McNichols also had a great start to the season, winning her first five matches, including three over ranked opponents, and one over a defending national champion. She was selected Wrestler of the Week by The Open Mat and Team USA Wrestling. On one day, McNichols defeated the top three wrestlers at 101 pounds. She started with a 3-2 decision over second-ranked Angie Gomez of Emmanuel College before defeated third-ranked Jennesis Martinez of Colorado Mesa University 5-2. The Fort Worth, Texas native capped the day with a 4-1 decision over top-ranked Pauline Granados of McKendree University.