Mental toughness
“The 1st period is won by the best technician. The 2nd period is won by the kid in the best shape. The 3rd period is won by the kid with the biggest heart.”
Dan Gable (2014)
If a wrestler wins in the first period he is proven to be a superior technical wrestler to his opponent. It feels really good to get that first period pin too…
Now, if you are a guy who is a pretty good wrestler but your strong as an ox and in great condition, you likely tire out your opponent and get your wins in the second period… Is that you?? How do you rank compared to the wrestlers you’ve faced this season as far as your strength, power, speed and conditioning?
Now, the guys who win the exciting matches in the third period are special. The truth is you can’t teach “desire.” It comes from within…
We all know those guys who thrive when they’re down points in the third period, tired as anything, yet pull off big upsets.
They are the guys with big hearts. Are you one of those guys?
If not, don’t worry… Those moments come. They come to those who work the hardest. They come to those that have desire.
But, most importantly, the 3rd period win comes from guys who have taken care of what they need to in order to be successful in the 1st and 2nd period.
When you are technically sound (to win in the first period) and conditioned (to win in the second period) it all starts to fall into place.
You become fearless on the wrestling mat, waiting for the competition and embracing it… instead of fearing it. Train hard, train smart…..