Emily Doolittle Earns All-American Status at 2024 Brian Keck Preseason HS Girls Nationals
Emily Doolittle, a senior at North Fort Myers High School and ranked #3 at 100 pounds in the TFWR State Rankings, stepped onto the national stage with a mission. From October 24-27, 2024, she traveled to Des Moines, Iowa, to compete in the 2024 Brian Keck Preseason High School Girls Nationals, a USA Wrestling event featuring some of the country’s toughest female wrestlers.
Emily entered the 100-pound division for high school girls grades 9-12, battling through a stacked 32-wrestler bracket. The stakes were high: only the top eight in each weight class would make the podium and earn the coveted title of USA Wrestling All-American.
A Rocky Start
In her very first match, Emily faced Cassandra Medrano, a Texas state champion and formidable opponent. Medrano handed Emily a loss, sending her directly into the consolation bracket. From there, Emily’s path to the podium became a grueling challenge — she would have to win every remaining match to stay alive in the tournament.
A Dominant Run in the Consolation Bracket
Instead of folding under pressure, Emily rose to the occasion with a series of dominant performances:
- Consolation Round 1: Emily faced Miabella Madveno of California and secured a pin in 3:28 to keep her tournament hopes alive.
- Consolation Round 2: Against Brooke Horstman of Iowa, Emily achieved an even faster fall, pinning her opponent in just 0:51.
- Consolation Round 3: Emily continued her streak, pinning Kenadee Helscher of Seabolt Wrestling Club in 4:40.
- Consolation Round 4: This match against Natalie Roberson of Minnesota was a pivotal moment. A win would secure All-American honors. Emily delivered, pinning Roberson in 4:17 to earn her spot on the podium.
A Shot at Redemption
Emily’s next match brought her face-to-face with Cassandra Medrano, the same wrestler who defeated her in the opening round. With a shot at redemption on the line, Emily gave a valiant effort but ultimately came up short. Medrano’s victory pushed Emily into the 7th-place match.
Battling for 7th Place
In her final match, Emily faced Saya Hongmounkhoune of Illinois. Despite her best efforts, Emily fell short and finished 8th overall.
A Proud Accomplishment
While the tournament didn’t end exactly the way Emily wanted it to end, she still flew home to Florida with a national tournament medal. Emily’s 8th-place finish cemented her status as a USA Wrestling All-American. Her ability to rebound from an early loss and dominate through the consolation rounds showcased her resilience, skill, and determination.
“This is a great accomplishment for Emily Doolittle because she proved to herself and others that she can compete on the national stage,” TFWR stated proudly. “To place top 8 at any USA Wrestling national tournament is a tremendous achievement.”
Emily’s journey at the Brian Keck Nationals serves as an inspiration to Florida wrestlers and a reminder that with grit and perseverance, anything is possible. Congrats Emily!!!!!!