from: https://newschannel9.com/sports/sports-headlines/cleveland-high-school-wrestler-becomes-u17-national-champion-thursday

CLEVELAND, Tenn. — Piper Fowler, a Junior at Cleveland High School, claimed a resounding 5-2 victory over her opponent, Lotta Englich of Germany, in the 73 kg category at the U17 World Championships in Istanbul, Turkey on Thursday.Image via Cleveland City Schools.

“The triumph was a moment of pride for the United States, as the American national anthem resonated in the arena for the second time that night, celebrating Team USA’s unparalleled success,” says Cleveland City Schools.

In recognition of Piper Fowler’s achievement, Dr. Russell Dyer, the Director of Schools for Cleveland City Schools, says, “Her journey to becoming a world champion is a testament to her character and the support she receives from her family, coaches, teammates, and the entire Cleveland community. We are so proud to have her represent Cleveland on the international stage.”

Earlier this year, she made history by becoming the first person in the history of TN Girls Wrestling to win the U17 Freestyle National Championship.Image via Cleveland City Schools.

After winning three matches to reach the finals, she faced off against the #3 ranked girl in the country in a best-of-three final.

Piper dominated both matches, winning 5-1 and 10-2, to claim the title of U17 National Champion.

“It’s hard to even fathom what she just accomplished. We talk about state champions, but she is not just a U.S. champion; she is a national champion – out of all the countries in the world, she is number one. We’re so proud of her,” says Cleveland High School Athletic Director Al Morris.