Wednesday, I got an email about a free wrestling clinic at UVA before they wrestling against UNC.
"That sounds like a great idea! My team should go!" I thought. "It's free, fun, will broaden horizons/knowledge, and serious college wrestlers will coach the kids some for me!"
Followed by the thoughts, "I don't remember UVA doing this last year. Man, I hope enough kids show up they want to do it again. I better gather as many of mine as possible."
The fear was unfounded. There had to be at least sixty kids. I brought 10. The Covenant Wrestling coach showed up with 11 of his. He'd been thinking the same thing!
Hilariously, after we talked, the UVA coach walked over (we must have looked official). He shook our hands and basically repeated us verbatim!
It made for some crowded mat conditions, but an exciting experience.
I want to train my wrestlers to be the best wrestlers they can be. That includes conditioning, technique, and experience, but having fun, building community, teaching mindsets and goal-setting are part of the process, too.
My wrestlers looked to be involved and focused. A few, more so than usual.
I think it inspired some of them to watch the match afterward (UNC won).
Coach Garland came out at the end to talk about the pillars of his program with the kids: Focus, Discipline, and Consistency. He talked about humility and what it takes to be great on the mat and off for a few minutes.
Then there was a mad dash for free pizza. Free pizza that lasted until it ran out (Sadly, some of the kids at the back of the line didn't get any. I must have done a good job with conditioning, because most of my kids sprinted and made it near the front of the line!).
What a wonderful opportunity for your kids! I'm so glad you took them. You're amazing!
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