How to Evaluate a College Wrestling Program
Choosing the right college wrestling program is a significant decision, particularly for female athletes. Beyond the typical considerations, such as academic fit and team culture, there are unique challenges and opportunities that female wrestlers and their families must navigate in today's evolving wrestling landscape.
The opportunities in women’s wrestling extend far beyond the collegiate mats, making full-time competition a viable career. During my time wrestling at Menlo College, I followed a rigorous schedule that included senior and international competitions. My father, Lee Allen, prioritized academic success, ensuring athletes excelled in the classroom and prepared for life after sports. This created a positive culture on our team, as we could all relate through our desire to wrestle and finish with a degree. This article aims to help athletes and parents in evaluating college choices by analyzing a wrestling program’s culture and overall fit.
Wrestling Goals
Start by outlining your specific wrestling goals. Are you aiming for collegiate success, or do you aspire to compete internationally? Understand that not every program will support Olympic aspirations, and that's okay. A coach who aligns with your goals, whether they involve national championships or simply competing at the collegiate level, is crucial. A great coach will support your athletic goals because they are confident they can bring out the best in you.
Adapting to Freestyle
Many female athletes may have limited experience in freestyle wrestling before college. It's essential to find a coach who is not only supportive but also enthusiastic about developing your freestyle skills. It is important to distinguish the appeal of a successful team with a program that actually meets your needs. Smaller institutions might offer more individualized attention and more opportunities to compete, which can be critical for technical growth, especially if you’re new to the style.
Wrestling schedule
Consider how much travel and competition fit your goals. Some programs heavily focus on senior and international competitions, which can extend your season. If balancing school and wrestling is a priority, ensure the program accommodates your desired level of involvement.
Coach and team culture
Investigate the coach’s philosophy and how it aligns with your career goals. Does the coach have experience working with female wrestlers, and does the team foster a supportive environment? Connecting with alumni can provide insight into the program's culture and its long-term benefits for female athletes.
Athlete Amenities and Support
Evaluate the resources available to support female athletes. Does the school provide gender-specific sports medicine services, strength and conditioning coaching, and mental health resources? Additionally, assess how the institution promotes academic success alongside athletic commitments.
Train, rest, recover, repeat will be essential to support your longevity as a college athlete. College wrestling is about becoming a well rounded athlete and learning how to properly train. You must be supported in the areas you know are important for your athletic growth.
Safety and Well-being
For female wrestlers, safety on and off the mat is paramount. Investigate the school's policies on athlete well-being, including how they handle issues like harassment or injury. Ensure the program promotes a culture of respect and support for female athletes.
Navigating Room and Board Options
When evaluating college wrestling programs, it's important to carefully consider room and board options, as they significantly impact your college experience. Start by comparing on-campus and off-campus housing, weighing convenience, cost, and proximity to training facilities. Assess meal plans to ensure they meet the nutritional needs of athletes, particularly if you follow a certain diet. Additionally, look into financial aid or scholarships that cover room and board, and ensure the living arrangements support both your academic and athletic commitments.
Advice from a college wrestler
Menlo College alumna and youth coach Monique Cabrera advises parents and athletes to focus on the bigger picture beyond just winning. She emphasizes the importance of getting an education, building strong bonds with teammates, and developing life skills. Monique also stresses the value of understanding a program's history and competitive background, as this knowledge helps determine if the institution is the right fit for the athlete.
"Student-athletes get caught up in wanting to win and life being all about wrestling. They forget important factors like cost of college, majors available, and classes needed to get a degree. Ultimately, they must decide if this program is a good fit to make it a new home."
-Monique Cabrera
Your selection will be entirely individual. Someone else's decision to be a part of one program will most likely not be the same for you. Take the time you need to fully understand what a program is offering you and how it fits with your goals. Remember, a happy wrestler is a dangerous wrestler. When you are happy with your school and wrestling team, you will find growth!
