As a coach at a small school that doesn't churn out state qualifiers, I have a request for all the underdogs on the 13th.
Don't worry about who you've drawn at semistate. Nobody's past wins, losses, or accolades mean anything once the whistle blows. You've busted your butts all year, more than anyone not involved with wrestling could possibly comprehend. Your blood, sweat, and determination have gotten you this far. Let nothing stand in your way. Fight for victory with every fiber of your being. Win or lose, if you know you have left it all on the mat, you have nothing to be ashamed of.
Many great wrestlers have imparted profound words of motivation to the next generation of wrestlers. But I think the strongest words I've ever read have been from a world-class runner, the late Steve Prefontaine. "To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift."
Have a great week of practice, and give 'em hell, boys.
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