What should I expect from my first tournament?

EQUIPMENT

• Singlet (provided by the club)           

• headgear (equipment can be purchased at Dunham's or Burghart's.)

• wrestling shoes

• water bottle

• money for concessions (optional)

• USA wrestling card

• Don't forget to bring your child's USA wrestling card.  This card is mandatory and wrestlers will not be able to participate without it.

SUGGESTIONS

• The tournament is an all day outing and you should expect to be there until 4:00p.m.  Some end earlier, some later.  This depends on the organization and number of wrestlers involved.  Bring homework, activities, books, Game boys, etc.

• Concessions are available at tournaments.  Many families pack a lunch for a healthier alternative.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN I ARRIVE?

• Check-in at the registration table involves showing your USA card and paying a fee, usually around $10.00.  Check in takes place anywhere from 7-10 a.m.  Refer to your tournament flyer for exact times.

• Follow the posted signs to weigh-ins.  Your child's weight will be written on his hand.

• Head to the cafeteria or bleachers and find a place to sit.  Teams usually congregate together so look for other Pirate wrestlers.

• Be patient.  You will wait 1-3 hours for the tournament to begin.  It takes time for the officials to place wrestlers into weight/age brackets.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN ONCE THE TOURNAMENT BEGINS?

• A half-hour or so before wrestling starts, coaches will lead the wrestlers in stretching and warm-up exercises.  Head to the mats at this time.

• Ask a coach or experienced parent how your child will be called to the mat.  Every tournament is run differently.

Remember...the more tournaments your wrestler attends, the sooner he will learn the technique and start winning!  Coaches can't stress enough the importance of youth tournaments in guaranteeing the future success of your wrestler!