Telling the Truth

tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13009903.post-1130944852661103732005-11-02T07:17:00.000-08:002005-11-02T07:20:52.673-08:00Telling the TruthI must admit I was pretty pessimistic after traveling to the World’s and witnessing the Men’s Freestyle. All you have to do is review my blog covering it to be reminded of this. But, after searching further, I now have made some real thoughts that aren’t just all pessimistic. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not building up the current rules; I’m talking about good things and reminders that help me continue in my way of thinking. Wrestlers, coaches, and even fans will wrestle and adapt to whatever the rules the may be. These rules will cause the sport to grow or go backward. But, the rule for the majority will determine the style, effort, and tactics used to win. Most people adapt to the easiest way to win. Because of this, lesser standards will be the result. With lower standards, fewer disciplines have to be mastered and put in place. Because of this, people will be lesser prepared and that means the masses. My point is it can be even easier to win now because of som many being at the lower level of readiness...because of the rules! The Uzbekistan World/Olympic Champion had to be assisted with medical attention after his loss…because of being so tired! Many athletes are being less discipline in their weight-making and using medical assistance for rehydration. Cheating at the draw is happening and again, looking for an easier way to win. Taking payoffs to throw matches which mean the competition really isn’t as important as compared to financial gains in the short run is taking place and maybe always has. What else did I learn? I was definitely updated on specific skills, tactics, and even the execution of some familiar skills. It’s always good to stay on top of the game. I actually got “refreshed” in some specifics as I watched the Russian Gutsalov explode into a head-drive single finish that made his opponent a cosmonaut. The wrestler that beat Cormier reinforced the importance of learning to use a “hip sag” that many never learn. Satiev (multi Gold Medalist at 74 kg) reinforced to me that even when most wrestle to the rules, and he did not (Satiev wrestled above the rules) and was easily the winner. Satiev also reinforced to me that our sport can be exciting depending on the athletes’ and coaches’ mentalities. The example I’ll use here is when Satiev was down by three points in a round, he fought back to win the round (even though he had a round to concede) and didn’t take the route of most, if not all. There’s hope but it’s too few and far between so something has to happen to increase this type of attitude! For some, the rules might be good, but I’m more interested in the sport and the masses. So with the right attitude and coached that way, the wrestling could be okay, but that’s not going to happen.DanGable.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03454434672114917960noreply@blogger.com