Iowa Virtual Academy Athletes Shine in Their Sports 

Students choose Iowa Virtual Academy (IAVA) for many reasons — personalized learning, flexible pacing and, surprisingly, to gain a competitive edge in sports. 

The online format at Iowa Virtual Academy (IAVA) allows student-athletes to chase their athletic dreams anywhere without losing a step in the academic arena. As an NCAA-approved online public school, IAVA also offers a unique advantage for students looking to pursue sports after graduation. 

We sat down with a wrestler and a track star who are achieving success in their sport and in the classroom to learn more about how IAVA’s flexible learning model helps student-athletes succeed. 

Putting in the Work 

Dean has been running track since he was six years old, and his knack for the sport paired with his dedication is already paying off. A freshman at IAVA, Dean is competing at track and field showcases mostly intended for juniors and seniors in high school. At one of Dean’s most recent showcases, he was just one of five freshmen invited to compete out of a field of 150 athletes. Dean placed in the top 40 — an extraordinary accomplishment for someone just beginning their high school career. 

But the success Dean is experiencing at a young age has nothing to do with luck. Most weeks, he and his father train from 5 to 8 p.m. five days a week at his local gym. Both in the classroom and in the weight room, Dean is putting in immense amounts of work to get to where he wants to be. 

“Like my coach always says: ‘if you train hard, you’re gonna win easy,’” he said. “If you’re not putting in the work, someone else is going to be outworking you.”  

Dean’s sights are set at the pinnacle of sporting events — the 2028 Olympics. Dean is eligible to try out for the Dominican Republic Olympic Team, a dream he was inspired to chase after meeting other athletes who have followed a similar path. That goal isn’t too far-fetched at all, either: Dean has already competed in the Junior Olympics as a member of a sprint relay team, and has plans on attending multiple invite-only track showcases throughout 2025. 

Dean also works hard to keep his grades high and follow the NCAA core course requirements as he balances the demands of competing, training and traveling. That hard work is paying off, with Dean earning a place on the school’s high honor roll. 

Staying Grounded 

For Lauryn, wrestling began as a fun activity with friends, but it has grown into something much more meaningful. Every one of Lauryn’s wins so far has been a pin, and her inventive approach on the mat has made her a standout competitor. 

“I love that feeling of winning, it’s a ton of fun,” Lauryn said. “Competing helps me deal with emotions and stay grounded.” 

Lauryn is enjoying a successful season this year, with her record currently standing at 29-7. Currently, Lauryn is ranked 7th in the state, and she is hoping to compete in the statewide competition in February. 

Wrestling has become both an outlet and a source of motivation for Lauryn, who is now considering continuing the sport in college. Outside the ring, Lauryn is equally passionate about art and other creative pursuits, which she jokes is “on the opposite side of wrestling.”  

At IAVA, Lauryn has the freedom to explore all her interests while maintaining a strong focus on her sport. Our academy’s adaptable schedule allows her to balance training for wrestling with both her schoolwork and her love of art before she decides what to do after high school.  

Student-Athletes Welcome 

Competitive sports are a great way to learn teamwork, make friendships and build skills that will last throughout life. At IAVA, students can shape their high school experience around their biggest goals, whether their aspirations are in athletics, academics or the arts.  

Dean and Lauryn are great examples of the athletes who are able to spend more time training for and competing in their sport because they’ve found a way to make high school work for them and their biggest dreams. 

To learn more about IAVA and how we help students succeed, visit our About page.

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