One of the most decorated wrestlers in Orange Lutheran history, junior Jennifer Flores discovered wrestling while in middle school. With a background in soccer, Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, she is no stranger to contact sports. At her core, Flores is a true competitor.
 
"I love the competition, and I just like being competitive," says Flores. Wrestling is something that is so fun, and I like the people there, too. It's like a loving family."
 
As a member of OLu's small but determined group of female wrestlers, Flores embraces the opportunity to be a trailblazer for girls in the sport.
 
"I hope that it inspires little girls to want to wrestle here and grow our girls program," says Flores. "I think that'd be really big."
 
Flores made program history last season when she became OLu's first female wrestler to medal at the CIF Masters tournament, earning a 4^th place finish and a spot in the 2024 CIF State meet in the 115-pound weight class. The three-year varsity wrestler has already punched her ticket to this year's CIF Masters tournament, and she has her eye on a state title.
 
"Jennifer Flores has raised the bar for what our athletes at Orange Lutheran should strive to achieve," says OLu wrestling head coach Heber Castillo. "Qualifying for the state tournament as a sophomore was a huge accomplishment, and I'm confident she will continue to break records as her career progresses. Her success has not only elevated the girls program but has also inspired the entire wrestling program to reach new heights. Jennifer has firmly established herself as a force to be reckoned with, and we are extremely proud to coach her."
 
As a captain for the Lancers this season, Flores leans on accountability to set the standard for her teammates, and she encourages them to support each other both on and off the mat.
 
"I make sure that no one feels left out and that we're all a big family, because that's what it is," says Flores. "We're all there for each other, no matter what. We cheer each other on when we're wrestling, and we're just there for each other."
 
As grueling as wrestling is physically, Flores battles with the mental side of the sport, and she relies on her mother, coaches and teammates for support. She has drawn several life lessons from being an student athlete, including perseverance and never giving up.
 
"I think [wrestling] has taught me to be very organized," says Flores. "And it's taught me that situations might be tough, but I think it's helped me overcome."
 
Flores is unsure whether she will continue to wrestle at the collegiate level, but she has placed a high priority on her education and plans to pursue a nursing degree.
 
She is grateful for the continual support she receives from her coaches, and her mother remains an inspiration, encouraging her to work hard and strive for excellence.
 
"I don't think I'd be where I am if she hadn't gone through what she has to help me out," says Flores of her mom. "She plays a big role in my wrestling. She's always making sure I have the best, and she's always there supporting me. She's my number one fan, for sure."