Fighting Phenomenon: From childhood ninja to taekwondo master

At four years old, most kids are learning some basic language and cognitive skills, how to tie their shoes, etc. Taylor Kidwell was learning what she wanted to do with the next 13+ years of her life: become a ninja! Now, at 15, this local taekwondo sensation is a 3rd-degree Black Belt in Kukkiwon Taekwondo, the world-renowned style founded in South Korea, and already working hard toward her 4th-degree. Backed by parents who have supported and cheered her on every step of the way, Taylor has transformed a childhood dream into a disciplined pursuit. If all goes according to plan, by the time she graduates high school, she will be a 4th-degree Black Belt, a Master, and the recipient of countless awards and accolades.  

This has already been a banner year for the young athlete, but she is only beginning to really hit her stride. Competing in a slew of tournaments, she has proven her skill, mental fortitude, and commitment to the sport, time and time again. Taylor won both the Oregon and Washington State Championships for her division. She won Bronze in the U.S. Open Championships, Gold in the American Open West, Bronze in the USAT National Team Trials, and Bronze in the AAU Nationals. She was invited to the national team trials, where she placed 2nd and secured a spot on the B Team. Her next big tournament, which she is training for now, will be held in January at the USAT Nationals. Winning a spot on that team opens up opportunities for more international competitions, and she is both grateful and excited for being invited.

 I had the pleasure of speaking with Taylor and her proud father, Adam Kidwell, for the purpose of this article. They were wonderfully enthusiastic, passionate, and dedicated individuals both to the sport itself and to Taylor’s journey up the ranks. And this is no joke! Taylor practices 10-12 hours every week in addition to being a sophomore in high school and a volunteer for the Civil Air Patrol. At her level, every new degree of Black Belt requires years of dedicated practice and mastery. Few reach such heights. When she earns her 4th Degree, she will actually already be qualified to open her own school (provided she meets the age requirements). 

I asked Taylor what was next: world domination? But she was incredibly humble and pragmatic with her answer. Taekwondo is in her blood; it’s an integral part of who she is as a person, but it’s not the be-all and end-all of her existence. She obviously plans to continue practicing, to continue progressing through the ranks, but, as a pragmatist, she plans to join the military out of school and fly C-130s. So, with her head firmly attached to her shoulders and not in the clouds (like a lot of kids her age), Taylor will continue being extraordinary for the next 15 years of her life and beyond. Don’t miss a local legend on the rise! Follow Taylor Kidwell next year as she blazes new trails across the 2026 taekwondo season!