wrestling

Last weekend was Kaleb's first meet in Westport. We have heard that they take forever, so we decided to bring the motorhome. I know we are silly and take every chance we can to use it. I'd been sick the day before, so it was nice to think I could go out and take a nap in between matches if I needed to (I didn't). and we could get snacks from out there. When we came home, everyone was sprawled out everywhere sleeping. Pretty funny!
Kaleb did good. It is always a little nerve wracking (how do you spell that) at the first meet, to find out how your kid is faring. I know he has been working hard in practice and training...and we wonder if his mma training is going to help or hinder. He said in mma, it is good to fight on your back....but not so good in wrestling....anyways, he was pinned his first match, but he fought good and showed he is very strong. He fought defensively most of the match, but would kick some good moves out throughout the whole match. I was amazed by his strength, and endurance.
His other two matches he pinned the guys pretty easily. And then first place pinned second place pretty easily...so it seemed like a solid spot for him. I was very happy with the results. I see great things in Kalebs future regarding wrestling.
I don't have pictures...but hopefully will be able to post some of the video....
I am falling in love with wrestling and am glad the boys are in it.
I know it is thought of as an aggressive sport, which it is....where boys fight...which they do, in a sense....but I see alot of life lessons being learned along the way.
One of my biggest concerns with wrestling is the weight issue. I don't think it is going to be much of an issue with Kaleb. BUT, if they handle it right it is a good practice of self control for a good cause....
I have been amazed at the sportsmanship I have seen on the mat. Guys will fight with all they have, and then when it is done they are helping their opponant up, hugging them, shaking hands, etc. showing respect and concern.
We have had a couple of guys come up afterwards and compliment our boys, (one was after a win and the other was after a loss). The boy who lost even brought his buddy by to show him who beat him. They both had total admiration in their eyes. No anger, or jealousy. It was awesome. I have seen teammates cheer their guys on...give advice...show moves that might have helped. concern again.
While they are wrestling...it is just the two boys on the mat. noone can come in and rescue them. The coaches are in the corners yelling out advice they can take or leave. But, ultimately it is up to each one to win or lose.
If you are not aggresive and wait to see what your opponant is going to do (probably more my speed) you are going to spend time fighting defensively...which is hard work and seems it is hard to switch to offensive fighting. It is important to be confident. To know what you are going to do before you get out there and not be intimidated! just do it!
These boys are learning to think and act while they are in stressful situations! if they are in a hold, they have to figure out a way to get out....or listen for their coaches, who see the whole picture and know what is going to work the best. I imagine as these boys grow up and get into real life situations they are going to be better able to handle split second decisions while under stress. They have to do it on the mat, or they are dead!
These were just a few of my observations this last weekend. I am excited to see the season progress. It will be very busy. which is a bit hard to do at Christmas time. but it seems we need to get used to it. This is going to be the norm for the next 6 years ( no, Kas will not wrestle!...even though I did see some girls pin their boy opponants! just can't even imagine being those boys!)