Ballard Youth Wrestling Club

Athlete Rules

Footwear

• Clean wrestling shoes or socks must be worn on the mat.
• Wrestling shoes should not be worn off the mat. Contact us if you need assistance obtaining appropriate footwear; the BYWC has extra shoes or can help you make contacts for shoes.
• Make sure shoes are tied securely and/or double-knotted.

Hygiene

• Fingernails must be trimmed and kept short.
• Wrestlers should shower immediately after practice to prevent skin infections.
• Practice clothes must be washed after each use and should not be re-worn without cleaning. No jeans or jean shorts are allowed.
• Inform coaches of any signs of skin infections or questionable spots before the next practice.

Injuries

• All open wounds must be covered before practice.
• Athletes should inform coaches of any injuries or medical conditions.
• If an injury occurs during practice, the athlete must see a coach before approaching their parents.

Coachability

• If your child cannot follow instructions, stay engaged, or remain on the mat as guided, we ask that parents work with coaches for improvement.

Dress Code

• T-shirts and shorts (athletic gear) are required, and shirts must be tucked in.
• No jean shorts or jewelry are allowed during practice.
• The wrestling room can get warm during the high school season, so dress accordingly.

Behavior and Focus

• Wrestlers must remain upright with their eyes on the coach when instructions are given.
• Conversation during practice should be limited to wrestling-related topics.
• Wrestlers are encouraged to rotate partners to enhance their growth. They should always avoid pairing with siblings or close friends.
• Disruptive behavior will result in a 5-minute break on the side.

Respect and Safety

• Athletes must follow coaches' instructions and show respect to their peers.
• Bullying or inappropriate behavior is not tolerated.
• Wrestlers must avoid exercise bikes, treadmills, and other weight equipment unless instructed by a coach.

Hydration

• Wrestlers can bring their own water bottles but are discouraged from sharing them to prevent the spread of germs. There is a water fountain outside the wrestling room.

Parent Expectations

• Practice Times
• Please ensure your child arrives early enough to put their shoes on and be ready to go at practice start times. Warming up is an important part of the wrestling process.
• Sessions may occasionally run late. If your child needs to leave early, please do so quietly.
• Be on time to pick up your child.

Parent Breaks

• Parents are welcome to leave during practice for personal time or errands unless your wrestler needs extra supervision.

Parent Participation

• Parents are welcome to observe practice and should act as supportive spectators. Parents can be in the wrestling room, but please keep talking and side conversations to a minimum to allow the coaches' voices to be heard.
• Coaches are trained and experienced; please allow them to lead practices and instruct wrestlers. Reinforce and support what the coaches are teaching.

Health and Illness

• If your wrestler feels unwell or has symptoms of illness (e.g., fever, cough), they should stay home to prevent spreading illness to others.

Additional Information

• Wrestling mats are cleaned before and after each practice.
• We rely on everyone to help maintain a positive and respectful environment.