As we all set to leave for the Kansas Kids State Tournament in Topeka, please take a minute and think about what our kids are feeling.
I know mine is experiencing both excitement and nervousness. And this coming from someone who is making his 5th trip to Topeka. What about these other wrestlers that are making their 1st trip???

Some one posted in another topic about how to handle the end of year pressure and stress. Ignore wrestling for a day or so. Talk about other sports, (I know, there is no other sport ), weather, games, movies, what ever. Just keep their mind clear and help them to relax. We did that this week and I think my son is more focused than he has been all year.

Good luck to all the wrestlers who have made it this far. And everyone have a SAFE trip there and back.

Great advice!

Some more? Don't put the success of the whole trip on the shoulders of your wrestler! Enjoy the journey.

Amen, Randy. I was just sitting here thinking how cool to be out here with my son before he goes off the college and get to see a new place and be with a lot of cool wrestling people. It would be nice to be an All American but even if he isn't, and there will be a whole lot that aren't, he is still my great son that wrestles and that wanted me to come out here with him to see him wrestle.

What a great month of wrestling this has been. Good luck to all and Enjoy the ride. To all you 6 and under parents...it goes waaay too fast. Don't waste it fussing, worrying, blaming, etc. Remember how hard wrestling really is and how many kids can't even last through a few practices let alone, stick it out and be a champion. And by champion, that definition can mean many things.

Ms. Jenni

Ms. Jenni,

A few tough practices? With Coach Ed? I don't know what you mean? I barely work up a sweat standing on the side of the mat watching.

Enjoy the time with Jarrett, and tell him the Bazzelles wish him the best this week.

I also agree with ALL of the above statements. Yes, there is always a lot of excitement and pressure that comes with the Kids State Tournament. As parents and/or coaches, we should all be very proud of our wrestlers.

As our family has learned over the years and especially this year, winning is not everything. As Ms. Jenni said, being a champion can mean many things!! Please show your son or daughter that you love them and are proud of their accomplishments whether they win or lose!!!

With all that has happened in our lives this wrestling season, I have told my boys over and over that I love them and I am so proud of their accomplishments (win or lose). They have made it through a lot this year and have had to grow up way to fast this year.

Best of luck this weekend wrestlers and parents, stay positive!!

Last, I would like to say, "GOOD LUCK GAVIN GRATER (10/110#) AND COACH DANNY GRATER"!! MOM LOVES YOU!!


Leanna Grater