By Angela Brunk
Chloe Spears, a senior at Derby High School, is entering her final high school wrestling season. Competing in the 170-pound weight class in Class 6A, Spears is focused on becoming the best version of herself both on and off the mat, while chasing her ultimate goal of earning a state championship.
What excites Spears most about the upcoming season is the opportunity to continue growing as a wrestler. She prides herself on her work ethic and believes that with consistent effort, anything she sets her mind to can be accomplished. That mindset has driven her preparation throughout the offseason. Over the summer, Spears committed herself to weightlifting, spending as much time as possible in the wrestling room and attending multiple camps.
One of her main areas of focus has been improving her stamina and overall cardio. Wrestling at a high level demands constant pressure and endurance, and Spears has worked to elevate that part of her game through intense drilling sessions and regular running. She believes that stronger conditioning will allow her to push the pace and control matches late.
Individually, Spears is striving to stand on top of the podium as the 170-pound state champion. As a team, she is determined to help Derby earn the AVCTL championship, contributing, however necessary, to team success.
Spears is a three-time state qualifier and earned a fourth-place finish at state. In the classroom, she excels just as much, earning First Team All-Academic honors. Looking ahead, Spears plans to wrestle at the collegiate level while pursuing a degree in business. Outside of the high school season, she continues to challenge herself by competing in freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling, further proving her commitment to the sport she loves.
