Lehigh University Women’s Wrestling Shines at U.S. Marine Corps Women’s Nationals
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – This past weekend, Lehigh University’s women’s wrestling club took center stage at the prestigious 2025 U.S. Marine Corps Women’s Nationals held in Spokane, Washington, from April 4-6. This event was a significant opportunity for nine talented Lehigh wrestlers to vie for a chance to represent the U.S. at the upcoming U20 World Championships this summer. And they did not disappoint—three remarkable athletes with Lehigh ties secured their spots on the world team!
Rising Stars: A Weekend of Triumph
First-year sensation Audrey Jimenez was nothing short of spectacular. The four-time age group world medalist clinched the championship title in the 50 kg category with an impressive string of 10-0 technical falls throughout the finals session. Jimenez, who recently finished as a runner-up at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials, earned the coveted title of Outstanding Wrestler for the U20 tournament. Her dominance was palpable during her perfect 6-0 run, with her longest match lasting a mere 2 minutes and 22 seconds. As a result of her stellar performance, expectations are soaring for Jimenez as she aims to join the U.S. Senior World Team later this year.
All-American Accolades
Not far behind Jimenez, fellow first-year star Genevieve An made her mark by securing a fifth-place finish in the 76 kg division. An’s journey included a notable victory against the U23 runner-up, showcasing her determination and talent. Her All-America finish is a testament to her hard work and potential for future competitions.
Future Champions on the Horizon
In a thrilling announcement, Jimenez is not alone in her journey to the world stage. Abbi Cooper (53 kg) from California and Aubre Krazer (59 kg) from Easton, Pennsylvania, also emerged as U20 national champions and secured their spots on the world team. Both Cooper and Krazer are set to join the Lehigh women’s wrestling program as part of the 2025 recruiting class this fall, adding more excitement for the future of Lehigh wrestling.
A Testament to Coaching Excellence
The triumphs at the Women’s Nationals extend beyond the mat, with Lehigh women’s wrestling head coach Brazel Marquez earning international recognition. This summer, Marquez will don the role of head coach for the U.S. Senior women’s team at the Grand Prix of Spain in Madrid. This marks Marquez’s third consecutive opportunity to coach Team USA athletes at high-profile events like the World Championships and Pan Am Games, solidifying his reputation as a leader in women’s wrestling.
Looking Ahead: U20 World Championships
The anticipation is building for the U20 World Championships, scheduled for August 18-24 in Sofia, Bulgaria. With Lehigh’s rising stars ready to compete on the global stage, the community eagerly awaits to see how these athletes will continue to make their mark. As they prepare for this significant milestone, one thing is clear: Lehigh University women’s wrestling is on the rise, and we are excited to support them every step of the way.
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Engage with us in the comments below! What do you think about Lehigh’s stellar performance, and who are you most excited to watch at the U20 World Championships?
