Hi, I’m Anaya Stringer, a proud high school senior and first-year wrestler—now officially committed to Brewton-Parker College on a wrestling scholarship.

Sports have always been a part of my life. I’ve laced up for basketball, pushed through track meets, and spiked volleyballs with determination. I was passionate, athletic, and competitive—but nothing ever truly felt like mine. I kept searching, not just for a sport, but for something that would challenge me in the right ways and push me to grow. That moment didn’t come until my senior year, when I stepped onto the wrestling mat for the first time. It didn’t take long for me to realize—I had finally found my fit.

Wrestling demanded more than physical strength; it required mental toughness, focus, and grit. I had to learn fast, train harder, and stay locked in. And I did. In my very first season, I built a record of 21 wins and only 3 losses, fought my way to the state finals, and proudly brought home 2nd place in the state. That moment was more than a medal—it was proof that it’s never too late to chase something new and make it your own.

That journey and the dedication behind it opened a huge door: I’m now heading to college on a wrestling scholarship from Brewton-Parker College (BPC), ready to continue competing, growing, and representing the grind that got me here. My goals for college go beyond the mat—I plan to study veterinary medicine and one day become a veterinarian, combining my love for animals with a career of compassion and care.

Outside of wrestling and academics, I’m still just me. I love scrolling through TikTok in my free time (who doesn’t?), keeping up with the trends, and laughing at the randomness of my FYP. It’s my way to unwind, reset, and stay connected with what’s going on.

None of this would be possible without my family. Their support has been everything. My mom and my youngest brother have especially been there through every step—every early morning, every tough loss, every hard-earned win. They’ve believed in me even when I was still figuring things out for myself, and I owe so much of my growth to their love and presence. Of course, my entire family has supported me, but this is a special tribute to my mom and little brother for being my rock, my hype team, and my reason to keep pushing.

This is only the beginning. I’m proud of what I’ve done in just one season, and even more excited for what’s ahead. Whether you’ve been wrestling since you were six or just getting started—there’s always room to rise.