How Can My Child Stay Involved in Wrestling Even If They Don’t Compete at a High Level?

Wrestling is one of the most demanding sports out there, both mentally and physically. It takes discipline, toughness, and countless hours of practice. But not every wrestler will go on to win championships or compete at the highest levels—and that’s okay. The beauty of wrestling is that its value isn’t limited to medals and trophies. It’s a sport that offers a deep sense of community, identity, and purpose that can stay with an athlete for life—even after the spotlight fades.

If your child enjoys wrestling but isn’t headed for college recruitment or national titles, there are still many meaningful ways they can stay involved. In fact, some of the most important roles in the wrestling world are filled by former athletes who simply love the sport and want to give back.

In this blog, we’ll explore the different paths your child can take to stay active in wrestling, support their local programs, and continue growing through the sport they’ve come to love.

1. Become a Coach or Assistant Coach

One of the most common and rewarding ways to stay involved in wrestling is through coaching. Many former wrestlers, regardless of their competitive record, make excellent coaches because they’ve lived the sport. They understand what it means to work hard, to win, and even more importantly, to lose.

Your child could volunteer as:

• A youth club assistant coach

• A middle school practice partner

• A high school team manager or motivator

• A technique specialist for beginners

Coaching gives them a chance to pass down knowledge, stay physically active, and be a role model for younger wrestlers. It also helps them see the sport from a new perspective—one that’s less about performance and more about growth and mentorship.

2. Join a Club or Open Mat Group

Just because someone isn’t competing at a high level doesn’t mean they have to stop wrestling. Many communities offer open mat nights, adult wrestling clubs, or off-season training groups that welcome wrestlers of all ages and skill levels.

These casual environments are perfect for:

• Staying fit

• Enjoying the sport without pressure

• Practicing technique

• Building friendships within the wrestling community

Wrestling is one of the few sports where lifelong participation is possible, even if you’re not chasing titles.

3. Referee or Work as an Official

Wrestling always needs trained referees, scorekeepers, and tournament workers. These roles are essential for running meets and making sure matches are fair and organized. If your child enjoys the rules and strategy of wrestling, becoming a certified official can be a great way to stay connected.

Officiating:

• Provides a deeper understanding of the sport

• Offers flexible opportunities at local, regional, or state events

• Can even be a paid side job

• Keeps them active in the wrestling world

It’s also a chance to give back and support the next generation of wrestlers.

4. Use Wrestling as a Foundation for Other Activities

Wrestling builds physical and mental skills that transfer into other sports, careers, and leadership roles. Even if your child steps away from competition, the habits they formed—discipline, focus, grit—can help them succeed in:

• Martial arts or combat sports like jiu-jitsu and MMA

• Strength and conditioning programs

• Military service or law enforcement careers

• Fitness coaching or personal training

• Team leadership positions in school or work

The confidence and toughness built through wrestling never goes away. It becomes a foundation they can build on for the rest of their life.

5. Stay Involved Through Media, Writing, or Mentoring

Some wrestlers find joy in writing blogs, producing videos, or sharing their journey online. Others become team photographers, podcasters, or content creators. Still others simply show up to support their old team, offering rides to tournaments or helping with fundraising.

Even informal involvement—like mentoring a younger wrestler or cheering on a sibling—helps keep the spirit of wrestling alive in their heart and their community.

Wrestling is a Lifelong Sport

Not everyone will become a state champ or college starter. But that was never the only point of wrestling. The true value of the sport lies in the lessons learned, the relationships built, and the mindset developed over time. Wrestling teaches kids how to show up, push themselves, and keep going—even when the odds aren’t in their favor.

So if your child loves wrestling but isn’t aiming for the national spotlight, don’t worry. There are dozens of ways to stay involved—as a coach, a teammate, a ref, a mentor, or simply as a fan.

Because once someone becomes a wrestler, they’re part of something bigger. And that connection doesn’t end just because the competition does. It becomes a part of who they are—for life.