Ashley Schwarz is a senior varsity wrestler for the women’s wrestling team at Washburn Rural High School.

Schwarz suffered a torn ACL in her right knee during her soccer season, which she retore during the summer. Unfortunately, she was unable to wrestle during her junior year. However, she is back stronger than ever for the 2025 season. Out of 38 matches, she has only lost six and is ranked fifth in the state for her weight class.

After destroying the competition at regionals, Schwarz, along with many of the other girls, is headed to state which is being held in Overland Park the weekend of February 28 through March 1.

Ashley told The Blue Streak what she’s most excited for. “I think just experiencing something new, and we are staying at an Airbnb this time, so it will be a whole new thing. It’s my last chance at a state title, and I think I have a good chance at getting at least top 3. Just having my teammates there is going to be so cool.”

Placing fourth her sophomore year, Schwarz explained her hopes for state this year. “I really want to get top three, but the dream is to get to the state finals, and if I’m there at that point, I might as well win. I’m definitely going to place, but top three is the goal.”

Despite struggling to safely wrestle during the summer due to her injury, Schwarz is fully committed to the University of Mount Olive in North Carolina to continue wrestling at a collegiate level.

Ashley is not only competing against girls in wrestling but also scoring state titles in powerlifting. She explains, “I have the school bench records and the second for pound for pound, which is the strength ratio. I’ve won state twice for that, and I’m going for another one this year and have won for my club team too. I am looking forward to nationals in March in Wisconsin. I hope to place in the top ten.”