The week before, as the week progresses: Gradually go harder as the week progresses for three days. Gradually reduce time, but increase the intensity. Also increase the work on the head game (most of us forget: on the mat, it's 90% mental). Create a self-assessment form (nothing fancy).

Day 1: take 5 minutes to "assess myself". Then swap sheets with their drill partners (trusted peer) and ask them to "assess me", for 5 minutes. Take another 5 + 5 (10) minutes to give one another feedback. Tell them to "do some homework and make a goal(s) for each of the next 3 days". End practice (and watch the conversations continue).

Day 2: "Who made some goals? Give me an example one." Some introspective words from the coach, followed by a short open forum discussion on "what do my words mean to you"...the wrestlers need to buy in (personally commit to themselves).

Day 3: Point out the positives and strengths about each wrestler in an open forum. Ask all to comment, but it must be led and dominated by "coach".

The day prior to the big tournament: Share the pride you (coach) feel about their efforts and character, not their accomplishments. Then talk about, explain, and practice visualization.