By TANYA GARCIA
LANSING — For Ayan Rosalee Kelley, a varsity wrestler at Lansing Sexton High School, wrestling started as a personal goal—but it quickly turned into something much more. Competing in both the boys’ 165-pound division and the girls’ 155-pound class, Kelley is a proud representative of Sexton’s rising girls wrestling program.
“I initially got into it to lose weight,” Kelley said. “But as I continued with it—even after I lost the weight—I came to love the sport.”
Sexton High School's Ayan Kelley didn't have an easy road to being a champion, but with hard work and determination, she accomplished something she never could've imagined.
Posted by WILX News 10 on Thursday, February 8, 2024
For Kelley, wrestling has become more than just a sport; it’s a safe and supportive environment. “What I like most about being on the wrestling team is that there’s no judgment,” she said. “I love the familial bonds and the wrestling community. It’s like having a second family—everyone supports each other, and you grow stronger together.”
Her favorite memory so far? “Winning districts last year. That was unforgettable.”
Kelley is driven by big goals, “I want to place at regionals. If I can make it to States and place as well, that would be amazing.”
Preparation is key. “I prepare by eating good and trying my hardest in practice to get ready for upcoming matches,” she explained.
Support from coaches and family has been vital to her journey. “Coach Jeffery Howard, Coach Aaron Tucker, and most of all my mother and my family—they’ve helped me become the wrestler I am today,” Kelley said.
@tanyagarcia321 #waytogo #AyanRosaleeKelley #sextonwrestling #girlswrestling ♬ All Around the World(La La La) – R3hab / A Touch of Class
But Kelley’s goals go far beyond the wrestling mat. After high school, she hopes to become an anesthesiologist—starting as a paramedic, or possibly becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). And yes, she wants to keep wrestling in college too.
Warrior Nation Welcomes Ayan Kelley
Surrounded by her family, friends, teachers, and coaches, Kelley recently signed her letter of intent to wrestle for Rochester Christian University (RCU). The milestone moment marks the next chapter in Kelley’s wrestling journey.
“The entire RCU community is thrilled to have Ayan on board and looks forward to the impact she will make both on and off the mat,” said Wesley Maskill, RCU head wrestling coach.
Kelley’s resume speaks for itself. She is a two-time MHSAA state qualifier and two-time conference champion, accomplishments that highlight her skill, resilience, and dedication.
“Her dedication, work ethic, and competitive spirit make her a perfect fit for the growing RCU team,” Maskill said. “The Warrior community is proud to welcome Ayan Kelley to the Rochester Christian University family.”
Raul Garcia