Let me start by saying that I believe many of us get caught up in the moment. Whether it is a post on the talk form, at a dual or tournament, or just gossip we have heard , and may or may not be engaged in. We all need to remember this is about all the young men and women who make the choice and sacrifice to participate in the sport of wrestling. Some for many years and others just a short time. It is about ALL of them, the GOOD, the BAD and the UGLY. And their love for the sport.

We need to acknowledge them all, because without them, what would we have to talk about, agree and disagree about. From the 1-win varsity wrestler, that steps on the mat every week in hopes for one more win, to the State Champ.

These are young adults, with way to many influences in they lives at their age, both good and bad. It does not take much of a slip-up by one of these young people to have their hopes and dreams crushed. But this is life and this is how we all learn and grow. Their TRUE greatness is how they come back from adversity, both on and off the mat. Win or loose, they have won at life by just being apart of the sport.

Being parents and coaches, we go into every match just as the wrestler does, knowing we have a chance today to win the match and possibly the tournament. But we also know in the back of our minds we could loose just as easy. Yet we continue to go to every match, tournament, and season in the hunt, just as excited. Isn’t it GREAT! The passion displayed by all involved. If anyone can ever attend an event and not get fired-up, then you really are not part of wrestling. The wrestlers are as much a part of our lives as we are theirs.

We as the parents, coaches, family and friends, need to let all the wrestlers know how much we appreciate their contribution to the wrestling community.

Good luck to all, today, tomorrow and in the future!