Anchored #2: Be Prepared

DISCLAIMERS
(This is not professional or legal advice. If it were, the article would be followed with an invoice. Do not expect to win any social media arguments by hyperlinking my articles. Chances are, we are both wrong).

(The information in this blog by Coach Ryan Lancaster of the Grand Valley State University Wrestling Club is for general information only. Readers are encouraged to verify and seek professional advice independently, as Coach Lancaster's opinions do not necessarily represent the views of the university or the Wrestling Club. The content is not a substitute for personalized coaching, medical advice, or professional guidance, with the acknowledgment that wrestling involves inherent risks, and neither Coach Lancaster nor the university assumes liability for any injuries or damages resulting from the use of the information presented)

#2 Be Prepared: Putting Your Future Self First

At the core of Anchored Wrestling's principles lies Rule Two: "Be Prepared." This rule, encompassing weight management, physical conditioning, and strategic positioning, is more than a guideline—it is a cornerstone of disciplined athleticism and personal development. Adhering to this principle is beneficial and essential for fostering a competitive and cohesive team for the Grand Valley State University (GVSU) Wrestling Club.

Weight Management: The Foundation of Physical Readiness
Wrestling is unique in its demand for strict weight management. Athletes must adhere to weight classes, which require not just fluctuating weights but maintaining a consistent and optimal body composition. The principle of being prepared demands that wrestlers are always on weight. This is not a temporary condition but a continual state of readiness. Consistent weight management avoids the need for drastic weight cuts that can compromise health and performance.

For the GVSU Wrestling Club, maintaining weight is crucial in a competitive setting. It ensures that each athlete competes in their optimal weight class, reducing the risk of injury and maximizing performance. Wrestlers who consistently manage their weight are more likely to avoid facing the pitfalls of last-minute weight adjustments, which can lead to fatigue and subpar performances. On the other hand, not adhering to this principle can increase the risk of injury, compromised performance, and potential disqualification. This ongoing diligence in weight management speaks to the broader ethos of preparation that anchors successful wrestling.

Physical Conditioning: The Bedrock of Athletic Excellence
Conditioning is the bedrock of a wrestler's success. The principle of being prepared demands that athletes be in peak physical condition and ready for the grueling demands of competition. Rigorous training regimes are indispensable, including strength conditioning, cardiovascular workouts, and technical drills. Wrestlers must endure the physical stress of matches, which requires both stamina and strength.

For the GVSU Wrestling Club, superior conditioning is a competitive edge. A well-conditioned athlete can execute techniques with precision, sustain high energy levels, and adapt to the dynamic nature of wrestling matches. Furthermore, conditioning contributes to resilience, allowing wrestlers to recover swiftly from physical exertion and injury. By emphasizing physical preparedness, the GVSU Wrestling Club enhances its ability to face opponents with confidence and endurance.

​Strategic Positioning: The Art of Tactical Readiness
Being prepared extends beyond physical attributes; it involves strategic positioning and mental readiness. Wrestlers must understand their opponents' strengths and weaknesses, anticipate moves, and devise effective strategies. This aspect of preparation involves comprehensive study and practice, allowing athletes to make tactical decisions that capitalize on their opponent's vulnerabilities.

At GVSU, strategic readiness is vital for maximizing match outcomes. Wrestlers who approach competition with a well-thought-out strategy are better positioned to outmaneuver their opponents. This requires an understanding of wrestling techniques and the ability to read and react to a match's ebb and flow. Strategic preparedness fosters a competitive mindset where every decision is informed and deliberate.

Discipline and Personal Growth: The Essence of Tomorrow's Success
The final dimension of preparation is rooted in discipline. Discipline involves a commitment to personal growth and future success. It means making choices today that shape a better tomorrow. For wrestlers, this discipline manifests in consistent training, diet and weight regulations adherence, and mental fortitude.

For the GVSU Wrestling Club, instilling discipline among its members is fundamental to creating a culture of excellence. Coaches play a crucial role in this process, guiding athletes in their training, diet and weight regulations adherence, and mental fortitude. Athletes who practice discipline excel in their sport and develop valuable life skills such as goal-setting, perseverance, and self-regulation. This discipline catalyzes personal and collective growth, reinforcing the club's values and enhancing its overall performance.

Conclusion
The "Be Prepared" principle in Anchored Wrestling is a multi-faceted rule that encompasses weight management, physical conditioning, strategic positioning, and personal discipline. For the GVSU Wrestling Club, adhering to this principle is about individual success and fostering a cohesive and high-performing team. By embracing preparation in all its forms, wrestlers at GVSU can elevate their performance, embody the spirit of disciplined athleticism, and achieve their competitive goals. This comprehensive approach to preparation underscores the profound impact of discipline and readiness in pursuing excellence in wrestling.

That's all for now. I hope to get this all out there eventually.

Coach Ryan Lancaster, a NCEP Bronze Level Coach and 2008 NCWA All-American, boasts an impressive career that includes being a member of the 2008 NCWA National Championship Team. His coaching achievements encompass leading two MHSAA District Championship Teams, mentoring numerous All-State and All-American wrestlers, and being a finalist for the MWA Coach of the Year award twice.