Arley Lawwill is a freshman on Sahuaro’s wrestling team. After being in Jiu-Jitsu for two years, she decided she wanted to try other types of combat sports while being involved in a team sport, so she joined wrestling at the start of the school year. She still participates in Jiu-Jitsu outside of school and enjoys hiking during her free time, so managing all of these activities while also keeping up with school can be difficult, but she loves a good challenge. She manages her time by getting all her work done right away, which is how she maintains her good grades.
Arley said that when she’s preparing for a wrestling match she does her best to not get in her head and wrestle to her best ability. A quote, from Samuel Johnson, which she lives by is, “Great works are performed not by strength, but perseverance.” When Arley finds herself dealing with tough training periods or difficult times, she reminds herself that this is the sport she chose, and this is what she loves to do. “I always want to be there because I know I won’t get better without hard moments,” Arley stated. She finds it easier to deal with tough times because she knows she can always turn to her family and friends when she needs extra love and support.
So far, Arley’s most memorable achievement in wrestling is the first match she ever won; it’s something she will never forget. She said, “This made me realize this is what I love to do and it’s my passion.” Losing a match can be discouraging, but she reminds herself that it’s not over yet. She tells herself, “I might have lost this round but there’s going to be another match.” As long as she does her absolute best, she’s proud of herself.
Arley’s biggest role models are the older girls on the team, especially Lillian and Karlie, who she believes are some of the best wrestlers on the team. Being part of the wrestling team has allowed Arley to make new friends and has influenced her high school experience in many ways. She loves how encouraging and friendly her teammates are and appreciates the extra support. Within the next four years, she hopes to qualify for state championships and place top 6. After that, she aspires to work her way up to 1st place by senior year.
Right now, in order for girls wrestling to continue to evolve, more girls need to participate. Arley sees it progressing more and more over time and encourages any girl who is interested to give it a try. She hopes to see the team grow more every year.
