Honest?
Do you have kids? Do they wrestle? If you don't, then you CAN NOT tell anyone else how to deal with their kids. If you do have kids and they do wrestle and are at the level of the kids in the finals this past weekend then we will listen. Better yet, write a book and your weekends will be pleasantly spent in your big home that you bought from the $$$ off your book. I will buy a copy for sure.

I CAN give you actual experiences on this matter. I have a kid, he wrestles and at the level to be in the finals. At the age of 7 my child knew more than me or anyone else that coached and has up until last year. And yes, they know their colors. RED and GREEN. If they don't know more than the parents then it must be that all parents stay at every practice for every minute all year long. Because if they didn't wrestle like i didn't they won't learn unless they are there learning from the coaches teaching the kids. I do know that a fit is NOT acceptable in any way shape or form.

When my son was 5-6 he threw fits and still gets emotional after some losses that are questionable on the calls. Reason being is that he knows 95% of the rules that actually come into play. I met a coach that told me not to take the fire from him but to harness it and use it in productive ways. You might know him, Pat Smith?

It was a tough road but you know what, this past weekend he was going for his 3rd straight title. He lost. He did cry but due to his knee being injured after the match ahd been won. He didn't throw a fit. He knew that he was not the best wrestler that day. The fits can be handled in a way without taking away something that some of them love. I do agree that there are some there that are there only because of mom/dad or both.

You say that they are just learning their colors. if so, then are the mentally mature enough to understand why you are pulling them off the mat. OR, will they think that the hunger and passion to win and learn the sport is wrong, reguardless what you tell them. Actions speak louder than words. Yes, you are correct, it starts with the actions of the parents and coaches.


I knew it was wrong, I fixed it and he is on a very special road. Headed to success.


Jason Wood
Proud father of a wrestler who threw fits.