The Power of Determination
EJ Lauter's story is a testament to the power of determination and the love for a sport that knows no bounds. Her wrestling journey began in the 6th grade, and from that moment on, she was captivated by the thrill and challenge of the mat.
At the age of 16, Lauter took a bold step forward and enrolled in community college to pursue her dream of becoming an athlete. However, she later took a break and decided to transfer to the University of Louisville. Little did she know that a chance encounter at the university's rec center, where she saw a beach wrestling poster, would reignite her passion for the sport. Curious and intrigued, she met the coach, asking inquisitively, "On the sand? Doesn't that get everywhere?" From that moment, "the bug bit [her] again," and she embarked on a new chapter of her wrestling career.
When Hard Work Pays Off
Lauter's dedication and hard work paid off, leading her to a nationally ranked college season. After graduation, she reached out to the USA Beach Wrestling team, who, impressed by her college career, welcomed her with open arms and offered her a chance to compete in Argentina. In Argentina, she participated in a two-day tournament, competing against beach wrestlers from across the globe. Though the results may not have been as she had hoped, she saw it as an invaluable experience to gauge her skills at the world level and gave her the opportunity to form connections with athletes from different countries, fostering friendships that transcended borders.
One memorable moment stands out for Lauter—despite a disappointing loss in her final match, a young child approached her with an infectious enthusiasm for wrestling. In that moment, Lauter realized the impact she had made on this young fan and the significance of being a role model. Reflecting on the encounter, she expressed, "I just did something, whether it went my way or not, that this kid really cared about." It reinforced her belief that wrestling is about more than just personal victories—it's about inspiring others to pursue their dreams.
Looking Ahead
Currently, Lauter has no immediate plans to travel to the next location. Instead, she intends to give herself a break, focusing on training and getting into peak form for the nationals in May.
As part of the USA Beach Wrestling team, Lauter has witnessed the sport's growth and appeal. She emphasizes the fun and outdoor nature of beach wrestling. Her advice to others? "Why not try it? You never know where it might take you."
Like many other athletes showcasing their athletic careers through GMTM, EJ is open to any challenge and welcome to new opportunities. Stay tuned to see where her journey takes her next.
