ANAMOSA — Adison Musser, a senior wrestler from Anamosa, Iowa, has described her experience with wrestling as life changing. Musser’s journey has been filled with both triumph and setback, but she remains determined to make the most of her final high school wrestling season.
During the 2023 Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union state wrestling tournament, Musser suffered a second concussion, forcing her to medically forfeit in the 115-pound third-place match. Despite the unfortunate injury, she managed to secure fourth place and ended the season with an impressive 45-3 record.
The impact of the concussion weighed heavily on Musser’s mind, prompting her to take a long break from the sport over the summer. However, as the new season began, Musser found herself drawn back to wrestling and resumed training.
Now ranked seventh in the 130-pound weight class, Musser has kicked off the season with a remarkable 20-1 record. Recently, she achieved a significant milestone by winning her 100th career bout. As Musser enters the final chapter of her high school wrestling career, she is focusing on enjoying the sport and relishing every moment on the mat.
While Musser harbors aspirations of standing atop the podium, her primary goal this season is to have fun and savor her last moments as a high school wrestler. With her competitive spirit and unwavering drive, Musser is committed to making this season a memorable one.
Anamosa Coach Jake Wulf is optimistic that Musser’s goal of having fun can be achieved. He recognizes her potential as a competitor and encourages her to be herself, wrestle hard, and inject an element of enjoyment into her performances.
As the lone senior on the Raiders’ girls’ team, Musser has made a lasting impact on Anamosa’s wrestling program. She has emerged as a role model and leader for her peers, fostering a positive environment both on and off the mat. Her dedication and hard work have been instrumental in shaping the team and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
Thursday night marked a poignant moment for Musser as she celebrated senior night with two victories. She secured a forfeit win against West Liberty and triumphed over Solon’s Makayla Keller with a remarkable 55-second fall. With each match, the realization that her time as a high school wrestler is drawing to a close becomes increasingly emotional for Musser.
Musser’s passion for wrestling stems from her dad, Cory, and her cousin Tyler Thurston, who wrestles at the University of Dubuque. Despite the impending end of her high school wrestling career, Musser remains motivated by the relationships she has forged with her teammates and others involved in the sport. The bonds she has formed are invaluable to her, serving as a constant source of inspiration and camaraderie.
Reflecting on her experience joining the Anamosa team last year, Musser expressed gratitude for the warm welcome she received, instantly making her feel like part of the family.
As Musser continues to navigate her final season with Anamosa’s wrestling team, she is determined to make the most of her remaining time on the mat. Her journey has been filled with highs and lows, but through it all, she has remained resilient and demonstrated unwavering dedication.
For Musser, wrestling has been more than just a sport—it has been a life-changing experience that has shaped her character and driven her to succeed. As she looks beyond high school and toward the future, Musser can proudly reflect on the impact she has made on the Anamosa wrestling program and the indelible mark she has left on her teammates.
With the end of her 14-year wrestling career on the horizon, Musser’s love for the sport and the memories she has created will forever hold a special place in her heart.
