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Dear Parents:
Here are some hints on how to make this a fun season, with lots of positive memories for your kids and your family.
Make sure your kids know that, win or lose, you love them. Be the person in their life they can always look to for support.
Try to be completely honest with yourself about your kids? athletic capability, their competitive attitude, their sportsmanship and their level of skill.
Be helpful, but don't coach your kids on the game or at the breakfast table. Think how tough it must be on them to be continually inundated with advice, pep talks and criticism.
Teach your kids to enjoy the thrill of competition, to be out there trying and to be constantly working to improve their skills. Don't tell them that winning doesn't count because it does, and they know it. Instead, help them develop a healthy competitive attitude, a feel for competing, for trying hard, for having a good time?.
Try not to live your life through your kids. Sure they're an extension of you, but don't assume they feel the same way you did, want the same things, or have the same attitude.
Don't push them in the direction that gives you the most satisfaction. Don't compete with your kids coach. Try to help them understand the necessity for discipline, rules and regulations.
Don't compare your kids with other players on the team - at least not within their hearing - don't lie to them about their capabilities as a player.
Get to know your kids coaches. Make sure you approve of each coachs attitude and ethics. Coaches can be influential, and you should know the values of each coach so that you can decide whether or not you want them passed on to your kids.
Teach your kids the meaning of courage. Courage isn't the absence of fear. Courage is learning to perform in spite of fear. Courage isn't getting rid of fear. Its overcoming it.
Winning is an important goal. Winning at all cost is stupidity.
Remember that officials are necessary. Don't overreact to their calls. They have rules and guidelines to follow representing authority on the field. Teach your kids to respect authority and to play by the rules.
Finally, remember if the kids aren't having fun we're missing the whole point of youth sports.
Objective
The primary objective in folkstyle wrestling is to gain control of your opponent and to ultimately pin your opponent by holding your opponent with their back (both shoulder blades simultaneously) on the mat for a period of at least two seconds.
Match Basics
Wrestling matches consist of three periods. Periods can vary in length from one minute in duration for younger age groups, to as long as three minutes for college wrestling. Either wrestler can win the match at any time if they are able to pin their opponent or develop a lead of more than 14 points. Otherwise, the wrestler that can accumulate the most points by the end of the third period (or after overtime in the case of a tie) wins the match.
Positions
There are only two positions from which referees start, or continue a match. The first is neutral position, with both wrestlers standing and facing each other. The other is the referee’s position, where one wrestler starts on his hands and knees down on the mat, and the other starts on top, behind and in control. The first period always begins in the neutral position. Each wrestler has their choice in one of the remaining periods, to choose to start from top or bottom referee’s position, or in the neutral position. If the action must be stopped before the end of a period, the referee restarts the wrestlers in the starting position that best reflects the position the wrestlers were in when the action was stopped.
Scoring
The scoring system is rather simple. Takedowns (when from a neutral position one wrestler is able to bring the other to the mat and gain control) are worth two points. Escapes (when the bottom wrestler is able to break free from the top wrestler and revert back to a neutral position) are worth one point. Reversals, (when a wrestler on the bottom is able to reverse the control so that the opponent is on the bottom) are worth two points. Back points (also called near fall) are awarded when one wrestler comes close to pinning the other (i.e. exposing the other wrestler’s back) and are worth two or three points depending on the length of time that the opponent’s back is exposed. In addition, penalty points can be awarded when the opposing wrestler performs illegal moves or is penalized for excessive stalling.
Point System – The following is the point system used:
Takedown 2 points
Near Fall 2 or 3 points
Escape 1 point
Reversal 2 points
Equipment
Basic wrestling equipment includes a headgear, wrestling shoes, and a singlet. Wrestling shoes offer more ankle support than the traditional shoe and are designed lightweight and tight to the foot to promote freedom of movement. Headgear can prevent outer ear injuries and bruises during practice and competition. The standard wrestling uniform, known as a singlet, is designed to fit snug to the body so that it does not restrict the movement of either wrestler. Kneepads are sometimes worn by choice.
Unlike boxing, where no one (not even the boxers) knows the score, the scoring in wrestling is precise and both the spector and wrestler alike can follow the progress of the match.
The point used in wrestling is an evaluation of the activity on the mat. It is the referee’s duty, among other things, to analyze the situation and signal the points to the scorer.
First Both wrestlers come forward, shake hands, and step back to their designated red or green area in the center of the mat.
Next The referee blows the whistle and wrestling begins.
Now Each wrestler is trying to get control of the other by taking him to the mat with a “Takedown”.
Points The first points are likely to be given for Takedown. When one wrestler gets a takedown the referee signals two points.
Then
"FALL or PIN"
The defensive wrestler (or bottom or “down”) is trying to ESCAPE or REVERSE and get a hold with which he can keep his opponent’s shoulders on the mat for 2 seconds – A FALL.
First Period Starts from standing or neutral position.
Second Period Choice of position is decided by the toss of a coin. The winner of the toss may choose either up or down in “Referee’s Position” or “Neutral Position” or “Defer” to the other wrestler.
Third Period Choice of position is decided by the wrestler who did not win the coin toss or if the choice was defered in the second period, the wrestler may choose up or down in the "Referee's Position" or "Neutral Position".
The Winner The winner of the match shall be declared by the wrestler who scores the most points or by a fall.
GENERAL MATCH STRATEGY
1. Don't be afraid to lose, have an offensive philosophy going in, and constantly use a proper attack.
2. Make your opponent wrestle your style. Force the match and keep him off balance by attacking first and continuously.
3. If you have reach, speed, or balance on a man, use these to your advantage. Mix them up in your attack, the odds favor you.
4. If you are stronger, overpower him. If you are weaker, don't fight his strength but instead concentrate on perfect technique. Technique will win over strength nearly every time.
5. If you are in better shape, set a pace he can't stand but don't do all the work. Make him lift your weight every time possible.
6. Keep a cool head and remain poised and confident. Never allow calls by the referees or actions by your opponent or the fans to upset your wrestling attitude or technique. Never make the referee mad at you.
7. Never stop wrestling until the whistle blows. This includes not giving up a defensive move until the referee calls the points.
8. Do not do anything in a match that you haven't worked hard to perfect in practice.
9. Never let your opponent know that you are tired.
10. Be a "chain wrestler", always performing a second move if the first doesn't work. Use holds which blend together, either as a fake to set-up, or as a follow-up.
11. A desperation move is risky and should only be tried at the end of the match when you "must" get points. Remember, a loss by one point is as bad as a loss be several points.
TOURNAMENTS
A tournament involves numerous teams. In tournaments, each individual wrestler competes in his own weight bracket, while scoring points for his team. Individual wrestlers are competing for individual medals and glory. The bracket is drawn so that the known superior wrestlers are seeded and separated from competing against each other in the opening rounds. This is in an effort to set the best possible final match. A bye occurs when the number of wrestlers in the bracket is not a power of 2, i.e. 4, 8, 16, 32 wrestlers. A bye is randomly drawn into the bracket. A bye should only occur in the first round of championship and the first round of consolations. The wrestlers advance in the bracket as long as they continue to win. If a wrestler loses, the format of the tournament determines whether or not he will wrestle in the consolation bracket.
Definition of Terms:
TAKEDOWN – From a neutral position, a wrestler gains control of his opponent and takes him down on the mat.
ESCAPE – When the defensive wrestler gains a neutral position and his opponent has lost control.
REVERSAL – When the defensive wrestler comes from underneath and gains control of his opponent.
NEAR FALL - When the offensive wrestler has control of his opponent in pinning situation and both shoulders or scapulae of the defensive wrestler is held beyond perpendicular to the mat or when the defensive wrestler is in a high bridge or on both elbows for 3 seconds 2 points is awarded and for 5 seconds 3 points is awarded.
FALL – When any part of both shoulders or scapulae are held in contact with the mat for 2 seconds.
DECISION – Earned by the wrestler who has earned the greater number of points.
DEFAULT – Awarded when one of the competitors is unable to continue wrestling for any reason.
DEFER – A strategy that gives the original wrestler the choice in the final period.
FORFIET – Received by a wrestler when his opponent, for any reason, fails to appear for the match.
NEUTRAL POSITION – Position in which neither wrestler has control.
CONTROL – Situation in which a contestant exercises and maintains restraining power over his opponent.
POSITION of ADVANTAGE – Position in which contestant is in control of his opponent.
REFEREE’S TOP POSITION – Position known as “Top”, is the control position where most pins (falls) occur. The top man is positioned after the bottom is set. The top man is required to grasp the bottom mans elbow with one hand and the other hand to wrap around the bottom man’s waist.
REFEREE’S BOTTOM POSITION – Position of the man on his hands and knees on the mat. There are two parallel lines twelve inches apart. The bottom man is required to have his hands in front of one line and his knees behind the other.
Parents in wrestling are courageous -- it's true,
They feel all the pain that their child must go through,
At home, when he diets, they wish it could stop,
Yet know he must do it to stay at the top.
Excuses for losing they will not endure,
"Don't blame the ref, son, because of the score,
The coach, he will show you the best way to move,
Keep working in practice if you want to improve."
At dual meets, you'll see them breathing a prayer,
As their boy must compete with no one else there,
Whatever the outcome - mom cheers with deep pride,
While dad -- you will notice - stands right by his side.
They'll drive to a tournament many miles away,
To witness a child who's prepared for this day,
Their boy, he has trained, with all of his might,
Having dreams of becoming a champion tonight.
But should he fall short, at his corner you'll find,
A mother and father -- supportive and kind,
They teach that through wrestling he'll learn about life,
Yes, living is filled with both triumph and strife.
Now if you are searching for people who care,
Just look by a mat, they'll always be there,
Such love for a sport is truly inherent,
That's why we salute The Wrestling Parent.
WHICH ONE ARE YOU?
*THE AVOIDER -
NOT WILLING TO COMMIT TIME AND ENERGY TO SUPPORT THEIR CHILD?S PARTICIPATION. THE AVOIDER THINKS FUN IS IMPORTANT BUT WILL NOT COMMIT THE TIME TO TEACH AND REINFORCE SKILL DEVELOPMENT AND DISCIPLINE.
*THE ENABLER -
DOES NOT MAKE CHOICES FOR THE CHILD BUT ENABLES HIM OR HER TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN WHATEVER DIRECTION THE CHILD CHOOSES BY GIVING SUPPORT AND POSITIVE ENCOURAGEMENT. THE PARENT WILL STRESS BALANCE AND GIVE THE CHILD ROOM TO MAKE PERSONAL DECISIONS AND CHOICES.
*THE CRITICAL PARENT -
KNOWS HOW TO DO EVERYTHING BETTER THAN IT IS PRESENTLY BEING DONE. THE CRITICAL PARENT HAS OPINIONS AND MAKES SUGGESTIONS WHICH ARE NOT ALWAYS CONSTRUCTIVE.
*THE ABUSIVE PARENT -
GENERATES FEAR AND ANXIETY IN THEIR OWN CHILDREN AS WELL AS TEAMMATES. THE ABUSIVE PARENT MAKES THREATENING COMMENTS TO ANYONE WHO WILL LISTEN.
*THE BACK-SEAT COACH PARENT -
THIS TYPE OF PARENT ALWAYS HAS A COMMENT NO MATTER WHAT. THE BACK-SEAT COACH PARENT QUESTIONS THE COMPETENCE OF THE COACH AND THE OFFICIALS. THEY THINK (and let everyone know) THAT IF THEY WERE THE COACH OR PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR THE TEAM OR PROGRAM WOULD BE SO MUCH BETTER. THESE ARE THE PARENTS THAT TRY TO COACH FROM THE SIDELINES, TELLING THEIR CHILD AND ALL OF THE TEAM HOW TO PLAY.
*THE USER PARENT -
THESE PARENTS USE THE YOUTH SPORTS PROGRAM AS A BABY-SITTING SERVICE. THEY BARELY SLOW DOWN TO DROP OFF THEIR CHILDREN. THESE ARE THE PARENTS THAT ARE HABITUALLY LATE TO PICK THEIR CHILDREN UP FROM PRACTICES AND GAMES.
*THE ENTHUSIASTIC PARENT -
THIS TYPE OF PARENT IS EXCITED ABOUT THEIR CHILD?S PARTICIPATION AND GIVES CONSISTENT POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT WHILE THEIR CHILD IS PARTICIPATING. THEY ARE SUPPORTIVE OF THE GOALS OF THE YOUTH ORGANIZATION, ARE INVOLVED AND PARTICIPATE IN MANY ACTIVITIES TO SUPPORT THE ORGANIZATION.
*THE MODEL YOUTH SPORT PARENT -
THIS TYPE OF PARENT WILL DO ANYTHING TO SUPPORT THEIR CHILD?S PARTICIPATION IN YOUTH SPORTS. THEY RESPECT THE PEOPLE INVOLVED IN PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR THEIR CHILD AND ASSIST IN MAKING THEIR CHILD?S EXPERIENCE AS POSITIVE AS POSSIBLE.
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