Our technique curriculum.

Takedowns

A takedown is how a wrestler scores from a standing start, and it is the most important and most difficult area of wrestling to master.

Campers learn an array of setups that let them pressure an opponent constantly while always staying in good position. They learn to attack in a variety of ways and from all angles, using the inside step, knee spin, knee bounce and low ankle mechanics of penetration. Our staff also details a variety of leg-attack finishes, so wrestlers can finish quickly and effectively, both from their feet and when they get stuck on their knees.

When an opponent keeps their legs back, the answer is to work the head. Campers learn the snap, shuck, head pull and cross snap to wear an opponent down, open up leg attacks and bring the opponent's head down. They also learn a unique front headlock, cement job, cement mixer, whizzer and cobra series, along with essential spin-behind techniques, including the back hand and short drag.

Many other counterattacks are taught, including the chestlock, bundled arms, spladle and elevator series. The slide-by and throw-by series are carefully detailed, so wrestlers can score on an opponent who hangs on the collar. Advanced takedown techniques are covered as well: throws, underhook attacks, two-on-one combinations and low single attacks.

The goal is for every camper to leave with a clear understanding of the takedowns they must master to excel, and of the work ethic it will take to perfect them.

Top position

On top, a wrestler's job is to control the opponent and turn them toward their back to score.

The emphasis is on legs, tilts and cradles — the most effective ways to turn a good opponent. Important breakdowns are drilled, along with unique breakdowns that lead to turns, including the side headlock, inside ankle pretzel and foot hook. Campers learn to control and turn their toughest opponents.

All nearfall techniques (the moves that score back points) are taught in extra small groups, because the finer points are so important. Special sessions are offered for wrestlers particularly interested in advanced instruction on parallel legs, cradles, turks and freestyle turns.

Bottom position

On bottom, a wrestler's job is to get free, or to reverse the opponent and end up on top.

Chain wrestling from the bottom position is drilled daily. Campers learn the finer points of the stand-up, so they can pop up to their feet with back pressure for a quick escape. They also develop a variety of secondary moves to use depending on how an opponent applies pressure.

Each wrestler chooses which reversal techniques they want expert instruction on, and receives that instruction in extra small groups to learn the finer points. Special sessions are offered for wrestlers particularly interested in advanced instruction on granbys, head spins and counters to legs.