SUMMER '20 TRAINING PLANS (ONCE IN PHASE 4)

Strap in, folks. This might be a long one.

Well, what a crazy few weeks we’ve had since the virus flipped our world upside down. Since then, we’ve been patiently waiting the government, USAW, and all other overseers to figure out when/how we can safely open up again. I’ve had many reach out asking, “Cody, when can we wrestle again?” It was quite difficult for me to give ‘em all the Kanye-shrug and basically say “I don’t know.” Now, we have a bit more insight. What we do will be different, but I’m hoping that this is an opportunity to try something new for the summer and re-tool for the future. I appreciate the patience with me, as this is still currently a one-man show.

I doubt we will be allowed back in schools (which is a decision I respect and understand) any time soon. We are in the quick, hurrying process of turning a garage south of Stewartville into a usable wrestling room. This may have been the kick in the behind this club needed to get into its own facility.

So here’s what I’m thinking… Small Groups of 4-5 with more individualized instruction. These groups will committed. While I understand that many things outside of wrestling are important, it is safest to have the same groups working only with each other. That also means that you are committed to your group. Again, I know our athletes have jobs and outside passions. I’m all for them, and even attend events when I can. This isn’t a “We can’t make it due to legion baseball, club euro soccer, camping trip, etc”-type session. This is an “I will be there because I am committed to making up substantial ground and training in a high-caliber atmosphere” session. I support you in your endeavors, but if we’re going to do this, we are going to do it at the highest and safest level possible. These groups will be formed by me, once I receive confirmation that you’re interested. The expectation will be that we (your partners, families, and I) will find 2 common working times for workouts a week. You will attend those practices. We will learn, grow, work, and have a lot of fun.

Additionally, with the COVID thing still affecting the nation, there will be an expectation to not only stay away from people that are experiencing symptoms, but also to report any symptoms. Should you be experiencing or be exposed to others experiencing symptoms (or known case) you will not be permitted to practice. You will need to check symptoms twice, daily. Temp checks will take place before workouts. The facility will need to be cleaned between workouts (which it would, regardless), but this will require extra planning, hence finding the two times and being committed. We cannot begin contact until we reach Phase 4 of the USAW Guidelines, and I will be confirming when that takes place, ASAP. I also realize that some athletes and families won’t be comfortable with a sport like wrestling yet, regarding the virus. I get it. I will not nudge anyone into doing something they aren’t comfortable doing, obviously. Hopefully things will be in better control come fall.

This is new and different. I think the change-up could be refreshing. I will not be charging for this session. With the fact that we will be outfitting a room and giving this training away, more or less, it will be expected that you are invested, committed, and following guidelines. If that is not happening, you will not be training and putting others at risk and/or taking time and attention away from those who are making the investment and commitment. I know I have college guys back to train. They are greatly encouraged to reach out and be grouped. COMMITTED, INVESTED high school athletes are also welcome.

A few have already reached out, and I will be putting groups together ASAP based on size and ability. Once I have participants put into groups, we will conference via zoom or text to get common times. Once times are established, we will begin training and following guidelines. The goal is to be able to start as soon as MN enters Phase 4 of the USAW Guidelines below. If you are interested in being placed into a group, reach out to me via text, call, DM, PM, or whatever sort of tech people are using nowadays. I can’t wait to get back into the room, but we must do it safely and responsibly, within the guidelines.

USAW GUIDELINES: https://content.themat.com/covid-19/USAW-Return-to-the-Mat-Guidelines.pdf