Grinding for Greatness

Join Alex Wisdom in this special collaboration with The Florida Wrestling Room as we unveil the Top 10 Pound-for-Pound Boys Wrestlers and Teams across the Sunshine State!

Welcome back to TFWR, your #1 source for all things Florida Wrestling! In this episode, Ricky Cheese dives into the explosive growth of girls wrestling in Florida and how it's setting a national standard.

Join Ricky along with Coaches Kurt Montanye and Jamie Harrison as they reflect on the incredible road to victory for the RPA Headhunters Wrestling Club at the Disney Duals. From their strategic planning to the clutch moments that defined their success, this episode takes you behind the scenes of their historic 1st Place Gold finish.

In Episode 27 of Grinding for Greatness, we sit down with rising Florida wrestling star Julianna Caisse. Known for her remarkable consistency and mental toughness, Julianna talks about her recent transfer from Palm Harbor to Riverdale and how it has shaped her wrestling journey. She shares her advice for young athletes on how to stay focused and enjoy the process, plus an inside look into her training, toughest opponents, and her dream of winning a state title. Join us as we dive into the mindset and drive behind one of Florida's top wrestlers!

In the longest episode of Grinding for Greatness to date, Ricky Cheese sits down with Demetri Kangas, a wrestling veteran and founder of the Will of a Warrior Foundation, for a deep dive into his wrestling journey, coaching philosophy, and the impact of his work in youth wrestling. Demetri shares his roots in Pennsylvania wrestling, his collegiate career at Delaware Valley University, and his transition to coaching in Florida. He discusses the importance of mentorship, long-term growth, and community service in shaping young athletes. The conversation also highlights his Will of a Warrior Foundation, which is dedicated to helping youth through education, fitness, and scholarships for community involvement. Throughout this 1 hour and 20-minute conversation, Demetri touches on key topics like nutrition, weight management, and how to guide young wrestlers through proper technique and recovery, drawing from his own experiences of injury. He also sheds light on the rising talent in Florida wrestling, the evolving wrestling culture, and the vital role dual meets play in fostering school spirit and building community. Key Takeaways: Demetri's Will of a Warrior Foundation supports youth development through education, fitness, and scholarships. Proper nutrition and hydration are critical for healthy weight management in wrestling. Coaching should prioritize positive reinforcement and learning, not just winning. The youth wrestling scene in Florida is thriving, with many athletes showing potential for greatness. Timestamps: 00:00- Introduction & Demetri's Wrestling Journey 05:30 - Mentorship and Coaching Philosophy 11:45 - Will of a Warrior Foundation Overview 17:00 - Nutrition, Hydration, and Weight Management Tips 23:30 - Injury Recovery and Staying Active in Coaching 30:15 - Florida Wrestling Culture and Key Techniques 40:00 - The Importance of Dual Meets and Community Building Quotes: "You are probably the most selfless person I know in wrestling." "There's always one more person to help." "It's not just about winning; it's about helping these kids become better wrestlers and better people." With so much to discuss, this episode goes the distance as the longest yet, and it's packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice for wrestlers, coaches, and parents alike. Tune in to hear how Demetri's commitment to helping others is changing the future of Florida wrestling.

In this special episode of Grinding for Greatness, host Ricky Cheese invites the Ortiz family—Rebecca, Carlos, and their son Gion—into his home for a candid and heartfelt sit-down interview. The Ortiz family shares their personal journey through the world of wrestling, reflecting on the recruitment process, family sacrifices, and Gion's inspiring battle with Type 1 diabetes. Together, they discuss the challenges of balancing athletics and health, while offering invaluable advice for parents navigating the often complex world of college wrestling. Plus, hear how Coach Nathan Yetser has made an incredible impact on Gion's journey. Whether you're a wrestling parent, athlete, or fan, this family-oriented episode is a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the grit, determination, and love behind the sport.

In this special episode of Grinding for Greatness, host Ricky Marcus sits down with National Wrestling Hall of Famer Sal Basile to discuss his incredible journey both on and off the mat. Sal opens up about his wrestling career, his coaching philosophy, and the challenges he's faced, including the devastating fire that destroyed his home. He shares the overwhelming support he received from the wrestling community and how it helped him rebuild. Sal also talks about the balance between competition and rest, coaching his sons through their wrestling careers, and his recent induction into the Hall of Fame. From stories of perseverance to leadership tips, this episode offers deep insight into the life of one of Florida's most respected wrestling coaches. Tune in as Sal Basile shares wisdom on navigating life's toughest battles, both on and off the mat. Key Topics: Overcoming adversity after a house fire Coaching philosophy and building a successful wrestling program His sons' wrestling careers at University of Northern Iowa and West Point Lessons in resilience, discipline, and leadership Available on all major podcast platforms!

In this episode of Grinding for Greatness, Ricky Cheese sits down with licensed clinical psychologist and former Stanford wrestler, David Sacks. Together, they dive deep into the intersection of mental health and sports, discussing David's journey from wrestler to psychologist, the psychological challenges faced by athletes, and the concepts from his new book Extreme Balance, co-authored with Ben Askren and Joe DeSena. Learn how mental resilience, balance, and strategy play crucial roles in wrestling and all sports. David shares invaluable insights on: -Handling performance anxiety -The role of coaches in developing mental toughness -Integrating mental training into daily practice -Overcoming learned helplessness and balancing confidence with humility -Don't miss this episode if you're an athlete, coach, or parent who wants to understand the importance of mental health and how it can elevate your performance!

Ricky Cheese of Grinding for Greatness welcomes Gian Ortiz, a 2023 state finalist from Jensen Beach High School, into his home to talk about his wrestling journey and future at Roanoke College. In this episode, Gian opens up about his experiences at the state tournament, the challenges he faced, and his aspirations to become an NCAA champion despite a recent Type 1 diabetes diagnosis. We dive into Gian's wrestling journey, his relationship with Coach McMath, and the role discipline plays in achieving success on and off the mat. Tune in for an insightful and personal conversation filled with passion, humor, and valuable lessons for all wrestlers. Key Highlights: Gian's road to the 2023 state finals and his tough match against Derrick Williams. Overcoming the challenges of being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. The transition from high school to NCAA wrestling at Roanoke College. The vital role of discipline and the lessons learned from Coach McMath. Fun moments from a (kind of) competitive pool game and Gian's passion for wrestling. #Wrestling #GrindingForGreatness #GianOrtiz #JensenBeachWrestling #RoanokeCollege #FloridaWrestling #YouthWrestling #NCAA #Discipline #Type1Diabetes #WrestlingPodcast #FloridaWrestlingRoom

Special Episode: Super 32 Qualifer Middle School Preview!In this episode, Ricky Cheese provides an in-depth preview of the upcoming Super 32 Qualifier at Kissimmee Osceola High School, focusing on the middle school divisions. He highlights the achievements and potential of various young wrestlers across different weight classes, emphasizing the importance of recognizing these athletes as the future of the sport. Covering competitors in the 70, 75, 80, 85, 95, 100, 105, 120, 128, and 136-pound divisions, Ricky is showcasing their accolades, what to expect from them in the tournament and letting everyone know what Florida has cooking for the future!

In this episode of Grinding for Greatness, we sit down with Jaime Armando Rodriguez, the visionary behind the New Jersey and Florida Scorpions Wrestling Clubs.

Join Ricky Cheese as he sits down with John Hosegood, a seasoned wrestling official and proud father, to discuss the intricate world of wrestling officiating, the challenges faced on the mat, and the life lessons learned along the way. From the importance of consistency in calls to the political undertones in selecting state tournament officials, this conversation offers a deep dive into the sport. Plus, hear about John's transition from a long career in the phosphate industry to a new chapter in life, and the influence of faith and family on his journey. Don't miss out on this insightful episode where wrestling, life, and officiating intersect. #WrestlingOfficiating #LifeAfterWrestling #FaithInSports #WrestlingCommunity

In this episode of Grinding for Greatness, Ricky Cheese sits down with Ron Lang, the author of Mat Return: The Resurgence of Amateur Wrestling in the United States. Ron shares his personal journey in wrestling and discusses how the sport has shaped his life. They dive deep into the transformative power of wrestling, from building character to fostering leadership and resilience. The conversation also highlights the rapid growth of women's wrestling, the impact of wrestling on other sports like football, and the importance of making the sport fun and inclusive for everyone. Plus, there's a special giveaway promotion tied to the book, with exciting opportunities for wrestling clubs and teams! Tune in to learn how wrestling can positively impact lives and communities.

In this episode of GFG's Club Cribs, we head to the Olympic Heights Cowboy Wrestling Club, where dedication knows no bounds. Join host Ricky Cheese as he teams up with Coach Levy "Boomer" Mears for an inside look at one of Florida's top youth wrestling clubs. From intense training sessions to the infamous cold plunge, this behind-the-scenes tour showcases the relentless spirit and commitment that defines these young athletes.Whether you're a wrestling enthusiast or just curious about what it takes to train like a champion, this episode is packed with inspiration and insights. Don't miss out—hit that subscribe button and stay tuned for more exclusive content!#GFGClubCribs #CowboyWrestlingClub #NeverDoneTraining #FloridaWrestling #YouthWrestling #BehindTheScenes #ColdPlunge #WrestlingLife

In this special episode of Grinding for Greatness, Ricky Cheese dives deep into the incredible journey of the Lowe family—spanning across generations. We explore how Joe Lowe, once a Florida State Champion himself, instilled a winning mentality in his son, Elijah Lowe, who followed in his father's footsteps to claim his own state title. We are also joined by 2x State Champion and Elijah's girlfriend, Gabby Tedesco. Gabby's unwavering belief and strategic insights played an integral role in Elijah's victory. This episode is a tribute to family, perseverance, and the powerful impact of a strong support system. This Family is Grinding for Greatness!

In this episode of Grinding for Greatness, we sit down with Mario Del Vecchio, a standout wrestler who has made waves in both Florida and New Jersey. Mario shares his journey from defeating state champions to transitioning between different wrestling cultures. He opens up about the influence of his father as his coach, his goals for the next three years, and his ultimate dream of becoming a lawyer. Tune in to hear about Mario's toughest matches, greatest moments, and his thoughts on offseason tournaments. Whether you're a wrestling enthusiast or someone inspired by ambition and hard work, this episode is packed with valuable insights and motivation.

Welcome to the latest episode of 'Grinding for Greatness'! This week, we dive deep into the July 2024 Boys Top 25 Pound-for-Pound rankings. Join us as we break down the top wrestlers from across Florida, highlighting their achievements, strengths, and what makes them stand out in this competitive landscape. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or wrestling enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights and analysis you won't want to miss. Tune in to hear about the rising stars and seasoned champions making waves this season

In this episode of "Grinding for Greatness," host Ricky Cheese sits down with Blaine Ison, the renowned head coach of Palmetto Ridge High School's wrestling team. Blaine's journey from high school wrestler to influential coach is filled with inspiring moments and valuable insights. Blaine's Wrestling Journey: Blaine shares his beginnings in wrestling, from being unsure about joining the sport to becoming a pivotal figure in the Palmetto Ridge wrestling program. Coaching Challenges: Blaine talks about the obstacles faced while coaching at a public school, including strict zoning rules and the impact of rezoning on his team. New Beginnings: He discusses his decision to leave Palmetto Ridge and start a new program at St. John Neumann, a private Catholic school in Naples. Building Youth Programs: Blaine emphasizes the importance of strong youth programs and a supportive coaching staff. Rivalries and Duals: Insights into the South Dade dual and the upcoming rivalry with First Baptist Academy. Impact of Other Sports: The influence of other sports on wrestling and the importance of mental health and seeking counseling. Dealing with Tragedy: Blaine opens up about the tragic loss of a wrestler and how he and the wrestling community supported each other through the difficult time. Family Atmosphere: Creating a family-like environment within the team, and how he and his staff are always there for their wrestlers, both on and off the mat.

We are finally here with the Boys "All Class" Rankings for the month of July is finally here! Let us know what you think? Should someone else be on this list? Should someone be higher? Let us hear your thoughts!

Jabari Irons, a beach wrestling champion and college national champion, shares his incredible journey in this podcast episode. He discusses his experience with a shooting incident and how it motivated him to achieve greatness in wrestling. Irons talks about his mindset of never quitting and the importance of education. He also shares his training experiences with top wrestlers and the impact it had on his skills. Irons emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition and the negative effects of weight cutting. He also discusses his wrestling academy, Irons Elite, and his focus on Greco-Roman and Olympic styles. Jabari Irons discusses the importance of focusing on Olympic-style wrestling and the need for specialized training from a young age. He emphasizes the value of freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling over folkstyle, and the benefits of starting gymnastics training at a young age. Irons also talks about the development-focused approach at Iron's Elite Wrestling Club and the interview process for accepting new students. He mentions upcoming clinics and camps, and the availability of booking him for events.

Join us for an exciting episode of Grinding for Greatness as Ricky Cheese sits down with wrestling legend and accomplished coach Conor Beebe! Conor, a four-time state champion from Montini Catholic High School and NCAA qualifier from Central Michigan University, shares his incredible journey from athlete to coach. Coaching Journey: Conor discusses his transition into coaching, including his impactful tenure at Gardner Webb University where he guided four wrestlers to the NCAA tournament. Success of BB Trained: Learn about the standout wrestlers at BB Trained, such as Max Brady and Reed, and the supportive, positive atmosphere at the academy. Youth Development: Discover the Little Ninjas program aimed at making young wrestlers fall in love with the sport while learning high-level techniques. Advanced Training: Insights into BB Trained's advanced program for older athletes aspiring to compete at higher levels. Philosophy on Wrestling: Conor emphasizes the importance of enjoying the sport and having fun on the big stage. BB Trained Wrestling Academy in Florida is dedicated to developing athletes of all ages and skill levels, aiming to create amazing people in the process. Florida's wrestling community is growing stronger thanks to the dedication and support of passionate coaches and parents. Don't miss this episode filled with inspiration and expert insights from Conor Beebe! Tune in and share your thoughts after the show! Episode Highlights

In this conversation, Ricky Cheese and ASU's Lee Pritts discuss various topics related to wrestling, coaching, and recruiting. They share stories about their experiences in wrestling, including memorable matches and coaching moments. Pritts talks about his coaching career and the importance of finding driven and competitive athletes. They also touch on the success and growth of wrestlers, emphasizing the impact coaches can have on their lives. In this part of the conversation, Ricky Cheese and Lee Pritts discuss the influence of coaching styles on Pritts, the importance of learning from different coaches, and the evolution of coaching in wrestling. They also touch on the growth of wrestling in Florida and the impact of freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling on folkstyle wrestling. Pritts shares the story of how he helped one of his wrestlers overcome mental and emotional challenges to become a national champion. The conversation ends with a discussion about personal transformations and the importance of taking responsibility for one's health.

On Today's "Morning Grind", we sit down with Scotti Sentes, the head coach of Campbell University Wrestling. Coach Sentes shares his journey from being a top high school wrestler in Florida to leading one of the most promising wrestling programs in the nation. We dive deep into a range of topics including: The significance of mindset and improving as a wrestler beyond just winning medals The role of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) in wrestling and its future implications Freestyle and Greco vs. Folkstyle wrestling Coach Sentes' personal experiences and philosophies on coaching

In this segment of "The Morning Grind", Ricky, Joe and Jordan explore the dynamic world of wrestling tournaments, highlighting the challenges, opportunities, and memorable moments that define the sport. Join us as we delve into the evolving landscape of events like the Disney Duels, the AAU Duel's relocation, the Gator Cup Championships, and the potential rise of the Big Bend Brawl. We also discuss the dominance of a young wrestler from Wakulla and the importance of location convenience for these events. 00:00 - The Changing Landscape of the Disney Duels Tournament Discussion about the transition of the Disney Duels and its impact on the wrestling community. 07:41 - The Evolution of the Gator Cup Championships How the Gator Cup has successfully motivated young wrestlers through a unique scoring system. 10:44 - Fair Competition and Sportsmanship at the Gator Cup Championships Emphasizing the importance of fair play and sportsmanship in wrestling tournaments. 14:29 - The Importance of Local Wrestling Tournaments Highlighting the significance of local tournaments for community engagement and development. 27:00 - Stomp Knocker: A Dominant Wrestler A young wrestler from Wakulla showcases exceptional talent and potential. 31:06 - Expanding the Big Ben Brawl Tournament The Big Ben Brawl's potential to become a premier wrestling event with proper organization and promotion. 35:43 - The Potential for Growth and Improvement Exploring opportunities for enhancing wrestling tournaments and the sport as a whole. 38:41 - Humorous Anecdotes: Atlanta and New York City Entertaining stories from past wrestling events in major cities. 39:30 - The Love for Swanny and the Simple Life Nostalgic memories of simpler times in wrestling. 43:23 - Reminiscing about Wrestling Days Reflecting on past experiences and the evolution of the sport. 47:44 - Unique Hairstyles and Uniforms Fun discussion about the diverse styles and uniforms in wrestling. 51:50 - Building a Wrestling Facility with a Large Budget Imagining the possibilities of a state-of-the-art wrestling facility with full-time coaching staff. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message

Join Ricky Cheese as he interviews Brian Smith in an engaging conversation that spans various topics including their wrestling backgrounds, the influential role of coaches in their careers, the potential for a D1 wrestling program in Florida, and the impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) on college athletics. Brian Smith shares his coaching experiences and the qualities he seeks in recruits, highlighting the significance of academic excellence, a passion for competition, a growth mindset, and being a great teammate. He discusses the importance of family support and alignment with the Tiger Style culture. Smith recounts stories of athletes who overcame challenges and achieved success both on and off the mat. He emphasizes the close-knit bond among teammates at Mizzou, the culture of Tiger Style that goes beyond wrestling, and the focus on developing great people and leaders in the community. Smith also discusses the program's consistent success with 21 consecutive seasons of a dual record at or above 500, consistent NCAA qualifications, and top 20 finishes. He shares his coaching philosophy of consistency, maintaining the Tiger Style culture, and developing a winning mindset through actions. Additionally, Smith talks about the challenges of competing against powerhouse programs like Penn State and the goals of winning the NCAA tournament and attracting top recruits. 00:00 - Introduction and Background 09:42 - The Impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) 13:23 - The Potential for a D1 Wrestling Program in Florida 21:47 - Attending a UFC Fight with Former Wrestlers 24:25 - Qualities Brian Smith Looks for in Recruits 29:08 - Success in Wrestling Goes Beyond State Championships 41:24 - The Value of Hardworking Athletes 50:09 - Consistency and Lifestyle: Keys to Success 53:04 - Success at the NCAA Championships 56:34 - The Challenges of Competing Against Powerhouse Programs 01:01:22 - The Importance of Recruiting and Success in the NCAA Tournamen --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message

Summary Jason Custer, head coach at Viera High School, shares his background in wrestling and how he got into coaching. He emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where student-athletes can learn, grow, and achieve, with success being different for each individual. Custer discusses the core values of his program, including hard work, having fun, and respecting each other. He also talks about the significance of a year-round wrestling program and the importance of building a feeder program. Custer mentions coaches Aaron Parr, Gerald Stout, and Jeff Degganser as mentors who have been instrumental in his coaching journey. Coach Jason Custer discusses the training schedule for his wrestling team, which includes a break during Christmas and a focus on intensity leading up to competitions. He also talks about coaching girls and the challenges of balancing being a single dad and a head coach. He shares his plans for the upcoming season, including establishing a new group of freshmen and evolving his coaching style. The team goals include repeating as district and conference champions, and individual goals for the wrestlers include placing higher on the podium. Coach Custer also mentions the importance of community support and the impact of the girls' wrestling program. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message

The conversation revolves around Pat Lugo's Miami Hawks camp and the growth of wrestling in South Florida. The camp was held at the Mikasuki Indian Casino and Resort and was a huge success. The camp had top wrestlers like Austin DeSanto, Mark Hall, and Max Murin teaching sessions. The intensity and dedication of the wrestlers, especially DeSanto, were highlighted. The conversation also touched on other wrestling events in North Florida, the importance of awards in youth wrestling, and the growth of girls' wrestling in the region. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message

Welcome to "Grinding for Greatness" with your host, Ricky Cheese! In this episode, we're joined by the incredible Johnni Dijulius, a 4x NCAA Qualifier and 3-time Ohio State Champion in wrestling, who also happens to be a base jumper and coach at The Ohio State University. Join us as we dive into a dynamic conversation covering everything from wrestling to coaching, parenting, and personal growth. Johnni shares his unique insights on empathy, trust, and positive reinforcement in coaching and parenting, drawing from his own experiences both on and off the mat. We explore the significance of mentors, the impact of early verbal commitments in wrestling, and the struggle with resentment and self-identity. Johnni opens up about the importance of charging for coaching and the need for personality and emotion in wrestling, shedding light on his philosophy of 'protect nothing' in building confidence. But that's not all! We also touch on Johnni's passion for skydiving, base jumping, and travel, uncovering the intersections between his adventurous spirit and his approach to coaching and mentoring young athletes. With humor, insight, and thought-provoking perspectives, this conversation is sure to inspire and motivate listeners on their own journey towards greatness. Tune in now to join the conversation with Johnni Dijulius on "Grinding for Greatness"! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message

Ricky Cheese and Casey Thompson discuss Casey's wrestling career and his son Chase's wrestling journey. Casey shares stories from his time in the wrestling industry, including his experiences with wrestlers like Vader and Shawn Michaels. He also talks about running his own wrestling promotion and the challenges he faced. Casey's dedication to his son's wrestling career is evident as he discusses the support he provided and the opportunities he presented to Chase. The conversation highlights the commitment and sacrifices involved in pursuing a career in professional wrestling. In this part of the conversation, Casey Thompson discusses the importance of surrounding oneself with greatness and finding the best coaches for his son, Chase. He mentions the coaches he worked with, including Sean Shelvin, Steve Mako, and Abso Sabaev. Casey emphasizes the value of private sessions over summer camps and the impact these coaches had on Chase's development. He also shares stories of Chase's experiences at the Olympic Training Center and his participation in the Pan American Championships. The conversation then shifts to the topic of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) in college wrestling and the challenges faced by athletes in terms of medical expenses and support from their universities. The conversation covers various topics related to Casey Thompson's son's wrestling career, including his college recruitment, injury, and transition to coaching. Casey shares his son's requirements for a college program and the challenges they faced with his injury. They also discuss the importance of promoting wrestling tournaments and creating a buzz around the sport. Casey reflects on the memories and experiences they gained through wrestling and the strong bond they have as father and son. 00:00 Introductions and Setting 00:46 Introducing Jordan and Talking About Wrestling Experiences 04:23 Interactions with Other Wrestlers, Including Vader 05:47 Backstage Stories and Realities of Wrestling 07:37 The Demands and Challenges of Being a Wrestler 09:09 Respect and Animosity in the Wrestling Industry 10:12 Favorite and Disliked Wrestlers 12:09 Reflecting on Controversial Wrestlers 13:29 Casey's Transition from Wrestling to Supporting Chase 18:50 Chase's Early Wrestling Experiences 19:20 The Influence of Great Coaches and Mentors 24:30 Challenges in College Wrestling 39:06 The Impact of the NIL Policy on Wrestling 42:01 Introduction and Recruiting Chaos 42:39 Injuries and Medical Redshirt44:57Requirements and Coaching Support 49:12 Making Difficult Decisions 51:08Transitioning to Coaching and Future Plans 55:18 Promoting Wrestling Tournaments 59:23 Creating Buzz and Building Relationships 01:02:44 Father-Son Relationship and Support 01:06:02Taking a Break and Future Coaching --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message

The conversation between Joe Blasucci and Ricky Cheese covers various topics related to wrestling, including the success of the Somerset Academy wrestling team, the importance of bonus points in winning matches, and the impact of the program on the lives of the students. They also discuss the recruitment of students and the integrity of the program. Additionally, they touch on the South Florida Lightning wrestling team and its history. The conversation revolves around the South Florida Lightning wrestling team and its impact on the wrestling community in Florida. The Lightning team was highly respected and had some of the best wrestlers in the state. The team's success elevated the level of wrestling in Florida and gained recognition from other states. The camaraderie and lifelong friendships formed within the team were cherished by the wrestlers. Coach Joe Blasucci's dedication to his wrestlers extended beyond the sport, as he helped them succeed academically and supported their career aspirations. 00:00Introduction and Overview 01:25Successes and Placements at State Championships 02:32The Importance of Bonus Points 03:44Building a Championship Team 05:02Comparing Teams from Different Years 05:54The Impact of the Program on Students' Lives 08:01Overcoming a Point Deficit at State Championships 11:03Maintaining Integrity in Recruiting 12:02The Success of Middle School Wrestlers 13:54Handling Parents' Expectations 14:53The Philosophy of the Program 16:33Introduction to South Florida Lightning 18:29Success and impact of South Florida Lightning 20:28Building a strong team and creating opportunities 23:04Expanding the reach of South Florida Lightning 24:18Camaraderie and lifelong friendships 25:22Reviving South Florida Lightning 27:44Joe's passion for cooking 30:07Success in academics and college placement --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message

In this episode of The Morning Grind, host Ricky Cheese welcomes Travis Laxton of South Walton to discuss a range of topics impacting the wrestling community. They delve into the skill level of college wrestlers, emphasizing that athletes in any division are highly skilled and dedicated, and highlight the crucial role of coaching in their success. The conversation also touches on the rapid growth of wrestling in Florida, particularly in North Florida, where a recent tournament showcased the region's rising talent. Both Ricky and Travis express their hopes for establishing a Division 1 wrestling program in Florida, which would further enhance the sport's popularity and provide more opportunities for local athletes. The discussion shifts to the broader wrestling community, noting the strong camaraderie among wrestlers and the importance of a thorough warm-up before matches. Travis and Ricky explore the idea of creating an open division ranking for wrestlers over 24, providing more opportunities for those wanting to continue their wrestling careers beyond traditional age limits. They also consider the exciting potential of combining wrestling with submission grappling to offer a new, dynamic avenue for the sport. Additionally, they touch on the growing interest in middle and elementary school wrestling programs, which are essential for building strong high school teams and fostering long-term loyalty to the sport. In the final segment, the conversation focuses on the evolving landscape of high school wrestling, particularly the trend of school transfers and the introduction of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. These changes are providing new opportunities and challenges for athletes and coaches alike. They discuss how NIL deals have already started to impact college wrestling, with local businesses sponsoring athletes, and highlight the proactive approach wrestling coaches have taken towards fundraising. The episode concludes with reflections on the coaching changes at Penn State and the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club's support of athletes through NIL deals. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message

In this conversation, Ricky Cheese interviews Michael Kemerer, a former wrestler from the University of Iowa. They discuss Kemerer's upbringing in a household with four sisters, his experience with the Young Guns Wrestling Club, and his time at the University of Iowa. They also touch on the culture and mindset at Iowa, the support from alumni, and the pressure to choose between Iowa and Penn State. Despite some technical difficulties, the conversation provides insights into Kemerer's wrestling journey and the impact of the Iowa wrestling program. Michael Kemerer grew up in a household with four sisters and was influenced by the Young Guns Wrestling Club. The University of Iowa wrestling program has a strong culture and mindset, with a focus on hard work and high standards. Kemerer felt the pressure to choose between Iowa and Penn State but ultimately chose Iowa because he wanted to do something different. The support from Iowa wrestling alumni is strong, and they often attend matches and provide guidance to current wrestlers. Despite technical difficulties, the conversation provides insights into Kemerer's wrestling journey and the impact of the Iowa wrestling program. Chapters 00:00 Introducing Michael Kemerer 04:24 Memories and Friendships from Wrestling 06:58 Choosing Iowa over Penn State 09:56 The Culture of the University of Iowa Wrestling Program 11:24 The Mental Aspect of Wrestling 12:39 Introduction and Growing Up with Four Sisters 15:07 The Relationship with His Twin Sister 17:25 The Influence of Dan Gable 18:45 riverside_backup-video_grinding_for greatn.mp4 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message

This morning's conversation revolves around the idea of starting a Division 1 wrestling program in Florida. Ricky talks with coaches Clay Allen of Florida High and Jordan Cone of Niceville about the benefits of having a D1 program in the state, such as keeping talented wrestlers in the South and providing more opportunities for in-state athletes. They also mention the financial challenges of out-of-state tuition and the lack of full scholarships in wrestling. The conversation explores potential locations for a D1 program in Florida, with UCF being a popular choice. Highlighting the importance of finding a big-name backer and an open-minded administration to support the program. They also discuss the potential impact of starting a girls' wrestling program and the involvement of high-level coaches and athletes in the state. The conversation concludes with the belief that with passion, timing, and financial support, it is possible to start a successful D1 wrestling program in Florida. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message

Miami Hawks Wrestling Camp! June 6-9th! Max Murin discusses his wrestling career and the decision to attend the University of Iowa. He talks about his experiences in high school and the pressure to go to Penn State as a Pennsylvania kid. Max shares his journey from not placing in the state tournament as an eighth-grader to becoming a top recruit for Iowa and Penn State. He recalls the home visits from both schools and the unconventional way he made his decision. Ultimately, a phone call from Tom Brands pushed him to commit to Iowa. Max discusses his decision to commit to the University of Iowa and the excitement surrounding his Twitter announcement. He reflects on the opportunities and experiences he had while wrestling at Iowa, including training with top-notch teammates like Pat Lugo. Max shares a funny story about his first encounter with the Lugo family and the bond they formed. He talks about the intense training environment at Iowa and the chippy moments that occur in the wrestling room. Max also discusses his future plans, including his interest in real estate investing and staying involved in wrestling. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message

Register for the Miami Hawks Wrestling Camp here!! June 6th-9th, 2024 In this episode, Ricky Cheese interviews Pat Lugo, a successful wrestler from the University of Iowa and South Dade. They discuss Pat's early wrestling career, his mentors, and his decision to attend Edinboro University and later transfer to Iowa. Pat shares his experiences with the Brands brothers and the unique connections he has with his coaches. They also talk about Pat's participation in the Big Ten tournament and his mindset going into matches. Finally, they discuss the sacrifices and lifestyle of being a Division I wrestler. Pat Lugo discusses the tight-knit family atmosphere in the Iowa wrestling room and the importance of teammates and non-starters. He also reflects on the disappointment of the cancelled 2020 season and the lessons he learned from it. Lugo shares his plans for the future, including starting his own youth wrestling club in Miami. Takeaways Having mentors and coaches who are more than just wrestling coaches can have a profound impact on an athlete's life. The decision to attend a particular college for wrestling is influenced by factors such as the coaching staff, training partners, and the overall fit of the program. The Brands brothers, Tom and Terry, are passionate coaches who deeply care about their athletes and push them to succeed. A strong mental game and a love for the sport are crucial for success in wrestling. The Iowa wrestling room is like a family, with teammates pushing each other to be better and forming strong bonds. Non-starters are just as important as starters, as they provide valuable training and support to the team. The cancelled 2020 season was a disappointment, but it taught Lugo resilience and the importance of mindset. Lugo is starting his own youth wrestling club in Miami, the Miami Hawks Wrestling Club, and is excited for the future. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grindingforgreatness/message