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Iowa Female Athletes Nominees Announced for 'Athlete of the Week'

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, January 26th 2026 at 10:06 GMT by Des Moines Register
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Des Moines, IA - January 26, 2026 - The Des Moines Register is once again spotlighting the exceptional talent of Iowa's female athletes with the announcement of nominees for this week's 'Female Athlete of the Week' award. With a week brimming with impressive performances across various sports, the selection process promises to be fiercely competitive. The nominees, representing Valley, Dowling, and Lincoln high schools, each delivered standout performances worthy of recognition.

The nominees for the award, covering the week ending January 26th, 2026, demonstrate a breadth of athletic excellence, spanning basketball, wrestling, and swimming. The selection process relies heavily on online voting, allowing readers to directly influence who receives the prestigious title. The poll, now open, concludes at midnight this Sunday, with the winner set to be announced on Monday via the Des Moines Register's website.

Let's take a closer look at each of the contenders:

Ella Schmidt - Valley High School: Basketball Prowess

Ella Schmidt, representing Valley High School, showcased her all-around dominance in a 63-51 victory over Waukee. Schmidt wasn't just a scorer; she was a multifaceted force on the court. Her impressive stat line of 22 points underscores her offensive capabilities, while 8 rebounds demonstrate her strength and positioning under the basket. Adding to her impact were 5 steals, highlighting her defensive tenacity and ability to disrupt the opposing team's flow. Schmidt's performance exemplifies the dedication and skill required to succeed at the high school basketball level.

Grace Miller - Dowling High School: Wrestling Dominance

Grace Miller, a formidable wrestler from Dowling High School, commanded attention with her swift and decisive victories. Miller's dominance was particularly striking, achieving a perfect 3-for-3 record in freestyle wrestling. Notably, two of her wins concluded with pins secured in an astonishingly quick 26 seconds each, while the third took 33 seconds. This rapid succession of pins demonstrates not only impressive technical skill but also a remarkable level of physical conditioning and mental focus - critical elements for success in competitive wrestling. The speed and efficiency of her takedowns suggest rigorous training and a deep understanding of wrestling strategy.

Olivia Chen - Lincoln High School: Swimming Speed and Team Contribution

Olivia Chen, representing Lincoln High School, was instrumental in her team's success, securing first place in a meet against both Hoover and Johnston. Her individual performance in the 200-yard freestyle was particularly noteworthy, with times of 2:06.23 and 2:08.47, indicating remarkable consistency and speed. Chen's contribution wasn't solely about individual accolades; it directly translated into a team victory, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving athletic goals. Her times place her among the top swimmers in the region, and her performance is a testament to her dedication to the sport.

The Significance of the Award & Community Engagement

The Des Moines Register's 'Female Athlete of the Week' award is more than just a recognition of individual achievements. It's a vital platform to highlight the dedication, hard work, and talent of young female athletes in Iowa. It fosters community engagement by providing readers the opportunity to participate in recognizing these athletes. The online voting system allows for a direct connection between the community and the athletes, amplifying their achievements and inspiring future generations of female athletes. The award serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting and celebrating female athletes at all levels.

How to Participate

Readers are encouraged to visit the Des Moines Register's website to cast their votes before the poll closes at midnight on Sunday. Your voice matters, and your vote can help determine who will be crowned the 'Female Athlete of the Week.' Don't miss out on the chance to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of these young Iowa athletes.