Local Champion: Newport Harbor High School Senior Eduarda Rodrigues
By: Bethany Myers
In the heart of Newport Beach, there's a formidable force shaping the landscape of high school wrestling—Eduarda (aka Duda) Rodrigues. This dynamic young athlete, currently a senior at Newport Harbor High School, is making waves not only locally but also nationally with her outstanding talent and dedication to the sport.
Eduarda's journey into the world of wrestling began in Brazil at the age of six when she first stepped onto the mats for jiujitsu. However, it was upon her relocation to Newport Beach two years ago that she decided to transition to wrestling—a decision that would lead her to discover her true passion.
Since then, Eduarda has soared to remarkable heights in her wrestling career, clinching numerous awards and accolades along the way. With two state championships under her belt, along with victories at prestigious events like the Fargo Championship, NHSCA Championship, and Girls HS Showcase Championship, Eduarda has proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with on the mat.
When asked about what she enjoys most about wrestling, Eduarda passionately describes the multifaceted challenges it presents: "The ability to overcome myself in so many ways, physically, mentally, and emotionally." This relentless pursuit of self-improvement drives her forward in her quest for excellence.
Looking ahead, Eduarda has her sights set on even greater achievements. Her future goals include wrestling in college, aiming for a remarkable 4x national champion title, and ultimately vying for a spot in the 2028 Olympics—a testament to her unwavering determination and ambition.
Reflecting on her journey thus far, Eduarda finds it difficult to pinpoint a favorite memory, as each tournament has its own unique story and significance. "Every moment is special," she remarks, emphasizing her love for the thrill of competition.
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Eduarda's personal life plays an integral role in shaping her journey. Born in Curitiba, Brazil, she made the courageous decision to move to Newport Beach in pursuit of her dreams. She credits her parents, Silvio and Cátia, for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout her journey, highlighting the importance of family in her success.
As she continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of wrestling, Eduarda remains deeply grateful to Newport Harbor High School and the Newport Beach community for their steadfast support. Their recognition of her dedication and hard work serves as a constant source of inspiration and motivation.
In closing, Eduarda leaves us with a message of gratitude and determination. "I will be forever grateful for Newport Harbor HS and the Newport Beach community for always supporting and recognizing all the hard work it takes to accomplish these titles," she says. With her sights set on the future, there's no doubt that Eduarda Rodrigues will continue to shine brightly as a symbol of excellence in the world of wrestling.
You can follow Duda’s journey on Instagram @rodrigues_duda._
