Life and sports have changed in 2020. Wrestling seasons were cut short. Training has been terminated. Not being able to be in close physical contact with people due to virus concerns halted the sport of wrestling for much of 2020.

How do you train alone to wrestle? Biking, jump roping, cardio work, and strength training can continue individually and safely, but how do you hone the craft alone? In a sport where you are physically touching, holding, and sweating with someone, can it be done safely during a pandemic?

The NCAA has not yet released a calendar for college wrestling. Rising pandemic numbers certainly have played a part in the resumption of the sport. Most recent information points to a shortened season beginning in January of 2021.

Several universities have cut wrestling programs, citing Covid-19 funding crises.

In 2019-20, numbers of girls entering the wrestling circle continued to increase. Will the pandemic halt the growing women’s entrance in the sport? Currently 28 states sanction girls’ wrestling. Time will tell.

Some youth wrestling groups have begun to resume training. Sanitizing protocols have changed, masks are worn, training partners are limited, spectators are prohibited. These attempts to carry on with a sport so many are passionate about, are enabling youth to pursue their dreams. In a time of such uncertainty, wrestling allows participants the opportunity to work hard, alleviate stress, push themselves to achieve, build character and self-confidence.

Youth wrestling tournaments are being moved, moved back and cancelled. 2020 has not been kind.