CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Kirkwood High sophomore wrestler Janiya Johnson competed in a collegiate wrestling tournament at the end of December, which was comprised of All-Americans, national finalists and even an Olympic Silver Medalist. However, Johnson did not let that intimidate her, as she placed third at the 2024 Soldier Salute Women’s Wrestling Tournament.
Johnson entered one of the most competitive open tournaments in the country as one of the youngest participants. Throughout her journey to the podium, she defeated a number of collegiate wrestlers, including All-Americans and a U23 national finalist.

She was eventually defeated in the semi-final, but bounced back and defeated Bo Geibe, a wrestler at Indiana Tech, to secure third place.
Following her dominate outing, Johnson will now return to Kirkwood after the break and focus on high school wrestling as she’s prepared to battle for another state title.
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