Wrestling Blogs - Martin Floreani

We and some of the guys were sitting down in the hotel lobby this morning as we were watching the beginning rounds of the greco tournament. Some little iranian kids came in and one popped his chair about two inches to the TV and began cheering the Iranian wrestler on. With every takedown the kid made expressions and gestures that I have never seen come from an American. His excitement was laughable as we all began to laugh just watching this kid.

I have rarely if ever seen an American kid show such passion and excitement at such a young age for any sport. It was cool to get that perspective.

Update on USA Freestyle Team:

We went to practice yesterday in a run down little building with a lot of character. The coaches are in positive gear. Giving a lot of praise and building the egos of every wrestler to make sure they go into the tournament thinking they are the best wrestler in the world. They make some suggestions and give some advice but really it is overwhelmingly positive. The work has been done now it is preparing the mental while giving a few more pointers to put in their back pockets.