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 “

Latest Questions in the Ask Cael Archive

- Youth wrestling, how much is TOO MUCH??
- Nebraska will enter the Big 10 next year. Does that improve Big 10 wrestling? Why or why not? Thanks.
- YouTube technique videos?
- Do you do private lessons?
- I am only in intermediate and am very small. What do you think is a good move that I can use to my advantage?
- My question is, was there a wrestler that you looked up to and were inspired by when you were coming up in your wrestling career and if so who?
- I have problems with getting nervous in my matches. I’m not nervous until the ref blows the whistle. at that moment I freeze up and forget everything. what can I do to prevent that?
- 3 questions on Asics “Cael” Wrestling shoes
- Is it necessary for youth wrestlers to compete for a regional or national title?
- Cael, I’ve watched over 500 hrs of video on you especially your footwork.

View Complete Ask Cael Archive by Date