Karissa Turnwall from Emmanuel College made an impressive mark at the U23 Pan American Championship, winning a gold medal in her first international tournament. Competing for Team USA, she went undefeated with a 5-0 record, including victories over the defending gold medalist from Colombia. Coach Bryce Killian played a crucial role in preparing her mentally and physically, emphasizing teamwork and camaraderie among her new peers.

By the Numbers
  • Turnwall finished the tournament with a 5-0 record, boasting three wins by technical fall and two by points.
  • She defeated the 2024 U-23 Pan American Championship gold medalist, Yusmy Chaparro Urrego, twice.
State of Play
  • Turnwall has expressed excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to compete at an elite level representing Team USA.
  • She is set to participate in training camps at the Olympic Training Center before returning to college for her senior year.
What's Next

Turnwall plans to train intensively at the Olympic Training Center in preparation for her upcoming senior year at Emmanuel and future competitions.

Bottom Line

Karissa Turnwall's gold medal achievement not only highlights her individual talent but also underscores the importance of support and teamwork in sports. Her journey is a testament to hard work and dedication, setting a strong foundation for her future in wrestling.