08/04/2026
Proud of all the Hooligans who competed this weekend. It was very tough competition and none of them backed down, win or lose.
Dexter Herndon is going into his second year and his attitude after losses made me happy. He was willing to toe the line no matter who was across from him.
Most impressive to me this weekend was Jeremiah, or JJ as I call him. He just started a few months ago and the growth in the last month has been incredible. I’m really starting to see the gears turning. He got his first wins in his first tournament.
Zahra and Leah wrestled 15U girls duals, probably the toughest girls division there, and battled hard. Zahra also wrestled 12U duals and turned her weekend around going 3-1.
The Phillips boys all had good weekends, but what stood out most was Luke and Waylon’s attitude after losses. I feel like I’ve really connected with those two. Aidan continues to lead his siblings with character and effort every day.
Leilani wrestled the boys division in a tough bracket. I honestly think she’s only a couple mental steps away from being really hard to beat. The talent is there, and once she believes it herself, she’s going to be tough for anyone.
Zacharia is improving at a really high rate. Every tournament I see something new. Now it’s just about letting loose, not worrying about the results, and going score points.
Braxton Nalley gave me my first chance to really watch him compete. I saw some good growth and now have a clear direction on what we need to work on.
Anise Henry wrestled 15U girls open. I think with just a few corrections we could get those matches back. She’s a great student who works hard and always wants to learn.
Garth Perry had a tough start in 7U duals, but by the end of the day I finally saw the Garth I see in practice. I think the nerves from being away from competition got him early.
Liam Fletcher wrestled 7U duals and the open. He’s newer to the room but already picked up some good wins. He battles hard and has talent you can’t teach. His brother Luke is the same way. Great family.
Brett Shaffer was in every match and battled every time he stepped on the mat. I also love how he responds after losses. His dad coaches too, and it shows.
Braxton Strait picked up some good wins and handles both wins and losses the right way. I haven’t coached him much yet, but I’m excited to going forward.
I think that’s everyone off the top of my head. Thanks to every parent for trusting me with your kids. I’ll keep doing everything I can to help them improve.