I am a US Army Combat veteran of 3 tours.

I must admit that it was my wrestling background that prepared me for surviving and succeeding during those tours more than my Army training.

There is no way I can explain it in words. 

It’s not that I was that good or successful as a wrestler,  I started very late by most standards in 10th grade,  but I somehow managed to wrestle on a D1 team and earn my letter.

More importantly, “I became a wrestler.”

Along the way, I was coached by some amazing men, whom I owe so much too;  particularly Coach Jay Billy at AU.  

I also had so many teammates who helped me enormously.

Perhaps the biggest pride I take in having wrestled is that I introduced the sport to my son.

I watched as he learned the lessons this great sport teaches. 

In the beginning, he was a non-athletic kid without a ton of natural talent.

Along the way, he learned how hard work leads to success.

He became the captain of his high school team, and he earned a spot at the United States Air Force Academy.

Knowing that he experienced the feeling of “Becoming a wrestler,” and watching his pride and sense of achievement soar along the way just cannot be described.

If I could, I would do nothing but coach wrestling for the rest of my life. 

It’s just that important.

Not because of one’s wrestling career, but because of what it adds to a life.

LTC Matt Weingast