Patrick Kennedy has always been the type to chase greatness on the mat. A four-time Minnesota state champion and NCAA qualifier, his resume is as stacked as they come. This year, he’s locked in a fierce battle for a spot in Iowa’s 174-pound lineup, a position far from guaranteed. But there’s something different about Kennedy’s approach to the grind. Despite the fierce competition, something has kept him grounded and focused on one goal: earning his place with the Hawkeyes. He’s not backing down from the challenge. In fact, he embraces it.

Kennedy’s journey isn’t just about the wins and losses. For him, it’s about something more profound that goes beyond the results. Wrestling for the Hawkeyes has become a part of who he is and his story. He talks about the bond he shares with his teammates, the memories they create together off the mat, and the life lessons he’s learned in the process. He’s not just here to compete; he’s here because being part of this team means something to him in a way few things ever could. But why stay when so many are on the move? For Kennedy, the answer runs deeper than you’d think.

Kennedy chooses loyalty over NIL, and Transfer Portal lures

Imagine this: a wrestler with big potential, sitting on NIL offers and transfer opportunities from programs that would love to snag him. But Patrick Kennedy? Nah, he’s not about that life. “It makes no sense in my head to go somewhere and hate it and get paid, but you just hate being there,” Kennedy said.

“I love being here. I grew up not with a lot of money, so if I finish wrestling and go put my work boots on the rest of my life, so what? I don’t care because I love being here.” He’s got it figured out—he’s not chasing a paycheck; he’s chasing what feels right. Iowa’s his home, and that’s worth more than any dollar sign.

Let’s be real: this isn’t just about wrestling. Kennedy’s out there living the life he wants, away from the limelight. He’s chopping wood, outbow fishing, and just enjoying his time with his teammates. Growing up without much has made him appreciate the small things—like putting in hard work and staying true to his values. Even if that means throwing on his work boots after wrestling’s done, Kennedy’s fine with it. His commitment to Iowa isn’t about cash—it’s about living life on his terms.

Patrick Kennedy’s leadership? Total player-coach vibes

It’s one thing to be a talented wrestler, but it’s another to be a leader. Kennedy’s got that player-coach mentality, and Iowa’s coach Tom Brands knows it. “He’s loyal, driven, and sticks up for his teammates. He holds them accountable,” Brands says. Kennedy doesn’t need to wear a whistle around his neck to lead. He leads by example, showing up daily and ensuring his teammates do the same. That’s the type of energy that makes him invaluable in Iowa’s wrestling room.

When Patrick Kennedy hits the mat, he’s not there to coast. His approach is full throttle from start to finish. He’s not just about winning; he’s about dominating. Kennedy takes his cue from TV analyst Shane Sparks: “You want to see the scoreboard exhausted and tired.” That’s how he wants every match to go down—pushing himself to the limit and ensuring his performance leaves everything on the mat. And when it’s his turn in the lineup, he’s not just showing up—he’s going all in.

Kennedy’s not waiting around for a guaranteed starting spot. Whether he’s wrestling at 174 pounds or anywhere else, he’s just ready to do the work. Kennedy knows his time will come, and when it does, he’s going to make sure it’s worth the wait. His love for Iowa and his teammates keeps him focused on what really matters: hard work, loyalty, and giving it everything he’s got—no matter the circumstances.