In her very first year of wrestling, Ava Kempf is already proving she belongs on the mat. She began the sport in November 2025, inspired by her father, Zack Kempf, a 2001 WIAA Stanley-Boyd State Champion. Following in his footsteps, Kempf has embraced the challenge of wrestling and is quickly gaining attention.
As a first-year wrestler, Kempf is proud to be part of the growing movement of female wrestling, helping create change in what has traditionally been a male-dominated sport.
“Being a part of the new opportunity for female wrestling is creating a change in a male dominated sport,” she said.
While learning the sport quickly has been one of her biggest challenges, she has met it head-on by committing herself to improving every single day. “My biggest challenges would be being new to the sport and trying to gather technique as fast as possible.” She shared, “My personal goal this year is working to get better every day and I want to learn something new every day.”
Head Wrestling Coach Jake Fitzsimmons praised Kempf’s progress and highlighted one of her recent accomplishments this season that came when she defeated a state-ranked opponent who had previously beaten her—an accomplishment that showcased her growth and determination. At the 28 team Bluejay Challenge, Kempf continued her impressive run by placing 2nd, an outstanding achievement for a first-year wrestler.
Kempf credits much of her success to the people who support her behind the scenes.
“The person who supported me the most would be my dad. He dedicates a lot of his free time to my wrestling and helps me improve.” She adds, “Lillian helps push me to do the sport and she always helps me so I can do my best.”
With her work ethic and support behind her, Stanley-Boyd athlete Ava Kempf is setting the tone for an exciting wrestling career—and she’s only just getting started.
