“People who say it cannot be done should not interrupt those who are doing it.”  ~ George Bernard Shaw

Being bullied can have an incredibly long and destructive impact on a human life in terms of self-esteem and one’s internal dialogue. Understanding this, I insisted that both of my sons take up the sport of wrestling. Why? Because, human nature doesn’t change. They will encounter bullies in elementary, middle and high school, college AND in adulthood. 

Wrestling can give your children the tools to put a stop to being bullied. Bullies generally go after the lower-hanging fruit – the easy prey. Seldom do you see a competent wrestler get the tar beat out of them. 

My own experiences as a late bloomer (138 lbs as a senior) not terribly coordinated or physically strong was a challenge, but I eventually got the opportunity to take up wrestling. It took me a while to process my progress intellectually, but eventually, I discovered I could give up 20 or 25 pounds and still handle a non-wrestler. For example, the basketball players frequently made snide remarks and taunts directed at the wrestlers. Some actually challenged us on the mat. I recall taking on different basketball players, but none more than once because they didn’t come back for seconds. Another instance was when a bully kept throwing rocks at me. I asked him to stop, and when he wouldnt, a simple duck-under wrestling move made him understand that it was I who had complete control. I explained to him, one more time, he was going to the ground and he wouldn’t like what was coming next. Long story short, I never had another problem with that kid. 

Even in adulthood, I’ve had people of large stature try to intimidate me during negotiations. Knowing you’re able to protect yourself is a huge advantage. As a side note, my oldest son will now readily admit wrestling was a great decision and has been very helpful with his confidence. Furthermore, while training in hand to hand combat in the military, he was the most formidable in his platoon. He now has both his sons in youth wrestling. 

Wrestling is both a physical and intellectual sport. It will take time to master, but wrestling can help your children gain confidence that lasts a lifetime. When your children’s lives are working better, yours will too.

“You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it.” 

 ~ Margaret Thatcher