Starting today, things start getting serious. That actually will start with some of the seedings meetings that I wish I could be at. I thought it would be a good place to start a discussion about some good tips, especially at this time of year. I'll go with a few, add new ones on as you desire.

1. Everyone has worked hard this year, this coming week is critical to success. Don't quit or get lazy now.
2. Weight, for those watching it this week, be careful, for first few days lots of water then taper down towards the end of the week. Also lots of fruit and vegis. Don't dehydrate during practice, all of the sweats and all may hurt you more than help you. If you can't wrestle hard, take off the sweats after you get a good sweat going.
3. Skin Protection. I can't say how important this is. Now is not the time for skin issues.
4. Injury, make sure you stretch out good before and after practice, now is not the time for an injury that will keep you from being your best.
5. School work, some of you are going to be focusing a lot on wrestling for the next few weeks, stay on top of school work, without an education, wrestling really don't have much benefit.
6. Coaches make it fun. Truth is that some kids will not be wrestling anymore after Saturday. Let them know how much you have enjoyed having them
7. At the conclusion of the match, especially when a kid is done for the year, coaches and parents celebrate what your child has done this year. The push-ups, running the whole bit. A lot of discussion about why kids quit, well one reason is not leaving them with a good taste when all is done. Leave that last experience on the mat for the year a good one. Tell your kid you love them and that you are proud for what they have done.
8. One thing often forgotten about is that when a kid is done for the tournament season does not mean that they are done for the season. Be a team player, keep up the practice sessions to help out your workout partner until the completion of state, or longer if your team goes that long.
9. I tell the kids I coach to remember 3 things, tell yours the same if you agree, #1) Have Fun, #2) Do Your Best, #3) Walk on and off the Mat like a champion, no matter what happens. Does this work? I even use it with the older kids I coach including my son. It works and relaxes the wrestler and I believe it to be true.
10. I'm sure you can think of some other things.