In 1998, women's wrestling became a sanctioned sport at her high school. Drawing on her judo background, she decided to try out for the wrestling team. This decision marked the beginning of her wrestling career, which has been supported by the Sunkist Kids Wrestling Club in the United States.

Coaching and Training

Her national coach, Terry Steiner, has played a crucial role in her development as a wrestler. Under his guidance, she has honed her skills and competed at various levels. Her training regime is rigorous, reflecting her dedication to the sport.

Educational Background

She pursued higher education in Communications at the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs, CO, USA. Balancing academics and sports, she managed to excel in both areas, showcasing her versatility and commitment.

Injuries and Challenges

Her career has not been without challenges. In 2002, she suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in her left knee. She faced another setback in 2006 when she injured the same knee during training. Despite these injuries, she continued to persevere and compete.

Achievements in Judo

Before transitioning to wrestling, she was a five-time national judo champion at the junior level. Her success in judo laid a strong foundation for her wrestling career. "If I had not done judo, I wouldn't have been wrestling," she said.

Personal Interests and Inspirations

Outside of wrestling, she enjoys surfing. Her hero is US wrestler Patricia Saunders, who has been a significant source of inspiration for her. These interests and inspirations have shaped her journey as an athlete.

Cultural Background

Her father is from China and her mother is Japanese. She has spent time living in Japan and teaching English. This cultural background has enriched her experiences and perspectives both on and off the mat.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, she aims to continue competing at high levels and hopes to inspire future generations of wrestlers. Her journey from judo to wrestling serves as a testament to her resilience and passion for sports.

This athlete's story is one of determination and adaptability. From her early days in judo to her current status as a wrestler, she has shown that with hard work and dedication, one can overcome challenges and achieve great success.