Takedown Tuesday: The Power of Taking High School Classes Seriously as an Athlete
By Jon Gums – Dakota Grappler
In wrestling, we often hear about the importance of strength, speed, and discipline on the mat. But what about off the mat? For high school athletes, especially wrestlers, it’s not just about having a strong body—it’s about having a smart mind too. Education can take you farther than you think, opening doors that extend beyond the mat and into every part of your life.
Balance Between Brain and Brawn
As an athlete, it’s easy to get consumed by the grind of practice, competition, and physical fitness. But let’s not forget that what happens in the classroom is just as important as what happens in the gym. A strong mind complements a strong body. The ability to think critically, focus, and manage time is essential for both wrestling and life.
Just like you train your muscles for a match, you need to train your brain for life’s challenges. A sharp mind helps with strategic thinking, understanding technique, and staying calm under pressure. But more than that, taking your education seriously sets you up for success beyond high school and beyond wrestling.
As John Smith, head coach of Oklahoma State University, puts it:
“Wrestling can teach you a lot about discipline, but education gives you the tools to build a future that extends far beyond the mat. The mental toughness learned through your studies will serve you for life.”
Education Opens Doors
Athletic ability is a gift, but it has a shelf life. Education, on the other hand, is a lifelong asset. Whether you continue your wrestling journey in college or move into a different career, having a solid educational foundation will take you far.
A good GPA can lead to scholarships, and excelling in academics makes you more attractive to colleges and universities. And for those who may not pursue wrestling in college, a quality education is your ticket to countless opportunities—from business to engineering, from teaching to entrepreneurship. The lessons you learn in high school don’t stop at graduation; they follow you into every future challenge you face.
Tom Brands, head coach of the University of Iowa, emphasizes this balance:
“We tell our athletes all the time—what you do in the classroom matters as much as what you do in the wrestling room. It’s about preparing for life. You’ve got to be mentally tough in all areas, not just on the mat.”
Discipline on the Mat, Discipline in the Classroom
One of the greatest lessons wrestling teaches is discipline. You train, sweat, and push yourself every day because you know it’s necessary to succeed. The same discipline you show in the gym should extend to the classroom. Show up, do the work, ask questions, and push through challenges.
Just like on the mat, there will be moments in class where things get tough. You might struggle with a subject or feel overwhelmed by assignments. But remember: You’re not just an athlete—you’re a student-athlete. And both parts of that title matter. A disciplined approach to your studies shows that you’re committed to your future.
The Smartest Competitors Are the Best Competitors
On the mat, it’s not just about brute strength—it’s about outsmarting your opponent, reading their moves, and adjusting quickly. The mental side of wrestling is as crucial as the physical side, and the classroom is where you develop that mental agility.
As Cael Sanderson, head coach of Penn State, wisely points out:
“What we teach in wrestling mirrors life, and that’s why education is crucial. You can’t just rely on physical ability. The lessons you learn in the classroom—how to think, how to adapt—those are what make great wrestlers and great people.”
Take your high school classes seriously. They’re not just something you have to get through—they’re tools that sharpen your focus, problem-solving skills, and decision-making ability. These tools are just as valuable in a match as they are in life.
A Strong Mind and Body Equals Success
As a high school wrestler, you’re building a foundation for your future, both physically and mentally. Wrestling teaches you perseverance, resilience, and grit. Your education will teach you how to apply those qualities to any challenge you face—whether it’s in college, a job, or your personal life.
Education can take you far, far beyond the mat. So just as you put everything you’ve got into your wrestling career, put the same energy and focus into your classes. Because in the end, it’s not just about being strong—it’s about being smart.
