Sage Mortimer, a new member of the GVSU Women's Wrestling team, is set to compete in the U23 World Wrestling Championship on October 23, 2024, in Tirana, Albania. Mortimer is competing in the 50 kg (110 lb) weight class, ranked #3 in the domestic freestyle. Sage is eager to showcase her skills on an international stage, representing both her university and her country. 

Competing at the U23 World Wrestling Championship represents athletes who are among the best in the world, specifically those 23 and under. This tournament brings together elite competitors from around the globe, to showcase their skills and their dedication to the sport. Competitors are selected based on top three criterias: Age-eligible wrestlers that performed well at the Olympic Trials, the highest placing age-eligible Olympic Trial National Team member and U3 National Champion.

Prior to joining the Grand Valley State Women's Wrestling program, Mortimer had an impressive wrestling career marked by achievements both on the national and international levels.

Sage has demonstrated that she can compete at the highest level and will be a valuable asset to the GVSU Women's Wrestling program and U23's program. The 21 year-old is a two-time World Team member, Fargo Champion, 2021 Olympic trial qualifier, 2024 Team USA Olympic Trial bronze medalist, NCWWC Regional Champ II and NCCW National Runner-up.

"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to wrestle at the World Championships for the second time, representing both Team USA and Grand Valley," says Mortimer. "My training schedule has been a bit different from the rest of my team, but I'm deeply thankful to my teammates for joining me in extra workouts and to all my coaches who have supported me in every aspect: technique, mentality, strength, training and more. Their commitment has helped me reach the level I need to compete at my best." 

When asked to comment on Sage's accolades, GVSU Women's Wrestling Head Coach stated
This is one of the greatest accomplishments in the sport of wrestling, to represent your country at the highest level while wearing the Red, White, and Blue. Sage has an amazing opportunity in front of her and I can't put into words how excited I am for her. She is one of the best competitors in the world and she will get to showcase that on October 23rd. There has been a lot of preparation for international competition, the training is set for her to peak at the right moment, and she is the most confident person in the room.  Her attitude and effort will reflect her commitment to the sport, and win or lose, Sage Mortimer will put on a show. I can't wait to be out there and watch her do what she does best!

Sage is set to compete on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 4:30 a.m. EST (10:30 a.m. Tirana, Albania time).


To follow along: https://uww.org/uww-plus