Tucson Wrestler Ana Gisele Kelly Wins 12U USA Wrestling Women's National Title

Kelly also named Outstanding Wrestler in her age group at the national championships in Spokane.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:41pm

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An abstract, neon-colored painting depicting a young female wrestler in mid-action, her limbs and body blurred into vibrant, energetic brushstrokes, capturing the raw power and skill of the sport.The raw athletic energy and technical prowess of young wrestler Ana Gisele Kelly shine through in this vibrant, expressionist illustration.Spokane Today

Ana Gisele Kelly, a 12-year-old wrestler from Tucson, Arizona, won the 87-pound freestyle title at the USA Wrestling Women's National Championships in Spokane, Washington. Kelly dominated her matches, winning all four by technical fall, including a 10-0 victory in the championship bout. She was also selected as the Outstanding Wrestler in her age group.

Why it matters

Kelly's impressive performance at the national championships showcases the growing popularity and competitiveness of women's wrestling in the United States. Her success highlights the dedication and talent of young female athletes, inspiring others to take up the sport.

The details

Kelly, who trains at the Cyclones Wrestling & Fitness club in Tucson, won her matches in dominant fashion. She won her second-round match by technical fall (10-0) in 54 seconds, her quarterfinal match by technical fall (15-5) in 3:06, her semifinal match by technical fall (10-0) in 36 seconds, and the championship match by technical fall (10-0) in 46 seconds.

  • The USA Wrestling Women's National Championships took place on Friday, April 11, 2026 in Spokane, Washington.
  • Kelly won the 87-pound 12U freestyle title on that day.

The players

Ana Gisele Kelly

A 12-year-old wrestler from Tucson, Arizona, who trains at the Cyclones Wrestling & Fitness club. She won the 87-pound 12U freestyle title and was named the Outstanding Wrestler in her age group at the 2026 USA Wrestling Women's National Championships.

George Kelly

Ana Gisele Kelly's father, who was the former football coach at Empire High School in Tucson and also coached at Pima Community College.

Levonzel Scheidt

A wrestler from the Big Cat Wrestling Club in Spokane, Washington, who Ana Gisele Kelly defeated in the championship match.

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What they’re saying

“Ana's performance at the national championships was truly impressive. She showed incredible skill and determination to dominate her matches and earn the Outstanding Wrestler award.”

— George Kelly, Father of Ana Gisele Kelly

What’s next

Ana Gisele Kelly's success at the 12U USA Wrestling Women's National Championships has earned her a spot on the USA Wrestling national team. She will now prepare to represent the United States in international competitions.

The takeaway

Ana Gisele Kelly's dominant performance at the 12U USA Wrestling Women's National Championships is a testament to the growing strength and talent of young female wrestlers in the United States. Her success inspires other girls to take up the sport and pursue their wrestling dreams.