To introduce the fundamentals of wrestling To impart the basics of stretching, conditioning, and physical fitness To discuss the core values of a champion
The Tiger Cubs program is designed to introduce children ages K-2 to wrestling basics. The focus of each one hour session will be to teach some very basic concepts of wrestling technique. Folded into practice will be stretching and flexibility exercises and some very light conditioning drills. Each practice will focus on one major concept of wrestling using specifically designed games and simplified drills for the kids to master each skill. Specific moves and competition will be deemphasized.
The ultimate goal of the PAWS wrestling program is to help children develop wrestling skills and character traits that will help them succeed not only in wrestling but in life. During each session we will have a brief discussion about some of the qualities that make a champion. Each lesson will be based on the legendary coach John Wooden’s “Pyramid of Success”1. Coach Wooden’s concepts and framework are something that is emphasized throughout the season. These virtues embody the PAWS coaches’ philosophy about our program. Our goal is for all of the kids to have a fun, safe, and rewarding experience by learning wrestling and, in the process, also sportsmanship, discipline, leadership, integrity, character, and respect. These virtues will help our children long after they retire from wrestling, and help them become champions in life.
Our goal is to involve the parents in this introduction to wresting and physical fitness. Each child must be enrolled with a parent who will help participate with each activity. If a parent has a physical limitation that prevents them from participating, then we ask that they sit on the side of the mat and observe
At the end of the course, children who demonstrate the maturity and attention span to participate in a full PAWS practice may be allowed to participate in the remaining PAWS practice season. This decision will be based upon the coaches’ discretion and a discussion with the parents at the completion of the 7 session curriculum.
Practice 1: Core lesson: Position
Body position and awareness are paramount to successful execution of any primary maneuver. We will work on each wrestler’s ability to control specific body parts into a prescribed position. We will emphasize stance and center of balance.
Practice Plan Stretch and warm ups, talk about position on feet and on mat, drill/games position on feet and on mat, games that emphasize position, point out some basic wrestling rules, Talk about leadership, adjourn
Practice 2: Core Lesson: Motion
Wrestling requires continuous controlled motion with short bursts of energy. We will work on each wrestler’s ability to move laterally and forward and backward in recoiled positions both on their feet and on the mat.
Practice Plan Stretch warm up, review practice 1, discuss motion and how it pertains to wrestling, drill lateral and forward motion with bursts of explosion, drill/games position, review basic rules on feet, Talk about personal responsibility, adjourn.
Practice 3: Core Lesson: Changing Levels
Success in wrestling depends upon the ability to change hip levels in relationship with the opponent while maintaining good body position. We will teach level changes with respect to vertical hip positions and demonstrate the value of this skill.
Practice Plan Stretch and warm up, Review position and motion, discuss level changes while maintaining position and motion, drill/games level changes, drill/games position and motion, review rules on bottom, talk about integrity, adjourn.
Practice 4: Core Lesson: Penetration
Penetration from a neutral stance through the opponent’s center of gravity leads to success on one’s feet. The goal of this practice will be to develop an eagerness and comfort to shoot penetration steps.
Practice Plan Stretch and warm up, Review position, motion, level changes, drill/games old techniques, drill/games penetration, review rules on top, talk about discipline, adjourn.
Practice 5: Core Lesson: Wrist Control
Wrist control is a basic necessity for successful execution of moves on bottom and top. Without wrist control many moves are easily countered or thwarted from even being initiated.
Practice Plan Stretch and exercises, review position, motion, level changes, wrist control, drill/games old techniques, drill/games wrist control, review rules, talk about character, adjourn
Practice 6: Core Lesson: Lifting
Proper lifting techniques both in the neutral and top position are important for the safety of both wrestlers and for the completion of many moves. Proper positioning and grip strength will be emphasized to maximize the strongest muscles in the body (thighs and hips).
Practice Plan Stretch and exercises, review position, motion, level changes, wrist control, drill/games old techniques, drill/games lifting, talk about sportsmanship, adjourn
Practice 7: Core Lesson: Balance
Although some athletes have an innate balance, this skill can be learned and is essential for success in wrestling. This is an important skill in wrestling during “scrambles” when neither wrestler is in control but either can land on top.
Practice Plan Stretch and exercises, review position, motion, level changes, wrist control, lifting, drill/games old techniques, drill/games balance, talk about respect, graduation
1. Wooden, J: Thinking like a Champion, Championship Productions, Ames Iowa. www.champonline.com.