Messenger photo by Britt Kudla Elly Berry will be competing in her second girls state tournament for St. Edmond.

CORALVILLE — Last season, Elly Berry was excited to be competing in the IWCOA state wrestling tournament.

This year, the St. Edmond junior has loftier goals in mind.

Berry, who went 1-2 last winter at state, but the experience on the big stage has vaulted her confidence.

“Last year’s experience at state was amazing, because I was able to wrestle at a big tournament,” Berry said. “I met so many people last year at state, and still talk to many to this day.”

St. Edmond head coach Eugene Carlson has watched Berry turn the tide and improve on the mat with each passing day.

“She is very focused this season,” Carlson said. “Last year when she wrestled her first match, she didn’t have enough energy. This season in her eight matches, she’s really been getting after it.”

Berry is 6-2 overall, which included a tournament title in Ogden.

Berry received a bye in the first round of state, and will face either Abigail McDermott of Dubuque Wahlert or Claire Weydert of Humboldt.

“My season so far has been pretty solid,” Berry aid. “I’ve won a tournament and got second at another. My record this season is 6-2 right now, which is pretty good.

“Going back to state, I hope to end up standing on the podium. I’m going to go hard and try my best in each match that I wrestle.”

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Berry has had one thing on her mind: earning a medal.

“I’m going in with the mindset of placing,” Berry said. “I’m going to wrestle hard and to the best of my abilities. I can’t wait to see the outcome.”

Carlson is confident in her chances.

“Her technique has definitely gotten better,” Carlson said. “I think it has also helped Elly when she has faced boys, as far as getting her technique down.

“This is a very special time for her. It’s nice for these girls to have a chance to be able to compete on this kind of stage.”