Juleymi Muñoz: Paving the Way for Girls Wrestling at McAlester
Hard work is the foundation of success, and for Juleymi Muñoz, wrestling has taught her just how important discipline is in achieving her goals. “For me, I have had to discipline myself a lot—not just my diet or how much I work out, but to not cheat myself and get as many reps in as possible even when tired,” she said. That mindset has carried her through countless matches and practices, helping her build both mental and physical strength.
Muñoz, a senior at McAlester High School, competes in the 100-pound weight class. While wrestling is often seen as a male-dominated sport, she is proud to be part of the growing wave of female wrestlers proving that they belong on the mat. “Girls can wrestle too!” she stated confidently. As a member of the first senior class of girls’ wrestling at McAlester, she takes great pride in representing her school. “Being able to represent McAlester and be the first senior class of girls wrestling to graduate is something I am extremely proud of, and it’s been an amazing experience.”
Her journey in wrestling has been fueled by a strong support system. “My coaches, teammates, and being able to accomplish my goals motivate me,” she said. But perhaps her biggest inspiration comes from home. “My biggest influence or role model would be my mom because she has taught me that I can do whatever I want to do as long as I work hard for it.”
The challenges of the sport have made every victory even more rewarding. “A highlight moment of my career was when I realized that my hard work in practice was the reason I was starting to win matches,” she recalled. Her dedication extends beyond wrestling—she has also been involved in student council for four years.
After graduation, Muñoz plans to stay close to the sport while pursuing her education. “I plan to go to Eastern for my basics and become an assistant coach in the meantime, then transfer to UCO to finish off my studies for psychology,” she shared. No matter where life takes her, wrestling has left an impact that will last far beyond high school.
