Jasmine Wolfe, 16, lifts weights at an after-school wrestling team practice at the Smith-Cotton High School gymnasium in Sedalia, Mo., on September 28, 2023. “I’ve never had anything handed to me,” said Jasmine, “I believe hard work pays off, and giving up is not an option.”

Jazlyn Smith, 16, left, and Jasmine pass a medicine ball during weight practice at the Smith-Cotton High School gymnasium. Jazlyn is Jasmine’s best friend and co-leads the team with her. “Wrestling has helped me figure out my emotions; it is a mental sport,” Jazlyn said. You need to think about what the next move is. You can't lose control or get mad and punch. Now, I don't think I get angry that much. I'm very calm.” 

From left, Jazlyn, Kylie Guerrero, 15, and Jasmine do tire squats while wrestling head coach Joe Hulsey watches the weight training outside of the Smith-Cotton High School building. Joe was an assistant coach at Smith-Cotton High School for three years before taking over the program in 2020. “We build a family culture where the entire team looks out for each other and helps support each other through highs and lows,” Joe said. 

From left, Jazlyn, Jasmine and Zakiyah Williams, 16, walk to their Holocaust class in the Smith-Cotton High School hallway. This is the only class Jasmine and Jazlyn take together. 

Jasmine, Jazlyn and Zakiyah attend their Holocaust class in the Smith-Cotton High School. Jasmine is an athlete scholar. This is the only class where she gets to spend time with her best friend, Jazlyn. 

Jazlyn and Jasmine eat lunch at the Smith-Cotton High School cafeteria. 

Jazlyn and Jasmine link their fingers at the Smith-Cotton High School hallway. 

Jasmine and Katherine Madrid, 16, perform double leg while Jazlyn and Hannah Wright, 16, watch them at the Smith-Cotton High School gymnasium.

Jasmine sits on her bunk bed as she gets ready for school. 

Jasmine sits on a trampoline in her guardian Roy Corpier’s backyard. Jasmine has been living at his house for over two years now.