Have a Question? Ask Cael

Throughout the year, week, Cael, known by the wrestling community as "The Professor", will answer one of your questions right here on Cael Sanderson dot com. A new question and answer will be posted frequently.

To submit new questions, simply fill out the form at the bottom of the page. You may submit questions at any time. Cael will personally select one question to answer right here on CaelSanderson.com. If you do not see your question answered, please feel free to ask it again. While there are many good questions, Cael can only answer one at a time.

i don’t feel comfortable with ankle picks. So is there any thing i can do to help me get this right? like am i not hand fighting enough or something?
question: My question is about technique, I’m pretty good with most moves, i just started wrestling in 6th grade and I have worked really hard to get where i’m at. (placing in nationals.) Well I’m in 8th grade so i need find [...] (Read More)

3 Questions
Question: Hey Cael, this is my 1st year wrestling and through out my days at practice, i never really seem to improve mentally. It seems once i learn the moves my coach is telling me, once it comes time for my match all the anticipation gets to me and i forget. I just want to [...] (Read More)

..has lost 2 matches to kids he has beat several times before, he has become very discouraged and his confidence is in the dumps. Is there any advice you can give him to help his confidence?
question: We have followed your career and are very proud to have known you and your brothers. My son was on the little wasps team in Utah and has always remembered you telling him he was doing a good job, he now only wears your shoes. He is now a senior in [...] (Read More)

Hi Cael I have been studying you for years and believe I have you figured out. I was a state champion in the senior level state freestyle meet. The question I have is are you willing to put your reputation on the line against me in a freestyle match.
Hi Cael I have been studying you for years and believe I have you figured out.  I was a state champion in the senior level state freestyle meet.  The question I have is are you willing to put your reputation on the line against me in a freestyle match.  Freestyle is my specialty and [...] (Read More)

“what are some things to keep focus before a match?\” Well my question is how to keep m focus before a match, During tournaments my results are phenominal in comparison against my dual meet results. For some reason when im wrestling in the darkened gym with the 4 big lights focusing on my match, with hundreds of people watching I cant keep my focus. But during tournaments I don\’t feel as isolated because theirs many matches going on at the same time and all of the stress isn\’t on me. I just can\’t keep my mind clear during dual meets what are some things I can do to not stress out?
Hi Jared, Consistency is the key. Control your thoughts and emotions. They should be the same regardless of the circumstances, either dual or tournament, 15000 fans or 15 fans, state finals or intrasquad match. Jared, it’s important to understand that worrying about things that you can not control is a complete [...] (Read More)

I would also would like to know what should I work on the most to dominate on the mat?
Hey Cael, my name is Chad, and I’m a freshman at the high school. I’m a ok wrestler. I’m 195 so I wrestle at 215 and its hard. I don’t know if I should try to make 89’s. What should i do? I would also like to know what should I work on the most [...] (Read More)

I just want to know with the lack of experience i have what all can i do to make me a better wrestler
Question from Dylan: Cael, I am from Iowa and started wrestling in 7th grade for junior high just to try it. Now i am a freshman at a school that is known for its tradition and hard work etc. Anyways right now i am wrestling exhibition or junior varsity. I just want to know with [...] (Read More)

What should I do to get more comfortable with taking shots?
Question from Jake from ID: Cael, I am 13 and am in my second season of wrestling. I have a recod of 8 wins and 5 losses and I feel like I could have won my closer matches if was better and more comfortable with shooting doubles, singles, ankle picks etc. What [...] (Read More)

Dear Cael, whats a good way to condition outside of practice when your on a limited schedule?
Dear Cael, whats a good way to condition outside of practice when your on a limited schedule? Hello Jacob, A great way to condition your body for wrestling outside of practice to get in a stance and shadow wrestle. If you can stay in a good stance for your entire match you are going to [...] (Read More)

Why do I still get tired in matches and practice when I know I shouldn’t because I do work hard?
Question: Hey Cael why do I get so tired in matches and practice when I know I shouldn’t because I do work hard? Response: Hey Mike, great question and I think this is a common issue for many wrestlers. Just know that you will always get tired when you work hard, even when you’re in [...] (Read More)

“Why did you wrestle? and How did wrestling help you to become a better person?”
Question: Hi Mr. Sanderson my question is for a paper im working on, “why did you wrestle? and How did wrestling help you to become a better person?” Hello and thank you for the question. I grew up in a wrestling family.  My dad grew up in a wrestling family.  One of my earliest memories is of [...] (Read More)

What is your take on weight loss? and what is the best way to cut weight?
Hi Jacob, I’m not a big believer in cutting weight. However, my answer would be a different for wrestlers in different phases of their career. I would not have young wrestlers cut weight at all. Now, if a kid is a quarter of a pound over a weight class and all [...] (Read More)

October 20, 2008- “What if hard work isn’t getting me results?”
Question: Hey Cael, I was wondering if you could give me a little advice. I may not be the best wrestler on our team but i was told i was the hardest working one,with the fact most of our wrestlers place at nationals. I always thought hard work was the key to greatness. Can my [...] (Read More)

September 12th, 2008
Sarah from South Dakota: I know you have answered many questions about how to promote our children’s wrestling adventures in a positive way. I have a similar question. My son has been wresting for about 4 years, he is now 9. He started off really strong and had great results. He had one difficult year [...] (Read More)

August 23rd, 2008
Jeff from Terre Haute, IN: I was concerned when I saw that you wouldn’t be competing in the Olympics this year. You’re the best wrestler I’ve witnessed in my lifetime and the best of our era. I was just wondering why you decided against doing so? Cael: “Jeff, I appreciate the email. I was [...] (Read More)

August 12th, 2008
Tim from Reedsburg, WI: I have two boys–2 and 4 years old. What is a good age to get them started in wrestling and spark their interest? Thanks! Cael: “Hello Tim, I don’t think there is a specific age at which kids should start wrestling. In my opinion, the important thing is the approach [...] (Read More)

August 4th, 2008
Matt Silva from Modesto, CA: What is the best way to prepare cardio wise for wrestling? Cael: “Matt, The best way to prepare cardio wise for wrestling is through live wrestling in practice. Wrestle in practice at the same level or higher then you do in actual competition. Get as tired as you possibly [...] (Read More)

June 26th, 2008
Tim from Chillicothe, IL: Cael, I am a junior high level wrestling coach. What can you tell me for strength training at this level? Thanks, Tim Cael: “Hello Coach, I am not a strength and lifting expert. However, my opinion is that learning technique and getting experience is far more important than strength training for junior [...] (Read More)

May 19th, 2008
Cyndy from Spokane, WA: Hello, I have a 11 year old boy who has always loved and done well in wrestling. But suddenly, this season he can’t hit his moves, can’t concentrate but still wants to wrestle. I worry if he spends much more time on his back, he’ll quit when he appears to want [...] (Read More)

April 10th, 2008
Bill from Des Moines, IA: As a long time fan of wrestling I constantly bring friends to meets to try and turn them into wrestling fans. I’ve thought for a while that our sport needs to make some changes to make it easier to follow. I’m interested in your opinion and any suggestions you have? Cael: [...] (Read More)

March 13th, 2008
Josh from Beresford, SD: Do you ever get butterflies in your stomach before a big match? Cael: “Josh, yes, I did have butterflies in my stomach before I wrestled. I would be concerned if I didn’t. It’s important to understand that being nervous and having “butterflies” is natural. Having butterflies means that you are ready. Your [...] (Read More)

February 14th, 2008
Josh from Ballston Spa, NY: Do you ever find yourself pushing your younger brother a little harder in hopes that he may even surpass your amazing achievements? Cael: “Hi Josh, Thanks for the question. I don’t push my brother any harder then I do anyone else on the team. My brother is family–I love [...] (Read More)

January 4th, 2008
Jesse from Southgate, MI: Do you use the head for your set-ups on your ankle pick all the time or is it possible to post both of the opponent’s shoulders, snap the head and then shoot? Cael: “Hi Jesse, I usually use the head to set up my ankle picks. There are an unlimited number [...] (Read More)

October 18th, 2007
Mike from NC: Cael, What is the one single mental element and the one single physical element in your training that you believe made you a champion? In other words, if you were to choose one, what do you think is the one mental thing you did during practice (or a match), and the one [...] (Read More)

September 25th, 2007
Sam from San Jose, CA: Dear Cael, Whenever I learn a new move, and I try to execute it during a match, it doesn’t work and it ends up backfiring on me. My coach tells me not to force the moves, but if I don’t try to “force” moves, I always get called for stalling. What [...] (Read More)

September 17th, 2007
James from Elsipogtog: Hey Cael, I was wondering what made you go that extra distance… I’ve been wrestling for 5 years and I am planning on winning nationals and making the national team and hopefully winning the Canada Cup and I am looking for some words of advice. Cael: “Hello James, Attack your goals! Attack [...] (Read More)

August 23rd, 2007
Bill from CA: Do you have any advice for parents of young wrestlers? Cael: “Hi Bill, Wrestling is a tough sport. That is one reason so many people love it. There isn’t a better sport to prepare the youth of our great nation to become better, more productive citizens. Wrestling teaches discipline, hard work, responsibility, [...] (Read More)

August 9th, 2007
Logan from Mt. Airy, NC: Hey Cael, What’s your favorite wrestling move and who were your idols? Cael: “Hi Logan, My favorite move is the ankle pick. I have always looked up to my older brothers so they are probably my idols. My favorite wrestler was John Smith. My favorite athletes were Mike Singletary, Walter Payton and [...] (Read More)

June 6, 2007
Brodey Serres from Lingle, WY: Hey Cael, I’m a 3-time southeastern Wyoming champion and about ready to step on the mat and wrestle for my high school. What do you think I should focus on to take my first state title as a freshman? Cael: “Congrats on your past success, Brodey! Keep things simple—just focus [...] (Read More)

May 23rd, 2007
TT Prayther from Barefoot Landing, SC: Hi Cael, I am TT Prayther from North Myrtle Beach High School, and I would like to know if it is bad to train 2 to 3 times a day. Can you please help me? Cael: “Hi TT, It is important to make sure you are getting more out [...] (Read More)

April 10th, 2007
Jake from Zanesville, OH: Cael, I have been working hard at practice every day and I would think that I would see results on the mat, like at tournaments and dual meets, but there really hasn’t been any change. I just don’t get it. What can I do solve this problem? I work in the weight [...] (Read More)

March 23rd, 2007
David from Boston, MA: Hey Cael! Well, I’ve been wrestling for 2 years, I’m a sophomore in high school, and the season just ended. For the past two years I have been a JV wrestler and I was hoping to move up to varsity next year and I really want to have a winning record [...] (Read More)

January 29th, 2007
Josh from Fort Kent, ME: Cael I have a problem. I am told that I am an excellent practice wrestler and I don’t seem to have a problem finishing any kind of takedown, pinning combination, or reversal during practice even on the bigger guys. However, when it comes down to wrestling at a dual meet [...] (Read More)

December 28th, 2006
Kris from Baton Rouge, LA: In your collegiate career was there one match or one opponent that sticks out as the “toughest”? Or because of the constant scrutiny was every match tough? Daniel Cormier comes to mind for me. Cael: “Hello Kris, One thing that I learned was that there will always be tough [...] (Read More)

November 27th, 2006
Jake Cambrige from AR: Hey Cael.. What’s a good work out I can do at home or outside of the wrestling mat? Cael: “Hello Jake, An excellent workout you can do at home, in a hotel, or anywhere outside a wrestling room is to do shadow matches. A shadow match is where you visualize an opponent [...] (Read More)

October 3rd, 2006
Mat from Ligonier, IN: This is my fourth year wrestling and I’m trying to get down to 140. I’m around about 150 now and our practice starts on October 31st. I work out everyday and run, but I can’t get the weight off. What should I do? Any eating habits or exercises I should try? Thanks [...] (Read More)

September 5, 2006
Sean from Ranco Cucamonga, CA: Cael, In high school did you find it hard to keep up with school, football, wrestling and other things? I am going to be a junior this coming school year and will be taking the SAT’s to get into college for wrestling and my major. How were you able to handle [...] (Read More)

July 3rd, 2006
David P. from Macomb, IL: Cael, Have you ever considered getting into mixed martial arts? In light of the growing popularity of the sport through the UFC, many of the fighters have strong wrestling backgrounds and given your credentials, I was just curious if you ever wanted to try your hand. –Mike (San Diego, CA) I [...] (Read More)

June 29th, 2006
Danny R. from Baldwin Park, CA: When I am in the medal rounds at tournaments I am usually seeded but I get intimidated beacause in my mind I think my opponent must be really good for getting this far and I end up losing the match. What can I do to prepare myself for those [...] (Read More)

May 3rd, 2006
Alex B. from Ottawa: How did you get such a fast leg attack? Are there any exercises I can do to become quicker? Cael: “Hello, I believe the key to quick shots is positioning and set ups. You can slightly increase your speed by “throwing you hands” more when you attack and through explosive exercises. [...] (Read More)

April 27th, 2006
Mike L. from Richmond, VA: My son Mikey is 9 yrs old and just had his first winning season. My questions are: Which camp would be more important at this point, a technique or a training camp? What can I do to ensure wrestling remains fun for him? What type of exercise/training can we do [...] (Read More)

March 13, 2006
Paige E. from Mesa, AZ: My little brother has been wrestling his whole life and I support him in every way I can. What do you think was the best thing your family did to support you? Cael: “Hello, I think the approach my parents took with my brothers and I was the best [...] (Read More)

February 3, 2006
Abner Roman from Flowery Branch, GA: I am a high school wrestler and I have trouble finishing my favorite shot, “the low single.” I’ve wrestled a lot of good wrestlers over the years and I always get the shot and the ankle but have trouble finishing it. Any tips on good finishes?” Cael: “Hello, The [...] (Read More)

December 20th, 2005
Ray Harris fom Selah, WA: I am the youngest of six boys. I was a coach and am now the father of 4 boys; 9,6,3 and 1 year old. I have seen so many high school coaches push their own children too far. My question is how do you know when you want it more [...] (Read More)

December 6th, 2005
Mike R. from Oak Harbor, OH: How does one mentally prepare themselves for a tough match, a tough practice, and any other dificult obstacle in front of them? Or, what kind of mind-set must you have to overcome these tasks? What did you do to prepare yourself for such? Cael: “Hello Mike, I think the key [...] (Read More)

October 28th, 2005
Aaron J. from IA: What do you think helps make a good wrestler become great? Cael: “I think a key (maybe the key) to becoming a great wrestler is by making a TOTAL commitment to your goals. A total commitment is being committed to your goals at all times and in all places. In good times [...] (Read More)

October 5th, 2005
Luis from Winston-Salem, NC: Do you think that wrestlers who have been wrestling since they were little have a better chance to wrestle in college and become an overall better wrestler than those who started in middle or high school? Cael: “The answer is no, not necessarily. It is definitely an advantage to have [...] (Read More)

September 15th, 2005
Javonni from Milwaukee, WI: Cael, I know you have probably never had this problem, but what should you do when people are putting you down about wrestling because it’s not cool or something? What should you say to those people and how should you react? Cael: “Hello Javonni, If this is Javonni from our 24-day [...] (Read More)

August 30th, 2005
Kari from Mosul, Iraq (UT): Hey Cael, good to see you coaching - you have always had the right personality for it! My question is this - what are you doing now as you are older and more mature to develop your comfort level in the media and fame? (Even as a kid this was [...] (Read More)

July 18th, 2005
Ivan Gaeta from Bremerton, Wash.: Why did you get redshirted in college? Cael: “Coach (Bobby) Douglas pretty much redshirts all of his student-athletes their first year. I believe a redshirt year is in the best interest of every student-athlete. It might not be the best thing for the team, but it would be difficult to [...] (Read More)

July 9th, 2005
Ty from Rocklin, Calif.: I have trouble scoring on bottom. What do you think are some key things to focus on when going for a escape or a reversal? Cael: “The keys to escaping and reversals are hand control and clearing your hips. Be patient when on bottom. Hold a strong base until you can [...] (Read More)

June 13th, 2005
Question: What is the best way to get colleges to pay attention to me? Cael: “I believe the best way to get colleges to pay attention to you is to wrestle in Spring and Summer regional and national tournaments. By wrestling in off-season regional and national tournaments, you show college coaches how you stack up nationally [...] (Read More)

May 10, 2005
Drew from Lakeland, FL: What is your take on losing weight and when is enough, enough? Cael: “Weight-cutting is a tricky subject. I am not a big fan of cutting weight, especially with kids. It is common to think that you need to go down a weight class to be more competitive. This isn’t necessarily the [...] (Read More)

April 19, 2005
J from Smyrna, TN: I’m not that good at my takedowns. Could you tell me how to get the confidence to shoot and take someone down? Cael: “I believe that the key to being successful and confident with your takedowns is to focus on the set ups. Focus on getting your opponent out of position [...] (Read More)

April 12th, 2005
Jake(Orange, CA): What inspired you throughout your wrestling career? Did you ever just want to quit but your parents wouldn’t let you? Or was it the success of your brothers? Cael: “My family has always inspired me throughout my wrestling career. I’ve always looked up to my parents and brothers. My wife Kelly really inspired [...] (Read More)

March 3rd, 2005
Lance from Atlanta, Ga.: Take us through your match preparation, please. What aspects are you concentrating on, how early before your matches do you begin to prepare and is there a routine you’ve developed? Cael: “I apologize for the delay in answering this week’s question. This has been an incredibly busy week. I believe that [...] (Read More)

February 23rd, 2005
Question: “My question concerns your conditioning and what you do to get in shape and stay in shape. Do you get tired in your matches and how do you push yourself when you’re tired? Also, what is your mindset when you are tired, behind on points and can’t seem to score?” Cael: “Hello everyone- thank you [...] (Read More)

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