Valerie Smith Takes the Wrestling World by Storm
In the thrilling realm of women’s collegiate wrestling, one name is shining brighter than the rest. Valerie Smith, a sophomore at NIACC, has recently been honored as the ICCAC women’s wrestler of the week for her outstanding performance from Jan. 27 to Feb. 2. Ranked second in her division, Smith conquered her opponents with finesse, securing an impressive 4-0 record with four falls.
A Rising Star Emerges
Hailing from the charming town of Old Hickory, Tenn., Smith’s journey to wrestling stardom has been nothing short of remarkable. At the Grand View Open, she showcased her sheer dominance by clinching the 235-pound gold division title. In a heart-pounding showdown, Smith faced off against third-ranked Gabby Watson from Carl Albert State College and emerged victorious with a lightning-fast pin in just 1 minute and 25 seconds.
Smith’s path to glory was paved with fierce determination and unwavering skill. She blazed through the competition, defeating opponents with a perfect blend of technique and tenacity. From a quick :52 second pin against Makenna Fetters of Hawkeye CC to a hard-fought victory over Kennedi Washington from Indian Hills, Smith left a trail of fallen adversaries in her wake.
A Legacy in the Making
With an impressive record of 6-0 this season, including five falls, Smith has solidified her status as a force to be reckoned with in the wrestling world. Her career mark of 12-4, with 11 falls to her name, speaks volumes about her prowess on the mat. Notably, Smith clinched fourth place at the 2023 NJCAA national invitational tournament, earning the prestigious title of all-American.
Smith’s remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed. She follows in the footsteps of fellow NIACC wrestler Laken Lienhard, who last won the ICCAC wrestler of the week award in November 2022. As the first NIACC women’s wrestler to receive this honor since Lienhard, Smith has carved out a special place for herself in the annals of collegiate wrestling history.
A Glimpse into the Future
As Smith prepares for her upcoming match against Iowa Western, anticipation runs high for another electrifying performance. On Wednesday, spectators will have the chance to witness Smith in action as she goes head-to-head with Yoseline Perez, the eighth-ranked wrestler from the Reivers. The stage is set for an epic clash that promises to captivate fans and critics alike.
In the fast-paced world of collegiate wrestling, Valerie Smith stands out as a beacon of talent and determination. Her meteoric rise through the ranks serves as a testament to her unwavering passion for the sport and her relentless pursuit of excellence. As she continues to defy expectations and shatter records, Smith’s star only burns brighter, illuminating the path to greatness for aspiring wrestlers everywhere.
