Ask Cael: August 12th, 2008

Story Published Monday, September 15th, 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 you take with them as they start.

To get the best long term results, I would suggest making it more recreational like youth soccer, swimming, baseball, etc. Be supportive and encourage them to work hard, but don’t make the focus on winning and losing. The winning and losing will come, don’t worry about that. Help them to learn to love the sport first.

Make the focus on effort. Just reinforce the importance of doing their best in competition and practice. Be patient with them. Make them think it’s their idea to go to practice and competitions. Also, the parent must be sincere and consistent in this approach, win or lose, because kids will see right through insincerity and everything will be a waste of time. This approach will keep your kids focused on wrestling for as far as their talent and work ethic will take them. That means junior high, high school and potentially college. Also, having focus and direction in wrestling will help them have focus and direction in all aspects of their lives.

Thanks!
Cael “

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