It was a whirlwind of emotions for junior Amelie Canales on Friday night as Canales, after two years of falling short in the state qualifying meet, placed second place in the 120 pound weight class and is state bound for the first time in her career.

After a very emotional moment on the mat between Canales and coaches TJ Maylum and Michael Peterson, assistant coach Peterson reflected on Canales, her journey, and her work ethic as a wrestler.

“She’s a competitor, she’s a great athlete. We just gotta keep her moving forward, and she’s in any match that she can go up against, she’s got the ability. It showed last night (Friday night). It’s a great feeling.”

Canales, Ayden Erickson and Cate Erickson all prepare to represent the Perry Jayettes on the grandest stage of them all, as the three Jayettes head to the Xtreme Arena in Coralville on Thursday for the 2026 Girls State Wrestling Tournament.