Q&A | Iowa women’s wrestler Cali Leng talks wrestling accomplishments, motivation, and childhood snacks

The Hawkeye second-year is ranked No. 7 in the latest NWCA Coaches Poll.

Jackson Miller, Sports Reporter

February 4, 2025

Iowa 124-pound Cali Leng celebrates after winning a match against Cornell College’s Addison Thrash during the Trailblazer duals between No. 1 Iowa, No. 25 William Jewell College, and Cornell College at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. Iowa defeated Cornell, 47-0 and William Jewell, 43-3.

The Daily Iowan: What is your favorite accomplishment in your wrestling career?

Cali Leng: I have two. When I was a senior in high school, I won my second state title, and that was a really big moment because it was the first time girls’ wrestling was sanctioned in Ohio. I would also say wrestling in Carver-Hawkeye Arena this year for my first time ever was one of the most electric and exciting moments I’ve gotten to experience in my wrestling career.

If you could travel anywhere in the world with all expenses paid, where would you go and why?

I want to go to Japan. My teammates just got to travel there, and we have some of the Japanese wrestlers in the room now. I want to see the scenery and eat the food. I’d love to go for wrestling, but I’d also love to go just to be there and experience Japan.

What was your favorite childhood snack?

I really like Pop-Tarts and ice cream. My dad also used to make microwave popcorn and put shredded cheese on it and heat it. That was another one of my favorites.

What gets you motivated?

Seeing my teammates do well, whether it’s in practice or competition. For me, every time I’m in the room, that keeps me motivated because I always want to work. I have a hard time not coming in to train and work for myself and my goals.

How many countries have you traveled to, and which is your favorite?

I’ve traveled to one other country. I went to Italy, so I think that’s fair to say that one was my favorite.

Besides wrestling, what is your favorite sport?

I like to watch basketball. I’ve gotten to go to a lot of games here. I enjoy watching it because it’s fast-paced, and it’s fun to watch.

What is the best restaurant you’ve ever been to?

There’s a steakhouse back home in Ohio called Hyde Park Steakhouse. It’s really nice, and it has really good lobster macaroni and cheese.

What is your biggest fear and why?

One of the fears that I have is that I won’t be able to look back on my career with fulfillment but with regret. Everything I’m doing now combats that because I try to give my all into everything I’m doing so that I don’t regret anything. That’s something that also motivates me. I don’t want to look back on anything and think I could have done more.

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