Defending 2014 Commonwealth Games Champion and Olympian in women’s wrestling Danielle Lappage will look to find glory once again at next year’s Games in Australia.

An Olds native, Lappage moved up weight classes from 63kg to 68 kg and defeated Veronica Keefe of Montreal at trials last week (Nov.3) to solidify her spot.

“This was my first competition as this weight class, but I felt really good and I felt really energized. When it comes to international (competition) I’m not really sure, but I’m confident and positive that it won’t be too much of a big deal,” said Lappage.

She said the victory has given her a boost of confidence heading into the Games, with expectations remaining high.

“It’s great to get another chance to go back to the Commonwealth Games. My expectations are about the same as any major competition. I want to win and want to be successful.”

Lappage made her Olympic debut at Rio 2016, but due to a severe hamstring injury sustained in her opening match, she was forced to withdraw.

Although extremely hard on her at the time, Lappage said she did her best to stay positive and battle through it, but still has a lot of work to do heading into the Games.

“I didn’t really know if it would be possible to come back and to come back and be successful. It was a  very emotional and long road.”

“I’m still rehabbing. It’s been a very long rehab process, but I’m still focusing on strengthening my leg that I injured in Rio.”

The 2018 Commonwealth Games take place on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia from April 4-15.