In the Class of 2026, few individuals embody the spirit of the “Triple A” award—Academics, Arts, and Athletics—quite like Kayle Langford. A pioneer on the wrestling mat, a powerhouse on the softball diamond, and a dedicated leader in FFA, Langford has spent her four years at Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton (JWP) proving that there are no limits to what a Bulldog can achieve.
A Trailblazer on the Mat
Kayle Langford secured her place in the history books by becoming the first female wrestler to represent JWP-WEM at the State wrestling tournament. In only her third year in the program, her journey from joining “for the fun of it” to winning her section then competing at the state level has ushered in a new chapter of success for these Lady Grizzlies. It was a senior year surge that surprised many, but to those who know Langford’s work ethic, her ascent to the podium was anything but accidental.
Diamond Bound
While she makes history on the mat, Langford is equally dominant on the dirt. As a standout softball slugger for the Bulldogs, her talent has earned her a commitment to play for Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC) next year. For her senior season, Langford has helped lead a relatively young squad of Bulldog pups to a winning record; apart from her leadership, her bat has helped spark scoring surges while her quick reflexes in the hot corner keep opposing offenses at bay. Her athletic prowess, combined with her high academic standing, made her the ideal recipient of this year’s Triple A Award.
Community and the Crown
Langford’s influence extends far beyond sports. She has been a cornerstone of the JWP FFA Chapter, where she was recently crowned Queen in the program’s first-ever FFA court. Since joining FFA, the program has exploded in participation, reaching over 100 members in 2026—it’s speculation that Langford’s presence has been a key part of the program’s growth, but she leaves at a time of tremendous success. Her community involvement also took her to Waseca, where she represented the area as a candidate for Miss Irish Rose though she did not receive the coveted honor. Additionally, she has been performing in musicals and swing shows throughout her high school career and has participated in JWP band and choir all four years, proving her presence is felt in every corner of the school.
Exit Interview: A Conversation with Kayle Langford
Looking back at your four years, you’ve been involved in everything from FFA and Trap Shooting to Wrestling and the Arts. What were your favorite subjects or teachers?
KL: My favorite subjects are Science and Biology. Mr. Roesler is my favorite teacher—his Anatomy and Physiology class is so much fun, and I’ve learned so much there. Talking with him always keeps my scientific spark going.
You’ve had a massive senior year, from State wrestling to being named the Triple A recipient. What has been your personal highlight?
KL: Going to State for wrestling. I never actually thought I’d reach that bar. I joined the team just for fun, but in my senior year, I took a turn to get more serious and it really paid off. To help start the women’s program and then win my section was such an unexpected and high honor.
Is there a memory from your high school years that you’ll cherish forever?
KL: All the time I spent with Addison Miller. She was my number one support system here and we did everything together before she graduated last year. I’ll never forget the day she crawled into Mr. Schruin’s class dressed as a cat—that’s definitely a memory you don’t forget!
If you could go back and talk to your freshman-self, what advice would you give her?
KL: I’d tell her: “Join wrestling now! Keep powering through and have fun with everything you do. Cherish the moments you’re having with friends now, because things change so quickly.”
What is next for you after graduation?
KL: I’m heading to RCTC to play softball and earn my Associate’s degree in Biology. After that, I plan to pursue a Bachelor’s in the medical field.
What will you miss most about JWP?
KL: I’m going to really miss my friends and all the time we spent together—whether it was at FFA State or just the daily activities JWP provided for us.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank?
KL: Mr. Roesler first, for helping me develop as a person and an athlete. My parents, Dwight and Tracy, for always pushing me, and my friends for driving me and supporting me through everything.
It’s been a remarkable year for the Class of 2026, and Langford receiving the Triple A Award is the cherry on top of a high school sundae. Well-rounded success in all three categories isn’t an easy feat yet she has been able to not only achieve this exceptionally high mark, but potentially ushered in a new era of Lady Grizzly wrestlers determined to be the next tumbler to reach State. That alone makes for one very proud Bulldog.
