Gladiator Wrestling kicks off practice this week as they begin their 3rd season. “It’s great to see the kids back on the mat and ready to pick up from where we left off last season.” State Coach Peter Stephan who is also the club’s president.
“We created a culture as a family these past two seasons as a club and want to continue that as that is one of the crucial elements that brought a lot of success to us this past season.” Another important emphasis to at Coach Peter and the other coaches preach to their wrestlers is the importance of being a student-athlete.
“It’s great to see the kids put their hard work and energy into practice and tournaments but those things can’t happen if the student doesn’t come first. Having great attendance, having the grades, and demonstrating positive behavior are a few expectations we look for in all our athletes. It’s important that the kids know that if those expectations are not met, then the competitions cannot happen.” Wrestling is a sport that teaches discipline and accountability. It’s important that wrestlers are positive role-models whether they are in school , in public, or at home as they represent the program.
The club has 66 wrestlers this season, with 36 returners. Coaches this year are Peter Stephan, Jonathan Philpot, Brandon Whittle, Hugo Salazar, Willie Long, and Daniel Paminto. The first tournament of the season kicks off at Citrus Heights for the Junior Maverick tournament. Gladiator Wrestling will host two tournaments this season include the Takedown before Christmas on December 15 and the Gladiator Brawl on March 9.
