The objective of wrestling is to pin your opponent, but it usually involves a takedown to accomplish this goal. It has been proven statistically that the wrestler who executes the first takedown in a match will win the match 85 to 90% of the time.
What is considered a takedown? The wrestlers must be working from the neutral or standing position. You score two points for taking your opponent down to the mat and controlling him/her. The double leg, single leg, snap down, fireman’s carry, and duck under are just a few types of takedowns.
As coaches, we believe that takedown night helps our wrestlers in several ways:
- Develops a strong work ethic. Executing 100 takedowns and being taken down 100 times in 1 hour is hard work!
- Builds self-confidence through repetition. Self-confidence is not hereditary, but rather it is a skill. When you have performed a task 1,000 times there is no reason why you should not be confident in your ability to succeed.
- Helps them inch closer toward mastery of a basic skill. The best competitors keep it simple and are pros at basic skills.
- Most importantly, the kids have fun! They are all smiles once they reach their goal. And they are eager to keep us updated on their progress. It is really fun to watch as coaches!
We’ll start takedown night with our usual warm-up and then let the wrestlers start doing their takedowns. We’ll provide water breaks as necessary. Once everyone is done, we’ll play games for the remainder of practice. After practice, there will be juice served.
Thanks,
ZM Youth Coaches
Zumbrota-Mazeppa Cougar Wrestling 