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When senior Ashley Zepeda joins the Parade of Champions around 9:30 Friday morning, she will become the first Ben Davis female wrestle to compete in an IHSAA state wrestling tournament.

Zepeda takes an 11-6 record in her 190 pound weight class and will open against undefeated (27-) Erin Cauble Sr. from West Lafayette Harrison.

Zepeda answered some questions about her season.

How does it feel to be the first female BD wrestler to reach state?

“It feels like an absolute honor to be the first female BD wrestler to reach state. I am glad to build the foundation for the upcoming women who decide to join the sport and I hope to be remembered as such for a long time.”

Was that a goal you had for this season?

“No, my goal for this season was to just make it out of sectionals because of last year. This year, I was the first ever female sectional champion. Last year, I placed 6th and you had to place 4th or higher to move on to regionals so I didn’t get to continue.”

What are your strengths as a wrestler?

“My strengths as a wrestler would have to be my sportsmanship and leadership skills. No matter on or off the mat I will always respect the people around me, making sure we are both safe. I consider myself to be a great leader to my peers and the younger kids when I help teach them.”

How did you get interested in wrestling?

“I had always watched my older and younger cousin’s wrestling matches and I was super interested in it. But, I wasn’t sure if there was a girls team so I never got into it until my friend Zuri posted the callout meeting and I showed up. I loved it and knew it was going to be MY sport.”

What have you learned the most from wrestling?

“How to be confident in doing things. Wrestling gave me my confidence to put myself out there. I now try new things that I wouldn’t have. I also learned that even though you lose in some things, there’s no reason to be upset. You should use what you did wrong to focus on your next win and never give up.”

What are your future plans?

“I plan to attend college for Veterinary Nursing to become a Vet Tech. While continuing my career for Wrestling in college as well.”