Kennedy Blades, a rising star in the wrestling world, continues to shine brightly, recently participating in the wrestling trials to secure a spot on the national team. Standing at six feet tall, Kennedy Blades may appear anomalous in a sport dominated by stockier competitors. However, her sheer determination to win sets her apart. Quickly realizing that her quick reflexes can offset the disadvantage of her height, she further tested this tactic with Korina, her younger sister by 10 months, who served as her grappling partner.

“Korina has always been my rock and biggest supporter,” said Kennedy Blades, reflecting on her sister’s pivotal role in her wrestling journey. Korina, who also aspires to excel in wrestling, faced a setback as she did not make it to the trials this time. However, the bond between the Blades sisters remains unshaken. They continue to train together and support each other wholeheartedly. As Kennedy reaches new heights this year, ahead of the Paris Olympics, she reflects on the unwavering support she has received from Korina throughout her journey.

Kennedy Blades appreciates sister’s support amid wrestling trials setback

Recently, AP News detailed how the Blades sisters –Kennedy and Korina – are some of the finest wrestlers in the country. In April, when Kennedy defeated Adeline Gray, who had won a silver medal in the 76 kg class at the Tokyo 2020 Games, she barely reacted despite winning both matches 11-6 and 8-3. Her mind was already focused on Paris and the prospect of becoming only the third American woman ever to win an Olympic gold in wrestling.

She said, “I felt there’s something more that I wanted.” Adding, “And I think I’ve just manipulated my mind to going for gold, bringing home a gold medal from the Olympics. So that (beating Gray) was just the first step.” Her coach, Terry Steiner also weighed in on Kennedy being a favorite to win in Paris, “We have a generational talent that we just don’t see very often.” The two sisters are not just close, they’re also great grappling partners. Kennedy has admitted how her sister, who was an U15 World Champion in 2019 and a junior World bronze medalist in 2021, helps her prepare.

Kennedy gushed about their partnership and how much they benefit from each other’s expertise, “It’s always nice because having each other, we kind of make each other a better version by competing.” Continuing, she said, “But we compete in the best way as far as just to help each other grow. She’s been a really big part of my journey, and I’m super grateful for her.” Unfortunately, her injuries have kept her out of the Olympic cycle. Though this sure has disheartened both sisters, Kennedy Blades is primed to go out there and win gold for them both. 

Kennedy Blade’s Paris Olympics aspirations

Kennedy Blades has been on a long journey towards the Olympics. In 2016, she made history as the first Illinois girl to win the Illinois Kids Wrestling Federation championship against boys. However, Steiner emphasizes that possessing talent and effectively using it are two different things. Kennedy Blades has consistently demonstrated her ability to leverage her strengths. Steiner remarked, “She’s shown us over the past few years that she’s ready to compete on that stage.” According to Track Wrestling, she boasts an impressive record of 5-0 with 3 technical falls and no pins.

Despite her loss to Tamyra Mensah-Stock in the 2021 US Olympic trials, which Mensah-Stock followed with a historic gold in Tokyo, Blades sees it as a learning experience that matured her technique and prepared her better for this year’s trials. Reflecting on her progress, Blades said, “It made me feel really good because I was right there.”

This year, on her path to qualification, Blades defeated several talented and experienced wrestlers such as Skylar Grote, Symond Guilford, and Yelena Makoyed. Her recent victory over Adeline Gray solidifies Blades’ position as a top-notch wrestler. Even Gray acknowledged Blades’ talent, stating, “She’s got a lot of explosive talent, very few holes. So I’m proud of her for stepping up and being willing to battle.” Now that Kennedy Blades has secured her spot on the Olympic team, she is determined to elevate her game even further.