Lexa Rozevink, an Ames High junior, has etched her name in the record books by becoming the first female wrestler in school history to achieve 100 wins. This milestone is not just a personal achievement but a groundbreaking moment for female athletes at Ames High and beyond. Rozevink’s journey to this remarkable feat is one of passion, perseverance, and breaking barriers in a sport traditionally dominated by males.

“When we first started the girls program, the idea of a 100 match winner never even crossed my mind. Now, we stand at a place where Lexa is our first, but I am sure she will not be our last,” said head coach Matt Steffen.

Lexa’s journey into wrestling began in an unexpected but heartfelt way: through her father.

“My dad wrestled in high school, and hearing his stories inspired me to give it a try,” Rozevink explained. “But I stuck with it because I developed a real passion for the sport. It challenged me in ways I never expected. It pushed me to grow both physically and mentally, and along the way, I enjoyed breaking stereotypes by proving that girls can excel in a sport often seen as just for guys.”

Her father’s influence may have introduced her to wrestling, but it was Lexa’s own determination and love for the sport that carried her through years of hard work and challenges. What started as a casual interest grew into a driving force that shaped her identity both on and off the mat.

Reaching 100 wins is an accomplishment few wrestlers achieve, and for Lexa, the milestone is both a celebration and a motivator.

“Reaching 100 wins is a huge accomplishment, but it’s also a reminder of how much more I can achieve,” she shared. “It motivates me to work even harder and to set even bigger goals for myself. This milestone shows me what I’m capable of, but it also pushes me to keep raising the bar. I want to continue challenging myself, striving for greater achievements, and taking my wrestling career to the next level.”

According to Coach Steffen, what sets Lexa apart and helped her reach this milestone is the drive she has for the sport as well as her competitive and determined nature on the mat.

“I first met her when she joined our program in middle school and she immediately began talking about her goals to achieve big things in the sport of wrestling. She has also begun to take more pride in doing the little things right each day in practice.”

For Rozevink, this achievement isn’t just about the number—it’s about the journey and the mindset it represents. It’s a testament to her resilience, discipline, and vision for what she can accomplish in the future.

As a female wrestler, Lexa has faced her share of challenges in a sport where boys still make up the majority of participants. Since starting wrestling in sixth grade, she’s been met with skepticism and doubt, but she has never let that hold her back.

“I’ve had to prove myself over and over again,” she said. “Instead of letting that discourage me and drag me down, I use it as fuel to keep pushing forward. I love showing girls that they can be just as strong and skilled as the guys in wrestling, and that’s what keeps me motivated.”

Lexa’s determination has not only helped her overcome the doubts of others but has also made her a role model for other young female athletes. She is proof that barriers can be broken and stereotypes can be shattered through hard work and determination.

Reaching this milestone is more than celebrating determination, but also a great benchmark for how far the girl’s wrestling program has come, according to Coach Steffen. 

“I think it shows girls currently in our program and those thinking about joining, that big things can be accomplished here. I believe it will also give those who come up through our program something to strive for and goals to work towards. Lexa as well as her current and former teammates have done a great job laying the foundation for a successful girls wrestling program at Ames High.”

Behind every great athlete is a strong support system, and for Lexa, her family has been that unwavering source of encouragement.

“My family has been my biggest support system,” she said. “They not only encourage and believe in me, but they also motivate me to keep pushing through tough times. Whenever I face setbacks, they’re there to help me work through them and remind me to keep trying. Their support has been extremely important in helping me stay focused and determined throughout the years.”

Her family’s encouragement has been a cornerstone of her success, reminding her to keep striving for her goals even when the road gets tough.

As the first female wrestler at Ames High to reach 100 wins, Lexa is well aware of the impact her success has on the future of girls’ wrestling at the school.

“It’s an incredible feeling to be one of the first girls to make an impact in wrestling at Ames High,” she said. “I’m proud to be setting an example and showing other girls that they can succeed in this sport too. I hope my journey helps break down barriers and encourages more girls to get involved and pursue wrestling at even the highest levels.”

Lexa hopes her story inspires younger girls to chase their dreams, even if it means stepping into uncharted territory.

“Don’t be scared to do what you love, even if it’s out of the ordinary or difficult,” she advised. “As long as you work hard and believe in yourself, you will no doubt be successful.”

With her historic achievement behind her, Lexa is already setting her sights on the future. For the remainder of the season, her primary focus is on improving her technique and conditioning. But her ultimate goal is clear.

“My #1 biggest goal this year is to become a state champion,” she said. “After that, I plan to continue my wrestling career in college and push myself to compete at an even higher level. I know it’s going to take a lot of hard work and dedication, but I’m ready to put in everything I’ve got to achieve my goals and make my dreams a reality.”

Lexa Rozevink’s 100 wins mark more than a personal milestone—it’s a turning point for girls’ wrestling at Ames High. Her journey proves that hard work, passion, and perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements, no matter the obstacles. By breaking barriers and setting new standards, Lexa has created a legacy that will inspire future generations of wrestlers, both girls and boys, to dream big and pursue excellence.