Mana Chanthasone

For Mana Chanthasone, wrestling wasn’t a lifelong dream—it was an unexpected opportunity that turned into a defining passion. Today, as a standout collegiate wrestler at Chadron State College, she represents not only athletic excellence but also the rising presence of Lao Americans in one of the fastest-growing sports in the country.

Chanthasone’s journey began in seventh grade, when a chance encounter introduced her to wrestling.  “I had a cross-country coach who was also the middle school wrestling coach,” she recalls. “He said they were looking for anyone to join the team. I had never heard of the sport before and thought it would be fun.” What started as curiosity quickly became commitment. She embraced both the physical challenge and the culture of wrestling, carrying that passion into high school and eventually to the collegiate level.

Breaking Barriers Early

In high school, Chanthasone didn’t just compete, she made history. She became the first girl from her school to qualify for and place at the state tournament, a milestone that reflects both her determination and her willingness to step into uncharted territory.  That same trailblazing mindset followed her into college. As a freshman at Chadron State, she qualified for the national tournament, an impressive feat made even more notable by the timing. “My freshman year of college I qualified for nationals, but this was before women’s wrestling was sanctioned by the NCAA,” she explains.

For Chanthasone, her proudest accomplishment goes beyond medals or placements.  “Overall, I am most proud of just being a part of this growing sport and being able to experience and take in the development of women’s wrestling.”

Finding the Right Fit at Chadron State

Her decision to attend Chadron State College was rooted in both trust and opportunity. Introduced to the program through a coach familiar with the school, Chanthasone immediately felt at home.  “I enjoyed the small town and felt like I got the most amount of opportunities through Chadron,” she says. “I also stay because I love the energy of the team and the passion my coaches have for their athletes.” That environment, hard work, shared goals, and support has helped her continue to grow as both a competitor and teammate.  “Everyone on the team works hard and shares the same passion I do.”

A Future Beyond Wrestling

While wrestling remains a central part of her life, Chanthasone is equally focused on her future off the mat. After completing her collegiate career, she plans to pursue a career in healthcare.  “After college, I plan on pursuing pharmacy at Kansas University for two years.”  Her academic ambitions mirror the same discipline and focus she brings to competition, reinforcing her identity as a well-rounded student-athlete.

A Proud Lao American Story

Chanthasone’s journey is also deeply connected to her family’s story—a narrative that reflects resilience, migration, and cultural pride.
Her father was born in Loei, Thailand, before moving to Vientiane, Laos at the age of eight, where he lived for 25 years before immigrating to the United States. Her mother was born and raised in Vientiane before immigrating to the U.S.A. Chanthasone hopes to one day represent Laos in international competition to help inspire the next generation of Lao wrestlers and show pride for her Lao heritage.