Wrestling, like any sport, can be expensive for those who constantly stay involved in it. Training, tournaments, camps, and every other event that comes up in between can do serious damage to one’s budget. However, there are many ways that you or your wrestler can gain the full experience of the sport while saving a little cash at the same time. This guide will provide you with some important tips that will help you save money in the long-run.
Smart Shopping
The cost of equipment, such as and headgear, can really add up over time. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to save a few dollars here and there, while still remaining comfortable and well-protected. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when shopping for wrestling gear:
- Look for the deals: “Closeout” sales may reduce the retail price of an item anywhere from 50 to 80 percent! Depending on the item, you can knock off a significant amount of its price by simply buying at the right time. Retailers, especially internet wrestling stores, offer closeout sales year-round. However, the best sales are during the winter when folkstyle season is in full swing. This is a great time to stock up on gear for the next season.
- Go for the grab bag: “Grab bag” items are essentially overstocked or unsold items that retailers need to get rid of quickly. Basically, you won’t know exactly what you are getting beforehand. Often times, you will give the retailer your size and the piece of equipment you are looking for. In return, they will send you an item at a very inexpensive price. Retailers are often willing to let some items go at bargain prices as long as you aren’t picky about brand, color, etc. So, look for these types of sales when browsing the internet for gear.
Keep it Local
Traveling is one of the most expensive aspects of wrestling. In order to practice with and compete against the best wrestlers, you’re going to have to move around. However, if you can find quality training partners and competitions closer to home, you will save money on gasoline, as well as precious time.
First, find a local club with talented and accomplished wrestlers where you or your child can train. The best time to get quality training is during the spring months for freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling, and during the fall to gear up for the folkstyle season.
Some clubs may be free to join, while others may require fees (which are typically minimal). If you can find quality training partners who are local, there is no need to travel more than a few miles from your home.
In order to face the best competition, you will eventually have to travel to state, regional, and national competitions. But, chances are there are some tough events in your area that can provide you or your wrestler with competitive matches that will prepare you for those larger tournaments. Do your best to find the toughest competition in your area. Check with a coach or your local governing body for more details on events in your area.
Hot Tip: Tough Tournaments
Association and league tournaments usually attract the best local wrestlers. Such competitions are offered in practically all styles of wrestling, so keep an eye out for these major events during the spring and summer months in your area!
Saving at Camp
are the most effective way to improve wrestling techniques in a short amount of time. They typically offer new techniques, training methods, and other important aspects of wrestling while you train with an entirely different group of wrestlers and coaches. However, good camps can be very expensive, costing upward of several hundred dollars for several days of training. Here are some money-saving tips to keep in mind when choosing a camp:
- Get a group discount: Attending a camp or clinic in a group may lower the cost significantly. This is a good option if you are able to wrangle up most, if not all, of your team. Check with the organization hosting the camp to see if there are any group discounts you can take advantage of.
- Be a day-camper: Attending a local camp as a “commuter” is another way to cut costs at camp. A commuter is a camper that does not stay overnight, but still attends all training sessions and activities.
Know Your Budget
Planning ahead and creating a budget for yourself or your wrestler will go a long way in terms of saving money. Knowing what you need beforehand, as well as the cost of equipment, events, etc., will help you even more. Keep these tips in mind when creating your budget, and when you are shopping around and comparing prices. This will ensure that every penny you spend is absolutely worth it. Good luck!
