What the Coach Wants You to Know

The following are topics that should be of interest to every wrestling parent. For additional information, talk to your son's coach or trainer.

Your School's Athletic Eligibility Criteria

In most schools, students must meet certain academic requirements to be eligible to play a sport. If you have any questions about your school's athletic eligibility guidelines, talk to your son's coach or contact the athletic office.

The Importance of Weight Training

Wrestlers should follow a conditioning program that combines weight training and aerobic exercise (like running) during the off-season. Conditioning is important not only for performance enhancement, but also for injury prevention. Your son should work with his coach and trainer in order to develop a program that is appropriate for him.

Proper Nutrition Guidelines

Wrestling is a strenuous, physically demanding sport. It is therefore important for wrestlers to eat a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, meat, and foods high in complex carbohydrates (e.g. pasta, potatoes, etc.) The meal the night before a match is especially important for strength and endurance; it should be a nutritious meal high in carbohydrates. If your son is having difficulty maintaining his certified weight with healthy nutrition, you and your son should talk to his coach. It is also extremely important for your son to drink enough fluids, particularly when practicing. (Be sure your son has a water bottle with his name on it.)

First Aid for Minor Injuries

Injuries are a part of every sport. Wrestlers are most likely to get minor cuts, sprains, bumps, and bruises. Make sure that minor cuts are cleaned well with soap and water, and then apply an antiseptic ointment and a Band-Aid. For minor bumps, bruises, and sprains, elevate the area and put an ice pack (not heat) on it as soon as possible. Apply the ice pack for 15-20 minutes, wait 45 minutes, and apply it again. All injuries should be reported to the coach who will contact the trainer and or a doctor.

Of course, preventing injuries should be of utmost importance to everyone. Athletes can avoid injury by: 1) being in good condition when the season starts, 2) having the right equipment, 3) stretching properly before all practices and matches, 4) drinking enough water, 5) getting the proper rest and nutrition, and 6) working closely with the trainer.

Skin Care

As a major precaution against communicable diseases from skin to skin contact, wrestlers must shower after each practice or competition with an antibacterial soap. Each wrestler's competition uniform and practice uniform, including headgear and towels, should be cleaned after each use with an antibacterial soap or cleaner.

The most common skin disorders seen among wrestlers are bacterial infections such as impetigo and boils, fungal infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm infections, and cold sores (herpes simplex one). The coach must be informed of all such disorders, and the wrestler must be seen by a doctor (preferably a dermatologist) for diagnosis and, if necessary, treatment. A doctor's written verification of treatment and a release to wrestle may be requested by the referee before allowing a wrestler to compete.

To protect wrestlers, wrestling mats are cleaned before each practice and competition with a disinfectant.

Equipment

Schools often provide wrestlers with a singlet (uniform) and protective headgear. Wrestlers need to buy socks and wrestling shoes.

There are rules governing the use of special equipment (e.g., face masks, braces, supports, etc.). Equipment that does not permit normal movement of the joints and/or prevents one's opponents from applying normal holds is not permitted. Any equipment which is hard and/or abrasive must be covered and padded.

The Dangers of Steroids

In recent years, a number of athletes have chosen to use steroids to build muscle and gain strength. Steroids, however, are dangerous and can cause liver damage, heart damage, and sterility. Make sure that you son is aware of the dangers of steroids. If your son want to put on weight and/or muscle, talk to your trainer about dietary supplements.

Wrestling in College

Wrestling in college requires talent and a great deal of dedication. For wrestlers who wish to continue competing after high school, there are several options. See College for details on college requirements.

How to Best Help Your Athlete

The best way to help your athlete is to provide encouragement and to be positive, both at home and in the stands. If there is a problem at any time during the season, have your son to talk to his coach. If the problem is not resolved or if it is of a serious nature, then call the coach yourself. Know that you are the most important person in your son's life and that your son wants you to be proud of him. Be in the stands, dual meet or tournament, and cheer loudly.