MEDAL MINDED: Kennedy-Williams Emerging as a Breakout Talent for Eisenhower Girls Track
FROM THE MOMENT SHE STEPPED ONTO THE VARSITY TRACK AS A FRESHMAN, JOURNIE KENNEDY-WILLIAMS MADE HER PRESENCE FELT. THE SPRINTER AND JUMPER QUICKLY TURNED HEADS FOR THE EISENHOWER EAGLES, EARNING MEDALS IN BOTH THE LONG JUMP AND 200M DASH AT THE AREA MEET, WHILE ADVANCING TO REGIONALS IN THE PROCESS.
Versatile across the 100m Dash and 4x100 and 4x200m Relays, Kennedy Williams enters her sophomore season carrying the confidence of early success and the ambition to go even further.
“There was definitely a sense of nervousness for me last year,” she said. “It was intimidating to go against seniors on the varsity level as just a freshman – but it didn’t slow me down. I’m used to it now. So, the goal is to work even harder and get further than the region and make it to State.”
Kennedy-Williams’ passion for track traces back to her family.
“I was introduced to the sport at a young age because my brothers ran. Then I took a break between first and eighth grade because I was in dance during that time. But I eventually rediscovered my passion for track and haven’t stopped since.”
While the rigorous training can be demanding, it’s also part of what keeps her engaged.
“Practice is the most challenging aspect of the sport, especially when we’re really pushed to the limit on a consistent basis. But when those medals come as a result, and you surprise yourself with some new personal records, it’s a lot easier to deal with,” she said.
Beyond the track, Kennedy-Williams’ personality shines through in small, unexpected ways.
“I can be pretty country. I don’t wear socks at all, not even at track meets, so walking around barefoot is nothing new to me. While I haven’t really ridden horses, I used to be at the barn a lot whenever my stepdad had one. All that kind of feeds into my personality.”
The competitive spirit that drives Kennedy-Williams has quickly cemented her standing for the Eagles as they chase district titles and look to make an even bigger impact at Regionals – and, potentially, at State.