Minnesota/USA Wrestling is proud to recognize 7-year-old Lena Mediger of Jordan, Minnesota in this segment of the Wrestler Spotlight. Competing at 65 pounds and representing LeVici Prep, Summit, and Scott West, Lena continues to stand out as one of Minnesota’s rising young athletes in the sport.

Lena recently earned a 3rd-place finish at the Kickoff Classic in Tulsa, widely considered one of the nation’s toughest early-season youth tournaments. This accomplishment adds to an impressive resume.

Early Start & Love for the Sport

Lena began her wrestling journey when her parents signed her up, and she quickly discovered the parts she loves most—old friends, new friends, and learning new moves. Her favorite technique is the cradle, while her trusty go-to remains a solid half nelson. One moment she’ll never forget: earning a pin in her first match at USA Wrestling Preseason Nationals in Iowa.

Right now, Lena is working hard to improve her shots, showing the focus and determination that her coaches say set her apart. She lists her family, friends, and Coach Marcus LeVesseur as her biggest supporters.

A Young Leader on and off the Mat

Lena’s influence extends beyond her wrestling room. She is known at school as a positive, respectful student who works hard and encourages others. Wrestling, she says, has helped make her more focused and confident, and she hopes to inspire other young wrestlers by reminding them:  “You probably won’t win all your matches. If you lose, there’s always another match.”

Her goals for the current season include having fun, working hard, and competing at some of the toughest national tournaments.

Coaches & Teacher Reflections

Marcus LeVesseur – LeVici Prep Owner / Lena’s Coach
“Lena has tremendous focus and attention to detail. For most young athletes this is a big obstacle, but for Lena it comes naturally. As her understanding of the sport grows, her athleticism and focus will be strong pillars in why she’s a champion.”

Mrs. Ariane Jensen – 1st Grade Teacher
“Lena is a positive and respectful student. She always works hard and does her best. She is a kind and helpful friend to others, and her smile is infectious. She is a pleasure to have in my classroom.”

Chris Swanson – Scott West
“Lena is a bright spot in the wrestling room and is very coachable.”

A Legacy of Excellence

Lena comes from a storied line of Minnesota athletes. Her grandmother, Elsie (Ohm) Slinger, made history as the first All-American women’s basketball player at the University of Minnesota and is a Hall of Fame inductee at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Her mom and aunts continued that tradition as dominant athletes from Faribault—one named Miss Minnesota Volleyball (2003) and another helping lead Concordia University–St. Paul to multiple NCAA Division II National Championships, contributing to their historic run of four consecutive titles.

The Slinger sisters played a major role in shaping the volleyball legacy at Bethlehem Academy. Now, Lena and her sisters, Olivia and Ella, may one day help build something just as impactful for LeVici Prep and Scott West wrestling. No matter what path they choose, the family believes wrestling is unmatched in building character, resilience, and confidence.