Patrick,
I must say, I feel your pain. It was hard to hear the first time Ethin said he wanted a break from wrestling. He has said it a couple of times. He started wrestling when he was 5, so this was his 7th year. When I look back, I can see that he knew what was best for him. After each "break" he has come back refreshed, more dedicated & more confident. In fact this year he wants to do some FS/Greco!
He was disappointed after his loss on Sunday, one match away from placing. But FJ & his other wrestling Dads/coaches all told him that it was just another match. You learn from all your losses. We reiterated that our goal is not just for him to be a kids state champ but to become the best wrestler, competitor, and person he can be. He is sharpening all his tools to become a high school and college champion. If along the way he wins a couple of kids state championships that will be just icing on the cake.